Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a dream journey for any travel enthusiast, and if you’ve been waiting for the perfect reason to book your ticket, here it is: the iconic train is unveiling a brand-new route, carrying passengers from Paris through France’s picturesque countryside before arriving in the stunning, sun-drenched landscapes of Italy’s Tuscany.
A symbol of refined travel and old-world elegance, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has long been synonymous with the golden age of rail journeys. Known for its commitment to slow luxury, Belmond has once again created an experience that blends history, opulence, and adventure.
According to Condé Nast Traveler, passengers embarking on this idyllic new route can select from three levels of accommodation, each offering a distinct blend of comfort and sophistication.
- Historic Cabins transform from intimate banquette seating areas during the day into cozy sleeping quarters at night.
- Suites provide additional space, featuring Art Deco detailing, a plush double bed and a private ensuite bathroom.
- Grand Suites offer the pinnacle of indulgence, complete with marble-clad bathrooms, expansive windows, sumptuous red velvet furnishings, complimentary Champagne and round-the-clock butler service.
The journey begins at Paris’ Gare d’Austerlitz station, where guests board the sumptous train in the afternoon. A warm welcome awaits, with an assortment of fine pastries, tea, coffee and even Champagne. The journey unfolds with spectacular, ever-changing vistas as passengers relax in their cabins while rolling past charming villages and scenic vineyards.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train on the Tyrol Pass in Austria. (Photo Credit: Belmond)
As evening falls, guests are treated to a culinary showcase by renowned chef Jean Imbert. Inspired by the regions traversed along the route, the menu highlights exquisite flavors of French and Italian cuisine. After a refined dining experience, travelers can retreat to Bar Car 3674 for a sophisticated evening of cocktails and live piano music before retiring to their cabins for the night.
The next morning, passengers awaken to breathtaking views of the idyllic Italian countryside, with breakfast served in the comfort of their cabins. Upon arrival in Siena, a guided tour introduces travelers to the city’s medieval charm, including an exclusive visit to the 13th-century Palazzo Pannocchieschi d’Elci.
The adventure continues with a transfer to Castello di Casole, Belmond’s own farm estate nestled among Tuscany’s rolling vineyards and olive groves. Guests will enjoy two nights immersed in this tranquil setting, with a curated selection of activities to enhance the experience. From a traditional sagra-style feast to artisan showcases, rejuvenating spa treatments and celestial stargazing sessions, each moment at Castello di Casole celebrates the essence of Tuscan living.
The launch of this Paris-to-Tuscany journey follows the resounding success of the 2024 Portofino route, which will return this summer. It joins an impressive collection of Belmond’s renowned train experiences, including routes from Istanbul to Paris, Lyon to Venice and Amsterdam to Verona.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
