Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: London or Paris to Venice

Arrive in Paris and transfer to your city-centre accommodation, set within a historic Parisian mansion on a quiet side street just moments away from the Champs-Élysées. You'll have the rest of the day to explore at your own pace, perhaps taking a stroll along the banks of the Seine, pausing for coffee in Montmartre or dining in style at your hotel. If you're travelling from the UK, speak to your travel specialist about adding on a flight or the Eurostar from London.

Wake late, head for a delicious breakfast then enjoy a free day in Paris. Perhaps you’ll take in the sights, head out for a lazy, wine-paired lunch, or simply relax at the hotel. Whichever you choose, as the day ticks by the excitement will build towards your evening departure on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

Indeed, once you’ve boarded those iconic blue-and-gold carriages, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back to another time. From the Art-Deco fineries of the bar car to the wood-panelled stylings of the cabins and suites, every detail speaks of the glamour of travel’s golden age. Tonight, you’ll be treated to the first of your included meals – a multi-course dining experience inspired by the train’s route and served by attentive staff in the ever-so-elegant restaurant car. Then, after a night-cap, you’ll retire to your accommodation as the train heads ever onward towards the Alps.

You’ll begin today with a continental breakfast served in your cabin or suite, accompanied by views of alpine Europe. It’s then time to sit back and relax and first the mighty peaks of the Dolomites and then the bucolic landscapes of northern Italy rush by. On board, the exquisite dining continues, with a sumptuous brunch served in the dining car. Finally, you’ll cross the Venetian Lagoon, disembarking at Santa Lucia Station where a water taxi will be waiting to whisk you to your luxurious, canal-side hotel – a uniquely stylish property with gorgeous lagoon views.

You’ll enjoy a full day to explore the sights of Venice, perhaps taking in the iconic delights of St Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace and the Grand Canal – lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces – or heading out to the islands of Murano and Burano to explore the region’s fabulous food and glass-making traditions.

Be sure to take a gondola among the city’s famous waterways, and stroll atmospheric back streets, pausing to enjoy a coffee or gelato. There’s Harry’s Bar, of course, but we recommend a Bellini at your very own Hotel Metropole – the service is better and Hemmingway himself preferred it.

Your holiday comes to an end today, with a final water taxi transfer to the airport or train station to begin your onward journey.