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VENICE - SIMPLON ORIENT EXPRESS
The world's most celebrated train, the
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express carries passengers across Europe in the
style of a bygone era. The glamorous carriages, sumptuous cuisine and
personal service, which is beyond comparison, make a journey on the
VSOE the perfect place for a celebration or special holiday.
Bombed, shot at and marooned in snow drifts, the
history of the Orient-Express is both legendary and colourful.
The carriages which today form the famous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
each have a history of their own, with long years of service criss-crossing
the frontiers of Europe, operating for a variety of railway companies.
The carriages have taken on characters of their own as intriguing as
the characters of those who traveled within their cozy confines.
The
Orient-Express has always been involved in mystery and intrigue, both
fictional and real. Most famous of all is Agatha Christie’s novel
‘Murder on the Orient-Express’ in which her detective Hercule Poirot
investigates the murder of a passenger. The Hollywood movie, starring
Albert Finney as Mr Poirot, was partly filmed aboard the train and in
replica carriages in a studio.
As a star
of six motion pictures the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express most recently
helped Cruella da Ville make her
escape to Paris in 102 Dalmations. There have been a total of 19 books
written about the train and even a piece of music entitled
‘Orient-Express Variations’ has been written.
In reality
the various carriages of the Orient-Express have been the scenes of
history and intrigue. For example, Sleeping Car 3425 was a part of the
Orient-Express service used by King Carol of Romania. Whilst His
Majesty King Boris III of Bulgaria, a keen railway enthusiast, used to
take to the footplate and drive the train himself.
Sleeping
Car 3309 for example, was part of the service, which in 1929 was stuck
in a snow drift for 10 days, sixty miles outside Istanbul, along with
a full complement of passengers who survived only with the assistance
of nearby Turkish villagers.
Some
Orient-Express carriages also saw active service during the Second
World War, either because they were taken over by the German Army or
were being used by the US Transportation Corps.
PIONEERS OF LUXURY TRAVEL
The history
of 'luxury' train travel can be traced back to 1864 when the
innovative railway builder, George Mortimer Pullman, created a train
in Britain, featuring the ultimate in nineteenth century technology
and opulence and was far more advanced than anything that existed in
Europe.
In the
1870's the first sleeping carriages and parlor cars in Britain went
into service and for the first time meals were served on board a
train. The first all Pullman train in Europe, the Pullman Limited
Express, began operating in 1881. It ran from London to Brighton and
was the first train to be illuminated by electricity.
Shortly
afterwards, by connecting trains to ferries, George Mortimer Pullman
made safe and comfortable train travel between London and Paris a
reality.
Georges
Nagelmackers, a young Belgian railway enthusiast, also began building
luxury railway carriages and gradually proceeded to do for continental
train travel what Pullman had for Britain. In 1881 after experimenting
with several demands, Nagelmackers introduced the first restaurant car
aboard a continental train.
With
sleeping carriages and restaurant cars in place, Nagelmackers was
finally able to fulfil his dream and on 4
October 1883 the first Orient-Express train service was inaugurated.
The initial route ran from Paris to Giurgi (on the Danube in Romania),
via Strasbourg, Vienna, Budapest and Bucharest.
By the turn
of the century, the great age of rail travel was in full swing. The
Simplon Tunnel - at 12½ miles, the world's longest - was built in
1906, cutting the trip from Paris to Venice significantly, and by 1921
the Orient-Express was running an extended Simplon-Orient-Express
route to Istanbul.
The 1920s
and 1930s were the heyday of the legendary train. Elaborate meals,
decadent company and fine wines characterized this era of rail travel.
Royalty, celebrities, courtesans and spies intermingled as they
travelled in opulence throughout Europe. Small wonder that this
provided the perfect setting for Agatha Christie's most famous work,
Murder on the Orient-Express.
The Second World War put paid to all of this. Ferry services were
cancelled and cross-frontier travel became impossible. In the
depression that followed, economy not premier carriages were added to
the rakes. Air travel was faster and cheaper and although the
Orient-Express continued to operate until May 1977, its final run
consisted of just one shabby sleeping compartment and three day cars.
The fabled
train was however saved by entrepreneur and rail enthusiast, James B.
Sherwood. In 1977 he bought two of the trains carriages at a Sotheby's
auction in Monte Carlo. The next few years and US$16 million were
spent locating, purchasing and restoring some 35 vintage sleepers,
Pullmans and restaurant cars.
On 25 May
1982 the legend was reborn when the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express made
its maiden run from London to Venice.
Today, the gleaming carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
continue to transport passengers across Europe in exquisite
surroundings on one of the most romantic journeys in the world.
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LIFE
ONBOARD
Step aboard the Venice
Simplon-Orient-Express and you step back into a more gracious,
elegant age. Your personal steward, instantly available to
attend your every comfort, will show you to your compartment of
gleaming wood, polished brass, soft towels and crisp linen. Your
comfortable compartment is a restful retreat offering panoramic
views of ever changing landscapes.
