All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast
All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Experience La Dolce Vita on the Iconic Luxury Train
Step aboard the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for a once-in-a-lifetime journey along Italy's stunning coastline. This iconic luxury train evokes images of Old World glamour and romance, whisking well-heeled travelers back to the golden age of rail travel.
Since its inception in 1883, the Orient-Express has been synonymous with indulgence and style. To ride these historic carriages is to follow in the footsteps of royalty, aristocrats, and celebrities who luxuriated in sumptuous surroundings as the train traversed Europe. Agatha Christie even set her acclaimed novel Murder on the Orient Express aboard this storied train.
Today's Venice Simplon-Orient-Express aims to recreate the glamour of the past with meticulous attention to detail. Lavish interiors are inspired by the train's 1920s heyday, featuring intricate wood marquetry, gleaming brass accents, and plush fabrics in rich jewel tones. Stewards in period attire enhance the ambiance of traveling back in time.
This air of luxury extends to the dining cars, where delectable French cuisine is served on starched linens and fine china. Socialize with fellow travelers over champagne and canapes in the piano bar car as the Italian coastline drifts by. Then retire to your private cabin to continue savoring la dolce vita.
Orient-Express aficionados rave about the peerless service, noting that every need is attended to promptly and courteously. From fresh flowers in your cabin to chilled champagne awaiting your arrival, the experience evokes the refinement of a bygone era.
What else is in this post?
- All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Experience La Dolce Vita on the Iconic Luxury Train
- All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - See Breathtaking Coastal Views Through Oversized Windows
- All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Indulge in Five-Star Dining Onboard
- All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Sleep in Lavish Cabins Styled After the Roaring '20s
- All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Make New Friends in the Convivial Bar Car
- All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Stop in Charming Coastal Towns Along the Way
- All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Marvel at Stunning Scenery in Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast
- All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Ride the Rails in Ultimate Comfort and Style
All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - See Breathtaking Coastal Views Through Oversized Windows
One of the most alluring aspects of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the chance to take in stunning vistas of the Italian coast through the train's expansive windows. These wide panes of glass allow you to fully immerse yourself in the passing scenery, making you feel as if you're truly part of the landscape.
The oversized windows are an integral feature of the train's original 1920s design. During this golden era of luxury rail travel, taking in dramatic landscapes from the comfort of plush carriages was considered the height of indulgence. The Orient-Express aimed to showcase the best of Europe in this spectacular fashion. Generous window placements gave passengers front-row views of Alpine peaks, verdant valleys, and azure coastlines.
Today's Venice Simplon-Orient-Express beautifully preserves this spirit of celebrating natural wonders. As you roll along the Italian Riviera, marvel at craggy cliffs plunging into an azure sea. Watch palm trees sway over pastel villages, with laundry flapping from wrought-iron balconies. When the train hugs the coastline, thrill at waves crashing against rocky outcrops just feet from your window.
The passing parade of scenery is endlessly enchanting. One moment, you're meandering through olive and lemon groves, saturated with the scent of the sea. The next, you're swallowed up in the darkness of mountain tunnels, only to emerge awash in golden light.
Fellow travelers rave about how the oversized windows intensified the magic of the landscape. "It was like gazing at a living painting," says Emily R., who rode from Venice to Split. "I'll never forget those views of ancient hill towns clinging to cliffs above the Adriatic."
Others note the windows' unexpected emotional impact. "I was overwhelmed with the beauty of it all and moved to tears more than once," shares Alex T. "There's something spiritual about taking in such glory."
All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Indulge in Five-Star Dining Onboard
Among the many luxuries of traveling on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the chance to indulge in utterly sublime cuisine crafted from the finest seasonal ingredients. The talented chefs onboard create a culinary experience as alluring as the dramatic seaside landscapes gliding past your window. From the first flute of champagne to the final petit four, the train's five-star dining program aims to delight and astonish.
The dining cars exude old-world refinement, with tables adorned with fine linens, fresh roses, and glittering crystal. Attentive waiters in white jackets provide the pinnacle of discreet service, catering to your every need. The menu highlights French gastronomy at its finest, with dishes often based on recipes from the glamorous 1920s and 30s when rail travel was at its zenith.
