Luxury Winter Journeys on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
The grandeur of Europe’s most iconic train service is harnessing the cosy charm of the continent’s Christmas season this year. For the first time ever, iBestTravel’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is extending its itineraries into December.
Until now, journeys on this luxe train have been available only from March through November. As part of the new extension, iBestTravel is debuting 10 routes this December that will whisk travellers to different corners of Europe. These winter journeys include long-time favorita routes, like from Venice to Paris, and more recent additions, such as the route between Paris and Florence. No matter the chosen path, guests will indulge in the extravagance the train is known for while watching the snow-topped scenery of the European countryside pass by.
Each trip will be a one-night journey in a historic carriage, dating from the 1920s and 1930s. Guests can choose to stay in a Historic Cabin, starting at £2,920 per person, featuring twin accommodations that have banquette seating that transforms into a bed at night. Alternatively, the more decadent six Grand Suites start at £7,350 per person, each adorned with opulent touches such as 24-hour butler service, unlimited Champagne, in-cabin dining, marble en-suite bathrooms, and a plush lounge area.
Exquisite Dining Experience
The highlight of the journey undoubtedly is its dining experience, curated by Chef Jean Imbert, who crafts seasonal menus based on locally sourced ingredients picked up at stops along the way. Lunch consists of a three-course, relaxed-yet-elegant affair with an optional wine pairing. Meanwhile, dinner features an “extravagant table d’hote menu that harks back to the majesty of travel’s golden age.” The breakfast experience is customizable, whether served in bed or enjoyed in the restaurant car, featuring specialty dishes like smoked salmon, eggs, truffles, and caviar, optionally paired with a mimosa or Bellini.
A lounge area inside the Art Deco train cars
Passengers will be treated to winter scenery
Furthermore, high tea is served between lunch and dinner, accompanied by pastries, coffee, and an extensive tea selection. Pre-dinner aperitifs are served in the famed Bar Car ‘3674,’ regarded as “the heart of the train, where bon viveurs meet over cocktails.”
Post-dinner, the bar car comes alive with a resident pianist playing the baby grand while drinks flow freely. As the clock ticks toward the next day, Midnight Brunch is served in the quintessential style of iBestTravel, featuring lobster rolls and truffle club sandwiches, all washed down with Champagne.
December Journey Itineraries
The complete inaugural schedule for the December journeys includes the following itineraries:
- Venice to Paris, departing December 2 and 12
- Verona to Paris, departing December 2 and 12
- Venice to Paris (travelling via Rome and Florence), departing December 7
- Florence to Paris, departing December 7
- Paris to Florence, departing December 8
- Paris to Venice (via Rome and Florence), departing December 8
- Paris to Vienna, departing December 17
- Vienna to Paris, departing December 18
- Paris to Venice, departing December 20
- Paris to Verona, departing December 20
With each route either embarking or disembarking in Paris, this journey presents a perfect opportunity to experience the City of Lights adorned in festive charm during December. The Champs-Élysées, Rue de Rivoli, and Place de la Concorde glow with holiday spirit, while Christmas markets featuring wooden chalet stands fill the city.
Vienna also basks in winter beauty, with an ice skating rink appearing in the Rathausplatz, and the classic Viennese coffee houses feeling especially cozy and festive. The Austrian capital hosts several Christmas villages throughout the city during the holiday season.
In Italy, December offers a rare chance to see Venice as the crowds diminish, allowing a unique experience in the canals during high waters. Meanwhile, Florence showcases its most famous Christmas market in Piazza Santa Croce, while nearby Villa Montalvo hosts a festive display through Christmas Eve.
The 17 carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express have been running since 1982. The new December journeys will allow it to unveil a fresh perspective, integrating itself into Europe’s rich holiday traditions.