Your meals on board will be unforgettable. Set the tone with a
visit to the Bar Car, famous for its delicious cocktails and
welcoming atmosphere. Then on to one of our three dining cars,
softly muted lighting enhances the mood while fine linen, French
silverware and heavy crystal invite you to prepare for a meal to
remember.
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 |
Pullman Steward:
Your steward on the British Pullman train will serve your meals
and any other drinks or refreshments you may require.
Cabin Steward:
The steward responsible for your carriage on the VSOE will be
available at all times and may be called by the bell in your
cabin. He will take care of your passport during the journey,
change your cabin from day to night configuration, serve
breakfast and other refreshments in your cabin as required.
Train Manager:
The Train Manager will be on hand throughout the journey. He is
there to help should you have any queries while on board. If you
should wish to speak to him, please tell your steward who will
contact him on your behalf.
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BAR CAR
Famous for its delicious cocktails and welcoming atmosphere the
Bar Car is the heart of the train. It is truly a unique,
intimate and stylish experience that resounds to the voices of
royalty, heads of state and celebrities such as Gregory Peck,
Alan Whicker and Cher.
Transformed and designed by Gerard Gallet from a dining car, the
bar car is the ideal rendezvous to enjoy relaxed conversation
and warm to the skills of our resident pianist. Dressing for the
occasion is all part of the experience. Our guide is that you
can never be overdressed aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
But whilst you relax in the Bar Car ponder this question – which
came first, the baby grand piano, or the carriage that surrounds
it?
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DINING
 Meals
on board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express are an unforgettable
delight. All dishes are freshly prepared onboard by French chefs, with
the finest supplies taken onboard during the train's journey.
Breakfast and afternoon tea are served in passengers' compartments.
Table d'hôte meals are included in the fare, while an á la carte menu
and 24-hour compartment service is available additionally.
The Maitre D' will come to your cabin to take your lunch and dinner
reservations.
Lunch, dinner and brunch is served by the Italian waiters in one of
the three individually styled Restaurant Cars:
Lalique: Dining Car 4141
‘Lalique Pullman’ was built in 1929 as a first class Pullman and was
decorated by René Lalique in the ‘Côte d’Azur’ style. The faintly blue
opaque glass shows various classical figures holding grapes, with a
matching frieze of smaller panels. She went into the Côte d’Azur
Pullman Express immediately for the winter season of 1929-30 and then
switched to the Deauville Express before returning to the Côte d’Azur
Pullman for the winter seasons of 1930-31 and 1934-35. She ran from
Paris to Calais for many years, meeting the passengers from the Golden
Arrow. By 1961 it was in a reserve pool used for special services and
in 1971 was stored at the Wagon-Lits works at Villeneuve. Car 4141 was
rescued from a cold and dreary siding in 1981 by Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
and restored at Bremen.
Etoile Du Nord : Dining Car 4110
‘Etoile du Nord’ was built in 1926 in England by
Birmingham Railway and Carriage and Wagon Co, Smethwick, in the same
workshop as Pullman dining car 4095 and Ibis and perhaps has the most
beautiful marquetry in the continental rake. It did not immediately go
into service, by the summer of 1928 it was part of the Etoile du Nord
from Paris to Amsterdam and then switched to the Edelweiss, based in
Amsterdam for the winter season of 1928-9. After running with the
Lusitania Express from Lisbon to Madrid between 1961 and 1969 it
finished service in the 1970s in Spain, running between Cadiz and
Seville.
La Chinoise : Dining Car 4095
‘Voiture Chinoise’ was originally a Pullman kitchen car built in
Birmingham in 1927 in the ‘Etoile du Nord’ style. She was shipped from
the builders to France and entered the Etoile du Nord. This was an
all-Pullman service between Paris and Amsterdam, passing through
Brussels, a journey of 350 miles. Its service finished with the
Lusitania Express, which also included car 4110 between 1961 and 1969.
When car 4095 was bought for the VS-O-E the interior was replaced with
black lacquer panels that had been in dining car 3583.
Sample Brunch Menu
Brouillard d'Oeufs au Saumon fumé
Scrambled eggs with smoked salmon
Homard Rôti au Beurre de Cresson
Broiled lobster with fresh cress butter
Pommes Rosettes
Potato and chive whirls
Tarte Tatin
Caramelized apple tartlet
Café de Colombie
Colombian Coffee
Sample Dinner Menu
Homard rôti à l'Américaine
Fricassée de Legumés printaniers
Baked lobster tail
Lobster and brandy sauce
Stirfried spring vegtables
Magret de Canard et Fois gras au Parfum de Truffes blanches
Roast duck supreme, white truffle flavoured "foie gras"
Panaché de Pâtissons et petite Oignons
Baby pumpkins and silver onions
Pommes Cocotte
Sautéed potatoes
Plateau de Fromages de France
Fine French cheeses
Croustillants au chocolat noir et Glace à la Bergamote
Crispy bitter chocolate and bergamot ice-cream dessert
Mignardises
Café de Colombie
Colombian Coffee
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COMPARTMENTS
Traveling in private compartments,
passengers are attended by Cabin Stewards throughout the journey, and
are assured of attentive yet discreet service. Each compartment has
its own original washbasin cabinet with hot and cold water, and at
night-time becomes a comfortable bedroom, complete with soft towels
and crisp linen.
