Are you looking for an extraordinary and unforgettable experience? Look no further than the world-renowned Venice Simplon-Orient Express. This iconic train journey will take you from the bustling city of London to the romantic and enchanting city of Venice, passing through picturesque European landscapes along the way.
The Venice Simplon-Orient Express is a luxury train that has been in operation since 1982, but its history dates back to the early 20th century. It was inspired by the original Orient Express, which started its journey from Paris to Constantinople (now Istanbul) in 1883. Today, the Venice Simplon-Orient Express offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travelers who want to relive the golden age of train travel.
In this article, we will take a closer look at this incredible train journey from London to Venice. We will discuss the route, the train itself, the onboard experience, and everything else you need to know before embarking on this luxurious adventure. So, sit back, relax, and let us take you on a virtual journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient Express.
1. The Route: From London to Venice
The Venice Simplon-Orient Express offers several different routes, but the one that takes you from London to Venice is the most popular and highly sought-after by travelers. The journey starts at London’s Victoria Station and takes you through the picturesque countryside of England and France, before crossing the Swiss Alps and ending in the stunning city of Venice.
The train stops at Paris, where passengers can disembark and spend some time exploring the City of Lights. From Paris, the train continues its journey through Switzerland, offering breathtaking views of the Alps. Finally, it crosses the Venetian Lagoon to reach the Santa Lucia train station in Venice.
The Route in Detail
- London to Paris (350 km, 7 hours)
The journey starts at London’s Victoria Station, where you will board the Venice Simplon-Orient Express. As the train leaves the bustling city behind, it passes through the English countryside, offering beautiful views of the rolling hills and charming villages.
After crossing the English Channel, the train reaches the French capital, Paris. The train stops here for about an hour, giving passengers the opportunity to explore the city or enjoy a gourmet meal at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Paris to Innsbruck (1000 km, 12 hours)
From Paris, the train continues its journey towards Innsbruck, Austria. This leg of the journey takes you through the stunning landscapes of France and Switzerland, with the majestic Alps as your backdrop. As you pass through the Swiss countryside, you can catch glimpses of quaint villages, crystal clear lakes, and snow-capped mountains. - Innsbruck to Venice (500 km, 10 hours)
The final leg of the journey takes you through the Italian Dolomites, offering breathtaking views of the iconic mountain range. The train then crosses the Venetian Lagoon and arrives at the Santa Lucia station in Venice, where your Venice Simplon-Orient Express journey comes to an end.
2. The Train: A Journey Back in Time
The Venice Simplon-Orient Express is not just a mode of transportation; it is a destination in itself. The train comprises beautifully restored vintage carriages that date back to the 1920s and 1930s. As soon as you step on board, you will feel like you have been transported back in time to the golden age of train travel.
The Carriages
Each carriage on the Venice Simplon-Orient Express has its own unique history and design. Some of the carriages are from the original Orient Express, while others have been acquired from different luxury trains. The carriages have been meticulously restored to their former glory, with each one featuring exquisite details and luxurious furnishings.
Accommodations
The Venice Simplon-Orient Express offers three types of accommodations: the classic Pullman cabins, the spacious Grand Suite, and the stunning Venice Simplon-Orient Express Suite. Each cabin is beautifully decorated in Art Deco style and features plush bedding, elegant furnishings, and modern amenities.
The Pullman cabins can accommodate two passengers in a single or twin beds, while the Grand Suite can accommodate up to three passengers in a double bed and a sofa bed. The Venice Simplon-Orient Express Suite is the most luxurious option, featuring a spacious living room, bedroom, and en-suite bathroom.
Dining on Board
One of the highlights of the Venice Simplon-Orient Express is its exquisite dining experience. The train has three restaurant cars, each with its own unique design and menu. The chefs on board use only the freshest and finest ingredients to create mouth-watering dishes that are inspired by the countries and regions the train passes through.
