The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Trip Summary:
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At a glance
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Our group trips are a great chance to travel with others. We also recommend adding in a few extra nights tailor-made to ensure you build the perfect itinerary.
Embark on a timeless voyage aboard the world-famous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, an iconic journey that blends the romance of bygone travel with contemporary luxuries. Starting in London, this enchanting overnight journey on heritage train carriages takes you through the heart of Europe’s stunning landscapes, culminating in the magical and inclusive city of Venice.
Begin your journey with a seamless Eurostar transfer to Paris, where you’ll board the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. As the train glides through the countryside, immerse yourself in vintage luxury with meticulously restored cabins, polished wood, and plush furnishings.
Enjoy a gourmet dinner in one of the elegant dining cars, where each meal is an occasion. Savor seasonal dishes paired with fine wines, followed by a nightcap in the Bar Car to the sounds of a baby grand piano.
Retire to your private cabin, transformed into a cozy retreat. Fall asleep to the rhythm of the train, waking up ready to explore the romantic canals of Venice. This journey offers an unforgettable escape, capturing the elegance of European rail travel.
Discover for yourself why this is one of our most sought after luxury trips.
More Information
France has earned its reputation as one of Europe’s most welcoming destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers. The country legalized same-sex marriage in 2013, joining a select group of nations leading the charge on marriage equality. This wasn’t just a political decision – polls consistently show that most French people support these rights, reflecting genuine social acceptance rather than mere tolerance. France banned conversion therapy in 2022.
The legal framework backs up this social progress. Anti-discrimination laws protect LGBTQ+ individuals in employment, housing, and public services, while transgender people can update their legal documents without being forced into unwanted medical procedures.
Paris leads the way with one of Europe’s biggest Pride celebrations, but LGBTQ+ culture thrives beyond the capital too. Cities like Lyon, Marseille, and Nice all have active queer scenes, from long-established bars in the Marais to beachside clubs on the Riviera. The country’s approach feels refreshingly matter-of-fact – being LGBTQ+ in France is simply part of the social fabric rather than something that requires constant explanation or justification. As in all countries, attitudes can be more conservative in rural regions.
This combination of strong legal protections and genuine cultural acceptance makes France particularly appealing for LGBTQ+ luxury travelers. Whether you’re honeymooning in a château, exploring gay Paris’s historic neighborhoods, or simply enjoying world-class hospitality without worrying about judgment. Find out more here on our France Gay Travel page.
Please ask us about dates
- 1 night accommodation on board
- 1 night in Venice
- Meals as mentioned
- Itinerary as described
- International Flights
- Travel insurance
In detail
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Don't forget that most of our itineraries can be totally customized. Our expert team will be able to talk you through all the options.
Day 1: Depart London
Board the Eurostar from London to Paris where you’ll board the gleaming carriage of the Venice Simplon-Orient- Express train.
Step on board and become part of the train’s history. Settle into your comfortable private cabin before indulging in a sumptuous four-course dinner in one of the three magnificent art deco restaurant cars. Later, or even before your dinner, head towards the Bar Car ‘3674’ to enjoy aperitifs in this glamorous setting, listening to the resident pianist play the baby grand and chatting to fellow passengers before you retire for the night. Your cabin has now been transformed by your 24-hour Cabin Steward into a cosy bedroom.
Day 2: Arrive in Venice
Awake to the stunning countryside and mountain scenery when breakfast will be served to you in your cabin at a time to suit you. Unwind and relax in the morning in your cabin or in the bar car meeting other guests.
You’ll then enjoy a leisurely three-course lunch which is served in another one of the beautiful restaurant cars.
Pass the afternoon by admiring the scenery before taking afternoon tea in your cabin.
As the train crosses the Venetian Lagoon you’ll end your trip with memories to last a lifetime as the train pulls into Santa Lucia station.
This must be packaged with a night in one of our gorgeous hotels in Venice.
What's Included
- Delicious three-course brunch served with a sparkling Bellini aboard the Belmond British Pullman
- Luxury train
- One night aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient- Express
- 24-hour Cabin Steward service
- Welcome glass of sparkling wine on board the Venice Simplon-Orient- Express
- Sumptuous four-course dinner: Seasonal table d’hôte menu, including cheeseboard, biscuits and
- chutneys on board the Venice Simplon-Orient- Express
- Coffee, tea and petits fours
- Continental breakfast served in your cabin
- Delightful three-course lunch
- Afternoon tea, including sandwiches, cakes and pastries
- One night in Venice
About the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express runs from March to October and is truly a once in a lifetime experience. Travelling between European cities in the ultimate luxury, your trip will be one to remember.
A work of art in itself and a true Art Deco icon, the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train offers one of the most celebrated and romantic journeys in the world. As you crisscross Europe, you’ll discover some incredible countryside and lively onboard entertainment to make the journey on this luxury train one of the finest experiences you’ll experience in a lifetime.
The train also travels between a number of other European cities such as Amsterdam, Budapest, Florence, Istanbul and Prague. Please speak to one of our expert team to find out more and book your trip on board this luxury sleeper train.
More Information
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Don't forget that most of our itineraries can be totally customized. Our expert team will be able to talk you through all the options.
Dining and Drinking
You will find three restaurant cars on board which offer an incredible dining experience – from scenic and beautiful lunches to romantic dinners. In the Etoile du Nord restaurant car you’ll find ornate and floral woodwork. Cote D’Azur has stunning Lalique glass panels and in L’Oriental you’ll find an exotic style complete with black lacquer.
Champagne Bar
Taste the finest champagnes in the world in this stunning bar. With a nod to the 1920s, you’ll find Art Deco interiors and signature Lalique glassware.
The Bar Car
Experience the glamour of pre-dinner drinks and cocktails, mingle with your fellow passengers, or enjoy a nightcap before retiring to bed. There’s a baby grand piano too which is complete with a resident piano.
The Cabins
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express cars are the original 1920s models. Each cabin comes complete with its own washbasin with hot and cold water, towels, bathrobes and slippers.
Many cabins have adjoining doors and can be converted to ‘Cabin Suites’. WC’s are located at either or both ends of each sleeping car.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
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Call our travel experts on +44 (0)20 7157 1570
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