luxury train travel london to venice

The Man in Seat 61

London to Venice by

Venice simplon-orient-express.

• Buy train tickets
• Buy ferry tickets
• Book a hotel
• Privacy & cookies
•   Home

Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, the luxury vintage train to venice.

If you can afford it, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the most romantic and luxurious way from London or Paris to Venice.  Its vintage carriages are a delight and the food & on-board service are truly world class.  Unlike many expensive tourist experiences, this train really does live up to its five-star and you won't be disappointed.  Watch the video .

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) is a privately-run train of beautifully-restored 1920s, 30s & 50s coaches, providing a 5-star luxury train experience between London, Paris, Verona & Venice, running roughly once a week from March to November.  The journey from London to Venice takes 24 hours and costs over £3,300 per person one way, including meals.

The train is run by Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) Limited, part of Belmond, who also operate the equally luxurious Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Bangkok, the Royal Scotsman cruise train and the PeruRail trains to Machu Picchu .  The VSOE should not be confused with the real Orient Express, the true descendant of the original 1883 Orient Express, a regular scheduled train which was finally withdrawn on 12 December 2009, see here for an explanation .

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express also runs occasional trips to Florence, Rome, Krakow, Budapest, Stockholm and even Istanbul once a year, in August.

Important changes for 2024

2023 was the last season in which VSOE passengers travelled from London Victoria to Folkestone by British Pullman , got ferried through the Channel Tunnel by road coach and boarded the Continental train at Calais.  From 2024, the VSOE will operate between Paris Gare de l'Est and Venice , with connections to/from London St Pancras by Eurostar .  No more British Pullman.  This is due to Brexit, delays caused by longer border checks made the Folkestone-Calais coach transfer increasingly unreliable which in turn delayed the departure of the VSOE train from Calais.  A great shame.

Southbound dates , London to Venice

2024 :  14, 21, 28 March.  4, 11, 25 April.  5, 20 May.  27 June.  11 July.  3, 14 August.  5, 22 September.  6, 22 October. 1, 19, 23 November.  5, 12, 22 December.

Northbound dates , Venice to London

2024 :  5, 12, 19, 26 March.  9, 27 April.  10, 15 May.  1, 6, 12 August.  14, 24 September.  1, 15, 20 October. 5, 17, 21 November.  3, 10, 14 December.

Timetable 2024 (subject to confirmation)

How much does it cost .

Solo travellers:   The prices above are per person assuming two people share a 2-berth compartment in an LX-type type sleeper dating from 1929.  If you're a solo traveller, sole occupancy costs the same price if you book a single-berth compartment in a slightly less intricate slightly smaller mid-1920s-built S-type sleeper, but costs significantly more if you book a 2-berth compartment in an LX sleeper for sole occupancy, see the advice & explanation below .

Children:   Infants under 2 sharing a berth travel free.  Children under 12 sharing a compartment with a full-fare-paying adult get a 20% reduction.

The extra-cost cabin suites & grand suites are explained below .

How to buy tickets

Can a 24 hour train ride to venice be worth £3,350 per person , single travellers.

The VSOE consists almost entirely of luxurious LX-type sleeping cars built 1927-1929.  But there is usually one mid-1920s S-type sleeping-car on the train with 10 compartments which it sells as singles for the same price per person as two people sharing a 2-berth in an LX.  When booking at www.belmond.com with 1 adult selected you'll be sold sole occupancy of an S-type sleeper compartment if one remains available, otherwise you'll see a significantly higher price which is for sole occupancy of a 2-berth LX sleeper compartment.

The compartments in an S-type sleeping-car are very slightly smaller and have less intricate wood marquetry than an LX, but they are just as comfortable and just as historic - indeed, had you travelled from Calais to Istanbul in the 1930s you'd have travelled in an S-type sleeper rather than an LX-type, as the Calais-Istanbul car was usually an S, although the other (Paris-Istanbul) sleeping-car on the Simplon Orient Express was usually an LX.  My advice?  It's simply not worth paying so much more for a compartment in an LX if a single compartment in the S class is available.  And if you're lucky enough to get S-type car number 3425, Mrs 61 & I got engaged in the corridor, send me a photo!

Journey suggestions

Which is better, a southbound or northbound trip.

Either is great, but in my opinion the southbound has the edge.  Although the northbound journey tends to be less popular, so often has better availability and sometimes better rates.  But personally, I feel the journey works best going out from London with the arrival in Venice over the causeway a fitting climax.  You'll also see more of the Alpine scenery in daylight in the morning from a southbound train than (depending on the time of year) in the evening from a northbound train.

One way by VSOE, one-way by TGV & Eurostar

If you only take the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express one-way, you don't need to fly the other.  Take Eurostar from London to Paris in 2h15, have lunch at the amazing Train Bleu restaurant inside Paris Gare de Lyon, then take the afternoon TGV or Frecciarossa from Paris to Turin in 5h40, a comfortable & scenic journey through the French Alps, see the video & photos here , arriving in the evening.  Stay overnight in Turin, and next morning take a high-speed train from Turin to Venice in around 4h30.  This works equally well in either direction, see the London to Italy by train page for all you need to know.

For the ultimate scenic ride between London & Venice, take Eurostar & a TGV-Lyria to Zurich on day 1, then take the wonderful narrow-gauge Bernina Express through the Swiss Alps to Tirano with connections for Venice on day 2, see the Bernina Express page .  You can easily arrange this yourself, or you can ask custom-made tour agency www.railbookers.co.uk to arrange both your Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express trip and your scheduled trains and suggest some excellent hotels in Venice.

VSOE to Krakow, Budapest, Prague, Rome & Istanbul

As well as its regular London-Paris-Venice route, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express runs occasional departures to Krakow, Vienna, Budapest, Prague, Rome, Stockholm and sometimes even Istanbul (London to Istanbul usually in late August, 5 nights for around £7,000 pp), see www.belmond.com/venice-simplon-orient-express or call Railbookers .

Day trips in the UK by Belmond's British Pullman & Northern Belle

The VSOE's British Pullman cars run a regular programme of day-trips, dinner trips and excursions around the British Isles, mostly around London and typically £210-£420 per person.  Belmond also used to own (but have now sold) a set of more modern cars dating from the 1970s converted to classic Pullman standard which is used on Northern Belle excursions in the north of England, see www.northernbelle.co.uk for routes, dates, prices & tickets.

Back to top

Option 1, call Railbookers

Railbookers are train specialists who often have special rates for the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.  They can also arrange hotels and regular scheduled European trains to create a customised trip - for example Eurostar & high-speed TGV-Lyria from London to Zurich, 1 night at the superb Hotel Schweizerhof (first introduced to me by Railbookers, now a personal favourite), onward travel through the Alps via the wonderfully scenic Gotthard Pass route to Venice, 3 nights 4-star hotel in Venice, then by fabulous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Venice to London.  Railbookers take good care of their clients, and they now have offices in the UK, US & Australia.

  UK call 0207 864 4600, www.railbookers.co.uk . 

  us call free 1-888-829-4775, www.railbookers.com .,   canada call free 1-855-882-2910, www.railbookers.com .,   australia call toll-free 1300 971 526, www.railbookers.com.au . ,   new zealand call toll-free 0800 000 554 or see website ., option 2, call tailor made rail.

UK-based Tailor Made Rail can also organise a trip on the Venice Simplon-Orient Express.  Call their dedicated seat61 phone line 020 3778 1461 and quote seat 61 when booking.  From outside the UK call +44 20 3778 1461.  Lines open 09:00-17:30 Monday-Friday.  See www.tailormaderail.com/trains/venice-simplon-orient-express .

Option 3, book at belmond.com

You can also buy tickets at www.belmond.com/venice-simplon-orient-express .  If you feel like packing some lucky loved one off to Paris or Venice, you can buy Venice Simplon-Orient-Express gift certificates.  Double cabin or Suite cabin?   See the explanation here .  However, I'd call Railbookers before booking, as sometimes Railbookers can offer VSOE plus hotels more cheaply than a train-only booking with Belmond.

What's a journey on the Venice-Simplon-Orient Express like?

London to paris by eurostar.

From 2024, passengers no longer use the British Pullman from London to Folkestone, and the Continental train no longer starts from Calais.  From 2024 onwards, passengers take Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord , which is a short 7-minute walk from Paris Gare de l'Est .  I expect Belmond will bus you from station to station, but it really is just a 7 minute walk !

See more about the Eurostar journey here .  Passengers bound for the VSOE travel in Business Premier, a meal with wine and champagne is served at your seat.  There are power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

The Venice Simplon Orient Express

In the evening at Paris Gare de l'Est you board the VSOE's continental train of restored blue-and-gold 1920s Wagons-Lits sleeping-cars for Innsbruck, Verona & Venice.  You've time to take photos.

The sleeping-cars

Historic compartments - authentic, see car layout.

Your sleeper attendant greets you at the door and shows you to your compartment.  The VSOE's sleeping-cars are mostly classic 1929-vintage LX-series cars with ten 2-berth compartments that convert to private sitting rooms with sofa and small table for daytime use.  With their inlaid wood marquetry, the LX-types were the most luxurious sleeping-cars ever built for La Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits (CIWL, the original operator of the Orient Express), and the VSOE's restored LX-series cars were originally used on various CIWL trains including the Calais-Paris-Nice Train Bleu, the Paris-Rome Rome Express , the Paris-Berlin-Warsaw-Riga Nord Express .  One Paris-Istanbul sleeping-car and the Calais-Trieste sleeping-car of the Simplon Orient Express would also have been an LX-type in the 1930s.

VSOE also own two earlier 1927-built S-series cars which had less fancy woodwork and slightly smaller compartments, but they were both gutted in 2018 to create Belmond's modern Suites & Grand Suites.  In the 1930s, the Calais-Istanbul sleeping car & Calais-Athens sleeping-car of the Simplon Orient Express would normally have been an S-type.

Sleeper facilities :   Each historic compartment has a large sofa convertible to an upper and lower berth at night, a footstool, small folding table.  There's a broad luggage rack towards the ceiling capable of taking fairly large items.  In a corner (either by the door or the window), two doors open to reveal a washstand with soap, towels, flannels and hot & cold water.  Mineral water, slippers & dressing gown are provided, and (a modern addition) there are two plug sockets of the normal 2-pin European type.  Authentic 1920s sleeping-cars don't have en suite toilets or showers, they also didn't have air-conditioning, but this has now been fitted.  You can still wind the window down, great for reflection-free photos of the scenery.

The correct term is 'Compartment' not 'Cabin':   These sleeper compartments are described on the Belmond website as historic cabins .  Trains don't have cabins, that is a nautical term used for a room on a ship.  The correct term on a train is a compartment .  Travellers in the 1920s & 1930s would have known this perfectly well, travellers unused to trains & ships now seem to use 'cabin' for everything and even Belmond don't seem to know the correct term.

Suites & Grand Suites - not authentic

For the 2018 season, Belmond created 3 luxurious Grand Suites with double bed, parlour area and en suite shower & toilet, they also now offer several smaller Suites with either twin or double beds and en suite toilet & shower.  These modern suites were created by taking one of the VSOE's two historic S-type sleeping-cars (car 3425, the car my wife & I got engaged in, as it happens), completely gutting the car's original 1920s interior (it had ten 1 or 2 berth compartments with washbasin) and building these new suites from scratch inside the empty bodyshell.  The suites are a modern creation for the 21st century tourist market and completely unauthentic - the real Orient Express of the 1920s and 1930s would have no suites, no showers, and no en en suite toilets, just a chamber pot kept in a hidey-hole under the sink (hence the famous CIWL sign, Sous le lavabo se trouve une vase ...).  In fact the Orient Express wouldn't have had a bar car or piano either, just sleeping-cars and a restaurant car.  If you want the authentic 1920s/30s experience, save your money and stick with the basic, original, historic LX sleeper compartments.  Check prices for the suites & grand suites online at www.belmond.com or call Railbookers .

The place to go before or after dinner is the VSOE's lively bar car, with lounge area, cocktail bar and piano.  Needless to say, the real Orient Express even in its 1920s & 1930s heyday would have not have had any such fripperies as a bar or lounge, let alone a piano, just sleeping-cars and a restaurant.  It was a much more work-a-day train than most people imagine.  The piano-bar-lounge has been created for modern-day tourists out of a former Wagons-Lits Company pullman car built in 1931 - but it's still great place to mingle.  You'll find a small VSOE Boutique counter in these cars.

The 3 restaurant cars

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has three restaurant cars, each with unique decor: 

The Cote d'Azur was originally a 1st class Pullman car built in 1929, first used on the Cote d'Azur Pullman Express.   With lovely Lalique glass panels, it's my favourite.

The Etoile du Nord restaurant car was built in Birmingham in 1926 for the Paris-Brussels-Amsterdam Etoile du Nord Pullman train, it was later used on the Edelweiss from Amsterdam to Switzerland and the Lusitania from Madrid to Lisbon.

L'Orientale was originally a Pullman kitchen car, built in Birmingham in 1927 and also used on the Etoile du Nord and later the Lusitania , and it features Chinese-style lacquer wall panels.

Soon after departure the Maitre d' comes down the sleeping-cars handing out dinner reservations.  You'll be allocated a restaurant car but feel free to request a table in your favourite.  Make sure you experience two different ones at dinner and lunch.

Dinner in the diner

Meals are included in the fare on the VSOE, and the food is truly excellent.  Drinks on the Continental train cost extra, reckon on the cheapest half bottle of wine costing €35, a full bottle €50.  A dress code applies in the evening, for men a dark suit is essential, but the majority of passengers bring a dinner jacket and bow tie as dressing up is part of the fun.  You can't be over-dressed on the VSOE!

Time for bed

You'll return from dinner to find your compartment converted into a bedroom by the sleeper attendant, with upper and lower berths.  The beds are the most comfortable I have ever slept in on a train, in fact they're more comfortable than many hotel beds.  There are toilets at each end of the corridor.  The door locks securely with both a lock and security chain.

Scenery next morning in Switzerland, Austria & Italy

In spite of its name, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express no longer uses the Simplon route via Lausanne, Brig & Milan.  Instead, it runs overnight from Paris to Switzerland and you'll probably wake up just beyond Zurich.  When I last took it, I found the train running alongside the sparkling waters of the Zürichsee or Walensee with a breathtaking mountain backdrop, heading for the Arlberg Pass then the Brenner - although from 2016 it travels via the Gotthard Pass to Milan, only using the Brenner and Arlberg northbound.  A Continental breakfast of excellent coffee, juice and fresh croissant is served on a tray in your compartment by your sleeper attendant.  When I took it, the train clipped a corner of Liechtenstein and entered Austria via the wonderfully scenic Arlberg Pass - which once gave its name to the Paris-Switzerland-Vienna Arlberg Orient Express which used this route.  The VSOE turned right after Innsbruck, and as a 3-course lunch was served in the restaurant cars we headed into Italy via the almost equally scenic Brenner Pass to Verona, passing Padua and Venice Mestre before finally rumbling slowly across the 2km causeway to Venice Santa Lucia station on the banks of the Grand Canal in central Venice, just 15 minutes walk from the famous Rialto Bridge or 25 minutes walk from St Mark's Square.

Video guide:  Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

More videos:   arlberg pass scenery video    brenner pass scenery video.

These two videos show the scenery through the Arlberg and Brenner Passes which you'll see over breakfast and lunch on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.  They were shot from scheduled trains on the route, but the scenery is of course the same!

Travel tips

Dress up!   You'll need (for men) at least a dark suit and tie for dinner on the VSOE Continental train, but many travellers change into a dinner jacket with bow tie for dinner - indeed, you may feel under-dressed in just a suit.  A significant number of travellers dress up in 1920s or 30s style, you won't feel out of place if you do!  During the day dress code is smart-casual, you can't wear jeans on the VSOE.

Ask for your favourite restaurant for dinner - and a different one for lunch next day.   There are three restaurants on the VSOE continental train, each unique.  The Maitre d' will make a dinner reservation for you, feel free to request a table in your favourite restaurant - my favourite is the Cote d'Azur with its lovely glass panels by Lalique.  Next day, request a table in one of the other two, to experience a different car.

Are there showers?   Not in the original authentic 1920s sleeper compartments, no.  These were built in an era when hotel rooms didn't have en suite bathrooms, people survived without taking a shower every few hours and Sunday night was bath night whether you needed it or not.  The sleeper compartments have a washstand with hot & cold running water which was a luxury for the 1920s, when many hotel rooms didn't even have this.  Incredibly, Belmond tell me that the lack of en suite showers is the biggest thing that surprises many VSOE travellers even though they know they're going on an authentic 1920s train!  However, the more expensive suites and grand suites have en suite toilet & shower, as these are a modern innovation, they are not original or authentic.

Is there WiFi?   The train now has WiFi and there's decent mobile data reception all along the route, even inside the Channel Tunnel.

Are there power sockets?   Not on the British Pullmans, no.  But each sleeper compartment on the VSOE Continental train has two European-style 2-pin sockets, one under the sink, one under the window.  A post-1920s addition!

Special dietary needs. You can request these when you book, yes.

Smoking.   The VSOE train is all non-smoking.

Tips.   The fare includes service, although you can always tip a member of staff who gives particularly good service.

Dress code.   Jeans & trainers aren't allowed on the VSOE.  The dress code is smart casual during the day, and at least dark suit with tie for men in the evening.  But I'd take a DJ (that's a tuxedo if you're American) if you have one.

Luggage.   One large suitcase per person can be checked in to your final destination, and one item of hand luggage plus a suit carrier or overnight bag can be taken into your sleeper compartment.  In London, you can check your overnight bag or suit carrier in and you'll find them waiting for you in your sleeper compartment when you board the VSOE Continental train.  However, don't worry too much about luggage limits as unlike airlines, VSOE seem relaxed about exact bag weights or dimensions, as long as you don't take the Mickey.  There is a reasonably large luggage rack in your sleeping-car compartment.

Can children travel on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?   Yes they can, of any age, see the fares section above .

Do you have to go from London to Venice?   Belmond will sell journeys from London to Verona or Venice, or Paris to Verona or Venice, and in the opposite direction.

Is a northbound or southbound trip best?   See my answer here .

Does the train go across the Channel?   No, and the Orient Express never did. 

Today's VSOE journey is described above .  When it started in 1982 passengers used a ferry from Folkestone to Boulogne with the sleeper train waiting for it at Boulogne Maritime station, in the later years until 2023 they used an executive road coach from Folkestone to Calais which went through the Channel Tunnel on a car-carrying Eurotunnel shuttle train.  From 2024 onwards, VSOE passengers will use Eurostar from London to Paris Gare du Nord and board the VSOE continental train at the nearby Gare de l'Est .

Historically, the Orient Express always started at Calais with a totally separate British 'boat train' and ferry providing a connection from London.  The only passenger train ever to be physically ferried across the Channel on board a ferry were the London-Paris (and later, London-Brussels) sleeping-cars of the Night Ferry , which start in 1936, suspended during WW2, and discontinued in 1980, see en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night_Ferry .

Is the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express the original Orient Express?   You'd better read the next section!

Is this the original Orient Express ?    See the Orient Express history page

No.  Because there is no such thing as the original Orient Express.  The Orient Express was a service, not one specific set of coaches.  The Orient Express used different rolling stock at different times in its long history, and at any given time it required more than one set of coaches to operate - common sense, really, as in the 1920s & 1930s the Simplon Orient Express left Paris every day on a 3-night journey to Istanbul so clearly required at least 6 separate sets of coaching stock to operate.

In fact, by the 1930s there were several different Orient Express routes, including the Orient Express (Paris-Munich-Vienna-Budapest-Bucharest/Istanbul), Simplon Orient Express (Calais-Paris-Lausanne-Milan-Venice-Belgrade-Athens/Istanbul, as featured in Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express), Arlberg Orient Express (Paris-Zurich-Vienna-Budapest-Bucharest) and Oostende-Vienna Orient Express (Oostende-Brussels-Frankfurt-Vienna-Budapest-Belgrade-Istanbul, as featured in Graham Greene's novel Stambul Train ), all taking different routes across Europe and switching cars between them at key points.

Furthermore, these were not huge long trains going from a single point A to one point B like today's 16-car VSOE.  They were relatively short trains of individual sleeping-cars from different starting points to different destinations, with cars switched between trains at key interchange points such as Vienna or Belgrade.  Restaurant cars would be attached for all main sectors, but there would not have been any bars, lounges or pianos.  More work-a-day than most people imagine. 

To give you a flavour of what it was really like, in the 1930s the Orient Express would leave Istanbul Sirkeci station at 10pm consisting of just 4 sleeping-cars and 2 baggage vans ( fourgons in French).  No restaurants, no bars, no lounges nor seats cars, just those 4 sleeping-cars and two fourgons, nothing more.  Two sleeping-cars and a fourgon were for Paris Gare de Lyon via Venice & Lausanne on the Simplon Orient Express , usually an LX and an S, with the S-type sleeping-car going through to Calais for the London connection attached to a Paris-Calais boat train.  Depending on the day of the week, the third sleeping-car was either for Brussels & Oostende via the Oostende-Vienna Orient Express or for Paris Est via Vienna and Munich on the (plain) Orient Express.  Again depending on the day of the week, the fourth sleeping-car was for either Prague or Berlin via the Balt-Orient Express.  A restaurant car was added at the Bulgarian border (where it had been detached from an eastbound Orient Express a few hours previously) in time to serve breakfast.  Still no lounges or pianos!

