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Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Special departures
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is synonymous with timeless glamour, but each year a select collection of extraordinary departures elevates the experience even further. Created in partnership with some of Belmond's most celebrated hotels, these limited-edition journeys combine the romance of luxury rail travel with exclusive events, privileged access and unforgettable stays in some of Europe's most legendary properties. Each departure operates just once a year, making them among the most sought-after experiences in luxury travel.
From the lagoon-side elegance of Venice's Hotel Cipriani to the dramatic clifftop setting of Caruso on the Amalfi Coast and the Riviera glamour of Splendido in Portofino, these itineraries are designed to celebrate the best of Italy through a unique blend of rail travel, culture, gastronomy and hospitality. With added touches ranging from Michelin-starred dining and exclusive gala events to behind-the-scenes experiences unavailable to regular guests, these journeys offer a rare opportunity to experience the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in a truly exceptional way.
Unlike the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express's regular departures, these journeys have been specially curated to create a seamless pairing between one of the world's most iconic trains and one of Belmond's most renowned hotels. Each itinerary centres around a unique annual event programme, exclusive guest experiences and carefully crafted dining experiences designed specifically for that departure.
Guests might find themselves enjoying a Michelin-starred dinner overlooking the Venetian Lagoon, exploring a working mosaic foundry normally closed to the public, discovering archaeological treasures near Pompeii, or attending an exclusive gala dinner above Portofino's glittering harbour. Limited capacity and once-a-year departures create a sense of occasion that goes beyond traditional luxury travel, making each journey as memorable as the destination itself.
At the heart of every Special Departure is a stay at one of Belmond's flagship European properties, each chosen for its history, character and sense of place. Together, these properties create journeys that extend the spirit of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express long after guests step off the train.
Hotel Cipriani, Venice is one of Italy's most celebrated hotels, occupying a privileged position on Giudecca Island with sweeping lagoon views, beautiful gardens and world-class dining. It provides a fitting finale to one of the most glamorous rail journeys in Europe.
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Perched high above the Amalfi Coast in an 11th-century palace, this elegant retreat is renowned for its spectacular infinity pool, Mediterranean views and refined Italian hospitality. The hotel combines effortlessly with the slow-paced elegance of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
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This legendary hotel is an enduring Riviera icon. Idyllically located above Portofino Bay, its terraced gardens, exceptional restaurants and association with generations of artists, film stars and international travellers make it one of Europe's most desirable addresses.
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These special journeys are extremely limited, with each itinerary operating only once per year. Departures are generally scheduled during spring and early summer, when Italy's landscapes, coastlines and cities are at their most beautiful. Availability is naturally restricted by both train capacity and the limited number of participating hotel rooms, meaning early booking is highly recommended.
For those seeking the ultimate experience, selected departures can also be enhanced with Suite and Grand Suite accommodation aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, adding private en-suite facilities, enhanced dining privileges, personal steward service and additional exclusive benefits. Explore our range of holidays below for more details.
A celebration of Venetian elegance, this exclusive departure journeys from Paris to Venice aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express before continuing with a stay at the legendary Hotel Cipriani. Highlights include a private visit to Venice's historic Orsoni mosaic workshop, Michelin-starred dining at Oro restaurant and time to enjoy one of the world's most iconic hotels.
Combining luxury rail travel with southern Italy's cultural treasures, this exclusive departure includes a VIP guided exploration of Pompeii and a stay at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel in Ravello. Guests can enjoy exceptional culinary experiences, coastal excursions and extraordinary views across the Amalfi Coast.
Travel through France and along the Riviera aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express before arriving in glamorous Portofino. A stay at Splendido, A Belmond Hotel is complemented by exclusive dining events, tailored experiences and leisure time in one of Italy's most picturesque coastal settings.
These carefully curated departures represent some of the most exclusive experiences available aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, pairing legendary rail travel with the exceptional service, character and heritage of Belmond's most iconic hotels.
