Just hearing the name of the Simplon Orient Express conjures up images of the good old days of travel, a time of adventure, romance, and experiences that’ll stay with you for the rest of your life. For those of us who’ve ever dreamed of a truly unique journey that’ll leave us with memories to cherish, the Simplon Orient Express invites you to come aboard and discover what makes it the most famous luxury train in the world.
But what really sets this legendary train apart from all the others? Let’s take a closer look at why this classic Orient Express journey, with its lovingly restored carriages and grand suites, remains the ultimate luxury experience and the most iconic rail journey on the planet.
Immersing Yourself in the Golden Age
When you step into the Simplon Orient Express, you’re not just boarding a train; you’re embarking on a journey that’ll transport you back to the glamorous days of European rail travel. The train is made up of stunning original carriages from the 1920s & 30s, which have been meticulously restored to showcase the incredible Art Deco features and style of the time.
As you make your way through the train, you’ll feel like you’re stepping back into an era when rail travel was the epitome of sophistication. These sleeper carriages have carried royalty, heads of state, and famous passengers like Agatha Christie; every journey feels like a scene from a classic silver screen movie.
As you make your way along the corridor, you’ll catch a glimpse of rich marquetry, gleaming brass, and even a bar car chandelier or two, each one telling a story of a train that once carried kings and queens on their way across Europe. As night falls, your cabin is transformed into a cosy little bedroom by your dedicated cabin steward, complete with plush bedding. And the best bit? The transition from lively bar car evenings to peaceful private retreats adds to the train’s unique charm.
The Heart of the Luxury Experience: Historic Cabins & Grand Suites
At the heart of the experience are the historic cabins, lovingly restored by expert craftsmen, and each one bursting with character and history. From sleeper cars to restaurant cars, every carriage has its own story to tell. Overnight, your cabin becomes a peaceful oasis as the train glides smoothly through the countryside. And if you’re feeling really indulgent, why not treat yourself to a grand suite, complete with a private bedroom, an en-suite marble bathroom, and all the luxury touches you could want?
These carriages have played host to some of the world’s most memorable journeys, from Paris to Istanbul, Venice to Vienna, and right across Europe and Asia. So as you relax, you’ll know you’re part of a tradition of grand travel that’s as old as the train itself.
Dining Cars: The Epicentre of Art Deco Elegance
Dining on the Simplon Orient Express is a real event, with three dining cars, each a masterpiece of art deco style. Enjoy world-class cuisine in Côte d’Azur, L’Oriental, or Etoile du Nord, each one a feast for the eyes as much as the taste buds. From breakfast to dinner to afternoon tea in the bar car, every meal is a celebration of the journey’s destinations and the fine ingredients you’ll be sampling along the way.
The culinary team, led by renowned Chef Jean Imbert, prepares each meal with love and care. Menus change by region and season, so you can be sure that each dish is inspired by the landscapes and traditions outside your window. So why not dress up for dinner, savour the new art de vivre, and make the most of each moment?
And after dinner, the iconic Bar Car 3674 is the social heartbeat of the train. Share stories with fellow guests, enjoy a classic cocktail or two, and listen to live piano music as Europe’s night scenery glides by.
Epic Routes Across Europe & Asia
The magic of the Simplon Orient Express lies as much in its routes as in its legacy. The classic Orient Express route connects London, Paris, and Venice on meticulously restored blue-and-gold carriages. Your journey often begins with a ride on the Belmond British Pullman, escorting you through the English countryside before boarding the express in Calais.
Breathtaking journeys take you from Paris to Vienna, Budapest, or Prague, and there are new routes too, like the one-night or two-night adventure to Istanbul, one of the legendary journeys of the train’s storied past. Each journey is more than just travel; it’s a voyage through beautiful landscapes, culture, and history, tracing the paths of explorers, diplomats, and artists. Get a kick out of seeing the Alps all frosted up, the rolling hills of France & Italy, and the vibrant, lively cities of Venice, Prague, and Budapest. With every stop, you’re not just arriving at a destination; you’re becoming a part of the Orient Express’s rich heritage.
Exceptional Service: Making Every Single Moment Count
The Orient Express defines exceptional service in every tiny detail. From the moment you step on board, your cabin steward will look after you like a favourite relative, making sure you’re set up with a comfortable, happy, and ready to embark on an adventure you’ll never forget. Whether it’s getting you a morning coffee, turning down your bed, or regaling you with the train’s fascinating stories, you’ll always feel like the only person on the train.
With no Wi-Fi to get in the way, you can focus on the great company, the lovely countryside, and the super comfortable, stylish surroundings. Each meal, every moment in the lounge, and all the evenings spent in the bar car are designed to let you unwind and create memories that will stick with you long after you disembark.
Art de Vivre: Taking Luxury Train Travel to a Whole New Level
The phrase ‘art de vivre’ really comes to life on the Venice Simplon Orient Express. This train is dedicated to giving guests a unique blend of comfort, style & service that’s like nowhere else. From the stunning Art Deco interiors and top-class cuisine to the super carefully curated journeys, every single thing about this train has been designed to give you an experience you’ll never forget.
If you’re into history or just want to take an unforgettable journey through Europe’s best cities and scenic wonders, this train stands as the ultimate luxury train. Every carriage, lounge, and sleeping cabin has been thoughtfully designed to give you a taste of a more elegant time.
Create Unforgettable Memories on the World’s Most Legendary Train
Few experiences come close to getting to ride on this famous train and tracing the original Orient Express route through the heart of Europe & beyond. The Venice Simplon Orient Express isn’t just a way to get to Venice, Istanbul, or Vienna; it’s an invitation to slow down, enjoy some exquisite meals in the decaying restaurant cars, and connect with the romance of a bygone era.
Your journey will be packed with unforgettable moments, from sipping champagne in the bar car to having breakfast in the dining room as you cross the French countryside. Wander through beautifully restored carriages and imagine yourself sharing a dinner with the famous detectives from Agatha Christie, surrounded by fellow passengers who share your passion for the world’s best luxury trains.
If you’ve always dreamed of embarking on a trip that’s as much about the journey as the destinations, where top-notch service, fine dining, and timeless design all come together, the Simplon Orient Express train is inviting you on the journey of a lifetime. Let the legendary train, with its incredible history and world-class amenities, help you create memories you’ll be cherishing forever.