In addition to the various Orient Express routes, the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits (the company which ran the Orient Express) operated sleeping-cars and restaurant-cars all over Europe, both as all-luxury trains such as these and providing the sleeping- and restaurant-car service attached to regular trains in many countries.  Cutting a long story short, the CIWL handed over responsibility for the sleeping- and dining-cars to the various national rail operators themselves in 1971, but the company still exists.  For example, if you take Austrian Railways Nightjet sleeper trains , the sleeper attendants and catering are provided by NewRest, a subsidiary of the CIWL.  VSOE has been allowed to use the CIWL's name and crest on its vintage carriages under licence.

Most of the sleeping-cars on today's VSOE are 1929-built LX-type cars.  If you'd travelled from Calais to Istanbul on the Simplon Orient Express in the 1930s you'd have travelled in an S-type car built in 1927, with slightly smaller compartments than the LX-type and lacking the intricate wood marquetry decoration that distinguishes the more glamorous 'LX'.  In the 1950s and 60s, you'd probably have travelled in a newer Z-type sleeping-car which replaced the S-type on those routes after World War 2.  VSOE own a couple of S-type cars which they tend to use for solo travellers because of their smaller compartments.

Is it the one that stopped running in 1977?  Was it restored & put back into service?

No.  It is sometimes suggested that the 'original' Orient Express made its last run in 1977, and was taken out of service, then bought and restored and put back in service as today's Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.  VSOE's marketing department don't exactly disabuse you of this notion.  Again, this is some way from the truth. 

The Simplon Orient Express (which ran daily, with direct sleeping-cars from both Calais and Paris to Istanbul) was replaced in 1962 by a slower train called the Direct Orient Express , which included one direct sleeping-car from Paris to Istanbul just three times a week.  The Direct Orient Express was almost entirely composed of ordinary seats & couchette cars belonging to the various State-run national railways along the route, with just one Z-type sleeping-car (a type of car not owned by VSOE) going through to Istanbul, still staffed by the Wagons-Lits Company.  The last Direct Orient Express left Paris Gare de Lyon at 23:56 on 19 May 1977 - in fact it left a little late, on 20th May.

But although the end of the Direct Orient meant the end of direct trains between Paris and Istanbul, it didn't mean the end of the (plain) Orient Express .  This was a separate train on a different route, Paris-Munich-Vienna-Budapest-Bucharest, originally conveying a thrice-weekly through sleeping-car from Paris to Istanbul which was attached at Belgrade to the Simplon Orient Express cars from Calais and Paris which had come via Venice.  The Paris-Istanbul car via this route ceased in the early 1960s.  This (plain) Orient Express was indeed the true descendant of the very first 1883 Orient Express which took a similar route, and it continued in one form of another until it's withdrawal in December 2009, by which time it had evolved into a Strasbourg to Vienna EuroNight sleeper train, run by the Austrian Railways with modern air-conditioned seats, couchettes and a 1980s-built sleeping-car.  It had been cut back in 2007 from running Paris to Vienna when the Paris-Strasbourg TGV-Est high-speed line opened.  All is explained in more detail on the Orient Express history page .

So what exactly is the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?

In 1977, a number of classic pre-war Wagons-Lits Company sleeping-cars and restaurant cars were offered for sale at an auction in Monte Carlo.  James Sherwood of Sea Containers Inc bought most of them, with the dream of restoring them and recreating a 'Train de Luxe' for modern-day travellers on part of the route of the fabled Simplon Orient Express.  He subsequently acquired a series of 1920s and 1930s Pullman cars for the London-Folkestone part of the operation. 

VSOE's LX-type sleeping-cars originally ran on front-rank Wagons-Lits Company trains all over Europe, including the Train Bleu from Calais & Paris to Nice & Monte Carlo, the Nord Express from Paris to Berlin, Warsaw & Riga, and the Rome Express from Calais/Paris to Rome.  The Calais to Trieste sleeping car attached to the Simplon Orient Express would have been an 'LX', as would a Paris-Istanbul and a Paris-Athens sleeping-car, even if the Calais-Istanbul and Calais-Athens cars would have been slightly older S-types.

Today's tourist-orientated VSOE has been running since 1982, London-Paris-Venice once a week from March to November.  Although it is a 'resumption' of the Orient Express more in spirit than in terms of historical accuracy but the VSOE has superbly-restored pre-war carriages, top-class food and service, and it has now become an institution in it own right.  Don't miss your chance to ride it!

The British Pullman train

This is a beautiful train of restored 1920s/30s/50s British Pullman cars, from 2024 it's no longer used as part of the London-Paris-Venice journey, but the train is still used for excursions within Britain so I shall leave this section here.

Each car features plush armchairs in open-plan saloons, arranged as intimate tables for two each side of the aisle.  It's strange how 80 years of ergonomics haven't produced anything as luxuriously comfortable as a 1920s Pullman seat.  Most Pullmans also have an enclosed 4-seat compartment at one or both ends known as a coupé, these can be requested if you want privacy though I prefer the more convivial open saloon.  You can read a brief history of each individual VSOE Pullman Car at www.belmond.com/british-pullman-train/british-pullman-carriages , worth checking as the history is fascinating, and many of the cars have links with famous trains or famous people.  You'll find a booklet about the history of the Pullman cars at your seat on board the train which you can keep.  Some cars were used on the Golden Arrow boat train between London & Dover, others on the Brighton Belle between London & Brighton, a couple were used on Winston Churchill's funeral train, and so on...  If one car particularly interests you, by all means request it!  The British Pullman train leaves Victoria station, rumbles slowly across the Thames past Battersea Power Station, then takes one of several possible routes to Folkestone.  Indeed it sometimes goes the long way round via Canterbury and Dover, dropping off day-trippers at Canterbury and doubling back along the coast to Folkestone.  A 3-course brunch is served on the way to Folkestone with sparkling Bellinis, all included in the fare.

Orient Express books, gifts & souvenirs

Venice simplon-orient-express gift certificates.

Belmond offer gift certificates, if you want to make someone a present of a journey on one of their trains:  https://www.belmond.com/venice-simplon-orient-express/monetary_gift_certificates .

Books about the Orient Express

If you want to learn more about the Orient Express, you can click the pictures to buy these books online at Amazon.  The book on the left has more about the history of the Orient Express, the book on the right concentrates on the restored Venice Simplon Orient Express.  Also recommended is 'The Orient Express - The life and times of the world's most famous train' by E H Cookridge.  Although out of print, you can buy it second hand through Amazon - click here for details .  The Orient Express also features heavily in fiction.

Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie (actually set on the Simplon Orient Express, as she knew full well)

Murder on the Orient Express (DVD, 1974 film)

Stamboul Train by Graham Greene (actually set on the Oostende-Vienna Orient Express, not the Orient Express)

Hotels in London, Paris, Venice

If you need to search for decent hotels in London, Paris or Venice, this is the system to use.

Back to home page

0800 122 33 64

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – London to Venice

Depart london st pancras / arrive venice santa lucia.

You need only glimpse its gleaming carriages and be greeted by the steward in his distinctive uniform to know that the most memorable journey of your life has begun.

Take a trip on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train, enjoy a stay in Venice and fly home. Depart London mid-morning for your luxurious overnight journey to Venice, where you arrive late afternoon the next day. Spend a night or three in Venice and fly home to your preferred UK airport (hotel & flight not included in price guide).

This itinerary includes travel from London via the Eurostar. Boarding of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express takes place in Paris. You can choose to arrive in Paris by Eurostar on the day of departure, or arrive a night or two prior to your journey and spend some time enjoying the Romantic French Capital.

We can offer a wide range of luxury Paris and Venice hotel accommodation, flight and all transfers for the best possible price.

• Fine Dining
• Food Included
• Unique Experiences
• Authentic Vintage Cabins
• Classic Route
• Available as Inclusive Tour

Guide Price £3,530 pp

Venice hotels.

• Other Destinations

These are a small selection of the hotels we work most closely with in Venice

HOTEL CIPRIANI

BAGLIONI HOTEL LUNA

THE GRITTI PALACE

HOTEL CA’ SAGREDO

LONDRA PALACE

VENICE DESTINATION GUIDE

London to venice train itinerary & timetable.

Travel on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train to Venice and return by air. Depart London mid-morning for your luxurious overnight journey to Venice, where you arrive late afternoon the next day. Spend 2 nights in Venice (Train only included in guide price above) before returning to the UK by air.

Day One: Travel to Paris with (optional) overnight in Paris

• Board the Eurostar at London St Pancras
• After travelling through the Eurostar tunnel to Paris Gare Du Nord, transfer to a select hotel and enjoy an evening of Parisian hospitality

Day Two: Aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

• Private Car transfer to Paris Gare De l’Est and board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train
• Enjoy a delicious four-course dinner, prepared by our skilled French chefs.
• After dinner retire to your cabin, which has now been transformed into a cosy bedroom.

Day Three: Aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

• You awake to the magnificent scenery of the Swiss Alps as breakfast is served in your cabin at a time to suit you.
• Spend the morning relaxing in your cabin or in the Bar Car chatting to fellow guests.
• Enjoy a leisurely three-course lunch which is served in another one of the beautiful restaurant cars.
• While away the afternoon admiring the passing scenery as the train travels through the Italian Dolomites.
• Later, afternoon tea is served in your cabin.
• All too soon it is time to prepare to disembark as the train crosses the Venetian Lagoon and pulls into Santa Lucia station.
• Begin a two night stay in Venice…

Your stay in Venice

Stay in Venice for as long as you want. Our recommendation is The Belmond Hotel Cipriani, it’s the most famous hotel in Venice and has a reputation as one of the best hotels in the world. With its beautiful gardens, terraces, a tennis court and an enormous heated open-air sea water swimming pool, it’s the ultimate luxurious base to take in the sights and sounds of Venice.

Return home by Air

• Pre-arranged private airport transfer
• Flights from Venice Marco Polo or Venice Treviso
• Return to a wide choice of UK airports

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Destinations

Current Venice Simplon-Orient-Express destinations are London, Paris, Venice, Verona, Istanbul, Vienna, Budapest, Prague, Florence, Rome, Portofino, Innsbruck, Geneva, Amsterdam, Brussels, Albertville, Moûtiers and Bourg-Saint-Maurice.

LONDON TO PORTOFINO

SPECIAL EDITION JOURNEY

LONDON TO VENICE

Includes Journey on Eurostar

Return Journey (no air)

VENICE TO LONDON

PARIS TO ISTANBUL

5 Night Unique trip

ISTANBUL TO PARIS

LONDON TO VIENNA

VIENNA TO LONDON

LONDON TO VERONA

Combine with Arena di Verona

VERONA TO LONDON

LONDON TO BUDAPEST

BUDAPEST TO LONDON

LONDON TO PRAGUE

PRAGUE TO LONDON

PARIS TO VENICE

Stay in Paris & Venice

VENICE TO PARIS

Stay in Venice & Paris

LONDON TO FLORENCE

FLORENCE TO LONDON

LONDON TO ROME

ROME TO LONDON

PARIS TO INNSBRUCK

Runs only on select dates

GENEVA TO INNSBRUCK

GENEVA TO VENICE

Also available to Verona

VENICE TO AMSTERDAM

Also available from Verona

AMSTERDAM TO VENICE

VENICE TO BRUSSELS

BRUSSELS TO VENICE

PARIS TO CANNES

Runs once a year

LYON TO CANNES

LYON TO VENICE

PARIS TO ALBERTVILLE

Runs only in December

ALBERTVILLE TO PARIS

PARIS TO MOUTIERS

MOUTIERS TO PARIS

PARIS TO BOURG-SAINT-MAURICE

BOURG-SAINT-MAURICE TO PARIS

Departure Dates

2024 & 2025 Train Timetable

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Departure Dates

2024 DEPARTURE DATES

more info...

2025 DEPARTURE DATES

Special Offers

View Offers.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Other Routes and more information about the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

To Book or simply find out more -

Our travel team are here to help

• I'd like to receive the latest Mulberry Travel news and offers email

Privacy Overview

• - VSOE History
• - General Information
• - Accommodation on Board
• - Route Map
• - Gift Vouchers
• - Timetables
• - Train Fares

Special Offers

Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

A venice simplon-orient-express journey is an experience of the extra-ordinary..

Since this most famous of trains made its maiden journey from Paris to Istanbul in 1883 it has been synonymous with luxury travel. Throughout its history, the Orient Express Train Service had been the luxurious transport of aristocrats, royalty, spies, film stars and writers, as well as, of course, the famous Hercule Poirot and now it's your chance to make this illustrious journey.

Video: The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

There is no more memorable an experience for you than seeing the train for the first time. You may be at London's Victoria Station, boarding the umber and cream carriages of Belmond British Pullman or at Calais, Paris or Venice getting your first glimpse of the blue and gold carriages of the Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Memories of this private luxury train service will stay with you for a lifetime.

As you climb onboard the original Orient Express train carriages, you step back into a more congenial and elegant era. Today, the enchantment and romance lives on, and, in an age that too often reduces travel to the speed and efficiency of getting you to your destination, the experience of this journey is more alluring than ever.

The Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is distinctive down to the smallest detail. The train is composed of original 1920s and 30s Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits carriages, painstakingly and lovingly restored to their original elegance and grandeur. They boast exquisite marquetry panels and designs by artists of the art deco movement, including René Laliqué.

Your Compartment

Travelling in your private compartment , you are attended to by your Cabin Steward throughout the journey, and are assured of attentive yet discreet service. Your compartment has an original washbasin cabinet with hot and cold water, and at night-time, it becomes a comfortable bedroom, complete with soft towels and crisp linen. All cabins and public areas on the train are now air-conditioned.

Historic Twin Cabin - During the day your Cabin is a comfortable lounge with a large sofa, a footstool and a small fold-out table. Elegantly hidden away in an inlaid cabinet is a washbasin with hot and cold water, together with luxurious fluffy towels. Whilst you enjoy a sumptuous dinner in one of the dining cars and drinks in the Bar Car, your compartment will be converted by your cabin steward from daytime seating to cosy, upper and lower sleeping berths with crisp white linen. Bathrobes, slippers and luxury amenities by Temple Spa are provided.

Double or Twin Suite - Bringing a new vision of luxury to the ageless Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, the Suites offer all the grandeur of the established cabins with the added benefit of an ensuite bathroom, either double or twin beds, plus a new daytime configuration that invites you to unwind in style.

Grand Suite - First launched in 2018, three new Orient Express suites, with a further three added in 2020, all offering you a new level of luxury on the world's most famous train. Each comprises of a double/twin bedroom, a generous living area with room for private dining and a sofa which can be converted into an additional child's bed in the evening. Your private en-suite bathroom includes a shower, washbasin and toilet, plus bespoke amenities and complimentary designer bathrobes.

For further details see 'Grand Suites' .

Life on Board

The service is perfectly in keeping with the setting. Once your journey starts, settle into your private cabin and watch Europe's finest scenery gliding by. Whilst onboard, you will have a personal steward, who will show you to your compartment of polished brass, gleaming inlaid wood, crisp linen and soft towels. He will show you how everything works in your compartment and how to call him if you need further assistance at any time during the journey. Your comfortable compartment provides a restful oasis, offering panoramic views of the ever-changing landscape. Most passengers leave their cabin doors open during the day, in order to view the scenery on both sides of the train as it passes by and to chat to other passengers as they walk along the corridor and this leads to quite a 'community' atmosphere on board.

Later in the afternoon, tea with cakes and pastries is served in your cabin by your cabin steward, after which it's time to start getting ready for dinner. Dressing for the occasion is all part of the experience and our guide is that you can never be overdressed on board the Orient Express .

The tone of the evening is set with a visit to the Bar Car, famous for its delicious cocktails and welcoming atmosphere, it is the heart of the train. Try the "Guilty 12 ", a cocktail created by Walter, the barman, containing 12 mystery ingredients and inspired by the novel "Murder on the Orient Express". It is truly a unique, intimate and stylish experience that resounds to the voices of royalty, heads of state and celebrities such as Gregory Peck, Alan Whicker and Cher. Enjoy a few pre-dinner cocktails here whilst mingling with fellow travellers and soak in the atmosphere of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

VSOE waiter in the Bar Car

Your Comfortable VSOE cabin

Cabin Wash Basin

Then on to one of the three beautifully restored 1920s art deco restaurant cars - L' Oriental decorated in black lacquer, Etoile du Nord with its beautiful marquetry, and Côte d'Azur , featuring its stunning Lalique glass panels. Softly muted lighting enhances the mood while fine linen, French silverware and heavy crystal invite you to prepare for a meal to remember.

In the dining cars, the attention to detail is breathtaking: the linen, the silverware and the crystal glassware are all alluring parts of the experience. The overall result is a beguiling evocation of the golden age of travel. Yet, like all true classics, it transcends its historical origins and feels utterly fresh and contemporary. At this level, luxury is timeless.

Five-star dining onboard is an unforgettable delight. All dishes are freshly prepared on board by French chefs, with the finest supplies taken on board during the train's journey.

Brunch, lunch and dinner are served in one of the three individually designed Restaurant Cars with service provided by attentive Italian waiters. Breakfast and afternoon tea are served in your compartment by your cabin steward.

Destinations

The train now visits some of Europe's most evocative destinations. The traditional route between Paris, Verona and Venice (or vice versa) is now complemented by departures from Venice to the exciting cities of Vienna, Prague and Budapest as well as once-yearly journeys from London to Berlin and back. For the most discerning of travellers, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express invites you to embark on its annual, very special departure from Paris to Istanbul , re-creating the original journey of 1883 on this six-day extravaganza. The sheer romance of the onboard experience is entirely undiminished.

Enjoy the uncompromising luxury of the authentic period carriages, and the finest quality of service, amid some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe onboard this beautiful luxury train.

A variety of journeys is available, which can be taken individually or as a centrepiece to a European holiday. Choose to travel on the train and make your own arrangements, or let us indulge you with an inclusive holiday that incorporates flights, luxury hotels and transfers in exciting cities, such as Venice, Paris, Vienna, Prague, Budapest, Istanbul and recently introduced Berlin. We can tailor-make a luxury holiday to your specification.

Whatever your destination, you can be sure of superb service, a veritable feast of sumptuous menus and perhaps, in the hectic world of the 21st century, a nostalgic reminder of a time when the journey was as important, if not more so than the destination. Enjoy your time onboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

Venice Lagoon and gondolas

Istanbul Blue Mosque

For the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information, check www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice .

Please Note: A journey on board the Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is certainly not suitable for everyone - only those who yearn for the adventure of this unique experience of a bygone era. The carriages are the original 1920 - 1930s carriages and although they have been beautifully restored and regularly maintained, they have received very few modernisations (if you are travelling during the cooler months, you may well see your steward shovelling coal into the little boiler in each carriage to heat the radiator in your cabin). They were built in an era when travelling across Europe and sleeping on a train were a luxury in themselves. Passengers should note that the Twin Cabins and Cabin-Suites do not have private facilities, other than a wash-basin. However, please note that as of 2017, all cabins and public areas on the train will be air-conditioned. There is a w.c. at the end of each carriage. There are no laundry facilities onboard the train. The train does now feature WiFi throughout, however, guests are requested to switch their phones to silent whilst on board.

Questions and Answers

Does the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express operate year-round?

No, the train operates from mid-March to early November. See our Timetables page for further information regarding travel dates.

How much does it cost to go on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?

The most popular route, Paris to Venice or vice versa starts at £3,885 per person in 2024. Fares can vary depending on availability and season. As a general rule, your fare will be cheaper if you book earlier. As cabins are booked up and availability is limited, fares will increase.

The most expensive routes are Paris to Istanbul and vice versa. In 2024 the fare based on a Twin Cabin starts at £19,000 per person.

These fares include all meals onboard. See our Fares page for full details of all fares.

Where does the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express begin and end?

The most popular and regular journeys on the VSOE are from London to Venice via Paris or vice versa. The longest journeys that it does is either from Paris to Istanbul or Istanbul to Paris and it does these journeys once each year. It also makes a couple of visits to Budapest, Vienna, Prague and an annual trip from London to Berlin and back during the year.

What do you wear on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?

During the day smart, casual dress is the norm. Jeans, shorts, T-shirts, trainers etc., are not acceptable. For dinner it's a different matter and, to be honest, it's hard to be over-dressed. Many of the gents will be in dinner suits (tuxedos) with black tie and ladies in cocktail or evening dresses. Minimum dress code in the evening is lounge suit and tie for men with smart attire for the ladies.

Is this the real Orient Express train?

Historically, there never was a single Orient Express train. The Orient Express route was a service network that operated across Europe. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train that operates today is a single train, made up of restored carriages from the original 1920s Orient Express service. It operates on some of the original Orient Express routes, including the iconic Paris to Istanbul journey.

Does the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express use the Channel Tunnel?