Passengers may select from two types of compartment: Double and
Single. Cabins convert in moments from daytime seating to a
comfortable bedroom.
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Double Compartment (night time)
A private lounge during the day with a banquette sofa, footstool
and small table converts to night configuration with an upper
and lower bed. A washbasin with hot and cold water is enclosed
in a cabinet and towels and toiletries are provided. Facilities
include 24-hour steward service called by a bell, international
electric sockets (230 volts) and 115 volt socket for razors,
individually controlled radiators supply heating. Some
compartments are fitted with a personal safe. Overhead luggage
racks are provided for the storage of a limited amount of
luggage and two coat hooks and two hangers for hanging up
clothes.
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Cabin Suite
Combining two interconnecting cabins to create a private lounge
with a banquette sofa, footstool and small table and a sleeping
compartment with an upper and lower bed. A washbasin with hot
and cold water is enclosed in a cabinet and towels and
toiletries are provided. Facilities include 24-hour steward
service called by a bell, international electric sockets (230
volts) and 115 volt socket for razors, individually controlled
radiators supply heating. Some compartments are fitted with a
personal safe. Overhead luggage racks are provided for the
storage of a limited amount of luggage and two coat hooks and
two hangers for hanging up clothes in each of the compartments.
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London - Paris
(1 Day) |
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Highlights
Depart London’s Victoria Station on board the British Pullman
and travel through the Kentish countryside. After your Channel
crossing board the blue and gold carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
for your journey through Northern France, arriving in Paris Gard
de L’Est in the evening.
Itinerary
As you board the gleaming
carriages of the British Pullman train at London Victoria
station, your steward will show you to your reserved seat. Sit
back and enjoy a three-course lunch with wine and a glass of
champagne as you travel to the Kentish coast.
Cross to France and join your reserved day car of the
Continental Wagons-Lits. After you have settled into your day
car enjoy a delicious four-course dinner, prepared by our
skilled French chefs. Arrive in Paris late evening.
Timetable
|
Arrive |
Depart |
|
| Day 1 |
LONDON (Victoria
station) |
- |
11:15 |
| Day 1 |
PARIS (Gare de
L’Est station) |
21:00 |
- |
|
Please note:
All timings shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed
timings will be supplied with your travel documents.
|
Departure Dates
(Thursdays and
Sundays)
|
| |
2004
June 27
July 1, 15, 22
August 12, 19, 26
September 19, 23, 26
October 3, 7, 14, 24, 31
November 4, 11 |
|
2005
March 13, 24
April 7, 17, 21, 28
May 5, 8, 12, 22, 26
June 5, 9, 19, 23, 30
July 7, 14, 21
August 11, 18, 25
September 22, 25, 29
October 2, 9, 13, 23, 27
November 3, 10 |
|
Prices
2004 One way US $670.
2005 One way US $735.
Prices are per person based on a reserved
day car seat and include all table d'hôte meals on board.
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London-Paris-Venice
(2 Days/1 Night)
Alternatively:
Venice-Paris-London
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Embark on the British Pullman at London's Victoria Station and
travel through the Kentish countryside. After crossing the
Channel board the blue and gold carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
for your overnight journey throughout France and into
Switzerland. Enjoy your day on board as the train travels
through the towering Swiss Mountains and Austrian Alps before an
early evening arrival in the magnificent city of Venice.
Itinerary
Day 1
- As you board the gleaming carriages of the British Pullman
train at London Victoria station, your steward will show you to
your reserved seat. Sit back and enjoy a three-course lunch with
wine and a glass of champagne as you travel throughout the
Kentish countryside. After crossing the channel board the blue
and gold carriages of the Continental Wagons-Lits.
Throughout your journey you will be attended by your own
personal Steward. After you have settled into your comfortable
private compartment it will soon be time to dress for dinner.
Why not sip a pre-dinner cocktail before making your way to one
of the magnificent restaurant cars. Here you will be served a
delicious four-course dinner, prepared by our skilled French
chefs. After dinner you may want to linger in the bar car,
listening to the sound of the baby grand piano. When you are
ready, retire to your compartment, which has now been
transformed into a cozy bedroom.
Day 2 - You awake to the magnificent scenery of the Swiss
Alps as breakfast is served in your compartment at a time to
suit you. Spend the morning in the Bar Car chatting to fellow
guests over coffee. Enjoy a leisurely three-course lunch served
in another of the beautiful restaurant cars. While away the
afternoon with a visit to the on board Boutique to purchase
souvenirs, or relax in your compartment and admire passing
scenery as the train travels through the Italian Dolomites.
Later, afternoon tea is served in your compartment as you travel
through the Brenner Pass. All too soon it is time to prepare to
disembark as the train crosses the Venetian Lagoon and pulls
into Santa Lucia station.
