Luxury Train & Intimate Venice The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Boarding takes place in Paris, Gare de l’Est. Agatha Christie set one of her famous mysteries there, Apollinaire conjured up flamboyant sensualities there and Graham Greene made it the subject of a vivid portrait of Central Europe: few trains have contributed as much to the imagination of the Old Continent. Today, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express still carries travellers to the City of the Doges. The cabins - each equipped with a private washroom - serve as a boudoir during the day and a bedroom at night. Art Nouveau marquetry and Art Deco glass evoke the Belle Époque and the Roaring Twenties - refinement is everywhere. In the evening, in the dining car, tuxedos for gentlemen and evening gowns for ladies are required, surrounded by white tablecloths adorned with silverware and crystal. Outside the window, some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes pass by. A journey aboard this train is one of the goals of any traveller. And the promise of an unforgettable experience.

La Serenissima

Tossed by the waves, but it never sinks. Venice could borrow its motto from Paris. Because if it is the city of love, it is perhaps less for its many splendours than for the moving resistance it offers to the insistence of water and time. Despite everything, Venice does not grow old; the opposite would mean it has abandoned itself. In fact, the opposite is happening. After seeing the Pescaria, the Rialto fish market, and the courtyards of the old ghetto, you’ll have a Bellini at Harry’s Bar and a coffee at Florian… To begin your Venetian getaway in Paris, what better anticipation than the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express? Here is a mode of transport worthy of its destination! And once you arrive, you don’t just check into any accommodation. Located just steps from St Mark’s Basilica, the building dates back to 1853. The Biedermeier style of the décor reminds travellers that, at that time, Venice belonged to the Austrian Empire. Mahogany, silks and cut crystal express a certain idea of distinction. Your room, bright and balanced, opens onto the lagoon. The restaurant Les Lions (of Venice and England) gives Venetian cuisine a contemporary interpretation, with discernment. Around the tables, as well as on the upper floors, the service is irreproachable.

On your schedule: Introduction to Venice

To get a sense of the main topographical, historical and artistic landmarks, a guide can prove very helpful. All the more so because Venice, while being one of the most visited cities in the world, remains secretive and discreet. You have an appointment with Martina, a Venetian who is passionate about her hometown, its lagoon and the unique atmosphere that surrounds it. She loves to introduce Venice to travellers passing through, whom she welcomes into her beautiful Venetian palace, the majestic façade of which is reflected in the waters of the Grand Canal. And if you would like to enhance your stay with an evening at the opera, a trip to Murano or Burano, or a visit to the Doge’s Palace outside regular opening hours, just let us know. Not to mention the assistance of our on-site Concierge, who is available at any time.