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express never uses the channel tunnel. For those guests that are travelling to or from London, the UK part of the journey is operated by the Belmond British Pullman (sister train to the VSOE). At Folkestone, you disembark and board luxury coaches which take you through the tunnel on Eurotunnel and you join the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express at Calais.

Can I use a wheel-chair on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is constantly moving and whilst we can accommodate passengers with slight walking difficulties, guests must be escorted by an able-bodied person. The train consists of historic rolling stock and therefore operates within certain operational constraints. There are some key factors to be aware of before making a booking for any guest with mobility issues.

One of the key considerations is that wheelchairs cannot be used on board the train. The dimensions and layout do not allow wheelchair passage through the corridors. Essentially, our guests would need to be able to make their way from their cabin to the bathroom at the end of the carriage and would also need to be able to embark and disembark the train on foot, using the two high steps and grab rail by the door of the carriage. It is not possible to fix a ramp from the platform to the train door.

Foldable mobility scooters can be taken on board, for use at the final destination. Requests for wheelchairs and assistance can be made with prior notice, to official railway station services at each station along the route, however train staff cannot provide these services directly.

Should you have any special requirements, please let us know at the time of booking.

How can I buy Venice Simplon Orient Express tickets?

Call Luxury Trains on 0333 405 0192. Our experienced staff can help you book your ticket on one of these iconic luxury train journeys. We can also arrange the complete package of train, hotel, flight and transfers, tailored to your specifications.

Accommodation on Board

V S O E Timetables

V S O E Fares

General Information

Paris to Venice Journey

Have you travelled with us? Then let us and others know what you thought of our service.

Keep Updated

Subscribe to our FREE newsletter for features, news updates and special offers! You can unsubscribe at any time.

We respect your email privacy

• Your Privacy
• Booking Conditions

Savvy Travel Advice

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Train: A Luxury Train Journey from London to Venice

Last updated: December 15, 2023 - Written by Jessica Norah 41 Comments

This past October we had the pleasure of riding the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train from London to Venice where we held our wedding ceremony. The original Orient Express train service ran from 1883 to 2009, and its name became associated with glamour, luxury, intrigue, and even murder! In its heyday, it was the most luxurious train in Europe and today this tradition lives on with Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE).

The VSOE makes regular luxury train journeys across Europe, offering gourmet meals, private overnight cabins, and attentive staff within its wonderfully restored historical train carriages. The signature trip is the 36-hour luxury train journey from London to Venice which has to be one of the most elegant ways to arrive in Venice!

We’ll share all you need to know to decide if this trip is a good fit for you, from the historical background of the Orient Express to how to book the VSOE online, and we’ll also share the full details of our own experience aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train.

Table of Contents:

Basic Information about the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

We’ve put together a guide that will hopefully answer any basic question about a trip on VSOE, from the train routes and dress code to the cost and booking.

Why is the Orient Express so Famous?

Orient Express is probably the most famous name associated with any train in history, its mystique glorified by books and films. The words conjure up images of exotic destinations, luxurious train compartments, 1920’s fashion, the Golden Age of Travel, intrigue, and even murder.

However, it was not always as romantic as people think as it was the primary way to travel through the Balkans at the time and it operated through some pretty turbulent political times in Europe. Throughout its history, the train was robbed, bombed, shot at, and one of the train cars was even used as a location by both the French and the Germans to sign armistice agreements in the World Wars.

The Orient Express was certainly one of the most luxurious trains of its time, especially in its heyday between the World Wars, and it carried famous passengers from around the world across the European continent, including King Ferdinand I of Bulgaria, Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, King Leopold II of Belgium, French president Paul Deschanel, Marlene Dietrich, Joseph Kessel, Leo Tolstoy, Leon Trotsky, Lawrence of Arabia, Ernest Hemingway, Agatha Christie, and Mata Hari.

King Ferdinand I and King Boris III of Bulgaria were probably two of the train’s most enthusiastic (crazy?) passengers, often asking numerous questions about the train and even taking over the controls and racing it across their kingdom of Bulgaria!

Despite the famous and colorful real-life characters who regularly made their passage across Europe on the Orient Express, it would be the fictional characters and depictions associated with the train that have most firmly remained in the public’s mind. As early as 1897, Bram Stoker would use the Orient Express train to transport Johnathan Harker, Van Helsing, and the other members of their party across Europe in their race to get to Dracula as he sailed back to his castle in Transylvania. Dracula remains one of my favorite classic novels!

Later you have Graham Greene using the Orient Express as a setting in both  Stamboul Train  (also titled Orient Express in the U.S.) and Travels with my Aunt . James Bond takes a trip on the Simplon Orient Express and even fights on top of the train as it races towards the Simplon Pass in From Russia With Love .

However, it would be the story of Belgian detective Hercule Poirot’s murder investigation on board the Simplon Orient Express train that would capture the public’s attention and continues to be the most associated novel with the famous train. Agatha Christie’s famous 1934 novel Murder on the Orient Express was inspired by a 1929 incident when the Orient Express train was stuck due to a snowstorm for several days near Çerkezköy. I would definitely recommend reading or re-reading some of these books prior to your journey or bringing one aboard with you!

If you prefer movies, the book has been made into a number of movies in several languages. Two of the best known versions are the classic star-studded 1974 version directed by Sidney Lumet starring Albert Finney, Lauren Bacall, Ingrid Bergman, and Sean Connery and the 2017 film adaptation of the murder mystery directed by Kenneth Branagh which stars Branagh, Judi Dench, Willem Defoe,  M ichelle Pfeiffer,  and Johnny Depp.

Is This the Same Train as the Historic Orient Express Train?

The simple answer is no. There is no specific train that was called the Orient Express which used a rotating and often changing set of rolling stock (locomotives, carriages) throughout its long history. Instead Orient Express was the name of a long-distance train service and train route.  The Orient Express was the name of an international train service that began in 1883 and essentially ran from Paris to Istanbul (often using a ferry or even horse-drawn carriages to connect the later parts of the route in the early years).

The Orient Express was operated by the famous Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits which also produced the luxurious train cars used in the Orient Express trains. As the Orient Express grew a reputation as a luxury international train route, other routes were developed with the name Orient Express, including the Arlberg Orient Express, Direct Orient Express, and the Simplon Orient Express. The Simplon Orient Express (later the route was named the Direct Orient Express) was a route that ran from Paris to Istanbul, passing through the Simplon Tunnel and included stops in Venice and Milan.

Over time, air travel and high-speed trains made these slow luxury trains less popular and by 1962 only the Direct Orient Express route was being run. Its last trip from Paris to Istanbul was on May 19, 1977. For many people, this was considered the end of the Orient Express; however a much truncated train route called the Orient Express existed until December 2009, with a train making its final run on the route from Strasbourg to Vienna on December 12, 2009. 

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express operated by Belmond uses the name based on the historical Simplon-Orient-Express train route that ran from Paris to Istanbul. The train uses restored dining and sleeping train cars from the 1920’s, 1930’s, and 1950’s. Originally the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express actually ran through the Simplon Pass, but it now typically uses a different route through Switzerland to reach Venice but retains the name.

What Exactly is the Venice Simplon Orient Express?

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) is a 5-star luxury train service that was started in 1982 by James Sherwood, a rail enthusiast and businessman, to regularly run from London and Paris to Venice. The train service  is now operated by Belmond and uses restored historical dining and sleeping cars from the 1920’s, 1930’s, and 1950’s.

It has expanded its routes to include a number of cities throughout Europe. For those traveling to or from London, the route includes two trains as the train that operates on the UK portions of the journey is the Belmond British Pullman train and across the channel the Continental Wagons-Lits train carries the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express name and logos.

As noted earlier the train got its name based on the historical train route called the Simplon-Orient-Express that ran from Paris to Istanbul via the Simplon Pass.

Train Journeys Offered Aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?

The most popular and frequent journeys are from London to Venice (and vice versa) and London to Verona (and vice versa). However, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express also makes less frequent trips to other European cities, including Vienna, Berlin, Prague, Budapest, and Istanbul.

The iconic trip from Paris to Istanbul and back is typically offered once a year, and is normally 6 days long.

There are also shorter journeys such as from Paris to Venice and Paris to Verona. You used to also be book shorter train journeys from London to Paris (11 hour journey) and vice versa but these routes no longer available when I last checked in 2020. Not sure if they will return.

The Belmond British Pullman makes regular day trips within the United Kingdom, which are recommended for those wanting to experience the train within a smaller budget.

Is the London to Venice or Venice to London Route Better?

The train journey to and from London to Venice is the most popular journey offered on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Some guests choose to do the full round-trip experience, but many want to just do it one-way and might wonder if it is better to go southwestbound or northeastbound?

The scenery and service are going to be about the same either way so it doesn’t make too much difference; however, I would vote for the London to Venice trip just because you get to start on the British Pullman, board the coach, and ride over the Channel Tunnel at the beginning of the trip so you have the rest of the time to relax on the continental train on your way to Venice.

That said, we found that there was more availability going from Venice to London and that the cost is sometimes a bit lower going that direction. You also get a more substantial British afternoon tea going in the Venice to London direction since it is served aboard the British Pullman.

If you choose to book a one-way trip, you can easily go the other direction by using Eurostar and a continental rail service, or by flying. Note that if you book a trip on the VSOE with Belmond, they can help you book flights, hotel accommodation, and transfers around your journey.

Passports and Visas for Riding the VSOE

Train passengers must have all necessary passports and visas, and must comply with any customs, health, or vaccination policies for all countries they travel through even if they do not disembark the train in these countries. The London-Venice passenger will pass through the United Kingdom, France, Switzerland, Austria (depends on routing), and Italy and passengers must have all necessary passports and visas.

If you are an EU citizen, you should not need any visas; however, citizens of other countries may need visas or health records. If you are not a passport holder of the EU then please check with your country’s embassy or consulate.

During the London-Venice route, visas cannot be obtained at border crossings and it is the passenger’s responsibility to have obtained them in advance. On longer journeys that include Romania and Turkey, Belmond will usually make arrangements to help passengers obtain these visas but do inquire about this in advance.

Once you arrive on the VSOE continental train, your cabin steward will collect your passport and any visas to be able to address any inspections at border crossings and these are returned to you before you reach your final destination.

Note that for United States travelers and other citizens traveling within the Schengen Zone under the Schengen Borders Agreement , it is your responsibility to receive entry and exit stamps when entering or exiting the zone in order to document the amount of time spent within the Schengen Zone (up to 90 days in any 180 day period). Without an entry stamp, you may have problems later when exiting the Schengen Zone.

I had this problem as even though I asked at the UK-France border, it was only stamped as exiting the UK and it was never stamped with my entry into France (first Schengen Zone country) or any other countries along the way as we did not go through French immigration. As I spend a lot of time in Europe and my husband’s family lives in France and need to track my 90 days closely, I was concerned about not getting stamped and unfortunately the staff seemed confused as they did not understand the difference between the Schengen Zone and the European Union, or understand that the UK is not part of the Schengen Zone.

While this is somewhat understandable since most passengers are EU citizens, we were a bit disappointed that none of the staff were able to really help us given that Americans and other non-EU passengers regularly ride this train. If this is an issue for you, be sure to contact Belmond in advance and alert staff at check-in at the beginning of your journey.

Dress Code Aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?

The dress code is pretty explicitly stated in the VSOE Travel Journal and you can essentially not be overdressed, especially in the evening. During the day, smart casual wear is fine but do not wear jeans, shorts,  sneakers/trainers, or the like.

However, in the evening guests are expected to change into formal wear. For men, this means a dark suit and tie or a tuxedo and dress shoes, and for women this could be a cocktail or evening dress or a formal pant suit. Dressing up is part of the experience and those who do not want to follow the dress code may be asked to dine alone in their train compartment.

Just remember to pack everything you need for dinner (clothes, accessories shoes, make-up, jewelry) in your carry-on baggage before check-in.

Modern Amenities Aboard the VSOE?

These are restored vintage train cars although some modern amenities have been added. First, there are no bathtubs or showers aboard the trains (with the exception of the three grand suites which will contain showers which were made available starting in March 2018), just toilets, sinks, and washbasins.

Coal stoves are used for the main heating in each carriage (ask to see one if interested!) and there is a small radiator in each compartment. There is obviously no air-conditioning although the windows can be rolled down for ventilation and there is a small fan on the wall of each compartment.

There is also no wireless Internet access aboard either of the trains. However, there are electrical outlets on the buses (UK-style 3-pin power sockets) and in each sleeper compartment on the VSOE continental train (1 230/115 volts dual voltage socket for electric razors and two 220-volt Europe-style 2-pin sockets) so you should not have an issue keeping your devices charged (just remember to bring an adapter). There is decent cell phone reception along the route.

You are welcome to use electronic devices (e.g., cell phones, tablets, pagers, laptops) in your own personal compartment, but you are asked not to bring them into the public areas.

A safe is located in many of the cabins (request a cabin with one at the time of booking if this feature is important to you).

Current newspapers and magazines are available and there is a mail box located on board and staff are happy to post guests’ letters and postcards with a special stamp.

TIP:  Since there is no air conditioning aboard, it can at times get quite hot aboard the train in mid to late summer. If you are sensitive to heat, I would avoid the hottest summer months as you will still be expected to dress formally.

Who are the Other Guests on the VSOE?

There was a much wider demographic than we had imagined aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Most people were celebrating a significant birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or other event during their trip and for most people this is a one-time trip of a lifetime. I particularly loved the story from one fellow passenger that her husband had surprised her and it was in celebration of both her birthday and her cancer battle.

For some, they had been on the train before (or other trains operated by Belmond) and loved it, so some were regular VSOE travelers. Most people were British and traveling as married couples although there were a couple of mother-daughter and friend groups as well. The majority of guests were middle-aged or older, but there were several other people in their 30’s like us.

You are not likely to be sitting next to a celebrity these days, but we did have one minor actress (we did not recognize her or her name) on our journey. Most people were happy to strike up conversations and chat especially in the coach and in the Bar Lounge, but since most people were also celebrating with their partner many were also wanting some romantic alone time.

Luggage Allowance & Luggage Transfers

The train compartments are pretty small, even by older European hotel room standards, so there is not a lot of room for excessive luggage on board.

Luggage allowance on board is 1 piece of hand luggage (carry-on size suitcase or smaller) and 1 garment bag or overnight bag per passenger. Each passenger is also allowed one piece of luggage to be checked-in and this luggage should be tagged at the Check-In lounge before departure. All checked luggage will be transferred to a baggage car by Belmond staff for the duration of the journey (you will not have access to it until your final destination).

You can also pre-arrange with Belmond for your luggage to be transferred directly to your hotel upon your arrival at your destination.

Is the Journey Appropriate for Disabled or People with Mobility Issues?  

If you have a physical issue that greatly impacts your mobility, this train journey would be difficult and not recommended. Because of the dimensions of the historical trains, they are not able to accommodate a wheelchair. Passengers with mobility issues interested in this journey should contact Belmond staff in advance of booking to discuss possible accommodations and staff recommendations.

Those with any sort of mobility difficulty will probably want to choose the bottom berth rather than needing to climb into the top bunk at night. Or consider booking one of the new and much more spacious Grand Suites.

Are Children Allowed on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?

Yes, children of all ages are welcome aboard the VSOE and children under 12 receive a discounted fare if sharing a compartment with an adult.

However, the VSOE experience is not necessarily the best fit for many children, especially younger children, and parents should take that into consideration. There were several children on the British Pullman part of our journey as a day trip, but only two very well-behaved older children on the full overnight trip.

Tipping on the VSOE?

The cost of your train journey is inclusive of all service charges, and any gratuities are at your own discretion. If you received good service, you can show your appreciation by tipping your cabin steward, bar staff, and/or restaurant staff. You can tip as you go (e.g., per meal, per bag carried), but I would recommend leaving the gratuities to each party on your final day aboard.

Cost of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?

The cost varies depending on your route, cabin type, and the time of year; however, the route from London to Venice start at £2,220.00/person for a Twin Cabin . Rates for the three Grand Cabin Suites (with a toilet, shower, and private dining area) start at about £5,500/person for the London to Venice journey.

Discounts are available for children under age 12 sharing a compartment with an adult, and children under 2 sharing a berth with an adult travel for free.

Belmond also offers a cabin suite which is just two interconnecting double cabins at an additional upgrade price. 

If you are traveling solo, the price for 1 person is generally provided for a double cabin single occupancy on the website. However, there are typically single cabins available for a lower price so you may want to contact Belmond for their price and availability.

TIP: If the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is out of your price range, consider a journey on the Belmond British Pullman which is the train that operates the UK portion of all the VSOE journeys. The cost of a day trip start at around £240. You can read our full review of the British Pullman and see tons of photos from that portion of our trip in our other article.

What is Included in the Price of the VSOE journey?

Your overnight accommodations in a private cabin, your meals (brunch, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea), and the service is included in your fare. All table d’hôte meals (set menus) are included along with coffee and tea.

Depending on your specific journey and direction, a cocktail, sparkling wine, and/or champagne may also be included with your brunch, lunch, or afternoon tea. For instance, our trip included a Bellini cocktail with brunch on the British Pullman and a demi bottle of prosecco in our cabin.

Cabin meal service, bar drinks, luggage transfer to your hotel, and à la carte lunch and dinner options are also available at additional cost.

How to Book the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?

You can book and buy tickets online for the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, as well as check schedules, prices, & availability, online at the official Belmond website: www.belmond.com/venice-simplon-orient-express .

You can also make reservations directly by phone (U.S. customers: toll-free 1-800-524-2420 or 1-843-937-9068; UK customers: 0845 077 2222), or email them with any questions (U.S. customers: [email protected]; UK customers: [email protected]). 

Our Journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Whether you are thinking about booking a trip aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express or simply want to know what the experience would be like, below you’ll find a detailed account of our experience plus a few tips we picked up along the way. Even if you just look at all the photos, you should get a good sense of what it would be like to take a luxury train ride aboard the VSOE. We hope you enjoy coming along with us on our VSOE journey!

What Happens Before Your Trip

After you have made your booking either online or by phone, you will be contacted by a Belmond agent to go over the details and any available options. Before your journey, you will also receive a package in the mail containing your Travel Journal and some beautiful VSOE luggage tags. The Travel Journal is personalized with your train journey route, name, dates, and contains your tickets in the front along with information about check-in, your itinerary, the train amenities, other Belmond products, and a section for your to write your own thoughts during the trip.

The tickets may or may not contain your carriage/seat information (ours did not), but don’t worry if they do not as you’ll be given your reservations at check-in if not. You’ll want to keep the travel journal in a safe place as you’ll need to bring this with you at check-in. I really loved receiving this package in the mail as you so rarely receive tickets in the mail these days.

Upon booking, you will want to talk to Belmond about any special requests, mobility issues, dietary restrictions, luggage transfers, etc. For instance, if you want to arrange for a bottle of champagne or a gift to be in your train compartment upon arrival to surprise your partner, do this in advance. Also if you have cabin preferences (e.g., you want to ensure you have a safe) or dining seat preferences (e.g., you want a table of 4 to be seated together, want a more private table, or you specifically have a carriage preference on the British Pullman) you can make these known now.

We spoke to Belmond staff (specifically a friendly woman named Heather) before our trip about both a dining car preference as well as asked for advice about what to do with my wedding dress since it was extra baggage but something that would need to be handled with care. They were great at noting our dining car preferences with our reservation and in helping us decide what option may be best with the wedding dress.

Also, you are asked to call to re-confirm your booking approximately 48 hours in advance of the start of your journey and the phone number is provided in the journal. There is also a hotline number that provides up-to-date information about the schedule. Belmond will also collect your contact information upon booking and will inform you if there are any delays or changes.

Arrival & Boarding

We had a less than glamorous arrival as we took the London Underground from our friend’s house and had to make two changes along the way to reach Victoria Station. At Victoria station, we made our way to the train platform level and then asked a staff member about how to get to the lounge. Essentially, if you are facing the train platforms, go to your far left and then look right and you should see a sign leading you to the Belmond British Pullman/Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Lounge located on Platform 2.

The lounge opens up a couple of hours prior to departure, and guests are recommended to arrive for check-in at least 45 minutes prior to departure. Inside the lounge, you’ll find a check-in desk where a staff member will check you in, give you all your seat and compartment reservation information, and help you check in your larger bags to your final destination.

Please be sure that all your important documents (passport, visas, travel journal), your evening wear, and overnight items are with you in your hand luggage before checking your luggage. You can either keep your hand luggage items with you or have the staff keep them and they will be transferred into your train compartment once you reach France. I’d recommend just keeping your purse, important documents (must keep your ID and passport), phone and other necessities (e.g., medications, camera), and leaving your overnight bags/garment bags to be transferred so you don’t have to carry them onto and off the train and bus.

The lounge seating area is quite comfortable although it can get quite crowded right before departure. There is also a toilet and complimentary refreshments (water, juice, coffee) available while you wait to board the train.

TIP:  If possible, arrive early so that you can get a seat in the lounge and take advantage of short lines. Those arriving closer to departure had to stand in longer lines and there is not enough seating for all guests. It is nice to have time to relax before your journey.

