The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

London to Venice

Probably the most famous train in the world, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express needs little introduction. The train is formed from 1920s and 1930s pullman coaches from the golden age of rail travel, restored to their former glory and opulence, and the service on board leaves nothing to be desired.

The signature journey of the "VSOE" is from London to Venice. Departing from London's Victoria terminus on board the British Pullman, you enjoy a welcome drink and lunch en route to the English Channel. In the old days, the whole train would roll onto a ferry at Dover, roll off the other end and continue its journey. Alas, the ferries are long gone so a fleet of comfortable modern coaches takes you through the Channel Tunnel on board Le Shuttle to Calais, where the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express herself waits.

Continuing to Paris, the train pauses to pick up passengers joining there and then continues towards the Alps while you enjoy a four-course dinner prepared by skilled French chefs. After dinner, the baby grand in the bar car plays as you enjoy the company of your fellow-travellers.

Awaking in the Swiss Alps, breakfast is served in your cabin at a time to suit you, and coffee is served all morning in the bar car for you to chat to your travelling companions as you watch the scenery pass by. As the three-course lunch is served, the train continues through the spectacular Arlberg Pass to Innsbruck, then across the Brenner Pass into Italy during afternoon tea.

The end of the journey comes all too soon, as the train eases across the Venetian Lagoon and pulls into Santa Lucia station, on the banks of the Grand Canal itself. But the experience needn't end there - the Orient-Express company also own or recommend several hotels in Venice, carefully selected to continue the standards of opulence and service that you have experienced on board.