Timetable
|
Arrive |
Depart |
|
| Day 1 |
LONDON
(Victoria station) |
- |
11:15 |
| Day 1 |
PARIS (Gare de
L'Est station) |
21:00 |
21:35 |
| Day 2 |
BUCHS |
08:38 |
09:09 |
| Day 2 |
ST. ANTON AM
ARLBERG |
10:28 |
10:32 |
| Day 2 |
INNSBRUCK (Hauptbahnhof) |
11:58 |
12:12 |
| Day 2 |
VERONA (Porta
Nuova station) |
15:53 |
16:03 |
| Day 2 |
VENICE (Santa
Lucia station) |
17:35 |
- |
|
Please note:
All timings shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed
timings will be supplied with your travel documents
|
|
|
| |
2004
June 27
July 1, 15, 22
August 12, 19, 26
September 19, 23, 26
October 3, 7, 31
November 4, 11 |
|
2005
March 13, 24
April 7, 17, 21, 28
May 5, 8, 12, 22, 26
June 5, 9, 19, 23, 30
July 7, 14, 21
August 11, 18, 25
September 22, 25, 29
October 2, 9, 13, 23, 27
November 3, 10 |
|
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|
|
2004 One way |
US $2175. |
Return N/A |
|
|
2005 One way |
US $2390. |
Return US $ 3465. |
|
|
|
Prices are per person and include all
table d'hôte meals and accommodation on board based on
two people sharing.
|
|
| Supplements |
One-way |
Return |
|
|
2004 Single Cabin US $335.
Return N/A |
|
2005 Single Cabin US $370. |
Return US $535 |
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RETURN TO TOP
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London-Paris-Venice-Rome
(4 Days/3 Nights)
|
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| |
Highlights
Embark on the gleaming carriages of the British Pullman at
London’s Victoria Station and travel through the Kentish
countryside. After the Channel crossing board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
for your overnight journey throughout France and into
Switzerland. Enjoy your day on board as the train travels
through the towering Swiss Mountains and Austrian Alps before an
early evening arrival in the magnificent city of Venice. Leave
the train for a two-night stay in Venice before re-joining for
your onward journey to Rome, the ancient capital of Italy.
Itinerary
Thursday
- As you board the gleaming carriages of the British Pullman
train at London Victoria station, your steward will show you to
your reserved seat. Sit back and enjoy a three-course lunch with
wine and a glass of champagne as you travel throughout the
Kentish countryside. After the Channel crossing board the
immaculate Wagons-Lits carriages of the Continental train.
Throughout your journey you will be attended by your own
Personal Steward. After you have settled into your comfortable
private compartment it will soon be time to dress for dinner.
Why not sip a pre-dinner cocktail before making your way to one
of the magnificent restaurant cars. Here you will be served a
delicious four-course dinner, prepared by our skilled French
chefs. After dinner you may want to linger in the Bar Car,
listening to the sound of the baby grand piano. When you are
ready, retire to your compartment, which has now been
transformed into a cosy bedroom.
Friday - You awake to the magnificent scenery of the
Swiss Alps as breakfast is served in your compartment, at a time
to suit you. Spend the morning in the Bar Car chatting to fellow
travellers over coffee. Enjoy a leisurely three-course lunch
served in another of the beautiful restaurant cars. While away
the afternoon relaxing in your compartment admiring the
spectacular scenery as the train travels through the Italian
Dolomites. Later afternoon tea is served in your compartment as
you travel through the Brenner Pass.
After the train crosses the Venetian Lagoon into Santa Lucia
station, disembark and transfer to your hotel for a two night
stay (transfers and hotel accommodation in Venice not included).
Saturday - Enjoy Venice at your leisure.
Sunday Re-board the VSOE in the morning for your journey
to Rome. Visit the Bar Car for an aperitif before your delicious
three-course lunch is served in one of the beautiful restaurant
cars.
Afterwards you may wish to relax in the Bar Car, chatting to
fellow travelers as the Italian scenery provides an ever
changing view. There is time to visit the on board boutique for
a last minute gift or souvenir before the train pulls into Rome
Ostiense station mid afternoon.
Timetable
|
Arrive |
Depart |
|
| Thursday |
LONDON (Victoria
station) |
11:15 |
- |
| Thursday |
PARIS (Gare de
l'Est station) |
21:00 |
21:35 |
| Friday |
BUCHS |
08:38 |
09:09 |
| Friday |
INNSBRUCK (Hauptbahnhof) |
11:56 |
12:11 |
| Friday |
VENICE (Santa
Lucia station)
Transfer to your hotel for a two
night stay (own account) |
17:32 |
- |
| Saturday |
Venice
Day at leisure in Venice |
- |
- |
| Sunday |
VENICE (Santa
Lucia station) |
- |
10:00 |
| Sunday |
FLORENCE (Santa
Maria Novella station) |
13:00 |
13:05 |
| Sunday |
ROME (Ostiense
station) |
16:00 |
- |
|
Departure Dates
(Thursdays)
|
| |
2004
October 7, 14 |
|
2005
April 21
May 12, 26
June 9
October 13, 27
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 One-way US $2450 |
|
|
|
|
2005 One-way US $2770 |
|
|
|
|
|
Prices are per person and include all table
d'hôte meals and accommodation on board based on two
people sharing.