The gleaming umber-and-cream British Pullman arrived about 25 minutes prior to departure and you can watch it come into the station from just outside of the lounge. Once it is ready for boarding, there will be an announcement in the lounge and passengers are asked to board in their carriage. We took some photographs of the exterior of the train and then headed to our assigned carriage to board.

We were greeted by a staff member who showed us to our assigned seats, which were two plush Pullman armchairs in the Ibis carriage.

Brunch Aboard the British Pullman

Aboard the British Pullman, there are both 2-person and 4-person tables available in all of the carriages, as well as a limited number of 4-person coupés which are partially enclosed seating which is perfect for those wanting more privacy. The seats in each carriage are upholstered Pullman chairs that are very roomy and comfortable.

We were seated at a regular 4-person table but it was set just for the two of us. Once we were seated and settled into our plush seats, we were greeted and served Bellini cocktails which is a mixture of Prosecco sparkling wine and peach purée.  A fitting beginning to our 36-hour train journey!

The Bellini actually has a strong connection to both Venice and Belmond as it was invented in Venice by Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of Harry’s Bar and Hotel Cipriani. The Belmond corporation now owns the Belmond Hotel Cipriani and it is a popular hotel with guests traveling aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

Imagine sitting on a train with well-dressed guests sitting in colorful plush roomy armchairs amongst rich wooden panels decorated with Art Deco marquetry, tables set with linen, silver, and crystal, and gleaming brass light fixtures and luggage racks. This gives you a good mental snapshot of the British Pullman. Laurence and I were both very excited as we sipped our Bellinis and watched as the London suburbs passed by through the train window.

After a short period, the rest of the three-course brunch service began since one cannot survive on cocktails alone! The food was really good and I enjoyed the mix of cold and hot offerings. The scrambled eggs and smoked salmon with caviar were a highlight.

The friendly chief steward, Alan Dowling, and other staff members took very good care of us throughout the brunch and our time on the British Pullman. A staff member regularly came by to clean away empty dishes, offer us bread, or refill our coffee cups. It was a lovely experience having the meal in the beautiful Ibis carriage with the Kent countryside as our moving background.

Here was our full brunch menu to give you an idea of what to expect:

After enjoying a leisurely brunch, we recommend taking some time to walk up and down the elegant row of carriages to explore each one and learn a little about their history. Currently, there are 11 restored historical carriages being used as part of the British Pullman; however, they may not all be attached or being used during your journey. During our trip, they were all attached to the train but at least 2 of the carriages were not used for the brunch service.

Each carriage dates from the 1920’s to the 1950’s and has its own unique decor and history. There are plaque of each carriage posted as you enter each one and there will also be a booklet on your table that describes the history of the train and its carriages.

We were seated in the Ibis carriage; built in 1925,  it is the oldest carriage on the British Pullman and served as a carriage on the original Simplon-Orient-Express, the Deauville Express, the Golden Arrow, and as a Cunard boat train in England before its present role. The carriage is known for its marquetry, oval medallions of Greek dancing girls, and its bright Liberty-print upholstery.

All of the carriages are unique and have interesting histories, whether they were once in service on a famous train line, carried royal family members (several did!), served as part of Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral train in 1965, or were used as a film location. Don’t be shy to take a peek inside the toilets (each carriage has toilets on the ends), as the floor of each bathroom is decorated with a beautiful mosaics, most created by the late artist Marjorie Knowles.

The exact amount of time you’ll be aboard the British Pullman depends on the chosen train route for the day and whether the train makes any stops to drop off day trippers before reaching its terminus at Folkestone. But expect about 2 hours or less to admire this train; we were on the British Pullman train for 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Getting Across the English Channel 

Once the British Pullman reaches Folkestone, all passengers will disembark at the station and follow signs to transfer to a VIP coach that will be used to transport everyone across the Channel Tunnel. It is easy to follow signs and there were staff members along the way to help direct us. Often there is a small local jazz band greeting for arriving guests, but sadly we did not happen to have a band awaiting us on this particular day.

Once you reach the waiting coaches, you will be asked to board your assigned bus (the number will be on your ticket). Since the trains cannot cross the Channel Tunnel, you will making the crossing while seated in the bus which itself will drive aboard a car-carrying EuroTunnel shuttle train that will take you to Calais.

The length of time that you will be on the coach varies depending on traffic and the passport control/inspection, which can vary greatly from less than one 1 hour to over 3 hours with the average seeming to fall somewhere in between. We were stopped longer than usual and there was a lot of traffic so it took us 3 hours from the time we got onto the coach to the time we reached the Calais Ville train station.

In the past, passengers were taken across the Channel by ferry and in the event that the EuroTunnel is closed to traffic, Belmond will arrange for the longer ferry transfer from Dover to Calais but the majority of VSOE trips take the coach over the EuroTunnel.

After boarding the bus, you will likely briefly stop at the Eurotunnel terminal as we did where you will need to get off the bus and go through passport control. The staff member aboard our coach said that sometimes they are asked to stop but sometimes they are not. We were here for about 30 minutes and passengers were able to get off and wander around the shops and food court, get money from the ATM, or use the restrooms before boarding again to head across the Channel.

This is obviously the least enjoyable section of the trip and many of our fellow passengers seemed quite confused about this part of the journey and did not realize they’d be spending time on a coach. If you are planning to take this trip, just plan for a bit of the magic to be lost here and know you will be in a coach so that you are not disappointed when this happens or there are traffic or security delays crossing the Channel as Belmond has very little control over this part of the journey.

Nevertheless, the coaches are quite comfortable with roomy chairs, tables, and UK-style power sockets. Refreshments (i.e., water, juice, packaged snacks) are served along the way. It is quite an interesting experience to be seated in a non-moving coach as it sits within a moving train. You can actually get out of the coach and walk around the train compartment as Laurence did, just ask a staff member to ensure its safe.

At Calais, our coach drove off the shuttle train at the Eurotunnel terminal and we headed to the Calais train station.

Boarding the Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Continental Train

The coaches park at the Calais station and upon exiting the buses, you are greeted with the sight of the Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express liveried staff lined up in front of the beautiful blue, cream, and gold vintage carriages. You are given 10-15 minutes to walk around and pose with the staff, take pictures of the train, and find your designated sleeping carriage.

You’ll find the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express logo on the train’s gleaming exterior as well as that of the La Compagnie Internationale des Wagon-Lits. The LX type sleeping cars were some of the most luxurious sleeping cars built by the Wagons-Lits company. 

Our VSOE Train Compartment

We met our cabin steward, Marco, who introduced himself and led us to our sleeping compartment, or cabin. Specifically we were in Carriage F, Cabin 2. Most of our hand luggage had already been delivered to our cabin except for Laurence’s photography backpack and that arrived about 5 minutes later. Marco went over the basics of the cabin workings, collected our passports, and also gave us a key and explained to us how to lock and unlock our cabin and how to secure it from the inside with the security chain.

In our compartment, we were also greeted with a note from the train manager, a demi bottle of prosecco, mineral water, a set of Art Deco stationery, a map of the train journey, and some information about the train. Cabin service is available 24 hours (at a cost) and you can order wine, drinks, and luxury snacks such as caviar, smoked salmon, foie gras, canapes, fruit platters, and cheese plates.

So what are the train compartments like? Whereas there are small differences across cabins such as the color of the upholstery, type of washbasin, and location of the light switches etc., each cabin has a similar layout. The main features of the main cabin are the sofa seating area, small folding table, a footstool, and a lamp. For storage, there is a wide upper luggage rack along the wall across from the sofa and a couple of hooks to hang coats and evening wear. There was also a small radiator, a window which can be rolled down, a small fan along the wall, reading lights, and two 220-volt European style 2-pin sockets. Some cabins come with a small safe that can be locked.

All cabins also have a washbasin cabinet that can be opened with two wooden doors and contains the sink with hot and cold water taps, soap, a mirror, glasses and bottled water, towels, a razor power socket, and a very nice selection of toiletries created by Temple Spa . You’ll also find two robes and two pairs of slippers.

Note that if you are booked in one of the three Orient Express Grand Suites (new in 2018 with a cost about double of the regular cabins), then you will have a much larger and spacious cabin with more amenities. These suite cabins include a double or twin bed bedroom, a living area with sofa and private dining space, a private en-suite bathroom with shower, sink, and toilet, and complimentary bathrobes. Traveling in the Grand Suites also comes with additional amenities and services, such as private check-in, unlimited champagne, additional menu options, and private dining options.

What size are the VSOE cabins? 

This seems to be one of the most popular questions we get asked and it is small. It is smaller than any European hotel room we’ve stayed in if that gives you an idea. To be precise, a standard double cabin is 1903 mm x 1478 mm which is about 6.2 ft by 4.8 ft.  Expect your cabin to be a bit smaller if you are in a single cabin.

It is perfectly comfortable to sit in, watch the scenery, read, and have tea as two people. However, it is difficult for two people to change at the same time, apply make-up, unpack, and those sort of things so I’d advise taking turns when getting ready for dinner. If you are planning to take this train journey, just be prepared for a tight space unless you book a Grand Suite.

We really came to love our tiny cabin although we probably would not have wanted to sleep in it for more than a few days!

History of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Sleeping Cars

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express sleeping cars are each unique with their own histories which you’ll see written on panels as you enter each train. They have each been used in famous historic trains like the original Orient-Express, the Train Bleu, the Rome Express, and the royal Dutch train.

Many had interesting uses over the years by the military or royalty or were turned into hotels and even brothels. For instance, sleeping car 3309 is the oldest sleeping car carriage on the train and it operated as part of the Orient-Express and in 1927 it was one of the carriages caught in the snow storm for several days that inspired Agatha Christie’s famous Murder on the Orient Express .

Our sleeping car was 3544 and it also has a very interesting history. It was built in France in 1929 as a first class “Luxe” sleeping car with its interior decorated with Art Deco marquetry by René Prou. It started its life in the Pyrénées-Côte d’Argent Express and then the Train Bleu until being taken out of service during the Great Depression. It was then returned to service in the Rome Express before being used by the Germans as a brothel in Limoges from 1942-1945! After the war, it returned to train service as part of the Dutch Royal train, then back to being part of the Train Bleu, and then spent 20 years as part of the original Simplon-Orient-Express from 1949-1969. 

Shared Toilets

As noted before, theses are historical carriages and there are no showers or bathtubs on the train and no toilets in the individual cabins (except for the Grand Suites), but shared toilets and sinks are located at the end of each sleeping car.

We had no issue with the bathrooms and the shared toilets and sinks were kept very clean and fresh by staff. The only time the toilets became busy was right before each dinner time as they afford more space for changing and a larger mirror than is provided in the cabins.

Dressing up for Dinner

You should definitely plan to dress up during your time on the VSOE. Not only is it part of the experience, but there is a specified dress code for evening wear on the train. All the men were wearing either a dark suit or tuxedo and all the women were in dresses, gowns, or evening pantsuits.

A few guests during our trip were also dressed in retro 1920’s and 1930’s evening wear, and we were told this is the case on many of the journeys. So feel free to get creative!

We would recommend starting to get dressed earlier than you think you need to as it can take a bit longer when trying to do it in a small cabin on a moving train! Changing clothes can be challenging but we just took turns with one person sitting on the couch and the other changing and we managed fine. We are used to train travel so the slight shaking and braking didn’t bother us much, but it can jostle you around a little at times so be prepared when walking around as we saw some older folks losing their balance when walking in the hallways.

We had no issues getting ready until I couldn’t get a large safety pin that was stuck in my dress’s zipper off! Laurence and I wrestled with it to no avail and finally I told Laurence to ring for someone. Both Marco and another staff member tried to help and went to fetch a scissors but it wasn’t strong enough to cut through the metal of the pin.

But Marco saved the day by eventually being able to bend the safety pin and get it off my dress. This was another great example of the good customer service we experienced during this journey as this was not exactly a normal request!

Dining Aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Dining aboard the train was definitely one of our favorite experiences during the 36-hour luxury journey. After you are settled into your train compartment and the train has left Calais, the Maître d’hôtel will come by to your cabin to inquire about preferred dining times (spread about 2 hours apart) and any dining preferences (seating configuration, dining car). If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions (note these at the time of booking!), this is also a good time to confirm this information with the dining staff.

There were two seating times for both lunch and dinner. For those leaving the train at Paris, you’ll need to choose the early seating and for those joining the Venice-bound  train in Paris, you’ll automatically receive the later seating.

There are three different dining cars, and we definitely recommend trying two different dining cars for your meals as they are all very lovely. We had dinner on the Côte d’Azur, which was built in 1929 as first class Pullman and was decorated by René Lalique for service in the Côte d’Azur Pullman Express. The car is best known for its beautiful faintly blue opaque Lalique glass panels showing  classical figures holding grapes, and the chairs in the car are currently upholstered a medium blue color.

Then the following afternoon, we had lunch on the  L’Oriental which was originally a Pullman kitchen car built in Birmingham in 1927. Since being purchased for the VSOE, the interior has been replaced with Chinese-style black lacquer panels and the upholstery and curtains are currently a deep red.

The third dining car is the Etoile du Nord which was built in Birmingham in 1926 and served part of its service in the Etoile du Nord route from Paris to Amsterdam. The car features beautiful marquetry and is currently upholstered in a dark green color.

Both the four-course dinner and the three-course lunch were excellent. Dining aboard the British Pullman was very nice, but this took it to another level as the mood is set for the evening and everyone is dressed in fine evening wear. Lamps are glowing against the passing night landscapes and the tables are set with fine china, silver, crisp linens, and crystal glassware. We ate exactly what was served on the included menu and enjoyed every dish.

The Chef de Cuisine is Christian Bodiguel, who joined the VSOE team in 1984 and has been serving up to 180 guests per trip ever since. A favorite from dinner had to be the blue lobster course with black truffle and caviar, which was very rich and decadent! Although the beef fillet was also very good. During lunch, the pan-fried turbot filet and oyster were a highlight. The desserts could have been a bit better in our minds but given the two tiny kitchens that all these meals are served out of, it is hard to believe the quality and quantity of food produced!

Service during dinner was excellent with very attentive and helpful staff. If you really want to appreciate the fine dining experience on the VSOE train, ask a staff member to let you peek inside a galley (kitchen) at some point during your journey; they are tight challenging spaces!

Here is a peek of our menu to give you a mouth-watering idea of what to expect:

Note that in addition to the regular meals served on the train and included in the fare, one can also order a number of à la carte options and supplements at an additional cost. We noted that most people, like us, stuck to the included menu but some people did order extras such as caviar or a different main course.

Note that only coffee and tea are included with the meals and all other drinks cost extra on the Continental train.

The Piano Bar & Lounge

In many ways, Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a much more luxurious and comfortable train than guests would have ever experienced from its historical predecessors. The piano bar and lounge car, originally built and used as a dining car, is a great example of this as there would not have been a bar and piano lounge car on the historical Orient Express.

Nonetheless, this modern addition provides a comfortable social gathering spot on the train. It is very popular both before and after each dinner seating so grab a seat early or you may have to stand at the bar until a seat becomes available. A resident pianist plays on a grand baby piano in the lounge and you’re likely to hear music from the early to mid 1900’s from the likes of Cole Porter, George Gershwin, and Noël Coward. Feel free to put in a request. 

The head barman Walter Nisi has been mixing cocktails and serving drinks on the VSOE since 2008. His signature, and recommended cocktail is the Guilty 12, which contains 12 secret ingredients, and was inspired by the 12 characters in the famous Christie novel. Drinks at the bar are not included in the price of the trip and are a bit pricey, but we had to try the Guilty 12 (22,00 euros) and Laurence also had a Bombay Sapphire gin and tonic (17,00 euros) after dinner.

In the mornings and early afternoons, the lounge area can be quite empty and a great place to read a book, admire the passing scenery, or have a drink and conversation with fellow travelers.

The train also has a small Champagne Bar on one end of the Côte d’Azur dining car where guests can have a celebratory bottle or glass of champagne or enjoy a champagne cocktail. Among the champagnes on offer are Tattinger, Laurent Perrier, and Louis Roederer Cristal. 

Sleeping on the Train & a 3 a.m. Surprise Visitor

During dinner, your cabin steward will turn down your cabin and make it up for night use. So when we return from dinner, our couch and lounge area had been transformed into a cozy sleeping area with an upper and lower sleeping berth and the robes and slippers were laid out for us. We also found a tin of candies from Pastiglie Leone  on the bed. 

If you’d like to witness this magic process, just ask your cabin steward to show you. We watched it the next day and Marco was happy to demonstrate how the various pieces folded down, were attached, and what was stored away.  We were quite amazed at how the train compartment transformed so easily from a daytime seating area to sleeping quarters, and our steward Marco could accomplish this full transformation in less than 5 minutes.

The beds are pretty narrow and are shorter than the beds we are used to; we are not that tall but a taller person over 6 foot might have a difficult time being comfortable on these beds. It is a bit difficult but not impossible for two persons to fit in one bed (or so we heard….), but I would not recommend two people actually trying to sleep in one berth overnight.

Laurence took the top berth and I took the lower one; the lower one is definitely easier to get into than the top bunk. The beds are comfortable for train beds and we felt snug and warm. You can hear some noises of people coming up and down the halls, especially if they are loud, and you can also hear louder noises from neighboring cabins but you can’t hear normal conversation level talking as long as the cabin doors are closed.

Some people sleep very well on trains and others have difficulty falling asleep. It takes some time to get use to the rocking and noises of the trains, but we both fell asleep within 30 minutes and were sleeping well until about 3am. 

Around 3 am, we were both awakened by loud knocking on our door and cries from a woman to be let in. At first we were dazed, thinking perhaps there was some sort of emergency with thoughts of the film Murder on the Orient Express fresh on our minds. Then assessing the situation, Laurence said back that she had the wrong room.

The knocking continued again and again after protests from Laurence for her to please stop. She pleaded to him “It’s [her name], please let me in!”. At this, I slapped my hand against the door and said that she had the wrong cabin.

We heard a gasp at the sound of my voice and we can only assume this woman was debating whether her husband had another woman in the cabin or if this was indeed the wrong one. We heard her plod away and it took us a while to go back to sleep but fortunately we had no more visitors that evening. The sounds had also woke up our neighbors on the other side.

The next morning when Marco asked us how we slept, we mentioned this and he said that he had actually already heard about the incident. We learned that the woman in question was indeed in a different sleeping car (same number room) and she apologized to train staff but never came to apologize directly to us; we imagine she was either sleepy or intoxicated and felt embarrassed by the mistake.

A short while later we received a complimentary bottle of Taittinger champagne, courtesy of the train manager, Michele Rocca, for the disturbance. We thought this was great customer service and even though we did not complain to anyone, it was nice to know that the staff acknowledged the incident. We ended up saving the champagne for our wedding celebration in Venice .

Continental Breakfast and Afternoon Tea 

The night before, Marco had asked us when we thought we’d be likely wanting breakfast the next morning and what type of juice and hot beverages we’d prefer. But there is no specific time that you need to get up and he told us to just call him once we were awake and dressed.

We were excited to see the Swiss scenery so woke up around 8:00am, got dressed, and let Marco know we were awake and ready for breakfast. Since the continental breakfast is served in your cabin, this means that Marco needed to also convert our sleeping quarters back to its daytime position before serving breakfast.

We happened to wake up at the same time as several of our neighbors so we did need to wait a bit before it was our turn but this was not a problem for us as we were definitely not starving after last night’s four-course dinner!

The continental breakfast is fairly simple but fresh, with good tasting coffee. For those who happen to be very hungry or in a celebratory mood, there is also the Celebration Breakfast menu that can be ordered which is an extra 100 euros and features a selection of freshly baked breads, smoked salmon, eggs, truffles, and caviar.

Our Continental Breakfast Menu

Later in the afternoon before your arrival in Paris, you’ll be asked if you would like afternoon tea or you can just request it from your steward whenever you want it. Afternoon tea (or coffee) is also served in your train compartment. We had afternoon tea and it consists of a selection of tea bags, hot water, and a dainty but delicious chocolate cake.

I do have to say that I was thinking we would be receiving a more substantial afternoon tea (I think you get a fuller British afternoon tea if you travel from Venice to London aboard with tea served aboard the British Pullman) so I was a little disappointed in the lack of finger sandwiches and scones, but we were honestly not hungry after our lunch so it was not an issue.

We enjoyed our tea as the train made its way through northern Italy and towards Venice, not wanting the journey to ever end!

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Boutique

There is a small boutique located in the rear of the Côte d’Azur dining car which sells gifts from the Collection Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. These include items such as postcards, silk scarves, neckties, jewelry, glassware, lamps, cufflinks, books, and tea sets. The train carries only a limited amount of merchandise so if there is specific item you want you can pre-book it so it will be available on the train.

Laurence actually surprised me by going out to “photograph something” and coming back with a pair of VSOE earrings that he gave me as a belated birthday present! Very swe et!

Scenery Along the Train Journey 

The scenery in England is OK with a bit of nice English countryside; however, a lot of it is the sprawl of London and rail stations. You’ll also get a bit of the French countryside once you arrive in France but it will be dark for most of that part of the trip if you are leaving from London.

The best scenery is when you are in Austria and Switzerland so while it may be tempting to sleep in after a big meal and time in the lounge car, we definitely recommend waking up at a decent hour in the morning to watch as the train travels through the Swiss mountains and countryside.