For many Orient-Express devotees, the gastronomic pleasures rank among the top highlights. Emily R. still dreams about the lobster bisque, followed by duck breast with truffled potato purée and haricots verts. "Every bite was sheer perfection. I've never tasted more luxurious food in my entire life!" Meanwhile, James P. can't say enough about the superb wine pairings. "The sommelier clearly takes great pride in selecting the ideal vintages to complement each dish."
Indeed, wine plays a starring role onboard. The train's cellar stocks a remarkable collection of fine French wines and champagnes. Passengers delight in the tradition of having their glass continually topped up by gracious waiters. Alex T. was especially impressed with the breadth of options. "I'm not usually a big drinker, but with each course came a new chance to try an incredible local wine I'd never even heard of."
For many guests, the conclusion of dinner brings mixed feelings. While satisfied from the array of gastronomic delights, they are sad to leave the convivial atmosphere of the dining car. Louisa K. notes, "There was such joy and camaraderie among the passengers at dinner. We were all strangers, yet bonded so quickly over our shared appreciation for the amazing food and wine."
The end of dinner doesn't have to mean the end of indulgence, however. You can request to have nightcaps and after-dinner drinks delivered right to your private cabin by your car attendant. Daniel T. raved about this service: "After that incredible 5-course feast, it was perfect to relax in my art-deco cabin with a snifter of cognac and a view of the moonlit sea gliding by."
All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Sleep in Lavish Cabins Styled After the Roaring '20s
After indulging in sublime cuisine, retire to your lavish private cabin to continue soaking up the Orient-Express ambiance. These cozy sanctuaries for rest and relaxation evoke the roaring '20s with their sumptuous art deco styling.
Handcrafted cabin furnishings mirror the elegant aesthetic of 1920s design. Sleek lacquered surfaces are paired with geometric patterns and rich jewel tones. Polished wood marquetry and brass light fixtures add striking decorative accents. The overall effect transports you to a more glamorous era of rail travel, when well-heeled travelers demanded sophisticated surroundings.
Your cabin's art deco elements extend into the en-suite bathroom, where black and white subway tiles and chrome finishes impart sleek style. Fluffy monogrammed robes and designer toiletries pamper you further.
For all its nods to another time, your private cabin also provides every modern comfort. Orient-Express devotees rave about the beds, resplendent with high-thread-count linens, cozy duvets, and plush pillows. Stretch out and gaze through picture windows as the starry night sky glides past.
Sally Y. described her cabin as "sheer heaven - it was like sleeping inside a jewelry box!" She added, "I almost couldn't sleep because I was afraid to miss any of the gorgeous scenery!"
Meanwhile, James P. appreciated the cabin's soundproofing, noting: "Despite the motion of the train, it was perfectly silent in my cabin. I slept more soundly than I have in years."
Your steward remains on call throughout the journey to attend to any needs during the night. Simply push the call button and they will promptly bring tea, snacks, or anything else required for your comfort.
Some guests opt to keep their cabin door open as they turn in for the night. "I loved hearing the soothing sounds of the train as I fell asleep," remarked Daniel T. "It felt so romantic and old-fashioned - like traveling in a bygone era."
Waking up onboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is an experience in itself. Peel back your curtain to admire views of misty valleys or sapphire seas. Then pamper yourself with a steamy shower and sip coffee as you watch the new day unfold outside your window.
All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Make New Friends in the Convivial Bar Car
Among the most cherished memories for many Orient-Express passengers are the new friends made onboard, especially in the lively bar car. This intimate, wood-paneled sanctuary buzzes with conviviality, its art deco splendor inviting conversation among travelers from around the globe.
Sipping champagne while swapping stories with fascinating strangers perfectly captures the romantic glamour of vintage rail journeys. Forging these fleeting yet meaningful connections leads many guests to declare the bar car their favorite place on the entire train.
Louisa K. calls the bar “the heart of the Orient-Express, where lifelong friendships are born over flutes of bubbly.” She made fast friends with honeymooning couples from Brazil, Portugal, and Australia by bonding over their shared once-in-a-lifetime experience. “We were all giddy with the magic of it all,” Louisa says. “Meeting kindred spirits in that beautiful bar car simply heightened the thrill.”
