Venice to Paris: Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Luxury Journey
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Embark on a voyage that transcends time. The journey from Venice to Paris on the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is more than a trip across borders; it is an invitation to experience the pinnacle of 1920s glamour. From the moment you step onto the platform at Venice Santa Lucia and see the gleaming midnight-blue carriages, you are entering a world of polished marquetry, plush velvet, and impeccable white-gloved service.
As the train winds its way through the breathtaking landscapes of the Italian Dolomites and the Swiss Alps, you can relax in your private cabin or join fellow travellers in the Bar Car ‘3674’ for a signature cocktail. This is a journey defined by the “slow travel” philosophy—where the clink of crystal, the sound of the pianist, and the ever-changing vistas outside your window create a symphony of pure elegance.
Prepare to rediscover the romance of the rails on a route that has captivated royalty, diplomats, and stars for over a century.
Itinerary
DAY ONE: Dolomites, Dinners, and Decadence
Your journey begins at the water’s edge at Venice Santa Lucia Station. As the gleaming midnight-blue carriages pull into the platform, the modern world begins to fade. Upon boarding, you are shown to your private cabin—a sanctuary of polished marquetry and plush upholstery that serves as your front-row seat to Europe’s most beautiful landscapes.
A Taste of the Alps: Settle in for a magnificent three-course lunch in one of the meticulously restored dining cars. As you dine, the scenery transforms from the terracotta rooftops of Italy into the jagged, snow-dusted peaks of the Dolomites and the legendary Arlberg route.
Afternoon Indulgence: Spend a leisurely afternoon browsing the onboard boutique for a timeless memento or retreat to your cabin. Here, your dedicated steward will serve a traditional French goûter—a selection of sweet treats to accompany the changing vista outside your window.
The Main Event: As evening falls, the train truly comes alive. After dressing in your finest evening attire, start with an aperitif in the legendary Bar Car ‘3674’. Dinner is a gastronomic event designed by celebrated chef Jean Imbert, featuring seasonal specialities and world-class wines.
Midnight Melodies: The night concludes back in the Bar Car. Sip a signature cocktail and enjoy the timeless atmosphere as the resident pianist plays the baby grand piano, the perfect soundtrack to your transit across the continent.
DAY TWO: Sunrise over the French Countryside
Waken to the gentle motion of the train as it glides through the heart of France. Your morning is yours to savour; relax in your cabin and watch the landscape soften into rolling hills and charming villages.
A Celebration Breakfast: Before your arrival, head to the restaurant car for a final, indulgent celebration breakfast. It is the perfect moment to reflect on your journey before the train arrives at Paris Gare de l’Est.
Onward to Adventure: As you disembark in the “City of Light,” you carry with you the memories of a voyage that remains, quite simply, without equal.
Explore the complete guide to cabins, dining, and the storied history of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
About this trip
3 countries: Italy, Switzerland, France
Departure Months
January to December
What's included
1 NIGHT
Accommodation in a private historic cabin (Grand Suite, Suite available at supplement)
À la carte meals
A 3-course Lunch, a 4-course Dinner with wine and a Celebration Breakfast
ON-TRIP TRANSPORT
Luxury rail travel from Venice Santa Lucia to Paris Gare de l’Est. Onboard the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
Sightseeing highlights
The Dolomites & The Arlberg Route: Prepare for a masterclass in European scenery. As the train winds its way out of Italy and into Austria, you’ll witness the jagged, limestone peaks of the majestic Italian Dolomites before traversing the spectacular Arlberg route. From soaring viaducts to emerald-green valleys and alpine tunnels, these legendary tracks offer a front-row seat to the very best of the Alps.
Bar Car ‘3674’: Step into the social heart of the train, a masterpiece of blue and gold lacquer. Here, the “Golden Age” is alive and well; relax on plush velvet cocktail chairs and enjoy the sounds of the resident pianist playing the baby grand as the world glides by.
Art Deco Dining Carriages: Each meal is a journey in itself, hosted in one of three meticulously restored 1920s cars. Admire the floral marquetry of Étoile du Nord, the exotic black lacquer of L’Oriental, or the world-famous René Lalique glass panels found in the Côte d’Azur carriage.
Gastronomy by Jean Imbert: Experience a new era of culinary excellence. Celebrated French chef Jean Imbert has reimagined the onboard menus, blending classical precision with seasonal ingredients sourced from local artisans along the route to Paris.
Venice Santa Lucia & Paris Gare de l’Est: Your journey is bookended by two of the world’s most romantic stations. From the historic waterfront of Venice’s Grand Canal to the bustling, architectural grandeur of Paris, you travel between two cultural icons in incomparable style.
The Bressenden difference
HERITAGE & HISTORY – Step into a Living Time Capsule.
Every carriage on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has a story, from transporting royalty across Europe to surviving the shifts of the 20th century. Bressenden Travel provides guests with detailed insights into the train’s historic “consist,” helping travelers discover the secret past and unique craftsmanship of the very cabin they occupy.
LOCAL SPECIALIST – Maître d’ & Head Chef Jean Imbert.
While on board, you aren’t just a passenger; you are a guest of world-renowned culinary experts. Learn about the provenance of your meal during an informal “Kitchen Talk,” where the staff explain how they source fresh lobsters from Brittany or seasonal salt-marsh lamb to be prepared in a kitchen no larger than a walk-in wardrobe.
ICONIC AMBIENCE – The Social Heart of the Journey.
Evening begins in the legendary Bar Car ‘3674,’ where the “Golden Age” of travel remains a daily reality. The resident pianist performs jazz standards on a baby grand piano, while the clink of crystal and the hum of conversation create a sophisticated atmosphere that has captivated travelers for over a century.
AUTHENTIC DINING – A Gastronomic Gala on Rails.
Passengers experience three distinct dining environments, each with its own personality. From the Lalique glass-adorned Côte d’Azur to the exotic black-lacquered L’Oriental. Meals are multi-course events paired with exceptional wines, ranging from elegant silver-service breakfasts to the famous midnight brunch.
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE – Seamless Planning & Protection.
Bressenden Travel manages the intricate details of the booking process, from cabin selection to advice on station transfers. Benefit from expert guidance, low deposit schemes, and the peace of mind that comes with booking a luxury journey through a protected travel partner.
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