Note that the route your train takes can differ as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express uses more than one route to get to and from Venice. It is currently using both the Arlberg Pass route and the Gotthard Pass route so check ahead by calling the Belmond if the routing is important to you. The train no longer uses the Simplon Pass routes (the route the train is named for!). The section between Innsbruck and the Brenner Pass is probably the most picturesque section but there are several nice stretches along both routes.

However, don’t expect all the scenery to be charming as given the nature of railroads, there will also of course be industrial areas and urban sprawl along the tracks. But we had a few hours or so of very nice scenery and the windows in your private compartment as well as those along the side of the sleeping car hallway open so you can get better views and take glare-free photos!

Arrival in Venice and Leaving the Train

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end and it was bittersweet to hear the announcement that we’d soon be arriving at the Venice Santa Lucia station. This is the time to pack up your belongings, settle up any bar accounts, make sure you leave any desired gratuities, say your goodbyes, and be sure to leave your room key and collect your passport from your cabin steward.

Once you leave the train, you’ll be reunited with your checked luggage on the platform. I think we had our luggage within 15 minutes of arrival. There are luggage trolleys available in the station to help you and if you pre-arranged a luggage transfer then your checked luggage will be taken care of by Belmond and transferred directly to your hotel.

It was a bit like being awakened from a trance to be in the bustling and noisy modern train station after 36 hours of Golden Age travel, but it was also nice to meet up with Laurence’s parents and to head to our Venice hotel.

Many guests end their VSOE trip with a stay at the 5-star  Belmond Hotel Cipriani ; we opted for a more rustic stay at  Locanda Leon Bianco and had a beautiful large room with a view of the Grand Canal. You can check for Venice hotel options here .

Although Laurence had been to Venice a few times before, this was my first visit and such a wonderful way to arrive in this city for the first time and a great start to our wedding celebration !

Overall Thoughts on our Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Train Journey

Overall, we both thoroughly enjoyed our journey aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. It was something that I had wanted to do since I was a child and it was great to be able to have this opportunity to make this fabled journey. This is an expensive trip and not within many people’s budgets; however, if you do have the money this is an excellent indulgence!

I really love trains and both the Belmond British Pullman and the VSOE Continental train car have been beautifully restored and appointed and it was a real pleasure to explore them and be able to dine and sleep in them. You do at times really feel transported back to a past age with the luxurious surroundings, good food, attentive staff, and well-dressed passengers.

Although the coach portion of the trip is not ideal, it was fairly smooth and organized. Although it is briefly mentioned in the Travel Journal itinerary, I do think that Belmond should better inform people about this part of the journey as some people on our trip felt mislead and did not realize this was part of the trip as it is not explicitly noted on the current website itineraries.

The only real negatives for us were the late night visitor at our cabin door (not a fault of the train or staff) and the issue about not having my passport stamped on entry into the Schengen Zone which required follow-up on my behalf with the U.S. Embassy.

The food throughout the journey was excellent, especially the dinner. The service was fantastic and at the level you would expect aboard a luxury train. We particularly want to say thank you to Alan for taking good care of us on the British Pullman and to Marco our cabin steward who went above the call of duty to remove the problematic safety pin from my evening dress.

We can thoroughly recommend the train to anyone interested in this experience, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a wonderful luxury train journey across Europe. If we had our choice, we would always travel in such style and luxury. Just keep in mind that after one journey, you’ll like want to come back for more! We are already dreaming of the longer trip to Istanbul!

Is a trip on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express on your bucket list? Have you even taken a luxury train trip?  As always, feel free to comment and we’re happy to answer any questions about our VSOE train journey. 

**Disclosure: We were provided complimentary and discounted services by Belmond in order to write a review about our trip on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express; however, this article contains only our own honest thoughts and opinions. We specifically chose to take and review this experience as part of a larger project and you can read more in our Ethics Code about how we accept work.**

Share this Post!

There are 41 comments on this post.

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

Tanya Post author

July 20, 2021 at 10:08 pm

What a lovely article. Your writings made me feel the experience, and long for it. Your wonderful positive attitude throughout the entire journey also made the article so much more enjoyable. The detail in which you write, as well as the history, also made this an article to share as well as keep for future use. Thank you so much for such an exquisite article and photos.

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

July 21, 2021 at 6:26 am

Thanks so much for taking the time to comment, and glad you enjoyed our Venice Simplon Orient Express train journey post and reading about our journey. It was a really wonderful experience for us and a special time in our lives.

Best, Jessica

Susan Post author

June 14, 2021 at 8:58 pm

Hi, Jessica – first time visitor to your site, as I was looking for Orient Express reviews.

My husband has just booked a journey from Venice to London for later in the year to celebrate a big milestone birthday. My only concerns about the trip are the menus – I love the sound of everything on the menu, but my husband is definitely not a foodie – he would live on steak & steamed broccoli if he could. I wasn’t seeing any menu for a la carte options – do you have any idea if there is more “simple” food available for purchase?

Neither of us drink alcohol, coffee, or tea; I would be interested in knowing what to expect to pay for soft drinks, for example.

And finally – does the travel journal (or any other documentation) indicate at approximately what time you will be passing through various countries (to help plan sleep time etc.)

June 15, 2021 at 7:08 am

First, congrats on the trip and upcoming birthday, I am sure you will have a wonderful journey on the Venice Simplon Orient Express train!

For food and drink, the menus for lunch and dinner are set with just a couple of options and then they normally have add-ons or additions you can pay extra for but these are generally more luxurious options like caviar, extra meat, oysters, etc. They can of coursse accommodate just about any allergies and dietary requirements and you will be asked about these at or after booking. So if there are specific things that your husband does not eat, I would ask what alternatives might be possible (e.g., he wants to replace lobster with a simple grilled fish or something). They have a tiny kitchen on board the train so there is not a wide menu but they do try their best to accommodate, especially if you tell them in advance as part of your booking information. I’d give them a call – we had a good experience talking to them on the phone concerning our booking.

I don’t know the cost of soft drinks, but we did order additional drinks from the bar, and although a bit pricier given the location, I imagine soft drinks like Coke would be reasonable. But when you talk to them about the menu concern, you can ask and they should be able to tell you.

The information we received did not include exact information for when crossing country boundaries, just the stops. Making sure you have the correct documentation (passports, visas, other requirements depending on your nationality) is of course your own responsibility. But once on board, your cabin steward will collect your passport and any visas the first day and should be able to address any inspections at border crossings for you so you won’t be woken up or disturbed (unless there is a concern of course). Your documents will be returned to you before you reach your final destination. We were never disturbed at any crossing or inspections.

I should note that there have been some changes since our journey, both that Belmond (the operator) sold the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to LVMH and also changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. So a few things may be different from our description. If you notice any changes, please feel free to let us know and we will update for future readers!

Enjoy your Venice Simplon Orient Express journey! Jessica

Amy L Post author

February 18, 2021 at 10:33 am

I know this post is several years old, but wanted to say thanks for the information and your thoroughness. One question I have that didn’t see answered is whether the coaches used for the Chunnel transfer are equipped with toilets? Thank you in advance for your response!

February 19, 2021 at 6:06 am

The coaches are rented by the company I believe, rather than owned, so I think this could differ between the coaches so I think this is a question to ask of the company once you have a booking date if this is a concern. The coaches are nice, but I am not sure if they typically contain a toilet or not. They do serve snacks and drinks on the coach at your seat.

There are public toilets available at the guest service areas before entering the Chunnel, after leaving, and even within (although these are only for emergency use right now due to the pandemic as you are asked to remain in the vehicle). You are only typically in the Chunnel itself for about 20 minutes.

Hope that helps, and wishing you a safe and fun trip if you decide to book the VSOE train from London!

Buggi Post author

January 8, 2021 at 4:33 pm

Sehr inspirieerend. Mich würde vor allen Dingen die günstige Variante interessieren. Schöne Bilder, schöner Bericht.

Google Translate to English: Very inspiring. Above all, I would be interested in the cheaper option. Nice pictures, nice report.

January 9, 2021 at 6:49 am

Thanks very much for reading and taking the time to comment. Glad that you enjoy our trip report of our VSOE train ride! The shorter rides are much less expensive than the longer trips but all of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express journeys are definitely at premium price points. But the British Pullman train (that just travels within the UK) is also an option and offers more affordable trips, including day trips.

Kathy Davis Post author

November 24, 2020 at 7:39 pm

I am planning a virtual trip on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for my husband’s birthday, as he is unable to actually travel. Your photos and descriptions are amazing and give such a wonderful feel for the whole experience. Thank you so much!

November 25, 2020 at 5:56 am

Sounds like a great way to bring the Venice Simpon-Orient-Express train to him! I hope our description and photos help with the virtual trip, and wishing your husband a wonderful birthday!

AK Post author

August 6, 2019 at 4:48 am

Hi Jessica It was great to read a review from someone who has actually experienced the journey….and what to expect from start to finish. It is a real shame the Belmond website does not give you much information, therefore one does not get an insight into the coach journey/border control, different carriages, seating choice for lunch/dinner, etc. I very much look forward to my trip next week with my husband, as we will be celebrating his special birthday.

August 7, 2019 at 5:54 am

Glad you found our article on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and glad it was helpful to you. Yes, we similarly, didn’t quite know what to expect when we took the train a few years ago. I think the journey should be similar to described.

I will note that the Belmond company (which owns the VSOE and loads of other hotels and trains) was sold earlier this year and is now part of the private French LVMH group (Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton SE), so not sure if they plan to make any major changes or now to the train. But I have not heard of any changes so far.

Feel free to come back and share your experiences after your trip as I am sure it will be helpful to future readers.

Wishing you a wonderful train journey and hope your husband enjoys his special birthday treat!

Michelle Post author

June 11, 2019 at 3:10 pm

Wonderful article, Thank you. I also really love your luggage – it looks amazing. Would you be able to tell me where it is from? The link above lo longer seems to work. Thank you.

June 12, 2019 at 4:06 am

Hi Michelle,

Yes, unfortunately, we bought that set several years ago and it is not longer available to purchase. Nor I believe is the company.

But you can find similar sets here on Amazon . If you have a larger budget, you might also check out Steamline Luggage pieces here and Globe-Trotter , which both make similar pieces.

Hope that helps! Jessica

JMaw Post author

February 7, 2018 at 9:41 am

Hello, this sounds amazing! I am ashamed to ask, but as a smoker were there opportunities to have a cigarette?

February 7, 2018 at 10:49 am

Hi there, Yes, I believe you can actually get out and smoke at the stops where passengers are allowed to get off the train. So on our trip, there was a stop at Calais and then again in Paris before reaching Venice. I am not sure if there are other opportunities or not, but I am pretty sure you can at these stops as long as smoking is permitted at the train station. You may want to reach out to the Venice Simplon Orient Express staff regarding whichever specific journey you are considering and ask about smoking areas/opportunities on that specific route. Best, Jessica

Anda Post author

December 20, 2017 at 12:24 am

Hi Jess, my husband and I were discussing last night the idea of taking VSOE train from Paris to Venice when I remembered seeing this post on your website. I’ve read it with a lot of interested, since riding the Orient Express sounded very exciting in the beginning. However, the more I read the less enthusiastic I am about going. The common areas looks quite luxurious and fancy and the food seems great too. However, seeing how tiny the cabins are, I feel that £2,210.00/person is not justified. Having to take turns in that minuscule lavatory would take all the fun away from my journey. I would rather enjoy going on the Belmond British Pullman for a day trip and spending the rest of the money for a luxury hotel somewhere else. I’m sure however that you had a great experience on the VSOE, especially since you were celebrating such a great event.. At any rate, I love the abundance of details and information I always find in your articles. Great source of information (and beautiful photography).

December 20, 2017 at 6:35 am

Hi Anda, Glad you remembered our article on the Venice Simplon Orient Express! Yes the VSOE is a bit out of most people’s budgets and it is a lot of money for a 1.5 day trip! They have just added 3 suites that have their own toilets; however, these are about twice the cost of the regular compartments. We really enjoyed the train journey but we think that the British Pullman is also really nice, and you can take a day journey on it for a fraction of the cost of the Venice Simplon Orient Express. Service is still great and the train cars are varied and beautiful. We have a separate post just about the British Pullman train here if that helps. I think a British Pullman ride plus luxury hotel stay would be a great way to celebrate! Best, Jessica

Tanja Post author

September 1, 2017 at 1:47 pm

like in the books:) I wish I could do this train journey as well:) maybe one day..

September 3, 2017 at 11:37 am

Hi Tanja, Yes, it is a great luxury train trip and we were lucky to have the opportunity to take it from London to Venice! If you are looking for a less expensive alternative, I would suggest taking at look at a train journey on the British Pullman , it uses the same train used by the VSOE train journey in England. Best, Jessica

Nadia Post author

May 16, 2017 at 1:41 pm

Amazing photos! Wow, a journey on the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a dream and I’d love to stay at the famous Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice, Italy at the end.

Anne Herbertson Post author

December 27, 2016 at 9:16 pm

Nice! Thank you for sharing this wonderful experience of your Venice Orient Express train journey – it looks beautiful and luxurious!

travelcats Post author

December 31, 2016 at 2:38 am

Hi Anne, Yes, the VSOE was a wonderful train journey and such a nice treat, a great way to get to our wedding destination in Venice! I would definitely recommend it if you are looking for a luxury train journey in Europe. Let me know if you have any questions about the Venice Simplon Orient Express! Jessica

Pondytourism Post author

March 30, 2016 at 5:27 am

Nice, I hope you got a really great experience in a VSOE train journey from London to Venice. And also given appreciation to the photographer who takes a wonderful photos. You are looking like an angel.

By Mathavan

March 30, 2016 at 8:34 am

Thanks Mathavan for the compliments, and we enjoyed our VSOE train trip very much from London to Venice! It is an incredible (if too short) journey. Glad you liked the photos! Best, Jessica

Amghala Makhali Post author

March 23, 2016 at 6:13 am

It sounds like a really royal experience arriving to such an awesome city of Venice by the VSOE train!

March 25, 2016 at 2:49 am

Hi Amghala, Yes, it really does make you feel very special to arrive in the beautiful city of Venice in such a grand way! ~ Jessica

Janice Post author

March 19, 2016 at 9:00 am

To be married in Venice – how romantic! And how fun to travel in such style on this vintage train to get there. It all looks fabulous (though the cabins, albeit charming, look a wee tight with the bunk beds – or perhaps we should say “cozy”). We know the Belmond brand well and have stayed in several of their hotels around the world (like the colonial-style Casa de Sierra Nevada in San Miguel de Allende. We love how each hotel has its own character and charm and fits right in with the local surroundings. Most recently, we cruised on the Belmond “Orcaella” riverboat in Myanmar, where we coincidentally met met the lovely wife of the owner of the founder of the Orient-Express (now Belmond group). We can imagine the Belmond train journeys would be equally divine :-).

March 21, 2016 at 1:35 am

Yes, it was a great way to get to Venice for our wedding and yes the Belmond train journeys (at least the VSOE) are fabulous. Glad you have had such good expereinces with the Belmond hotels! ~ Jessica

Goldie Waymeyer Post author

March 8, 2016 at 3:47 pm

Enjoyed your thorough writings about your experience. I have thought about doing this. I loved your photos and really liked the picture of you in the black dress while just outside the train door holding on.

March 8, 2016 at 3:57 pm

Hi Goldie, thanks for your comment and I am glad you enjoyed reading the post. If you do ever decide to take a ride on the British Pullman or VSOE, please feel free to ask us any questions about our experience! ~ Jessica

awesomelyoz Post author

March 8, 2016 at 9:18 am

These photos are sooo wonderful! I feel like I was there. Man I really want to go it looks awesome!! Everyone looks so fancy, including the employees. Lol. It’s so old world in a good way. What a great way to start your nuptials celebration! Thanks for sharing Jessica and take care! -Iva

March 8, 2016 at 12:06 pm

Thanks Iva, and I hope you get the chance to take a nice train trip like this some day! Yes, the Venice Simplon Orient Express was such a great way to experience a small dose of that Old World travel style:) ~ Jessica

Holly Post author

March 6, 2016 at 7:52 am

Oh wow, what a great experience and you just look stunning, I am in love with the whole black and orange thing! Your luggage is awesome!

March 7, 2016 at 5:08 am

Hi Holly, yes, thanks so much for your lovely comments! You can find the vintage style orange luggage online here ! ~ Jessica

Lyn - A Hole in my Shoe Post author

March 6, 2016 at 5:33 am

What an amazing arrival to Venice for your Wedding. I have wanted to travel on this trip, but unfortunately it is out of my budget. I loved all the detail you put into the review, loved your dress and luggage too. Thank you so much for giving an insight into this trip, I thoroughly enjoyed the read.

March 7, 2016 at 5:01 am

Thanks, I am glad you enjoyed it and, yes, I love vintage style luggage:) Yes, unfortunately, the VSOE trips are quite pricey and out of many people’s budgets, but the day trips and afternoon teas on the Belmond British Pullman would also be very nice and start at around £250.00. Still pricey but more affordable for people celebrating an anniversary or special day:) ~ Jessica

Corinne Post author

March 6, 2016 at 1:18 am

Jess, What a special way to get to your wedding. It looks like scenes from some of those old movies. I’m sure you had a wonderful time, and let’s face it. Not having wifi available is not always a bad thing!!!

March 7, 2016 at 4:44 am

Hi Corinne, yes, perhaps the best way to arrive in Venice and it did feel a bit like being in an old movie at times. I agree, not having Wifi can be so nice!! ~ Jessica

Seana Turner Post author

March 5, 2016 at 4:35 pm

Okay, I have to say that this is sort of a dream to me. I am SO THRILLED to read and see this level of detail (your black dress is beautiful!!) I really enjoyed looking through all of the photos… that breakfast- to die for. I would love to do this someday….

March 7, 2016 at 4:43 am

Thanks Seana! Yes, it was such a lovely experience and I am glad you enjoyed reading the post and our photos from the trip. I hope you do get a chance to do a luxury train trip like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express one day! ~ Jessica

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of replies to my comment (just replies to your comment, no other e-mails, we promise!)

Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter where we share our latest travel news and tips

We only ask for your e-mail so we can verify you are human and if requested notify you of a reply. To do this, we store the data as outlined in our privacy policy . Your e-mail will not be published or used for any other reason other than those outlined above.

• ARCHITECTURE
• JEWELRY & TIMEPIECES
• REAL ESTATE
• TECH & GADGETS
• AUTOMOBILES
• FOOD AND BEVERAGE
• HOTELS & RESORTS
• PHILANTHROPY
• Advertising

An Unforgettable Luxurious Train Journey from London to Venice

When it comes to traveling first class, there’s no better way to go than the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Travel back into a time where luxury travel included dinner jackets, and cocktail dresses, and extravagant dining cars and even ultra-swanky bar cars! Travel from London to Venice in the ultimate first-class experience!

Traveling on one of the most classic routes to Venice, the scenery, opulence of the cabins, and absolutely spectacular service will make traveling by private jet look commonplace. Each and every detail from your cabin, to your meals, to your hotels drips with glamour!

Pass though the Alps and into Venice to spend your time wrapped in the lavish accommodations of your luxury hotel. There is really only one way to get from London to Venice in the most sumptuous and luxurious way. Take the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to immerse yourself in the purest form of luxury travel!

By Epistola8 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=55587992

The Train Cabin

When you expect to travel first-class, you should receive first-class treatment all the way from start to finish. On this fabulous train ride you will not only get the most extraordinarily beautiful cars and cabins, but you will experience only the best service.

Upgrade your cabin to the newly renovated Grand Suite! Starting in 2018, these ornate and immaculately designed cabins are indulgence at its finest. The comfort experienced with your own private en suite facilities, full bed, and guest area will change how you think about extravagance! You will also have private transfers on and off the train by your own personal cabin steward.

The champagne is never-ending, your amenities are personalized, you will have a standing reservation in the dining car, and the list goes on and on! Bask in the lavishness the intricately decorated cabin and the all-inclusive opulence of your private car. You may never go back to traveling any other way!

The Train Amenities

It wouldn’t be a high-end vacation without the most amazing amenities. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has a bar car that will exceed all of your expectations! A baby grand piano, incredible cocktails, and an atmosphere that will take you out of yourself, and into an Agatha Christie novel!

By Epistola8 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=55666010

The dining car not only provides an exquisite atmosphere, but also serves unforgettable cuisine! The menus are crafted by head chef Christian Bodiguel! His 25 years of experience shines through every immaculate bite! Luxury dining is all but expected on such a grand train!

The Journey

The seductively pleasurable trip from London to Venice will take your breath away for five full days. Your first-class accommodations, extraordinary dining, and a completely organized itinerary are all included in your luxury travel experience!

Begin your spectacular journey by departing from the London Victoria station – where you also have luggage storage options, should you need it. . You will enjoy a mouth-watering lunch as you enjoy the background scenery of the countryside of Kent.

You will pass into France in the evening, where you will board the Continental Wagon-Lits carriage. Here you will be served one of the most incredibly delicious dinners! Enjoy the views as you head south towards Paris while you relish every sumptuous bite!

