Art Deco Icon

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Belmond's meticulously restored 1920s carriages. Lalique glass, polished mahogany, white-gloved service, and the ultimate nostalgic luxury rail journey across Europe.

Carriages

1982

Launched

Cabins

Art Deco

Style

What Makes It Special

The Golden Age Restored

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express operates with original 1920s and 1930s carriages that have been meticulously restored to their Art Deco glory. Lalique glass panels, polished mahogany, plush upholstery, and brass fixtures transport passengers to the golden age of rail travel. The train was founded by James Sherwood in 1982, who spent years tracking down and purchasing the original Orient-Express carriages from scrapyards and private collections across Europe.

Legendary Routes

The classic route runs from London to Venice (or reverse) via Paris, taking 36 hours through the Alps. The Grand Suites offer private bathrooms and double beds. The Paris to Istanbul route (5 days) is the ultimate journey, crossing through France, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, Romania, and Turkey. The train also operates seasonal routes to Vienna, Prague, Budapest, and Berlin. Each route is timed for scenic daylight passages through the most beautiful landscapes.

White-Gloved Service

The staff — chefs, stewards, and conductors — wear period uniforms. Dinner is a formal affair: black tie or elegant evening wear required. The three dining cars serve French cuisine by Michelin-trained chefs using ingredients sourced along the route. The bar car, with its piano, is the social heart of the train. Cocktails, cigars, and piano music create an atmosphere that has vanished everywhere else in modern travel.

The Grand Suites

The ultimate accommodation — named after Paris, Venice, Istanbul, Prague, Budapest, and Vienna. Each Grand Suite features a private bathroom with shower, double bed, living area, and 24-hour steward service. Art Deco design elements reflect the destination city. These suites command premium prices but offer an experience unmatched in rail travel: waking up in your own private railway carriage as the Alps glide past your window.

Signature Routes

Signature36 hours

London to Venice

Classic Route

Epic5 days

Paris to Istanbul

Grand Journey

Seasonal2 days

Paris to Vienna

Alpine Pass

Seasonal2 days

Paris to Prague

Bohemian Route

Seasonal2 days

Venice to Budapest

Danube Valley

Seasonal2 days

Paris to Berlin

Historic Route

"The train is the most romantic form of travel. It is the journey, not the destination, that matters."

— James Sherwood, Founder

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