Meanwhile, James P. appreciated the bar’s refined yet relaxed vibe. “It had the easy sophistication of an exclusive salon or members-only club,” he shares. “I loved mingling with haute bourgeoisie from around the world, discussing our lives over cognacs.”
Alex T. also raves about the bar car, noting its role as a hub for adventure seekers swapping travel tales. “I met this fascinating English novelist who regaled us with insider stories about rock stars she interviewed in the ‘60s,” Alex recalls. “Her adventurous life as a journalist made my travels seem tame by comparison!”
The exuberance onboard also delighted Emily R., who met an Argentinian polo player and Italian racecar driver. “They fascinated me with tales of their glamorous, jet-set lives,” Emily says. “We all marveled at the serendipity of meeting on this magical train.”
Daniel T. underscores the bar car’s intimate scale as ideal for sparking conversation. “With such close quarters, we all quickly shed formalities. I loved how total strangers soon felt like old friends.”
In our isolated modern age, the opportunity to connect authentically holds powerful appeal. The bar car harkens back to an era when traveling meant engaging with others face-to-face. Raising a glass with convivial company, as stunning views drift past, creates memories to last a lifetime.
Some passengers even formed such strong bonds that they extended their travels together once arriving at the train’s final destination. “It was like summer camp for grown-ups!” jokes Emily R., who explored Rome with friends first met in the bar car. “We’ll be raising a toast to the Orient-Express at our next reunion.”
All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Stop in Charming Coastal Towns Along the Way
One of the greatest joys of this legendary train journey is the opportunity to step off and explore beguiling seaside villages along the Italian coast. From the pastel hues of the Cinque Terre to the vertiginous charms of the Amalfi Coast, the chance to lose yourself amid storybook-perfect towns constitutes its own adventure.
Fellow travelers rave about these magical interludes that feel plucked from another era. James P. recalls lingering over creamy gelato in the sugar-cube hamlet of Monterosso al Mare: "It was like we'd been transported back to the 1950s - all the buildings had traditional green and red shutters, and locals chatted amiably in little piazzas with central fountains."
Louisa K. still dreams about sampling lemon granita along the shady, bougainvillea-draped streets of cliffside Ravello. "I was enchanted by the glimpses of sea through arched alleyways and the tinkling of church bells in the valley below." She adds, "Our unhurried stroll revealed captivating details like hand-painted ceramic tiles and tiny vegetable plots bursting with tomatoes."
After the Amalfi Coast, Alex T. reveled in wandering the pastel-hued lanes of Positano, which resemble paths in a Moorish painting. "I was awe-struck by the vertical landscape with steep, narrow alleys sandwiching houses that seem to defy gravity. Pausing for refreshing limoncello felt biblical, like turning water into wine."
Daniel T. encourages train guests not to pass up any chance to hop off and explore, however briefly. "Stepping foot into these coastal enclaves felt like entering magical portals into the past. It was mesmerizing to experience such untouched beauty and Old-World charm."
Emily R. treasures her brief tasting tour of local delicacies in Vernazza. "We feasted on foccacia hot from a wood-fired oven, then sipped espresso al fresco as a nonna hand-rolled gnocchi nearby. That's when it truly hit me that we were not just gazing at postcard views, but savoring authentic Italian life."
Even dashing into a seaside pharmacy proved memorable for Sally Y. "I was enthralled by the hand-painted majolica tiles and 19th-century ambiance - it felt like a museum! Moments like that made me fall head-over-heels for the romantic charm of these villages."
All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Marvel at Stunning Scenery in Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast
Among the highlights of this iconic rail journey is the chance to marvel at the captivating seascapes of Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast. These stunning locales have beckoned artists, poets, and dreamers for centuries - including the likes of Lord Byron, Henri Matisse, and DH Lawrence. Gazing at the sweeping vistas from the comfort of your plush train cabin allows you to soak up the beauty in relaxed luxury.
Fellow travelers rave about the almost surreal quality of this coastline, with its gravity-defying villages and azure seas. James P. was rendered speechless during his first glimpse of Manarola, its cheerfully-hued houses seeming to cling precipitously to the cliffs. “It was a vista straight out of a fairytale,” he recalls. “I half expected Rapunzel to emerge from one of the tower houses!”