After dinner you are invited to revel in the marvelous sounds of the baby grand piano being played live in the bar car. Enjoy a night of delightful serenades before heading back to your plush cabin!

As the sunlight gracefully spreads across your luxury cabin, you’ll find you have awoken to the magnificent scenes of eastern Switzerland. Have your lovely breakfast in the restaurant car as you travel through Innsbruck!

The Orient-Express will wind and turn and twist its way through Brenner Pass, where you will experience some over the top views as the train descends into Italy.

Pass the afternoon tea time taking in the views of Verona, while you have the benefit of the train’s unprecedented service!

Once you arrive in the extraordinary city of Venice, you will make your way to your upgraded suite at one of Venice’s many luxury hotels!

On the third day of the first of many Tailor Made Train Holidays , you will wake up in the stunningly beautiful city of Venice. You can take in the marvelous St. Mark’s Square and the enormity of the Grand Canal. Enjoy a dramatic gondola ride through the canal ways of this historically vibrant city!

You can include a trip extension in Venice to lengthen your time in this astonishing city! From art galleries, to luxury boutiques, to outstanding fine dining, Venice is an intoxicatingly amazing destination!

Your lavish holiday in Venice will be entirely suited to your every need. You can choose between the morning or afternoon departure time to once again marvel at the wonderfully rich first class cabins.

You’ll take the train from Venice through to Milan where you will change onto a EuroCity Train. This will take you north through Stresa, through the Simplon Tunnel, and onto the unparalleled shores of Lake Geneva.

You will stop for the night in Lausanne, where you will enjoy a lakefront view at world renowned, first-class hotel!

Day five will be your final travel day back to London. You will depart from the lakeside city of Lausanne around mid-day. Enjoy the scenery as you day dream about your luxury ride on the Orient-Express! Once you arrive at the Gare de Lyon in Paris, you will take the Eurostar back to London St. Pancras via the Gare du Nord.

Your journey in the lap of luxury is complete once you call your luxury car to take you from St. Pancras to your home!

Upgrade Your Upgrades

These Tailor Made Train Holidays are exactly that, tailor made! You can upgrade your accommodations easily from simple first class to opulent and over the top, all-inclusive, luxury!

Choose from the five-star Bauer Il Palazzo. Right off of St. Mark’s Square, this unforgettable hotel is a staple of Venice! Opt for a room with a canal view balcony to make your nights in Venice magical!

You can also choose the five-star Luna Baglioni Hotel. This is one of the finest hotels in the entire world. Located in the Venetian Palace, the hotel offers only the best of everything! From the award-winning Canova restaurant , to the brilliant classic Venetian décor, this hotel is the picture of luxury!

Upgrade your options for Lausanne also! The five-star Beau-Rivage Palace is located on ten acres of gorgeous parkland. Nothing but the best options for your luxury holiday! This hotel has some of Europe’s most acclaimed service and amenities, as well as awe-inspiring views of Lake Geneva and the French Alps!

Extension of Your Holiday

You can also consider upgrading your return route to another holiday on the Orient-Express. The spectacular train will take you from Venice, through Budapest for a night in the Hungarian capital, then board the train again for your extravagant overnight train ride back to London!

Your holiday should be nothing short of luxury from the moment you board until the moment you are taken home to London! Why not extend your trip by few days so you can spend even more time aboard this magnificent train!

Orient-Express Holiday

The price of luxury is worth traveling through the most beautiful scenic train routes in Europe, aboard one of the most opulent and extraordinary trains in the world! From the lavish details of your luxury cabin, to the world-renowned dining experience, and the most exquisite service, your Venice Simplon-Orient-Express holiday will be one of the most magnificent experiences of your life.

Travel on only the most prestigious railway trains! Stay in some of Europe’s most celebrated hotels. Revel in some of the world’s most beautiful cities. All in one gloriously luxurious holiday!

The experience

Cabins and suites, itineraries, venice simplon-orient-express, welcome aboard the luxury train venice simplon-orient-express.

An icon of art-deco design and an eternal symbol of luxury , the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a true classic of luxury train travel . Travel on board this European rail legend and enjoy an unforgettable adventure.

A quintessential icon of luxury train travel , this train has for many decades captured the hearts and imaginations of its lucky travelers. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is simply the most famous and luxurious luxury train in the world : polished wood finishes, upholstery with the finest fabrics, sumptuous and antique decoration… This wonder of sophisticated travel will make you appreciate several of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe while enjoying an atmosphere of opulence and elegance without equal that will transport you from the first moment aboard the Golden Age of train travel.

Authenticity is one of the protagonists of this luxury train . The Venice Simplon- Orient-Express is made up of several luxurious cabin cars from the 1920s and 1930s, together with 3 restaurant cars that offer you an exquisite culinary experience and invite you to be dazzled by their luxurious finishes : stained glass windows with Lalique crystals from the French Riviera, cutlery and glassware from the finest and most exclusive brands, delicious dishes that will delight your palate. The wagon-bar sparkles with its golden details and offers you to enjoy a glass of fine champagne while the pianist gives that charming touch to the atmosphere with its elegant and happy melodies.

A butler in the most elegant royal blue and gold uniform greets you with a white gloved hand and welcomes you on board with a discreet and sincere smile. Step into your luxurious cabin finished in polished cherry wood and adorned with art-deco accents, relax and enjoy the start of a journey into the golden age of train travel.

What is the history of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?

The original Orient-Express was inaugurated on October 4, 1883 and characters such as Tolstoy, Lawrence of Arabia, the spy Mata Hari Trotsky, Marlene Dietrich traveled in its luxurious carriages ... Many films based on the fabulous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express have even been produced as "The Spy Who Loved Me" in 1963 starring Sean Connery. And more recently, in 2017, inspired by the 1934 Agatha Christie novel, "Murder on the Orient Express" with Penelope Cruz, Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer and Kenneth Branagh.

It was 1977 at an auction in Monte-Carlo, Monaco, where the founder of Belmond, Mr. James B Sherwood, bought two vintage train cars.

Sherwood was passionate about luxury and sophisticated travel. He searched everywhere for railway relics and disused wagons in private gardens,** museums and railway stations**. The wagons of famous vintage trains such as Le Train Bleu and the Rome Express deserved a spectacular return to service, but they needed a very high level of craftsmanship and engineering expertise to be restored and adapted to modern standards of quality and safety. Fortunately, he found a group of experienced craftsmen and mechanics who carried out the task of painstakingly restoring the wagons to their former glory from bygone days.

After nearly 5 years of meticulous restoration, the iconic midnight blue wagons were finally operational for 1982, ready to welcome their lucky travelers in incomparable luxury on a journey between Venice and London.

What journeys does the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express propose?

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express covers the route between London and Venice , this route being one of the most famous, as well as the route from Paris to Venice . Feast your eyes on the beautiful landscapes of Europe: lush rolling meadows and majestic mountains, beautiful villages. This impressive journey can be done in either direction or round trip. Delve into local culture with stops in Budapest and Bucharest. Reach the ends of Europe on an authentic adventure of more than six days taking the route from Paris to Istanbul, a city divided between Europe and Asia.

Paris - Berlin is the newest trip in the catalog, an exciting adventure connecting two of the most vibrant cultural centers in Europe.

Venice, Paris, London, Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Istanbul ... They are just some of the legendary cities the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express visits.

The Côte d’Azur

The Étoile du Nord

Single Cabin

The perfect option for total relaxation.

The individual cabins have one bed. During the day, the bed is transformed into a comfortable sofa from where you can admire the beautiful views that this journey offers you.

Thin cotton sheets and goose feather pillows will create a cozy and peaceful setting for a perfect night's rest.

Included in your cabin:

• Day and night configuration
• Sink with hot and cold water
• WC at the ends of each wagon-room
• Towels in luxurious cotton
• Bathrobes and slippers
• Dual voltage sockets
• 2 x 220 volt outlets

Historic Cabin

Take in Europe from the romantic setting it deserves with your own private historic twin cabin.

Banquette seating offers the perfect vantage point to watch the landscape by day, while convertible sleeping berths — with soft, luxurious bedding — transform the cabin into an intimate retreat by night.

Morning breakfast can even be served to your bed, should you desire.

Its comfortable plush sofa turns into an upper bed and a lower one at night.

Both are dressed in soft, luxurious lingerie for optimal rest and each has its own reading light.

Included in your Historic Cabin:

These marvelous suites are inspired by a fusion of the landscape the train travels through and design from the Art Deco period.

Each suite will immerse you in diverse European scenery through glorious colours, patterns and textures. Plush fabrics and furnishings channel famed Art Deco designers, such as Dufrene and Lalique.

These reimagined suites were fully restored by expert craftsmen in France, and complement the existing Grand Suites and Historic Twins that make up the sumptuous on board experience.

Included in your Suite:

• Double bed or twin beds
• Private marble en-suite bathroom with shower, basin and wc
• Lounge area by day, as your bed converts to seating area
• Complimentary amenities including a kimono and slippers to take home

Grand Suite

On a train where unparalleled luxury is the standard, the exquisite Grand Suites are the jewel in the crown. Let yourself be carried away by the feeling of opulence and elegance of these large suites where only royalty traveled in the Golden Age of train travel.

Three beautiful suites make up the collection, each named after 3 of the most attractive cities in Europe: Paris, Venice and Istanbul. In honor of the inaugural train route through the heart of continental Europe, the Grand Suites embody the soul of each city and the art-deco indulgence while offering all modern comforts. Spacious sinks and impeccable cabin service complete the experience.

Each Grand Suite has a bedroom with double or twin bed, a living room with space for private dining, and a sofa that can be converted into an additional bed at night. A private bathroom in the suite includes a shower, sink and toilet, plus accessories and luxury products and complimentary bathrobes. 24-hour suite service includes unlimited champagne consumption at no extra charge.

Included in your Grand Suite:

• Private WC and shower
• Complimentary champagne by the glass in your Suite

Paris - Venice

Venice - paris, paris - istanbul, istanbul - paris, paris - verona, amsterdam - verona, amsterdam - venice, amsterdam - innsbruck, brussels - innsbruck, brussels - verona, brussels - venice, florence - paris, geneva - innsbruck, geneva - verona, geneva - venice, rome - paris, paris - innsbruck (geneva route), paris - vienna, paris - budapest, venice - amsterdam, venice - brussels, verona - paris, verona - amsterdam, verona - brussels, paris - budapest - paris, paris - vienna - paris, paris - prague, paris - cannes, paris to venice (cannes route), paris - prague - paris, paris - rome, verona - paris - (amsterdam route), paris - venice (amsterdam route), venice - paris - (amsterdam route), paris - venice (florence and rome route), paris - verona (amsterdam route), venice - paris (rome and florence route), paris to florence, albertville - paris, bourg-saint-maurice - paris, london - venice (eurostar via lyon and cannes), london - venice (eurostar via florence and rome), london - venice (eurostar classic route), paris - vienna (budapest route), paris - vienna (prague route), paris - innsbruck (amsterdam route), paris - verona (innsbruck and geneva route), paris - venice (innsbruck and geneva route), prague - paris (vienna route), paris - albertville, paris - bourg-saint-maurice, paris - moûtiers, moûtiers - paris, lyon - cannes, lyon - venice, vienna - paris (budapest route), vienna - paris (prague route), budapest - paris.

How long does the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express journey take?

What languages ​​are spoken on board the venice simplon-orient-express, what currencies are accepted on board the venice simplon-orient-express, do i have to tip the staff of the venice simplon-orient-express train, is it necessary to take a travel insurance for the venice simplon-orient-express, what are the dress codes aboard the venice simplon-orient-express, is it possible to choose between the first or the second service to eat on the venice simplon-orient-express, are the venice simplon-orient-express cabins spacious enough for all luggage, do the venice simplon-orient-express cabins have toilets and showers, is the venice simplon-orient-express air-conditioned, does the venice simplon-orient-express have a laundry room and ironing facilities, do venice simplon-orient-express cabins have power outlets, is there a safe in the cabin, is smoking allowed on board the venice simplon-orient-express, informations.

• Holiday Collections
• 020 7664 2105
• We are open today until 6:30 pm 020 7664 2105

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Romantic. Timeless. Matchless. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a glamorous luxury rail journey like no other.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express holidays

For decades, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has been synonymous with everything that is sophisticated and glamorous in the world of luxury train travel. The name echoes like a spell. Since its maiden journey from Paris to Istanbul in 1883 the Orient Express has been intrinsically linked with luxury travel. Now operated by the connoisseurs at Belmond, the train has been restored, refurbished and returned to its Art Deco-influenced origins. Today the enchantment and romance are as strong as ever and, in an age that prioritises speed and efficiency when it comes to conveying you to your end destination, the experience of travelling slowly and being on a (luxury) journey is even more alluring.

Indeed, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express doesn't simply stand on a par with the world's other great rail journeys, it stands above them – not least because of its fascinating history and enduringly elegant design. The rolling stock is distinctive down to the smallest detail. Made up of original 1920s and 30s European carriages, painstakingly and lovingly restored to their original elegance and splendour. Look out for marquetry panels and designs by artists of the Art Deco movement, including Rene Lalique. The overall result is a beguiling evocation of the golden age of travel. Yet the experience of being onboard transcends its historical origins and feels utterly contemporary and fresh. Luxury at this level is timeless.

The train now visits a number of Europe’s most enchanting cities. Alongside the traditional, classic journey from London to Venice via Paris (or vice versa), you can now take in everywhere from historic Budapest to luxurious Lake Como. There's also a collection of new routes for 2021, taking in the likes of Geneva , Brussels , Florence , Rome and Amsterdam . Or, for the ultimate luxury rail journey, we suggest that the most discerning traveller should secure a berth on the very special, once-a-year departure from London to Istanbul, a nine-day journey that recreates the original 1883 route. The sheer romance of this experience is unmatchable. 

Special experiences

There is no more memorable an experience than seeing the train for the first time. Arrive early at the station to get caught up in the giddy excitement reverberating through the air. It could be at London’s Victoria station, where you board the umber and cream carriages of Belmond’s British Pullman or at Calais or Venice, where you’ll get your first glimpse of the blue and gold carriages of the Continental Wagons-Lit. The thrill is palpable and these are memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. 

Climb aboard and step back in time to a more refined, congenial and elegant era. Walk through all the carriages to understand that you’re travelling on a page of history, taking the time to read the plaques identifying each carriage and observing the different décor of each one.

Head to your compartment and settle in, meeting the cabin steward who will anticipate and attend your every need. Unpack your tuxedo and ball gown; you can never be overdressed aboard the elegant carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. When dressed to the nines, hang out in Bar 3674, the social hub of the train and mingle with other passengers. Listen to a pianist play period pieces as you sip pre-dinner signature cocktails expertly prepared by the head barman. Alternatively toast your good taste with a vintage champagne from the train’s extensive selection.

Then, settle yourself into one of the three beautifully restored restaurant cars, taking note of the fine linen, French silverware and heavy crystal that hint at the extravagance ahead. Perhaps you’ll try lobsters from Brittany or salt marsh lamb from Mont St Michel.

After a four-course culinary adventure, retire to your cabin, which will have been discretely converted into a sleeping compartment. Spoil yourself with a night cap then climb the upholstered ladder to your upper berth or snuggle down under luxury linens on the bottom bunk to be lulled by the movement of the train as it travels across Europe, perhaps having taken steps to arrange a celebration breakfast in the morning so that you can start the next day with another magical memory.

White-gloved service on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Sip vintage champagne in the elegant bar car

Cabins on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

There are 88 double cabins (upper and lower berth) and 11 single cabins modelled on the 1920s originals. Each private compartment is attended by a cabin steward throughout the journey, which means that you are assured of attentive yet discreet service. Want to idle your way across Europe in your pyjamas, plush bathrobes or indeed anything else, mesmerised by the scenery flashing by from the privacy of your bed or sofa? The staff are impeccably trained.

Historic Cabin

During the day, your cabin acts as a comfortable lounge with a large banquette sofa, footstool and small fold out table. There is a washbasin stylishly hidden away in its own cabinet. While, you enjoy a sumptuous dinner in one of the dining cars and drink cocktails in the bar car, your cabin steward will convert your compartment into a cosy sleeping space with upper and lower berths, complete with crisp white linen. Bathrobes, slippers and luxury amenities by Temple Spa are provided.

For a shot of additional luxury take a Suite, new for 2023. Featuring an en-suite bathroom – all decadent marble and Venetian glass – they bridge the gap perfectly between the Historic Cabins and the ultra-luxury Grand Suites, detailed below. Of course, you can expect all the usual touches, from art-deco flourishes to polished wood and exquisite marquetry. Suites come with a choice of double or twin beds, which convert into a lounge for daytime relaxation. 

Grand Suite

These incredibly spacious suites bring a new level of luxury to the already opulent train. And, in a welcome departure from the faithful reproduction elsewhere, each Grand Suite includes a private en suite bathroom with showers, sinks and toilet, as well as a double bedroom and a sizeable living area. Named after the cities most associated with the train, these suites are designed in keeping with the general Art Deco motif but draw on their namesake’s associations; chic haute couture flourishes, renaissance design, Venetian-style glass lamps, grand Baroque touches and opulent embroidered pillows and rugs that echo the Grand Bazaar can all be seen. There are also more choices of where and when to dine, including private dining in your own suite, complimentary caviar on arrival and free-flowing champagne in your suite at all times. Perfection!.

The 1920s styling of a Historic cabin

The all-new Suites: elegant and private

A Grand Suite: the ultimate in onboard luxury

Suggested itineraries

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Venice to London

4 days from £5,025 pp incl. flights

A counterpoint to the classic London to Venice route, this journey aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express starts in Italy's floating city before crossing the Alps in style en route to Paris, then via Eurostar to London.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Florence to London

4 days from £4,980 pp incl. flights

Journey aboard the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, starting amid the exquisite architecture of Florence before crossing the Alps in style en route to London.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Verona to London

4 days from £4,305 pp incl. flights

Beginning with a luxury city stay and included walking tour in Verona, you'll board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for an unforgettable journey across Europe, steeped in the elegant traditions of 1920s rail travel.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: London to Paris & Venice

5 days from £4,860 pp incl. flights

With Eurostar included, this is the iconic southbound journey from Paris to Venice aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, paired with stays in two luxury hotels.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: London to Paris & Portofino

5 days from £8,960 pp incl. flights

Experience one of the world's most revered trains at its opulent best as you travel aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to charming Portofino, in the Italian Riviera, including stays in some of Europe's finest hotels.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: A taste of luxury

3 days from £4,870 pp incl. flights

Enjoyed across three unforgettable days, this itinerary is perfect for those looking to experience the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express but are short on time

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Bologna, Food and Ferraris

6 days from £6,150 pp incl. flights

Journey aboard the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, starting amid the gastronomic centre of Bologna before crossing the Alps in style en route to London.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Venice & Brussels to London

6 days from £5,920 pp incl. flights

This journey aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express starts among the exquisite architecture of Italy's floating city before crossing the Alps in style en route to the gastronomy, architecture and cafe culture of Brussels.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Venice & Amsterdam to London

6 days from £6,280 pp incl. flights

This journey aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express starts among the exquisite architecture of Italy's floating city before crossing the Alps in style en route to the canals and museums of Amsterdam.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Vienna to London

4 days from £4,805 pp incl. flights

Board the world’s most elegant train for a luxury journey to remember as you're transported not just from Vienna to London but all the way back to the glamour of the Roaring Twenties.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Budapest to London

5 days from £5,380 pp incl. flights

From the Ottoman treasures of Budapest to the 1920s fineries of the world's most elegant train, this is luxury rail travel at its finest.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express & Venice’s Islands

4 days from £4,370 pp incl. flights

Before travelling on the world’s exclusive train, hop between Venice’s archipelago, centring on a luxury stay on your very own private island.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Grand Suite Experience

5 days from £12,280 pp incl. flights

From free-flowing champagne to complimentary caviar, experience the ultimate in luxury rail travel with the butler-served indulgences of the new Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Grand Suites.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express & Verona Opera

5 days from £6,470 pp incl. flights

This spectacular short break combines a journey on the world’s most elegant train with a stay in a converted palace and of opera at the iconic Arena di Verona.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: London to Istanbul

10 days from £19,525 pp incl. flights

Experience the glamour and style of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express as it returns to its original route, sweeping across Europe through France, Hungary and Romania to the gateway between east and west – Istanbul.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: London to Cannes

5 days from £5,270 pp incl. flights

Enjoy a slice of the high life as you pair the world's most iconic train with the glamour of the French Riviera – a summer journey not to be missed.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express & Lake Como

7 days from £6,890 pp incl. flights

Travel from London to Verona onboard the world’s most famous train, finishing off with a truly opulent stay on the shores of Italian lake country.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express & Northern Italy River Cruise

12 days from £9,070 pp incl. flights

Discover Venice and its surrounds in unmatched style as you pair the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express with a five-star cruise.

Northern Italy Cruise & Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

11 days from £8,555 pp incl. flights

Experience one of travel's great pairings as you combine a cruise among the treasures of Northern Italy with the luxurious delights of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Veuve Clicquot Journey

4 days from £7,945 pp incl. flights

Combine the golden era of luxury rail travel with a celebration like no other – with Veuve Clicquot champagne.

