How to Book the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: A Step-by-Step Guide

CONTACT US
Last updated:
09 Jul 2026

A journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is unlike anything else in the world. Stepping inside its gleaming 1920s carriages feels like stepping back in time, and elegantly dressed stewards are at your beck and call from the very beginning. This train is a bucket list experience for many people all over the world.

However, we understand that because this iconic train has multiple cabin tiers and different routes to choose from, it may feel a bit daunting to get started. Here at LuxuryTrainTickets.com, our small, dedicated team of specialists can handle every detail. We're here to offer real-time availability and flexible booking options, as well as answer any questions you have.

Step 1. Choose Your Route & Direction

While the Paris to Venice (or Venice to Paris) route crossing the Swiss Alps is the classic overnight journey, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express also runs signature annual routes to Vienna, Budapest, the Amalfi Coast and the legendary 5-night trip to Istanbul. You can view the routes here or contact us for guidance.

Step 2. Select Your Cabin Experience

  • Historic Twin Cabin: The authentic way to travel. These cabins feature banquette seating in the daytime, which is transformed into comfortable upper/lower berths at night, with an in-cabin washbasin and a shared WC at the end of the carriage.

  • Double or Twin Suite: A larger space with a private ensuite bathroom. The suites act as a seating area in the daytime and are turned into either a double bed or 2 twin beds in the evening.

  • Grand Suites: The largest accommodation available, featuring a private living space, a fixed double bed, free-flowing champagne, in-cabin dining options, and a spacious en-suite bathroom.

Step 3. Pick Your Ideal Travel Date

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express operates from March to December. The summer months get booked up very quickly, but we often recommend a Spring and Autumn journey, especially when travelling to or from Venice. That way, you can enjoy crisp Alpine scenery, and the city will be less crowded. There are also a few December routes available if you're looking for a magical festive trip. You can find the departure dates at the bottom of each journey page on our site, but we recommend getting in touch so we can offer real-time availability.

Step 4. Contact Our Friendly Team

Our small yet knowledgeable team is on hand to assist you. We can answer any questions about things like dietary requirements, interconnecting cabins, single supplements, as well as offering real-time availability. 

We know that a journey like this requires careful planning. If you find your perfect route but need a few days to coordinate flights, confirm time off, or speak with your travel partner, we can provisionally hold your cabin for a few days. This gives you total peace of mind that your trip won’t sell out while you iron out the finer details.

When you are ready to get something booked, we offer flexible booking options tailored to you.

  • Secure Payment: We can arrange payment via a secure online payment link or a formal invoice.
  • Multiple Currencies: We accept payments in multiple currencies
  • Book with a 25% Deposit: If you are booking your journey far enough in advance, you don't have to pay everything upfront. You can secure your cabin with a 25% deposit (excluding the Paris to Istanbul route, which is 50%). The remaining balance won't be due until 20 weeks before your scheduled departure date, allowing you to spread the cost while locking in your chosen journey.

Ready to Lock In Next Year's Journey?

Prices for the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express tend to rise as availability decreases. Contact our team today by emailing info@luxurytraintickets.com or calling us on 020 3640 8887 to provisionally hold your cabin or secure your booking with our flexible 25% deposit.

Lucy Mullins
Luxury Train Travel Specialist
Lucy is LuxuryTrainTickets.com’s dedicated Luxury Train Travel Specialist, helping travellers discover the world’s most unforgettable rail journeys. With a love for vintage carriages, great storytelling, and perfectly planned itineraries, she brings expert insight and personal guidance to every booking.
Read Full Bio
Britannic Explorer Cabins: A Complete Guide
See our handy guide to all the thoughtfully-designed cabin suite options on the Belmond Britannic Explorer. Your very own private sanctuary.
How to Book the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: A Step-by-Step Guide
Thinking about booking the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express? This helpful guide covers things like routes, cabin types, costs, and availability
British Pullman 2027 Schedule
You can view the current British Pullman 2027 schedule right here! From scenic lunch journeys to exciting city daytrips, see them all here.
British Pullman 4 For 3 Offer
Limited-time-only-deal. This summer, book a journey for 4 passengers, but only pay for 3. Available on selected British Pullman itineraries.
Contact our experts

We're here toadvise on your luxury train journey

If you require assistance finding your perfect luxury train journey or would like to contact our friendly and knowledgeable team for any other reason, please call us directly on 020 3608 8670 or send us an email below.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
The pinnacle of luxury train travel

Why choose LuxuryTrainTickets.com

Price Match Guarantee
We'll match or beat any like-for-like quote*
Low Deposit Booking
Reserve almost any journey with a deposit**
Specialist Support
Speak to our luxury rail experts by phone or email
No Hidden Costs
The price you see is the price you pay
Journeys Worldwide
Britain, Europe, Asia, the Americas and beyond
Excellent Reviews
4.9 Star rating on Trustpilot
*We always endeavour to ensure our prices are in-line or cheaper than other luxury train operators or ticketing agents. If you do find the operator cheaper than LuxuryTrainTickets.com, we will match or beat the quoted price where possible. This is not a guarantee and in some circumstances we may be unable to match a price. **Exclusions apply.
Call me back
LuxuryTrainTickets.com Crest
Request a callback

Enter your telephone number below and one of our UK-based experts will call you back immediately.

Thank you

Please be close to your telephone, an expert will call you shortly.

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Close