Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a work of art in itself — a true Art Deco icon recognised the world over. Romance, glamour, adventure and the mystery of the past are all intimately bound up in journeys that visit some of the most alluring cities on the continent. Few trains still exist from a more gracious, elegant age of travel, and this lovingly maintained train is wholly worthy of the Orient Express legend.

Air-conditioned vintage cabins, superlative white-glove service, delicious afternoon teas and exquisite fine dining with lively on-board entertainment make every journey one of the world's finest travel experiences. Dinner, as the General Manager Pascal Deyrolle describes it, is theatre — guests dress for the occasion, enjoy a postprandial drink in the bar car, and surrender to an atmosphere that recalls the aristocratic life of the 1920s.

In May 1977, SNCF announced it was retiring the Orient Express. The public outcry caught the attention of entrepreneur Jim Sherwood, who set out across Europe to track down enough original 1920s carriages — with their exquisite Art Deco marquetry and Lalique glass — to reconstitute a full train. In 1982 the lovingly restored Venice Simplon-Orient-Express departed Victoria Station for Venice, almost exactly 100 years after it first carried passengers on their exotic continental journeys. Belmond now carries that extraordinary legacy forward.

Accommodation on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express ranges from beautifully appointed Historic Cabins to the ultimate indulgence of the Grand Suite, ensuring every guest travels in the style that suits them.

Historic Cabin

The Historic Cabins (formerly Twin Cabins) convert seamlessly from daytime lounges — with a banquette sofa, footstool, small table and original washbasin cabinet — into cosy bedrooms with upper and lower beds, crisp linen and soft towels. A mosaic-tiled lavatory is located in each carriage. Bathrobes, slippers and a luxury Temple Spa travel collection are provided. Historic Cabins are available for sole use; a supplement applies.

Suite

Ranked between the Grand Suite and the Historic Cabin, the Suite offers all the grandeur of the established carriage with the added benefit of a floor-level double or twin bed and a private ensuite bathroom. Beds convert to seating by day.

Grand Suite

The Grand Suite creates new heights of luxury aboard this historic train. Each features a private bathroom with shower, a double bed and a separate living area whose interiors reflect the spirit of a destination city while remaining true to the original 1920s Art Deco aesthetic. Unlimited Champagne and transfers within a 20-mile radius are included, and private in-suite dining is available for the ultimate in privacy.

Bar Car

The Art Nouveau bar car — centred on a baby grand piano and framed by large panoramic windows — creates a wonderfully evocative atmosphere. A full range of refreshments is served here until late into the evening.

Dining Cars

All dishes are freshly prepared on board by skilled French chefs, with the finest ingredients taken on at stops along the route. Lunch, dinner and brunch are served in one of three individually styled restaurant cars: Côte d'Azur, Étoile du Nord or L'Oriental. Breakfast and afternoon tea are served in the comfort of passengers' own cabins.

Lalique Champagne Bar & Lounge

The Lalique Car houses both the Champagne Bar and a relaxed lounge complete with board games. Easy chairs and sofas are arranged to maximise the passing scenery — the perfect setting to savour a glass of Champagne as Europe unfolds beyond the window.