First Impressions

Stepping aboard the Venice Simplon Orient Express feels like stepping back into the golden age of travel.

The gleaming blue carriages, polished wood interiors and elegant Art Deco details create an atmosphere that is difficult to find elsewhere in modern travel. From the moment we arrived at the station in Venice, every aspect of the experience felt special.

The welcome from the staff set the tone immediately. Service throughout the journey was warm, attentive and genuinely personal without ever feeling formal or intrusive.

Our Cabin

We travelled in one of the train's traditional cabins, featuring upper and lower bunk beds.

Some travellers are understandably concerned about cabin size and the absence of an ensuite bathroom, but in reality neither proved to be an issue for us.

During the day, the cabin is arranged with comfortable seating and there was plenty of space for the two of us to relax and get ready. In the evening, our steward transformed the cabin into a cosy sleeping compartment with bunk beds. While naturally more compact once the beds were made up, we found them surprisingly comfortable and slept well.

Our cabin included a washbasin, which was perfectly practical for freshening up throughout the journey.

The shared lavatories are located at each end of the carriage. They reminded me of the traditional facilities once found in classic London hotels: immaculate, well maintained and full of character. Throughout the entire journey I never once had to queue, and they were kept spotlessly clean by the onboard team.

For anyone wondering whether a standard cabin provides enough comfort, I would say absolutely yes. While the train now offers a range of upgraded accommodation options, we found the traditional cabin to be part of the authentic Orient Express experience.

The Scenery

One of the greatest pleasures of travelling aboard the Venice Simplon Orient Express is simply watching Europe unfold outside your window.

The route takes you through some spectacular landscapes, from the Italian countryside to the dramatic scenery of Switzerland and onwards through France.

There is something wonderfully relaxing about slowing down and watching the world pass by. No airport queues, no security checks, no rushing between terminals. Just uninterrupted time to enjoy the journey.

Looking back, one of my strongest memories is how quickly the 24 hours passed. Between meals, conversations, sightseeing from the window and simply enjoying the atmosphere, the time seemed to disappear.

Dining on the Venice Simplon Orient Express

The dining experience exceeded every expectation.

One memorable moment came early in the morning while the train was in Paris. Looking out of the window, we watched staff loading live lobsters onto the train.

A few hours later, those very same lobsters appeared as part of our brunch.

It perfectly demonstrated the attention to detail and commitment to quality that defines the Venice Simplon Orient Express experience. Ingredients are sourced fresh along the route wherever possible, and every meal feels like a special occasion.

Dining takes place in beautifully restored restaurant carriages, each with its own unique design and history. The food was exceptional throughout the journey, complemented by attentive service and a wonderful atmosphere.

For many guests, dinner is one of the highlights of the trip. Dressing for the occasion adds to the experience and contributes to the sense that you are taking part in something genuinely special.

More Than Just a Train Journey

What surprised me most was how quickly I stopped thinking of the Venice Simplon Orient Express as transport.

The train itself became the destination.

The combination of beautiful surroundings, exceptional service, fine dining and uninterrupted time together created an experience that felt wonderfully removed from everyday life.

In a world where travel is often focused on speed and efficiency, the Orient Express offers something entirely different. It encourages you to slow down, savour the moment and enjoy the journey itself.

Is the Venice Simplon Orient Express Worth It?

This is probably the question I am asked most often.

If you are simply looking for the quickest way to travel between Venice and London, then of course there are easier options.

However, if you are looking for a truly memorable travel experience, a special celebration, honeymoon, anniversary trip or bucket list journey, then the Venice Simplon Orient Express delivers something very few travel experiences can match.

Years later, I can still vividly remember the atmosphere, the scenery, the meals and the impeccable service. That is perhaps the greatest measure of its value.

Planning Your Own Venice Simplon Orient Express Journey

Since my journey in 2018, some aspects of the train have evolved, including updates to certain cabin interiors and the introduction of new accommodation categories. The essence of the experience, however, remains unchanged: timeless elegance, exceptional service and one of the world's most iconic rail journeys.

As a luxury travel specialist, I regularly help clients plan special journeys aboard the Venice Simplon Orient Express, whether as a standalone experience or as part of a wider European itinerary.

If you are considering travelling on the Venice Simplon Orient Express and would like first hand advice from someone who has experienced it personally, I would be delighted to help.