Get in touch and let a personal travel consultant help book your bespoke holiday

Join The Club

for exclusive offers and luxury train news. 53,948 people have already joined

If you are having problems subscribing, please email [email protected]

Sign up to the club for free

Europe England Peru Southeast Asia

Let us whisk you away into the golden age of travel

Slide back your compartment door to cabins brimming with style. Crisp white tablecloths set the scene for evenings of exquisite dining. Crystal glassware catches the light as you toast to your adventure in the bar. Making tracks across Europe, Asia and South America, Belmond trains spirit you away to the world’s most exciting destinations in unforgettable style.

Our Signature Journeys

• Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

London to Venice Take an overnight journey wrapped in timeless romance London | Venice

• British Pullman

The Golden Age of Travel Savour an exceptional five-course lunch and charming countryside views London | Kent

• Royal Scotsman

Scotland's Classic Splendours Voyage across the Scottish Highlands and experience the country's finest landscapes Edinburgh | Kyle of Lochalsh | Boat of Garten | Rothiemurchus | Edinburgh

• Andean Explorer

Peruvian Highlands Embark on the ultimate Peruvian escape over two nights Cusco | Puno | Arequipa

• Hiram Bingham

Cusco to Machu Picchu Travel to the lost city of the Incas in unforgettable style Cusco | Machu Picchu

Experiences

I'm looking for exceptional experiences, in remarkable destinations, especially at iconic hotels, trains, boats or safaris.

• for all experiences
• for culture
• for wellbeing
• to wine and dine
• to celebrate
• All remarkable destinations
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• North America
• South America
• All hotels, trains, boats and safaris
• Casa de Sierra Nevada
• Castello di Casole
• Copacabana Palace
• Grand Hotel Timeo
• Hotel Cipriani
• Hotel das Cataratas
• Jimbaran Puri
• La Résidence d'Angkor
• La Résidence Phou Vao
• La Residencia
• Las Casitas
• Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons
• Miraflores Park
• Mount Nelson
• Palacio Nazarenas
• Reid's Palace
• Rio Sagrado
• Sanctuary Lodge
• Splendido Mare
• The Cadogan
• Villa San Michele
• Villa Sant'Andrea
• Eastern & Oriental Express
• Les Bateaux Belmond
• Eagle Island Lodge
• Savute Elephant Lodge
• restaurants

Explore in Depth

See more ideas and articles from Belmond

An Icon of the Rails

An icon of art deco design and an enduring symbol of luxury, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a true classic. Step on board for a singularly elegant adventure.

The Very Best of British

“It is forever true that the Golden Age is not behind us, but before us." It’s a line that perfectly captures the experience of traveling on Belmond British Pullman

A True Scottish Legend

In our modern world of clock-watching and jet-setting, the opportunity to press pause is a blessing. At once leisurely and luxurious, intimate and eye-opening, Belmond Royal Scotsman invites you to rekindle the romance of travel.

A Legend in the Making

‘Faeries, come take me out of this dull world, For I would ride with you upon the wind. Run on the top of the dishevelled tide, And dance upon the mountains like a flame.’ – The Land of Heart’s Desire by W.B. Yeats

Belmond Andean Explorer

Belmond wants to put the joy of travel back into your journey. We invite you to slow down and rekindle the romance of the rails as you carve a path between Peru’s natural wonders and ancient kingdoms.

Adventure on the Rails

To step onboard Belmond Hiram Bingham is to be transported to another world—and that’s before you’ve even reached mythical Machu Picchu.

A Treasure on Track

The fabled Eastern & Oriental Express brings the glamour, elegance and exotic scenery of the classic black-and-white movie era to life, in glorious colour. To step onboard is to step inside another world.

Plan your next adventure

• Train Tickets
• City Breaks
• Trans-Siberian
• Luxury Trains
• Rail Passes
• Reservations
• Scenic Trains
• Deals & Featured
• Where to start

rail-journeys

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Paris - Venice

Belmond British Pullman and the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

A full day of discovering Venice

Luxury train journey on legendary route

• travel-information

price-dates

• London / Paris - Venice
• Venice - Paris / London

Day 1: London or Paris

At London Victoria Station you´ll board the Belmond British Pullman. At 10.45 am the train leaves for Folkestone. On board brunch is served with a glass of Bellini, while the Kentish landscape glides by. After arriving in Folkestone, board the Shuttle train through the Eurotunnel under the English Channel to Calais where the blue and gold of the legendary Venice Simplon-Oriënt-Express welcomes you. You´ll be escorted to your compartment where you can settle down in peace and prepare for dinner, one of the highlights of this trip. The train stops in Paris at 9.20 p.m. to welcome new guests on board. Then the train leaves Paris, after which the second session of dinner will be served. Overnight stay on board.

Day 2: Venice

You´ll wake up in the middle of the Swiss Alps. After the continental breakfast, which is served in your compartment, you can relax and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery gliding by your window. As you cross the Italian border, you can enjoy lunch in one of the restaurant cars. Enjoy the beautiful view of the Italian Dolomites. In the afternoon afternoon tea will be served in your compartment. Around 6 pm the train enters Santa Lucia station in Venice. Accommodation in Venice for the next two nights isn´t included, but can be booked at the HappyRail. You can choose from many hotels.

Day 3: Venice

Enjoy Venice on your own. This car-free city is actually one big open-air museum. The Piazza San Marco with the Basilica and the Doge's Palace. The famous Rialto Bridge. The glass-blowing island of Murano. Each district has its own charm, you can easily get lost. It´s also nice to explore the city from the boat. This can be done by romantic gondola, or a private cab, or by vaporetto, similar to our bus but on the water.

Day 4: Venice

In the morning, board the Orient Express at Santa Lucia Station in the heart of Venice. You'll enjoy lunch in one of the three dining cars while admiring the Italian landscape outside. Later in the afternoon you´ll have an afternoon tea in your compartment. In the evening, an exclusive four-course dinner is served in the dining car. Overnight stay in the train.

Day 5: London

Breakfast takes place in your compartment. Around 7:30am the Orient Express arrives in Paris, where passengers who have booked up to here disembark. You´ll travel from Paris with the Orient Express to Calais on the French coast and have brunch on board. From Calais there´s a transfer by Shuttle train through the Channel Tunnel to Folkestone on the English coast. The journey continues with the British Pullman and by 5.45 pm you´ll reach Victoria Station in London, the end of this unforgettable journey.

Train tickets

Highlighted trips, scenic trains in europe, about happyrail.

Best night trains in Europe

Growing in popularity, sleepers offer the perfect combination of travel and accommodation in one

• Newsletter sign up Newsletter

Long-distance train travel is having a moment it seems. Whether the appeal is the old-school romance of being rocked to sleep on the rails, perhaps waking up in another country, concerns about climate change and the carbon footprint of flying, or a desire to experience slow travel and take in more of your surroundings on your journey, a sleeper train offers the perfect combination of travel and accommodation in one. 

Taking a night train across Europe "is an exceptionally convenient, efficient and budget-friendly way to explore the region", said Rail Europe . That's because the price of your ticket also covers the cost of a night's accommodation. "So take the money you would have spent on a hotel and add another leg onto your trip or splurge at your next destination."

Here are some of Europe's best night train journeys.

Subscribe to The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

London to Venice

The Venice Simplon Orient Express is the "grand dame of sleeper trains", said The Times . Since being immortalised by Agatha Christie it's "become the byword for yesteryear elegance", as "one of the few surviving chariots of the golden age of travel". Luxe to the max, its interiors feature "wood panelling and lush drapes, antique lamps and art deco mirrors, and a Bar Car with live music". If money is no object, "splash out on one of the six grand suites for marble en suites, butler service and as much champagne as you can glug". Nowadays, you travel from London Victoria "aboard the luxury private Belmond British Pullman" to Paris, before joining the Orient Express for the overnight leg to Venice.

Find out more: belmond.com

Trondheim to Bodo

"Under normal circumstances, the jaw-dropping views offered by any Norwegian rail journey would make a night train a wasted opportunity," said Lonely Planet . However, travel this 430-mile route into the Arctic Circle in summer and "you needn't miss anything – the sun will hardly set". This means you can "enjoy views of woodland, lakes, mountains and tundra at any time of the night", said The Times. In winter it "looks like an understudy for the Polar Express" as it "snakes past pine forests laden with snow". And between September and March there's the chance of seeing the northern lights.

Find out more: sj.no

Brussels to Prague

The European Sleeper leaves Brussels Midi station at around 7.20pm and pulls into Prague just before 11am, "perfect timing for passengers to enjoy lunch and a stroll around the Czech capital before checking into a hotel", said CN Traveller . This route is an extension of the Brussels to Berlin service and "it's an ideal starting point for UK-based travelers looking to snooze their way deeper into Europe", said Lonely Planet, "since there's no need in Brussels to change stations (as in Paris)".

Find out more: europeansleeper.eu

Paris to Vienna

The French capital is "gradually restoring its reputation as a hub for overnight services", said The Times , with plans for multiple routes from 2025. For now, try the Nightjet from Gare de l'Est, a short walk from Eurostar's Gare du Nord, to Vienna. With "perhaps the most perfect timings of any overnight sleeper, leaving mid-evening and arriving just before elevenses", there's plenty of time to "savour this cross-section of Europe". In the evening, you're "traversing Champagne country to Strasbourg", then "sashaying along the Danube from Salzburg in the morning, with a big chunk of Germany in between".

Find out more: nightjet.com

Milan to Palermo

"Long and skinny", Italy is "ideal for train travel", said The Telegraph . And it's "still quite an odyssey" to leave Milan, "one of Europe's grandest railway palaces" and "go all the way to the toe of the boot and cross over to Sicily". This represents "the chance to ride a train and a boat at the same time", said The Times. After leaving the northern capital in the evening, and "heading south through the hours of darkness" it's time to enjoy "coffee and a croissant in your cabin" while "admiring the coastal views". The train is "shunted on to a special ferry" to cross the Strait of Messina to Sicily, and you'll reach Palermo late that afternoon.

Find out more: trenitalia.com

Zurich to Zagreb

Crossing five countries in around 15 hours, this is "one of Europe's most scenic routes", said Lonely Planet. It is particularly "worth taking" in summer, as it passes through Austria and Slovenia – "both countries where you're hard-pressed to find an unattractive railway line". The train leaves Zurich at 7.40pm and, next morning, "be sure to wake up before 8am", said The New Zealand Herald , "as the last section between Ljubljana and Zagreb, when the train snakes alongside the Sava River, is one of the most picturesque".

London-Scotland

One of the UK's two sleepers, both of which "have recently benefited from major upgrades" that "many see as a vote of confidence in the country's overnight services", said Lonely Planet. Departing from London Euston, the "legendary" Caledonian Sleeper heads north "via a series of carriage shuffles unnoticed by the snoozing passenger, reaches Edinburgh, Inverness, Aberdeen, Fort William and points in between". On a moonlight night you can expect "sweeping views of stately castles and remote Highland wilderness", said The Times. These new trains "provide proper 21st-century comforts" including Wi-Fi, room service and complimentary sleep kits. Accommodation options include en-suite double cabins, twin bunks and "comfort seats". And in the morning "the menu features everything from porridge to a cooked full Highland breakfast".

Find out more: sleeper.scot

Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox

A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com

Adrienne Wyper has been a freelance sub-editor and writer for The Week's website and magazine since 2015. As a travel and lifestyle journalist, she has also written and edited for other titles including BBC Countryfile, British Travel Journal, Coast, Country Living, Country Walking, Good Housekeeping, The Independent, The Lady and Woman’s Own.

Cartoons Artists take on a stress-free life, rare peers, and more

By The Week US Published 21 April 24

The Week Recommends Forest hideaway offers chance to relax and reset in Michelin key-winning comfort

By Julia O'Driscoll, The Week UK Published 21 April 24

Talking Point An armed protest movement has swept across the country since the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi was overthrown in 2021

By The Week Staff Published 21 April 24

The Week Recommends Stay at a zoo in Sydney, or meet vortex hunters in Sedona

By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published 8 April 24

Why everyone's talking about British artist digitally reconstructs original from remaining fragments to create new statue of Roman emperor

By Harriet Marsden, The Week UK Published 7 February 24

The Week Recommends Featuring a 300-year-old rustic finca in Alicante and a secluded villa with sea views in Sardinia

By The Week Staff Published 29 September 23

By Justin Klawans Published 26 July 23

Talking Point Proposal to shut the vast majority of the 1,000-plus ticket offices across England has prompted uproar

By The Week Staff Published 15 July 23

By Brigid Kennedy Published 26 June 23

By Justin Klawans Published 12 March 23

By Justin Klawans Published 16 October 22

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Advertise With Us

The Week is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.

19 Epic Luxury Train Rides To Add To Your Bucket List

There’s always been something so romantic about taking a train ride. 

I’m that person who even gets a kick out of riding on the orange and yellow 1970’s subway in New York City, but I also love seeking out the unique train ride experiences around the world.

From snowy train rides around Yosemite to epic trips through the Scottish Highlands , these are all the luxury train rides to add to your bucket list.

Why Travel By Train?

Luxury train travel is such a unique way to see the world. It’s slower than planes, but lets you soak up the views of the surroundings in a different way than by car.

Railroad travel allows you to dine while soaking up views, make stops in smaller towns not easily accessed by plane travel and channel old-world living.

Plus, fancy train rides are just pure fun. they are a secret passion of mine. Here’s all the best luxury train vacations in the US and the entire world! 

19 Top Luxury Trains Around The World To Add To Your Bucket List

1. venice simplon-orient-express, europe.

Yes, the Orient Express is a REAL train! As a huge Agatha Christie fan, I was thrilled to discover the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express . one of the most luxurious train rides in the world goes from London to Venice, with stops in Italy and Paris in between on a route that’s multiple days. 

The attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the polished wood paneling to the delicate Art Deco accents in the dining car, it oozes old-school glamour. Food is sourced locally at each stop and made fresh by talented chefs so you can expect delicious meals paired with European views outside your window. 

For an unparalleled experience, consider booking the iconic Grand Suite car, known for its marbled en-suite bathrooms, 24 butler, kimono and slippers to take home and luxurious ambiance, offering an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe in utmost style and comfort.

2. British Pullman, England

The British Pullman, a Belmond train in England , invites passengers to relive the glamour of the 1920s and 1930s in style that happens to look a lot like Wes Anderson. Its meticulously restored carriages boast plush armchairs, polished wood, and intricate marquetry, capturing the essence of a bygone era.

Stopping at various historical spots around England such as Bath (a Unesco world heritage site), York or Canterbury, the train offers scenic routes that showcase the picturesque English countryside, with charming villages and historic landmarks passing by.

Indulgence continues with an emphasis on exceptional dining. Onboard chefs craft gourmet meals ranging from lavish brunches to elegant afternoon teas and exquisite multi-course dinners, all served with attentive care. Each carriage carries its own character, like the elegantly appointed “Audrey” carriage or the “Cygnus” carriage built in the 1950s.

Oh, and there’s a murder mystery luncheon in the dining cars! The British Pullman offers a timeless escape, combining history, luxury, and scenic beauty into an unforgettable journey through England’s past and present.

PS – you can book the train out for private events or things like proposals (just saying). Pullman train trips are famous for a reason. 

3. Napa Valley Wine Train, California

If you’re looking for luxury trains in the USA, nothing is more famous in Napa Valley than the Wine Train . As the train winds its way through the picturesque vineyards and rolling hills of Napa, passengers are treated to a sensory journey that encompasses both the taste of exceptional wines and the sight of stunning landscapes.

This rail travel offers a distinctive opportunity to explore multiple wineries along the route, with stops that allow guests to disembark, sample exquisite wines, and learn about the winemaking process from the experts themselves.

I had a chance to ride this a few years ago and loved the history we got while dining on upscale food paired with rolling views of vineyards out the window. This is actually my first luxury train travel experience that got me hooked on these kinds of journeys.

Napa Valley is already a North American bucket list spot, so add this bucket list train to your trip! 

4. Cruise Train Seven Stars, Japan

Japan’s Cruise Train Seven Stars is often called the most luxurious train service in the world since it pairs old-world charm with modern Japanese travel technology. 

It’s extremely popular, so you have to apply to ride and only winners are selected to experience this small but luxurious train ride through Japan’s mountains and seaside. 

But it’s worth the wait. These train cars are drenched in Kanso interior style with a lot of wood and organic elements. There’s a lounge car bar, dining car and a select number of guest suites, as this is an overnight luxury train. 

They offer 3 different routes that vary in dates and locations, but again they are all competitive so apply early and cross your fingers. 

5. Rovos Rail, South Africa

This train features open-air balconies on the observation car so you can feel the wind in your hair as you chug along the vast landscapes of South Africa. 

Every guest suite features private baths, tea facilities and fresh linens daily. Some even have tubs! Routes vary from Capetown to Safaris, and all dinners are paired with local South African wines.

The Rovos Rail also offers amazing excursions from elephant parks to exploring major cities like Cape Town, even stops at notable parks and wine country! If you’re looking for luxury train journeys in Africa, this is the a very unique and special experience. 

6. Golden Eagle Danube Express, Europe

Embark on an unparalleled journey of luxury and discovery aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express , where opulence, history, and breathtaking landscapes intertwine. Step into lavishly designed carriages that exude old-world charm and modern comfort, adorned with intricate detailing and plush furnishings.

The decor transports you to a bygone era, with elegant wood paneling, polished brass accents, and sumptuous fabrics creating an ambiance of refined luxury. As the train winds its way through the heart of Europe, you’ll be treated to an ever-changing panorama of scenic wonders, from medieval castles to picturesque villages.

The Golden Eagle Danube Express not only offers a feast for the eyes but also tantalizes the taste buds with a culinary experience fit for royalty. Expert chefs curate menus that showcase the best of regional flavors, using locally sourced ingredients to craft delectable dishes that reflect the countries you traverse.

Whether indulging in gourmet breakfasts, elaborate multi-course dinners, or delightful afternoon teas, each meal is a celebration of European gastronomy. The luxurious experience extends to every detail, from impeccable service to exquisitely appointed cabins that become havens of comfort after a day of exploration.

With its meticulously designed decor, captivating routes, and culinary excellence, it sets a new standard for luxury train travel, offering ultimate leisure and an unforgettable way to experience the cultural tapestry of Europe.

7. Eastern & Oriental Express, Asia

For nearly three decades, the Eastern & Oriental Express has been a beacon of luxury, connecting three of Asia’s most enchanting cities: Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Singapore. Drawing inspiration from the allure of the 1932 Marlene Dietrich film “Shanghai Express,” the train’s interiors are a masterpiece of elegance.

Every detail has been meticulously considered, from the opulent Thai silk to the intricate Malaysian embroidery that adorns the carriages. The ambiance is further enriched by the warm cherrywood paneling that exudes a timeless sophistication.

As the train gracefully journeys through verdant rainforests and past ancient temples, the views become a moving tableau of natural and cultural wonders, amplifying the sense of immersion in Asia’s splendor.

Indulgence extends beyond the visual feast, as the Eastern & Oriental Express promises a gastronomic journey that’s equally exceptional. Prepare for enchanting evenings by packing attire that befits the scene — as dinner unfolds, an elegant evening wear is a must.

Immerse yourself in an exquisite culinary experience that’s as enchanting as the landscapes passing by. The train’s commitment to luxury extends to every aspect of your journey, from the plush accommodations to the impeccable service.

As you step aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express, you step into a realm where history, opulence, and the mesmerizing beauty of Asia converge to create an unforgettable voyage.

8. Royal Gorge Route Railroad, Colorado

It’s hard to find luxury train travel in the USA but the Royal Gorge Route Railroad always in Colorado travel guides. It’s been on my bucket list for ages! 

The highlight is undoubtedly the dome car, where panoramic windows envelop travelers in breathtaking vistas of towering cliffs, meandering rivers, and vibrant fall foliage during the autumn months. This elevated vantage point allows you to witness the transition from lush greens to a riot of reds, oranges, and golds, turning the journey into a living canvas of seasonal artistry.

As winter blankets the landscape in glistening snow, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad transforms into a magical winter wonderland. The dome car becomes a cozy cocoon, offering the perfect vantage point to admire the snow-draped scenery outside.

The train’s commitment to luxury extends to the culinary offerings as well, with carefully crafted menus featuring locally inspired flavors. 

Whether you’re savoring the vibrant fall colors or the tranquil winter scenes, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad presents an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Colorado’s changing seasons while relishing in the comfort of vintage rail travel. It makes a great winter stop after Vail skiing , or a fall stop after visiting Denver ! 

9. Belman Royal Scotsman, Scotland

Embark on a captivating journey through Scotland’s enchanting landscapes, where lush lochs, majestic castles, and verdant countryside come alive from the comfort of the Royal Scotsman. As this elegant train winds its way through the Highlands, you’ll find yourself ensconced in luxury within your well-appointed suite, enveloped by the warmth of tartan wool blankets.