Passengers can enjoy a sumptuous three-course lunch and four-course dinner in the elegant and sophisticated dining cars. The dress code for dinner is black tie, adding to the overall glamour and sophistication of the journey.
3. Onboard Experience: Luxury at Its Finest
From the moment you step on board the Venice Simplon-Orient Express until the end of your journey, you will be treated like royalty. The friendly and attentive staff will make sure that all your needs are taken care of, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience.
Observation Car
One of the most popular spots on the Venice Simplon-Orient Express is the Observation Car. This vintage carriage features large windows and an outdoor platform where passengers can take in the stunning views and capture breathtaking photos. It is the perfect place to relax, sip on a cocktail, and socialize with fellow travelers.
Bar Car
The Bar Car is another popular spot on the train, offering a wide selection of cocktails, spirits, and wines. The bar car also features live music in the evenings, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is a tradition on the Venice Simplon-Orient Express, and it is not to be missed. In the afternoon, a traditional British high tea is served in the comfort of your cabin or in one of the lounge cars. The tea includes an assortment of pastries, finger sandwiches, and scones with clotted cream and jam.
4. The Excursions: Exploring the Cities and Countryside
While the journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient Express is an experience in itself, passengers also have the opportunity to explore some of the cities and countryside along the way. The train offers various excursions that allow passengers to step off the train and discover the beauty of the destinations.
Paris
Passengers can choose to disembark at Paris for a few hours to explore the city on their own or take part in a guided tour. Some of the popular attractions in Paris include the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.
Innsbruck
In Innsbruck, passengers can enjoy a walking tour of the city, taking in its rich history and stunning architecture. They can also take a cable car ride to the top of the Nordkette mountain range for unparalleled views of the city and the surrounding Alps.
Venice
The final destination of the journey, Venice, is a city like no other. Passengers can choose to spend a few nights in this romantic city, exploring its winding canals, picturesque bridges, and iconic landmarks such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
5. The Cost: Is It Worth It?
The Venice Simplon-Orient Express is not a budget-friendly option for travel, but it is undoubtedly worth every penny. The cost of the journey varies depending on the type of accommodation, season, and any additional excursions or activities. However, with the high price tag comes an unparalleled level of luxury and service that is truly one-of-a-kind.
The prices for a one-way journey from London to Venice start at around $3,000 per person in a Pullman cabin and can go up to $8,000 per person for the Venice Simplon-Orient Express Suite. This includes all meals, drinks, and excursions along the way. While it may seem like a hefty sum, the memories and experiences you will gain from this journey are priceless.
6. Tips for Your Journey: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Before embarking on your journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient Express, here are some tips to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible:
- Book well in advance – The Venice Simplon-Orient Express is a highly sought-after journey, and tickets tend to sell out quickly. It is best to book at least six months in advance to secure your spot.
- Follow the dress code – The dress code for dinner is black tie, and passengers are expected to dress accordingly. During the day, smart casual attire is appropriate.
- Pack light – The cabins on the train are not very spacious, so it is best to pack light and bring only the essentials.
- Avoid heavy luggage – Due to the limited space on the train, it is recommended to bring a small suitcase or duffle bag instead of large, heavy suitcases.
- Bring a camera – The scenery on the Venice Simplon-Orient Express is breathtaking, so be sure to bring a camera to capture all the beautiful moments.
- Relax and enjoy – The journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient Express is all about relaxation, so sit back, relax, and let the attentive staff take care of everything.
Conclusion
Traveling on the Venice Simplon-Orient Express is more than just a train journey; it is an unparalleled experience that will create memories to last a lifetime. From the luxurious train and exquisite dining to the stunning landscapes and excursions, every aspect of this journey is carefully curated to provide the ultimate in luxury and comfort.
So, if you are looking for a unique and unforgettable way to travel from London to Venice, look no further than the Venice Simplon-Orient Express. Book your tickets now and get ready for the journey of a lifetime!