|
|
|
Supplements |
One-way |
Return |
|
|
2004 Single Cabin US $335. |
|
2005
Single Cabin US $370. |
RETURN TO TOP
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Paris - Venice
(2 Days/1 Night)
|
  |
|
Highlight
The blue and gold carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
await you in the beautiful city of Paris. Spend overnight on
board. Enjoy the following day on board as the train travels
through the towering Swiss Mountains and Austrian Alps before an
early evening arrival in the magnificent city of Venice.
Itinerary
Day 1
- Board the blue and gold carriages of the Continental Wagons-Lits
in Paris. Throughout your journey you will be attended by your
own personal Steward. After you have settled into your
comfortable private compartment it will soon be time to dress
for dinner. Why not sip a pre-dinner cocktail before making your
way to one of the magnificent restaurant cars. Here you will be
served a delicious four-course dinner, prepared by our skilled
French chefs. After dinner you may want to linger in the bar
car, listening to the sound of the baby grand piano. When you
are ready, retire to your compartment, which has now been
transformed into a cosy bedroom.
Day 2 - You awake to the magnificent scenery of the Swiss
Alps as breakfast is served in your compartment, at a time to
suit you. Spend the morning in the Bar Car chatting to fellow
travellers over coffee. Enjoy a leisurely three-course lunch
served in another of the beautiful restaurant cars. While away
the afternoon relaxing in your compartment admiring the
spectacular scenery as the train travels through the Italian
Dolomites. Later afternoon tea is served in your compartment as
you travel through the Brenner Pass. All too soon it is time to
prepare to disembark as the train crosses the Venetian Lagoon
and pulls into Santa Lucia station.
|
Timetable
|
Arrive |
Depart |
|
| Day 1 |
PARIS (Gare de l'Est station) |
- |
21:35 |
| Day 2 |
BUCHS |
08:38 |
09:09 |
| Day 2 |
ST.
ANTON AM ARLBERG |
10:28 |
10:32 |
| Day 2 |
INNSBRUCK (Hauptbahnhof) |
11:56 |
12:11 |
| Day 2 |
VERONA (Porta Nuova station) |
15:53 |
16:03 |
| Day 2 |
VENICE (Santa Lucia station) |
17:35 |
- |
|
|
Please note: All timings shown are
for your guidance only. Confirmed timings will be supplied
with your travel documents |
|
Departure Dates
(Thursdays and
Sundays)
|
| |
2004
June 27
July 1, 15, 22
August 12, 19, 26
September 19, 23, 26
October 3, 7, 14, 24, 31
November 4, 11 |
|
2005
March 13, 24
April 7, 17, 21, 28
May 5, 8, 12, 22, 26
June 5, 9, 19, 23, 30
July 7, 14, 21
August 11, 18, 25
September 22, 25, 29
October 2, 9, 13, 23, 27
November 3, 10 |
|
|
|
|
2004 One way US $1820. |
|
|
|
|
2005 One way US $2000. |
Return
US $ 2900 |
|
|
|
Prices are per person and include all table
d'hôte meals and accommodation on board based on two
people sharing.
|
|
|
Supplements |
|
|
|
|
2004 Single Cabin
US $335. |
|
2005
Single Cabin US $370. Return US $535 |
|
RETURN TO TOP
Paris - Venice - Rome
(4 Days/3 Nights)
|
  |
Highlights
Depart Paris’s Gare de L’Est on board the blue
and gold carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, travel
through the night across France and into Switzerland. Enjoy your
day on board as the train travels through the towering Swiss
Mountains and Austrian Alps before an early evening arrival in
the magnificent city of Venice. Leave the train for a two-night
stay in Venice before re-joining for your onward journey to
Rome, the ancient capital of Italy.
Itinerary
Thursday
- Board the blue and gold carriages of the Continental Wagons-Lits
in Paris. Throughout your journey you will be attended by your
own Personal Steward. After you have settled into your
comfortable private compartment it will soon be time to dress
for dinner. Why not sip a pre-dinner cocktail before making your
way to one of the magnificent restaurant cars. Here you will be
served a delicious four-course dinner, prepared by our skilled
French chefs. After dinner you may want to linger in the Bar
Car, listening to the sound of the baby grand piano. When you
are ready, retire to your compartment, which has now been
transformed into a cosy bedroom.
Friday - You awake to the magnificent scenery of the
Swiss Alps as breakfast is served in your compartment, at a time
to suit you. Spend the morning in the Bar Car chatting to fellow
travellers over coffee. Enjoy a leisurely three-course lunch
served in another of the beautiful restaurant cars. While away
the afternoon relaxing in your compartment admiring the
spectacular scenery as the train travels through the Italian
Dolomites. Later afternoon tea is served in your compartment as
you travel through the Brenner Pass. After the train crosses the
Venetian Lagoon into Santa Lucia station, disembark and transfer
to your hotel for a two night stay (transfers and hotel
accommodation in Venice not included).