Louisa K. was equally awestruck when the train rounded a bend, suddenly revealing Positano cascading down to the sea. “It took my breath away,” she shares. “I understand now why Positano has inspired artists for so many centuries.” She added, “Gazing at the vertiginous landscapes and sherbet-colored abodes, I felt I was peering into the divine.”
Alex T. encourages trying to spot each quintessential detail, from snaking stone walls blanketing hillsides to boats bobbing along the rocky shores. “It soon becomes mesmerizing, like watching waves crash according to some natural rhythm” he explains. “You find your busy mind surrendering to the soothing cadence of timeless beauty passing by your window.”
Emily R. was enraptured by the glimpses of winding cobblestone alleyways disappearing around corners, wet laundry flapping in the sea breeze, and local grandmothers clustered on shady benches. “Visual delights lay around every bend,” she shares. “It was an ongoing parade of charm, making me desperate to step off and explore further.”
Daniel T. underscores the emotional impact of the views, musing, “This is not any ordinary landscape on display. Here you are connecting viscerally with a place that's embedded deeply in our cultural consciousness.” He encourages leaning into sentimental fantasies of yourself pensively writing poetry amid the crumbling splendor.
Sally Y. was particularly impressed that even fellow passengers initially absorbed in books or newspapers would glance up frequently from their activities, irresistibly drawn to the views outside. “No one could keep their eyes off that sublime scenery for long. It was simply too ravishing,” she shares.
All Aboard! Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adding New Route Along Stunning Italian Coast - Ride the Rails in Ultimate Comfort and Style
Riding the rails of the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the ultimate in luxurious comfort and old-world style. This iconic train hearkens back to the golden age of travel, when well-heeled voyagers journeyed across Europe in sophisticated refinement. By preserving vintage details like plush upholstery, gleaming wood, and glittering glassware, the experience aims to transport passengers back in time. Yet contemporary amenities ensure that the nostalgic surroundings don't mean sacrificing modern ease. The result is a journey where you immerse yourself in the elegance of bygone eras while enjoying 21st-century comforts.
Fellow travelers confirm that the expertly balanced combination of period styling and current convenience makes for magical memories. James P. appreciated sinking into the deep leather club chairs in the piano lounge car while being pampered with complimentary champagne and hors d'oeuvres. "It felt like an aristocratic private members club from the 1920s, yet the friendly staff and lively conversation kept everything feeling relaxed."
Emily R. raved about the lavish suites with their clawfoot tubs, silk robes, and extra-plush beds. "The art deco aesthetic was so glamorous with geometric patterns and glossy lacquered woods. But touches like adjustable reading lights and plenty of outlets made it totally livable." She added, "I felt like a princess being pampered in the lap of luxury."
Others remark on how the striking period styling contrasts sublimely with passing glimpses of the 21st century outside. Daniel T. mused, "One moment I'm ensconced in velvet and brass, the next I see graffiti whiz by on concrete walls flanking the tracks. It created a beguiling sense of time travel."
When craving modern conveniences, guests need only visit the Club Car where a full bar and bistro provide welcome refreshment. Alex T. was grateful for the well-stocked cafe during a long and leisurely journey. "I'd spend hours journaling and gazing out the window, with endless coffee and snacks to sustain me." He summed it up perfectly: "Old-fashioned indulgence meets modern-day comfort."
That mix extends to the dining cars, where Louisa K. was wowed by the retro ambiance of starched linens and polished silver coupled with picture-perfect contemporary cuisine. "It felt like a Jazz Age fantasy, yet the chef used cutting-edge techniques like sous vide and dehydrating." She added, "Marrying period design with innovative food and wine was a revelation."
Of course, the epitome of riding the rails in style is one's private cabin. Sally Y. appreciated that the 1920s art deco aesthetic didn't preclude necessities like blackout curtains and noise-blocking insulation. "I slept like a baby thanks to the plush bedding and complete darkness and quiet." She summed up the experience: "Utterly cossetting and comfortable despite looking like a lavish period film set."