An unforgettable journey from Paris to Venice
After what felt like a lifetime of rainy days in the UK, you can imagine our delight when we stepped off the Eurostar and out into the sunny streets of Paris. It still didn't feel real as we sauntered to Gare D'Austerlitz Station, found a cute café nearby and basked in the sun. We were due to meet the representatives on platform 15 in a couple of hours.
From the very beginning, the experience feels seamless. A team of immaculately dressed staff greet you on arrival, taking care of all your luggage and guiding you onto the platform. Then comes an unforgettable moment: seeing the gleaming blue carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, polished to perfection, waiting patiently to depart.
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Once on board, we were warmly introduced to our steward, Carlos, who would look after us for the duration of the trip. We were invited to settle into our twin suite while he prepared to return with an overview of the next 26 hours. Naturally, there was only one way to begin—champagne and canapés, beautifully arranged and impossible to resist.
As the train gently pulled away, the cityscape of Paris slowly transformed into rolling countryside, best enjoyed with a glass in hand. Soon after, we were presented with our dinner reservation and encouraged to explore the train at leisure. Our first stop was the Bar Car, perfectly timed for aperitivo hour.
Stepping inside feels like entering an exclusive jazz club. Midnight blue fabrics, intricate gold detailing, and soft ambient lighting create an atmosphere that is both intimate and undeniably glamorous. We took a seat and ordered a Kir Royal and a perfectly made dirty gin martini, accompanied by a selection of snacks. We settled in to watch the scenery drift by, striking up easy conversation with fellow guests as the afternoon unfolded.
As evening approached, it was time to dress for dinner. On board, there is no such thing as being overdressed, and the ritual of dressing for dinner only adds to the sense of occasion. The meal began with champagne, followed by a seasonal menu that showcased the very best of the chef’s craft. A delicate langoustine starter was followed by an exceptional beef fillet with truffled potato fondant, paired with a superb 2020 Montepulciano.
After dinner, the Bar Car became the heart of the train. Live music filled the space, with a singer and pianist creating an atmosphere that was both lively and relaxed.
Returning to our suite later that evening, we found it had been transformed into a cosy bedroom, the seating area converted into comfortable beds. The combination of indulgent dining, fine wine, and the gentle rhythm of the train made for one of the most restful nights imaginable.
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Morning brought a new perspective as we woke to brilliant sunshine and sweeping Alpine scenery. Guests can choose between breakfast in their cabin or in the dining car; we opted for the latter, eager to make the most of the views. Fresh juices and coffee were served immediately, followed by a selection of pastries, breads, cold meats, and cheeses, with the option of hot dishes such as scrambled eggs, with or without smoked salmon.
The second day of the trip is devoted to the journey itself. We spent hours in our suite, gazing at the ever-changing vistas outside. A brief stop in Innsbruck offered the chance to step onto the platform and take in the crisp mountain air before continuing onwards.
One of the highlights of the day was an invitation to explore the train’s newest addition: L’Observatoire, an extraordinary full-carriage suite designed by renowned French artist JR. The space is nothing short of remarkable, featuring a private bedroom, a hidden tearoom, a library, and even a bathtub, alongside a striking oculus designed for stargazing. Champagne and canapés accompanied the tour.
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Lunch was followed in a different dining car from the one we were in the night before. As with every meal on board, it was a leisurely and indulgent affair. A scallop carpaccio with caviar and artichoke mousseline was followed by a beautifully prepared fillet of turbot with clams and champagne sauce, finished with a delicate Amalfi lemon dessert.
By the afternoon, the pace slows even further. Afternoon tea is served for those who can still find room, before the final hours are spent soaking in the last of this incredible journey.
The train’s arrival into Venice Santa Lucia Station feels like the perfect conclusion. As we stepped off the train, we were met immediately by the ground handling team, who seamlessly guided us onwards to our waiting water taxi. With the sun beginning to set, we glided through the canals just as the city lights flickered on—the perfect ending to the perfect journey.
It is this sense of theatre, detail, and timeless elegance that defines the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. More than just a journey, it is an experience that stays with you long after the train has reached its final destination.