Saturday - Enjoy Venice at your leisure.
Sunday - Re-board the VSOE in the morning for your
journey to Rome. Visit the Bar Car for an aperitif before your
delicious three-course lunch is served in one of the beautiful
restaurant cars.
Afterwards you may wish to relax in the Bar Car, chatting to
fellow travellers as the Italian scenery provides an ever
changing view. There is time to visit the on board boutique for
a last minute gift or souvenir before the train pulls into Rome
Ostiense station mid afternoon.
Timetable
|
Arrive |
Depart |
|
| Thursday |
PARIS (Gare de
L'Est station) |
- |
21:35 |
| Friday |
BUCHS |
08:38 |
09:09 |
| Friday |
INNSBRUCK (Hauptbahnhof) |
11:56 |
21:11 |
| Friday |
VENICE (Santa
Lucia station)
Transfer to your hotel for a two
night stay (own account) |
- |
- |
| Saturday |
VENICE
Day at leisure in Venice |
- |
- |
| Sunday |
VENICE (Santa
Lucia station) |
- |
10:00 |
| Sunday |
FLORENCE (Santa
Maria Novella station) |
13:00 |
13:05 |
| Sunday |
ROME (Ostiense
station) |
16:00 |
- |
|
Please note:
All timings shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed
timings will be supplied with your travel documents
Departure Dates
(Thursdays)
|
| |
2004
October 7, 14 |
|
2005
April 21
May 12, 26
June 9
October 13, 27 |
|
|
|
|
2004 One way US $2095. |
|
|
2005 One way US $2380. |
|
|
|
Prices are per person and include all
table d'hôte meals and accommodation on board based on
two people sharing.
|
|
|
Supplements |
|
|
|
|
2004
Single Cabin US $ 335. |
|
2005 Single Cabin US $ 370.
|
|
|
|
RETURN TO TOP
|
|
|
|
Paris-Budapest-Bucharest-Istanbul
(6 Days/ 5 Nights)
|
 |
|
The blue and gold carriages of
the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express await you in Paris for your
journey throughout France, Switzerland and Austria towards
Budapest, enjoy over night on board. The next night is spent in
Budapest and the following day after a sightseeing tour and
lunch continue your journey through Hungary and into Romania.
Enjoy the next day and night in Bucharest. On rejoining the
train the next day stop in the fascinating country of Bulgaria.
Enjoy your last night and day on board as the train travels to
your destination, Istanbul.
Itinerary
Friday
- Board the gleaming blue and gold carriages of the Venice
Simplon-Orient-Express at Paris Gare de l’ Est, mid afternoon.
After being greeted by your steward, settle into your private
compartment. Later enjoy a delicious dinner on board and
overnight on the train.
Saturday - Relax and enjoy the scenery as the VSOE
travels into Hungary. Continental breakfast is served in your
compartment and lunch will taken in one of the opulent dining
cars. On arrival in Budapest transfer to the Marriott Hotel.
Dinner and overnight in Budapest.
Sunday - After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a guided
tour of the city Budapest, with lunch included. The city is
divided by the mighty Danube river into ‘Buda’ and ‘Pest’.
Rejoin the train late afternoon. Perhaps enjoy an aperitif in
the Bar Car before dinner as the train travels into Romania.
Overnight on board.
Monday - After breakfast, the train arrives at the
mountain town of Sinaia. Disembark for a visit to beautiful
Peles Castle, which was also visited by the very first
Orient-Express passengers in 1883. Rejoin the train to complete
the short journey to Bucharest. On arrival transfer to the
Athenée Palace Hilton Hotel where a late lunch is served. In the
afternoon there will be a short city sightseeing tour. Dinner
and overnight in Bucharest.
Tuesday - Rejoin the train mid-morning as the train
travels south across the Danube and into Bulgaria. During the
afternoon, a stop is made to enjoy this pretty, rural country.
Lunch and dinner are served on board the train, as your journey
continues. This final night is spent on board VSOE.
Wednesday - Early this morning the train enters Turkey
and crosses the Thracian Plain. After breakfast and lunch on
board, VSOE arrives in Istanbul late afternoon, at the end of a
fascinating and unique journey across seven countries and
cultures.
Timetable
|
Arrive |
Depart |
|
| Friday |
PARIS (Gare de
l'Est) |
- |
15:40 |
| Saturday |
BUDAPEST
Transfer to Hyatt Hotel for overnight stay
Private dinner at nearby
restaurant |
16:20 |
- |
| Sunday |
BUDAPEST
Full day's guided tour of Budapest
Lunch at local restaurant |
- |
18:20 |
| Monday |
SINAIA
Guided tour of Peles Castle |
08:20 |
10:55 |
| Monday |
BUCHAREST (Baneasa
Station)
Guided tour of Bucharest. Arrive at Athenée Palace hotel
for overnight stay.
