Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Route overview

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a private luxury train that operates on a seasonal basis across Europe, primarily connecting London and Venice, though other routes are offered. The journey typically begins in London with a daytime crossing of the English Channel via the Eurotunnel, where passengers board the British Pullman for the initial leg to Folkestone. After crossing, they join the Continental train at Calais or Paris. The main route then travels through France, Switzerland, and Austria, with a stop in Paris, before continuing through the Alps and into Italy. The train often stops at major cities such as Zürich and Innsbruck, allowing passengers to disembark for excursions. The route is not a single fixed line but a collection of itineraries that vary by season and demand. The most common route is London to Venice, covering approximately 1,600 kilometres, but other journeys may extend to Vienna, Prague, Budapest, or Istanbul. The train operates on standard gauge tracks and uses a mix of mainline and scenic routes, often travelling overnight to evoke the classic era of luxury rail travel. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is not a high-speed service; it prioritises leisurely travel and onboard experience over speed.

History of the line

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a revival of the original Orient Express, which was a long-distance passenger train service created in 1883 by Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits. The original Orient Express ran from Paris to Istanbul, with various routes and extensions over the years. It became synonymous with luxury and intrigue, inspiring literature and films. The service was discontinued in 1977 due to competition from air travel and changing economics. In 1982, American entrepreneur James B. Sherwood acquired two original Orient Express carriages at auction and began restoring them. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express made its inaugural journey in 1982, using restored vintage carriages from the 1920s and 1930s. The train operates under the Belmond brand, which was acquired by LVMH in 2019. The current train is not a direct continuation of the original Orient Express but a separate luxury service that pays homage to the golden age of travel. It uses original carriages from various European railways, meticulously restored to their former glory. The route has evolved over time, with different itineraries offered, but the core London-Venice route remains the most iconic. The train has become a symbol of luxury travel and continues to operate as a seasonal service, attracting passengers from around the world.

Landscape and scenery

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express traverses some of Europe’s most diverse and picturesque landscapes. Departing from London, the British Pullman passes through the rolling hills of Kent before reaching the coast. After crossing the English Channel, the Continental train travels through the flat plains of northern France, with fields and quaint villages. As the train heads towards Paris, the scenery becomes more urban. Leaving Paris, the route passes through the Champagne region and into the foothills of the Alps. The journey through Switzerland offers stunning views of lakes and mountains, particularly around Lake Zürich and the Alps. The train often travels along scenic routes such as the Arlberg Pass in Austria, where passengers can admire snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and traditional alpine villages. Entering Italy, the landscape transitions to the Dolomites and then to the Venetian plain. The final approach to Venice crosses the causeway over the Venetian Lagoon, offering a dramatic arrival. The ever-changing scenery is a key part of the experience, and the train’s large windows and leisurely pace allow passengers to fully appreciate the views. The route is designed to showcase the best of European landscapes, from pastoral countryside to dramatic mountain passes.

Key stations and cities

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express serves several key stations and cities, each with its own character. London Victoria is the starting point for the British Pullman leg, a grand Victorian station in the heart of London. After the Channel crossing, passengers board at Calais or Paris. Paris Gare de l’Est is a major terminus and a common boarding point for the Continental train. The train then stops at Zürich HB, Switzerland’s largest railway station, where passengers may have time to explore the city. Innsbruck Hbf, in Austria, is another notable stop, nestled in the Alps and offering access to the historic old town. Other possible stops include Vienna, Budapest, and Prague on certain itineraries. The final destination is Venezia Santa Lucia, located directly on the Grand Canal, providing a spectacular arrival by train. Each city offers a blend of culture, history, and cuisine, and some journeys include off-train excursions. The stations themselves are often architectural landmarks, adding to the overall experience. The train’s schedule is designed to allow passengers to enjoy both the onboard luxury and the destinations along the way.

Rolling stock and service

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express uses a collection of vintage carriages from the 1920s and 1930s, restored to their original Art Deco splendour. The train consists of sleeping cars, dining cars, and a bar car. The sleeping cars feature private compartments that convert from daytime seating to upper and lower berths, with washbasins and, in some categories, private bathrooms. The dining cars are named after famous cities and offer fine dining with white-gloved service. The bar car, with its piano and cocktails, provides evening entertainment. The British Pullman, used for the UK leg, features its own set of restored carriages with similar elegance. The service is highly personalised, with a dedicated steward for each carriage. Meals are included in the fare and are prepared by skilled chefs using fresh, regional ingredients. The dress code is formal, reflecting the glamorous atmosphere. The train operates at a leisurely pace, often travelling overnight to allow passengers to enjoy the experience. The carriages are maintained to high standards, and the train is a member of the Belmond collection. The overall service aims to recreate the romance and elegance of early 20th-century luxury travel.

Technical facts and engineering

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express operates on standard gauge tracks (1,435 mm), which is the most common gauge in Europe. The train is hauled by various locomotives depending on the country and route, as the carriages are not self-propelled. In the UK, the British Pullman is hauled by a locomotive suitable for the national network. After the Channel crossing, the Continental train is hauled by electric or diesel locomotives from the respective national railways, such as SNCF in France, SBB in Switzerland, ÖBB in Austria, and FS in Italy. The carriages are equipped with standard couplers and braking systems, allowing them to be integrated into different rail networks. The train’s maximum speed is limited by the vintage carriages and the need for a smooth ride, typically not exceeding 100 km/h. The route includes several engineering feats, such as the Channel Tunnel, the Arlberg Tunnel, and the causeway to Venice. The train’s electrical systems are compatible with various voltages, and the carriages have been updated to meet modern safety standards while retaining their historic character. The operation requires careful coordination between multiple railway companies and infrastructure managers. The train’s length varies but typically consists of around 15 to 17 carriages. The engineering challenge lies in maintaining the vintage carriages and ensuring they can operate across different networks.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and the original Orient Express? The original Orient Express was a regular scheduled service that operated from 1883 to 1977, while the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a private luxury train that began in 1982 using restored vintage carriages. It is not a direct continuation but a homage. Does the train travel directly from London to Venice? No, the journey involves a crossing of the English Channel. Passengers travel on the British Pullman from London to Folkestone, then transfer to a coach for the Channel Tunnel crossing, and board the Continental train in Calais or Paris. The entire journey usually takes two days, with an overnight stop. What is the dress code? The dress code is formal: during the day, smart casual is acceptable, but for dinner, passengers are expected to wear formal attire, such as a suit or cocktail dress. This reflects the elegant atmosphere of the train. Are there other routes? Yes, the train operates various routes, including London to Venice, Paris to Istanbul, and other European cities, depending on the season. The most common is London to Venice. The train does not run daily and operates on a seasonal schedule.