For those seeking the epitome of indulgence, the mahogany-clad dining car beckons with a rich ambiance, providing the perfect setting to savor the finest scotch and culinary delights inspired by the region. They even have a whiskey route!

Yet, what truly sets the Royal Scotsman apart in the realm of luxury trains is its exceptional onboard spa. As the stunning vistas unfold outside your window, the spa car offers an oasis of serenity and rejuvenation.

Immerse yourself in a realm of tranquility, where you can pamper yourself with a range of treatments, from soothing facials to indulgent massages and meticulous manicures. This unique blend of relaxation and breathtaking scenery elevates the Royal Scotsman experience to unparalleled heights.

With the soothing touch of the spa’s expert therapists and the ever-changing landscape of Scotland’s Highlands , every moment aboard the Royal Scotsman becomes a symphony of luxury, comfort, scenic train rides and natural beauty. I’ve had this on my Scotland trip ideas for years. 

10. Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru

Stepping into the carriages of the Belmond Andean Explorer is like stepping into a vivid tapestry of local culture and elegance. I wish I had a chance to ride this went I visited Peru in high school (I’ll just have to go back!) The interiors are a testament to Peruvian artistry, adorned with exquisite Peruvian tapestries woven from the fine fibers of alpacas.

These sumptuous details grace the beds, creating an ambiance that’s at once indulgent and rooted in the region’s rich heritage. Amidst these breathtaking landscapes, the rear observation bar car emerges as a sanctuary for both the senses and the soul. Here, travelers can savor the iconic pisco sours, served against a backdrop of panoramic views that shift from towering peaks to verdant valleys.

As the Belmond Andean Explorer meanders through this ancient land, it not only reimagines history but also presents an opportunity to experience the captivating blend of tradition, luxury, and natural splendor that defines modern travel through the heart of Peru.

11. Maharajas’ Express, India

At the heart of the Maharajas’ Express allure is the coveted seven-day Heritage of India tour, an itinerary that weaves through a tapestry of India’s most captivating destinations.

This journey unfurls like a grand odyssey, with Mumbai, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Agra, and Delhi as the luminary stops on this radiant route.

While the train gracefully traverses the tracks, guests find themselves immersed in a cascade of experiences, from the regal charm of Udaipur’s palaces to the imposing magnificence of the Taj Mahal. Amidst the plush interiors of the train, guests are enveloped in the embrace of world-class amenities and exceptional service, creating an environment that rivals the lavishness of the destinations themselves.

As the Maharajas’ Express unfurls its remarkable chapters, it bestows a journey that transcends mere travel, granting passage to a world where luxury, history, and discovery entwine to create an unforgettable escapade.

12. Blue Train, South Africa

The Blue Train in South Africa redefines luxury travel with an unparalleled experience that seamlessly blends opulence and adventure out of Cape Town. As guests step aboard this iconic train, they are transported to a realm of sophistication where every detail has been meticulously crafted to exude elegance.

The interiors are adorned with lavish decor, from plush upholstery to polished wood finishes, creating an ambiance of timeless glamour. Beyond the breathtaking decor, the culinary offerings onboard are a celebration of South Africa’s finest flavors.

Passengers are treated to gourmet dining experiences that showcase the country’s diverse culinary heritage, accompanied by a selection of fine wines that perfectly complement each course.

From the ever-changing landscapes outside the window to the sumptuous interiors and indulgent cuisine within, the Blue Train promises an unforgettable journey that encapsulates the essence of luxury, leaving travelers with memories of a lifetime.

13. The Presidential Train, Portugal

Introducing the epitome of gastronomic delight, the Presidential Train of Portugal beckons travelers to immerse themselves in an extraordinary culinary journey amidst the enchanting Douro Valley (which is very close to Vinho Verde spots I got to visit on a wine trip)

This region, now celebrated globally for its culinary prowess, serves as the perfect backdrop for a remarkable train expedition. Embarking from the vibrant city of Porto and winding its way to the resplendent Quinta do Vesuvio on the Douro Valley’s eastern edge, the Presidential Train welcomes a distinguished lineup of world-renowned chefs.

For a captivating span of ten hours, these culinary maestros infuse their expertise into an array of dining experiences, where the world’s freshest ingredients are transformed into edible masterpieces. Every course is harmoniously paired with wines sourced from the surrounding vineyards, culminating in an epicurean symphony that unfolds amid breathtaking scenery.

It is currently NOT running but it returns to service every few years so it’s important to keep watch and jump on the change when it opens. 

14. The Ghan, Australia

Escape to the heart of the Australian Outback with a journey that defies convention, where the rugged allure of the land meets unparalleled luxury aboard The Ghan Expedition. This four-day odyssey from Darwin to Adelaide offers an exquisite blend of adventure and opulence, encapsulating the timeless spirit of the region while embracing the utmost in modern comfort.

Originating in 1929, this legendary train has evolved to cater to the discerning traveler, seamlessly intertwining history and innovation. As the crimson hues of the desert landscape roll by, onboard experiences unfold that celebrate Australia’s rich culinary heritage.

Indulge in the essence of the land through an array of culinary delights, where each meal is a gastronomic voyage in itself. From the delicate saltwater barramundi, a tribute to the country’s coastal treasures, to the bold flavors of grilled kangaroo fillet, every bite becomes an exploration of Australia’s diverse and captivating tastes.

15. Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express, Russia

Celebrating over a century of elegance, the Trans-Siberian Express offers a wealth of luxurious experiences. Running from Moscow to Vladivostok, passengers can learn Russian, dance to live music, and enjoy an ever-open bar. Meals are important here.

From the delectable flavors of borscht, a traditional beet soup, to succulent servings of Siberian sturgeon, each meal is a gastronomic journey that traverses the expanse of Russia’s rich culinary heritage. 

Beyond the tracks, the journey crafts a 15-day narrative, embracing cultural lessons, camaraderie, and culinary delights. Priced at $19,825 per person, is an extraordinary adventure through time and place (and makes it one of the most expensive luxury train trips in the world). 

16. The Canadian, Canada

The Canadian, stretching its services from Toronto to Vancouver, unveils a magnificent journey that unfolds over four uninterrupted days across The Great White North. The train’s interior décor echoes the grandeur of the vistas it traverses, featuring plush furnishings, rich wood paneling, and large windows that frame the ever-changing panorama.

As you remain cocooned in luxury, the train reveals a tapestry of sights, from captivating waterfalls and quaint villages to the majestic expanse of the Rocky Mountains. Opting for a winter adventure promises an even more enchanting experience, as snow-draped peaks and vast fields of glistening powder paint a picture of breathtaking beauty beyond compare.

Beyond the mesmerizing scenery, The Canadian indulges passengers with a culinary journey that’s as remarkable as the landscapes. The onboard dining embraces the essence of Canadian flavors, from succulent locally sourced meats to delectable seafood, all masterfully prepared by skilled chefs.

17. The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, Spain

For a seamless blend of opulence and history, consider embarking on a journey aboard the Transcantabrico Gran Lujo , where the allure of luxury is magnificently entwined with heritage. Four of its cars are immaculately preserved original 1923 Pullman cars, creating an ambiance that harkens back nearly a century.

Stepping aboard is akin to stepping into a time capsule, with meticulously recreated decor that immerses travelers in the past. Offering an enchanting panorama of Spain’s finest landscapes, a dedicated panoramic viewing car allows passengers to relish the nation’s stunning vistas to the fullest.

This unparalleled journey unfolds along the northern coast, tracing its route from the charming San Sebastian to the revered Santiago de Compostela, presenting a unique opportunity to explore the diverse beauty of Spain’s coastal treasures in ultimate comfort.

18. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, India

Embark on a regal odyssey through India’s vibrant tapestry aboard the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels , where luxury, culture, and heritage converge in a symphony of opulence. This exquisite journey traces a path through the heart of Rajasthan, unveiling the rich history and architectural marvels of cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur.

The train’s meticulously designed carriages reflect the splendor of a bygone era, adorned with intricate detailing, plush upholstery, and sumptuous interiors that immerse passengers in the ambiance of royalty.

As the train weaves through this captivating landscape, passengers are treated to a gastronomic adventure that celebrates the flavors of Rajasthan. Every meal is an artful fusion of local ingredients and culinary traditions, complemented by impeccable service that mirrors the grandeur of the surroundings.

The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is more than a mere journey; it’s a seamless blend of luxury and cultural exploration that invites travelers to experience the allure of India’s royal heritage in a manner that truly befits kings and queens.

19. Shangri-La Express, China

Embark on a journey of pure luxury aboard the Shangri-La Express in China , where ornate decor and plush interiors create a timeless atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. As the train meanders through China’s diverse landscapes, panoramic windows offer passengers a constantly evolving view of bustling cities and serene countryside.

The culinary experience is a highlight, with authentic Chinese cuisine crafted from local ingredients, transforming each meal into a gastronomic exploration. This voyage isn’t just a train journey; it’s an immersive encounter with China’s cultural treasures, where opulent cabins, captivating scenery, and exquisite cuisine converge to redefine luxury travel.

I feel like I can’t end this post without mentioning two other trains. They aren’t fancy luxury sleeper trains, but a good runner-up is the Harry Potter Train! Aka The Jacobite Steam Train, which is always making the news as a top Harry Potter sight to visit for fans since it’s basically Hogwarts Express. 

Sleeper train trips in the USA are hard to come by but the Amtrak Grand National Parks Of the Southwest Grand Cayon is a beautiful route. Nothing compares to the luxury of the Orient Express but you’ll get amazing views. 

I hope this helps you discover some of the best luxury train trips to take one day. I know I’m plotting future trips all around some of these rides… Orient Express has to be the number one next stop. 

Maybe I’ll see you in a coach car soon?

The post 19 Epic Luxury Train Rides To Add To Your Bucket List appeared first on Whimsy Soul .

Copy My Trip: A grand rail tour of Italy from Rome to Venice

Apr 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Rolling through the Italian countryside on a restored 1960s train? A once-in-a-lifetime experience © Sina Hotels

Lonely Planet associate editor Ann Douglas Lott recently traveled through Italy aboard a vintage train, regional trains and bus. Here, she shares some tips and insights for anyone planning a similar trip.

When I told people I had a trip planned to Italy , the joy with which they talked about their own travels there was endless – the dreamy landscapes, the fascinating ruins, the life-changing slice of pizza they had, how their daily cup of coffee just hasn't compared since – but I knew I wouldn't truly understand that joy until I experienced it for myself.

Yes, I was recently a first-timer in one of the planet's most-visited destinations, so my expectations were exceedingly lofty. The plan was a grand rail (and occasional bus) tour stopping in Rome , Perugia , Florence and Venice – all in just one week. Initially, the pressure to cram in as much as I could that week was at the front of my mind, but thanks to the Italian art of slow living, I learned to appreciate pacing myself as I journeyed (and ate) my way through this incredible country.

Also a first-timer in Italy? Here's what you should know

Where did you stay? What was the vibe?

Four fabulous destinations meant four fabulous, centrally-located hotels to match. I was invited to stay at a different five-star Sina hotel in each city: the 150-year-old Bernini Bristol in Rome, the hilltop Sina Brufani in Perugia, the classy Villa Medici in Florence and the canal-side Centurion Palace in Venice.

The brand has been owned and operated by the same family for over 60 years, so that classic Italian charm is undeniable. I also just adore a hotel that  feels  like the destination it's in, so details like the Brufani's elegant, classical decor and the Villa Medici's grand, early 19th-century lobby enhanced the whole experience. While considered luxury hotels, don't dismiss these if you like to stick to a tighter travel budget ; nightly rates at these properties cover a broad spectrum, typically depending on the popularity of the destination. Perugia, for example, would suit a budget traveler more than Florence (Perugia was my favorite stop – more on that later).

Some highlights: 

• Sipping Aperol spritzes on the hotel's panoramic rooftop at sunset in Rome
• The Perugia hotel's pool with a glass bottom that peers into an ancient ruin, plus the view of Umbria's rolling hills from my room
• The vintage keys and private garden with its own pool at the Florence hotel
• Enjoying views of the Grand Canal from the Venice property's front porch

Favorite activity from the trip?

Let's talk about the ultimate train ride. It's always a good idea to roll through the Italian countryside, but on a beautifully restored 1960s masterpiece? That's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Arlecchino is the stuff of Wes Anderson films, with its roomy, brightly colored velvet seats, massive windows, vintage bar car and a chic, retro viewing cabin at either end of the train. Departing from Rome, we crawled through Lazio and into the Umbrian countryside, between green hills, through mountain tunnels and past lovely medieval towns like Assisi .

I count myself lucky to have scored a seat on this journey to Perugia – the Arlecchino doesn't run daily like the Trenitalia lines. But the operator of this line, Fondazione FS Italiene , runs similar journeys throughout the country almost daily, so you can still experience the magic of riding on a vintage Italian train. Tickets can be booked on the website , where you can also learn about each of their historic lines. Prices vary depending on the journey, but most hover around €50 per adult. If you prefer a speedier ride and choose to go the Trenitalia route, staggering views are guaranteed no matter which service you board.

Plan your own rail adventure through Italy with our tips for getting around

Best thing you ate?

The aforementioned life-changing slice of pizza? It was a mozzarella and guanciale slice from Zizzi Pizza in Rome. But the best thing I ate was a ridiculously fresh sandwich from I' Bacaro De Bischeri in Venice: warm focaccia, prosciutto, arugula, caramelized onions and burrata.

Honorable mention: the amaretto mousse and tiramisu from Osteria Al Bacareto in Venice, ham and parmesan fettuccine from Harry's Bar The Garden in Florence (conveniently located inside the Villa Medici hotel) and a simple bite of burrata – so fresh it was still warm – in Perugia. Oh, and the whole gelato spread at Gelateria Nico in Venice, though I'm partial to stracciatella  (chocolate chip).

Want more Italian restaurant recs? Here's where you should eat in Florence right now

What was the most touristy thing you did? 

When in Venice, book a glass factory tour! Our hotel arranged for a water taxi to deliver us to Murano for a factory and gallery tour of Schiavon Art Team's headquarters, one of the island's many glassblowers. The taxi ride across the lagoon was a glamorous experience in itself – a private, classy wooden boat with leather seats – but you can also take a vaporetto to Murano for a fraction of the cost.

We entered a vast gallery of vibrant glass chandeliers, plants, abstract faces and even a mural of the Avengers (they can do it all). But the highlight was observing the glass masters at work – a team of five almost dancing to keep the glass hot while also perfecting the movements and timing of sculpting the given subject, in this case, a beautiful blue marlin. I could've sat there all day, but the canals were calling.

What was the most under-the-radar activity you enjoyed?

If you need a place to stop between Rome and Florence, this is it. Umbria is everything you love about Italy without the crowds (except during Perugia's annual chocolate and jazz festivals in March and July, respectively), and the one night I spent in Perugia's medieval center wasn't nearly long enough.

While there was still daylight, I toured the underground fortress Rocca Paolina . You can enter the fortress via escalator from a small park called Giardini Carducci , which happens to be a fabulous spot to watch the sunset over the rolling hills of Umbria's countryside. The next morning, head to Sandri for a coffee and pastry – this is Perugia's most famous cafe. It's been a family-run business since 1860, and multiple locals told me it sells the best pastries around.

Did you bring home a souvenir?

Oh, did I shop. Here's the haul: in Florence, I snagged a pair of red and pink velvet Mary Janes at Bramada . It was a love-at-first-sight-through-the-window kind of moment. The rest of my shopping was in Venice: a marble-covered notebook of watercolor paper from Il Papiro (and regular notebooks for my family), a Murano glass charm necklace from The M Venezia (just €20–25 each) and a vintage red scarf with illustrations of Capri from Vintageria for just €5 – perhaps a sign that Capri should be my next Italian destination?

Pick up more souvenirs at these local shops in Rome and Florence

Best tip for someone who wants to plan the same trip?

The timing of this trip was simply marvelous: March shoulder season, specifically the week before Easter. The weather was decently warm as highs hovered around 15°C (60°F), the sun was mostly shining, and the Easter crowds hadn't yet made their way to the more popular cities. I packed a short, thin coat for the cooler nights and occasional wind.

Also, when you book a regional train ticket (aka, not the stylish Arlecchino), you have to validate it before you board your train. Otherwise, you'll face a hefty fine when ticket inspectors come to scan your ticket on board. Look for one of the green machines at the head of the platform, and insert your ticket to get it stamped. This isn't required on high-speed trains, though – those tickets are valid for a specific train service and seat.

Ann Douglas traveled to Italy on the invitation of Sina Hotels. Lonely Planet does not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage. 

Save our complete guide to Italy:

Add these top experiences to your itinerary Know these things about Italy before you go Start crafting your budget with these tips Learn the best times to avoid the crowds

Explore related stories

Budget Travel

Apr 21, 2024 • 7 min read

These budget travel tips can help your euros go further in Florence.

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Apr 19, 2024 • 4 min read

Apr 17, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 9, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 8, 2024 • 13 min read

Apr 8, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 7, 2024 • 11 min read

Apr 5, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 5, 2024 • 10 min read

CALL: +44 20 3640 8887

London to Vienna Aboard The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Experience a night aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to Vienna

Experience a luxurious journey from London to Vienna onboard the magnificent Venice Simplon-Orient-Express luxury train. Spend a night onboard and take the wonderful journey to the gorgeous city of Vienna. You will experience style, adventure, and luxury as you travel across Europe onboard one of the most famous trains in the world. Built in the 1920s and intricately restored, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express encapsulates everything one would expect from luxury train travel. With beautiful décor, 24-hour steward service, and fine cuisine; the Venice Simplon-Orient Express is the perfect mode of transport for a journey of this grandeur. Explore the 17 carriages as you wish, find one that suits your style, and recline with a glass of your favourite beverage as you watch the landscape pass by. This journey consists of an outward journey with one night onboard. All meals onboard the train are included in the price and all are prepared fresh by talented French chefs. This is a truly exceptional journey and one that will create memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Your journey includes:

• A night onboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
• 24-hour steward service
• Welcome glass of sparkling wine
• Four-course dinner onboard the train
• Continental breakfast in your cabin
• Three-course lunch

Solo Travellers: Due to the upgrade of the Cabin Suites and Grand Suites, unfortunately, it is no longer possible to book a Single Cabin aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Solo travellers are still able to book although they are expected to pay a "sole occupancy supplement", which in effect is like paying for two passengers. If you are looking to book as a solo traveller aboard the train, please get in touch with us first as we will not be able to accept your booking if you pay for just one ticket.

Your Journey Starts Here

Welcome aboard.

The Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express at a glance

Make a booking

Cabin Suite

Limited availability.

Grand Suite

Book with a 25% deposit*.

We're here to advise on your luxury train journey

Why choose luxurytraintickets.com, price match, book with a deposit, complimentary concierge, human customer services, no hidden costs, journeys worldwide, terms and conditions.

This is a brief overview of our booking terms and conditions. Please note each individual operator has their own terms and conditions and by booking with LuxuryTrainTickets.com you are also accepting the operator's terms. For more information regarding operator terms and conditions please contact us or the operator directly. PLEASE NOTE: Receiving receipt of payment is not confirmation that your booking has been successful. We will contact you one to 10 working days after you have paid to confirm your booking, take further details of those travelling and send your itinerary. In the rare instance your booking cannot be fulfilled for any reason, such as the operator cancelling a journey or anything else beyond our control, we will be in touch with alternative options or will refund your payment. All prices shown are for one adult ticket. Sleeper journeys are based on two adults sharing accommodation. Single occupancy of cabins may incur additional charge. Prices are set by the operator and may change at short notice. We endeavour to ensure prices are always accurate and update our own website as soon as possible. All timings and details of included tours and activities are for guidance only and will only be confirmed in your travel documents that will be emailed to you 7 days before departure. For any questions including discounts, offers or group pricing, please contact [email protected]. As an authorised ticketing agent of luxury train journeys, we may need to pass some of your details (such as your name and dietary requirements) on to the train operators in order to complete your booking. This is done so the operators can add you to their guest list, send you your tickets and ensure the meals served to you onboard meet your dietary requirements. By booking with LuxuryTrainTickets.com, you are agreeing that you allow such necessary details to be shared with the operators under the cause of legitimate interest. If you have any questions, please contact us by phone or email [email protected]. There are a limited number of private tables and cabin types onboard. While we keep our website updated regularly, there may be occasions when private tables or cabin types become fully booked meaning we are unable to fulfil your booking requirements. Should this be the case, we will contact you to discuss alternative options and refund any payments made. We have the right to refuse the request of a deposit when a journey is scheduled to depart in less than 16 weeks. If you choose to book with a deposit you must pay the remaining balance in full 15 weeks before departure at the latest. Should you fail to pay the remaining balance 15 weeks prior to departure, you will forfeit your deposit and your booking. Deposits are accepted by request. Most journeys require a 25% deposit to secure a booking however some specialist journeys do require a 50% deposit. Please contact us for confirmation. Tickets are sent electronically around 5 days before departure. You will not receive tickets or any form of 'gift pack' in the post. This is in an attempt to reduce paper use and do our part for the environment. By booking a journey you agree to these terms, the terms set out by each individual operator and our cancellation policy . Please contact LuxuryTrainTickets.com for further terms or for clarification.