Dinner at hotel |
13:45 |
- |
| Tuesday |
BUCHAREST (Baneasa
Station)
Short off-train excursion in Varna,
Bulgaria mid-afternoon |
- |
09:05 |
| Wednesday |
ISTANBUL (Sirkeci
Station) |
15:30 |
- |
|
| Please note:
All timings shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed
timings will be supplied with your travel documents |
|
|
|
|
| 2004 One way US
$6000. |
| 2005 One way US $6595. |
|
|
|
|
|
Prices are per person and include all table
d'hôte meals and accommodation on board based on two
people sharing.
|
|
|
Supplements |
One-way |
Return |
|
|
2004 Single Cabin US$1330. |
|
2005
Single Cabin US$1460. |
|
|
|
|
|
RETURN TO TOP |
|
Venice-Vienna-London
(5 Days/4 Nights)
|
|
Highlights
The legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
awaits in the beautiful city of Venice for your overnight
journey to Vienna. Arrive in Vienna in the morning and spend two
nights in this beautiful city. On rejoining the train continue
your journey towards Paris. On departing Paris travel to the
French coast for the Channel crossing. Board the gleaming
carriages of the British Pullman for your journey through the
Kentish countryside to your destination, London Victoria.
Itinerary
Wednesday
- Board the splendid Wagons-Lits carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
at Venice Santa Lucia station. Throughout your journey you will
be attended by your own personal steward. After you have settled
into your comfortable compartment it will soon be time to dress
for dinner. Why not sip an aperitif in the Bar Car, listening to
the sounds of the baby grand piano before taking your seat in
one of the beautifully restored restaurant cars. After dinner
you may want to linger in the bar and when you are ready you can
retire to your compartment, which has now been transformed into
a cosy bedroom.
Thursday - Breakfast is served in your compartment before
arriving at Vienna Sud station early morning. Transfer to your
chosen hotel for two nights. (Accommodation and transfers not
included.)
Friday - Enjoy the many attractions of one of the most
beautiful cities in Europe.
Saturday - Rejoin the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in
the afternoon and settle back into your private compartment.
Afternoon tea is served by your personal steward in the comfort
of your compartment. A leisurely four course dinner is served,
prepared on board by our skilled French chefs. Enjoy a brandy or
liqueur with convivial company in the Bar before retiring for
the night.
Sunday - Continental breakfast is brought to you by your
steward as you travel towards Paris. A delicious brunch is
served in the restaurant cars as you travel on towards the
Channel. After crossing the Channel board the cream and umber
carriages of the British Pullman for the journey to London. A
traditional English afternoon tea accompanied by a glass of
champagne is served to you at your table as you watch the gentle
scenery of Kent pass by before arriving at your destination,
London Victoria.
Timetable
|
Arrive |
Depart |
|
| Wednesday |
VENICE (Santa
Lucia station) |
- |
19:30 |
| Thursday |
VIENNA (West
Bahnhof)
Overnight in Vienna (own
account) |
08:30 |
- |
| Friday |
VIENNA
Day at leisure and overnight in
Vienna (own account) |
- |
- |
| Saturday |
VIENNA |
- |
13:30 |
| Sunday |
PARIS (Gare de
l'Est station) |
09:10 |
09:30 |
| Sunday |
LONDON
(Victoria Station) |
17:00 |
- |
|
Please note:
All timings shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed
timings will be supplied with your travel documents
Departure Dates
(Wednesdays)
|
| |
2004
October 20 |
|
2005
April 13
June 1
October 19
|
|
Prices
|
|
|
|
2004 One way US $2430. |
|
|
|
|
2005 One way US $2670. |
|
|
|
|
Prices are per person and include all
table d'hôte meals and accommodation on board based
on two people sharing.
|
|
|
Supplements |
|
|
|
|
2004 Single cabin One way US $505. |
|
2005 Single cabin One way US $555. |
|
|
|
RETURN TO TOP
|
|
|
VENICE-PRAGUE-PARIS-LONDON
(5 Days - 4 Nights)
|
  |
|
Depart from the beautiful city
of Venice and spend overnight on board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
The next day, enjoy the passing scenery as the train travels
through Austria into the Czech Republic, arriving in Prague
mid-afternoon. Spend two nights in this fascinating city. On
rejoining the train continue your journey through the Czech
Republic and into Germany. After departing Paris the following
morning travel to the French coast. After the Channel crossing
board the gleaming carriages of the British Pullman for your
journey through the Kentish countryside to your destination,
London Victoria.
Itinerary
Wednesday
- Board the splendid Wagons-Lits carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
at Venice Santa Lucia station. Throughout your journey you will
be attended by your own personal steward. After you have settled
into your comfortable compartment it will soon be time to dress
for dinner. Why not sip an aperitif in the Bar Car, listening to
the sounds of the baby grand piano before taking your seat in
one of the beautifully restored restaurant cars. After dinner
you may want to linger in the bar and when you are ready you can
retire to your compartment which has now been transformed into a
cozy bedroom.
