Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: London or Paris to the Amalfi Coast

Begin your journey in the City of Light. On arrival, make your way to your elegant accommodation, a historic Parisian mansion tucked away on a quiet side street, moments from the Champs-Élysées. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure: perhaps take a stroll along the banks of the Seine, pause for coffee in Montmartre, or simply unwind amid the refined surroundings of your hotel. If you’d prefer to start your adventure from London, speak to our specialists about adding the Eurostar or a connecting flight from any UK regional airport.

Today, your spellbinding journey truly begins. Step aboard the gleaming blue-and-gold carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, where polished wood, gleaming brass and plush upholstery evoke a bygone era of glamour. Settle into your cabin with a glass of perfectly chilled champagne as the train departs Paris, tracing a route south through ever-changing French landscapes.

A delicious three-course lunch is served in one of the beautifully restored dining cars, accompanied by sweeping views from your window. During the afternoon, your steward brings delicate pastries with tea and coffee to your cabin.

As evening falls, prepare for a night of fine dining and celebration. A multi-course dinner showcases seasonal ingredients inspired by the train’s route, paired with exceptional wines or elegant non-alcoholic alternatives. Later, join fellow guests in Bar Car 3674 for live piano music, cocktails and convivial conversation before retiring to your cabin – transformed into a cosy bedroom – for a restful night lulled by the rhythm of the rails.

Wake to the sun-dappled hills of Italy and enjoy breakfast in your cabin as the train glides south. After a leisurely morning and lunch on board, disembark at Pompeii station for an exclusive guided tour of the ancient ruins. Grand Suite guests are invited for a private visit to the Casa del Larario Regio V, an archaeological site typically closed to the public, offering rare insight into ongoing preservation projects supported by Caruso, A Belmond Hotel. Later, a seamless transfer brings you to Caruso, an 11th-century palace perched high above the Amalfi Coast in Ravello. This clifftop haven, with its infinity pool and sweeping sea views, will be your luxurious home for the next two nights. For those preferring to forgo the visit to Pompeii, an optional cooking class at Caruso offers a hands-on introduction to the art of regional Italian cuisine.

As evening descends, Caruso’s executive chef Armando Aristarco prepares one of his signature dishes at a live station, demonstrating how, with just a few simple ingredients and steps, one dish encapsulates local producers, their products and the identity and history of the land. Anticipate exceptional delicacies and wines, accompanied by vibrant music from local musicians, as you gaze out over the glittering coast.

After breakfast overlooking the sea, choose between two bespoke experiences designed to immerse you in the region’s beauty and culture. Embark on a scenic boat tour to explore hidden coves, colourful fishing villages and dramatic coastal vistas; or, join a local artist in Caruso’s Loggiato for a private painting lesson, capturing the light and landscapes of the Amalfi Coast on canvas.

This evening, a gala dinner awaits in the hotel gardens, featuring an exclusive menu from the renowned Ristorante Belvedere. Accompanied by live music and breathtaking views, it’s a fitting finale to your Italian sojourn.

Enjoy a final breakfast overlooking the endless blue of the Mediterranean before bidding farewell to Ravello. Private transfers and international flights can be arranged for onward travel or your return journey.