A decadent journey back to the 1920s aboard the world's most storied train, an icon of art deco design and enduring symbol of luxury. Journey across Europe on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
An icon of art deco design
Rekindle the romance of the rails as you travel between Europe’s most captivating cities
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the most storied set of carriages in the world. It promises to take you not just across Europe, but to transport you back in time. With its polished wood, sumptuous upholstery and antique fixtures, the train epitomises the glamour and elegance of the Golden Age of travel.
Be swept away by rolling razzmatazz and glamour on a grand tour through Europe
Step aboard the historic carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and uncover a hidden jewel, escape into a world of timeless glamour
Relax in carefully restored 1920s cabins, rich with craftsmanship. After a leisurely breakfast, your steward whisks away the beds to return the cabin to a sitting area. Plush sofas provide the perfect spot to watch the scenery unfold. At night, climb the upholstered ladder to your upper berth or cosy up under crisp sheets on the bottom bunk.
An uncontested icon of the rails, this train has long captured the hearts and imaginations of glamorous guests. Three elegant dining carriages exude culinary sophistication, from Lalique glass inlays in Cote d’Azur to black lacquer panels in L’Oriental. The Bar Car glows with a champagne sparkle while the resident pianist fills the air with sweet melodies. A steward in blue and gold livery waves with a white-gloved hand, welcoming you on board with a knowing smile. Settle in to your cabin, adorned with art-deco details and French-polished cherry wood, and sit back as a grand voyage begins.
HISTORY
In 1977 Belmond’s founder, James B Sherwood, purchased two vintage train carriages at a Monte Carlo auction.
Recognising a renewed appetite for sophisticated travel, he searched far and wide to unearth stately rail relics in private gardens, museums and railway sidings. Cars from famous vintage trains, including Le Train Bleu and the Rome Express, deserved a noble return to service, but required a specialised level of craftsmanship to be restored. Luckily a handful of artisans were found for the task, and they began the painstaking process of returning the carriages to their former glory.
Following years of careful restoration, the iconic midnight-blue cars finally rolled onto the rails in 1982, ready to escort guests in peerless luxury on a classic journey between London and Venice.