Thursday - Breakfast is served in your compartment at a
time to suit you. Spend the morning relaxing in the comfort of
your compartment, gazing at the beautiful passing scenery as the
train heads towards Prague, or chatting with fellow travelers
over coffee in the Bar Car. Later, enjoy a three-course lunch in
one of the other magnificent restaurant cars. The train pulls in
to Prague’s Hlavni station in the early afternoon.
Transfer to your chosen hotel for two nights. (Accommodation and
transfers not included.)
Friday - Enjoy the many attractions of one of the most
beautiful cities in Europe. The medieval streets of the Old Town
and the Hradcany Castle are in pleasing contrast to the
twentieth century buildings of Wenceslas Square. Take a guided
tour or wander at your pleasure, stopping at one of the many
pavement cafés for coffee.
Saturday - The morning is at your leisure before being
welcomed aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express bound for
London. Your private compartment awaits. Afternoon tea is served
by your personal steward as you relax on board. A leisurely
four-course dinner is served, prepared on board by our skilled
French chefs. Enjoy a brandy or liqueur with convivial company
in the Bar before retiring for the night.
Sunday - Continental breakfast is brought to you by your
steward. Visit the on board boutique for a selection of finely
crafted gifts and souvenirs. Enjoy a delicious brunch in the
restaurant car as you travel on towards the French coast. After
the Channel crossing board the cream and umber carriages of the
British Pullman for the journey to London. A traditional English
afternoon tea accompanied by a glass of champagne is served at
your table while you watch the gentle scenery of Kent pass by.
Suddenly, you are drawing into London’s Victoria station. It may
be the end of your journey but the memories will last a
lifetime.
Timetable
|
Arrive |
Depart |
|
| Wednesday |
VENICE (Santa
Lucia station) |
- |
19:05 |
| Thursday |
VIENNA (West
Bahnhof) |
09:50 |
10:25 |
| Thursday |
PRAGUE (Hlavni
station)
Overnight in Prague (accommodation
not included) |
17:08 |
- |
| Friday |
PRAGUE
Day at leisure. Overnight in
Prague (accommodation not included) |
- |
- |
| Saturday |
PRAGUE (Hlavni
station) |
- |
14:15 |
| Sunday |
FRANKFURT |
00:18 |
01:04 |
| Sunday |
PARIS (Gare de
l'Est station) |
09:05 |
09:30 |
| Sunday |
CALAIS Ville |
13:36 |
13:45 |
| Sunday |
Channel Crossing |
14:20 |
14:51 |
| Sunday |
FOLKESTONE (Sandling) |
14:45 |
15:05 |
| Sunday |
LONDON (Victoria
station) |
17:00 |
- |
|
Please note:
All timings shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed
timings will be supplied with your travel documents
|
Departure Dates
(Wednesdays)
|
| |
2004
September 29
October 27 |
|
2005
May 18
June 15
September 18
October 5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 One way US $2655. |
|
|
|
|
2005 One way US $2920. |
|
|
|
|
Prices are per person and include all table
d'hôte meals and accommodation on board based on two
people sharing.
|
|
|
Supplements |
|
|
|
|
2004 Single Cabin
US$505 |
|
2005 Single Cabin US$555 |
|
|
|
RETURN TO TOP
|
|
VENICE - ROME
( 1 Day )
|
  |
Highlights
Explore the canals and sights of the
beautiful city of Venice until your departure on board the
blue and gold carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
Enjoy the sumptuous cuisine and the magnificent passing
scenery as you relax on board before arriving in Rome, the
ancient capital of Italy.
Itinerary
Board the immaculately restored
carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express at Venice
Santa Lucia station in the morning. Visit the Bar Car for
an aperitif before your delicious three-course lunch is
served in one of the beautiful restaurant cars.
Afterwards you may wish to relax in the Bar Car, chatting
to fellow travellers as the Italian scenery provides an
ever changing view. There is time to visit the on board
boutique for a last minute gift or souvenir before the
train pulls into Rome Ostiense station mid afternoon.
Timetable
|
Arrive |
Depart |
|
| Sunday |
VENICE (Santa Lucia
station) |
- |
09:28 |
| Sunday |
Rome (Ostiense station) |
17:30 |
- |
|
| Please note:
All timings shown are for your guidance only.
Confirmed timings will be supplied with your travel
documents |
|
|
| |
2004
October 10, 17 |
|
2005
April 24
May 15, 29
June 12
October 16, 30 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 One way US $540. |
|
|
|
|
2005 One way US $595. |
|
|
|
| |
|
Prices are per person and include all
table d'hôte meals and accommodation on board based
on two people sharing.
|
|
|
Supplements |
One-way |
Return |
|
|
2004 Single cabin US $335. |
|
2005 Single cabin US
$370. |
|
|
- |
| |
RETURN TO TOP |
|
TO MAKE A
RESERVATION INQUIRY - CLICK
HERE
|
