The journey is often more beautiful than the destination. Proving this old adage true is an iconic train in Europe, offering travellers a dose of great nostalgia in its vintage carriages that operate on an old locomotive.
The train is named the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and takes those on board back to the ‘Golden Age’ of the 1920s.
The train is not just synonymous with transport but is considered a time travel capsule by those who loved its recent experience. The journey is especially captivating for globetrotters, spanning cities such as Paris, Amsterdam, Venice, Vienna, and Istanbul.
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1920s-Style Luxurious Travel
According to Belmond.com, the captivating and memorable experience begins with the first step inside the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. All the guests are received by white-gloved stewards, wearing blue and gold shaded uniforms as they did in the past. The stewards then escort guests and travellers to the astonishing sights and interior designs of vintage carriages that the train’s authorities have carefully restored.
The interiors reflect a wonderful artistic tone and golden age decor. The cabins are made of rich wood panelling. Also evident are the plush and vibrant banquettes, the old but efficient black-and-gold fans and sleek dining tables with green-coloured chairs. The train is bigger than you think, also boasting spacious grand suites with marble en-suite bathrooms and private lounge areas.
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For culinary delights, travellers get three unique and beautiful dining carriages. The menu is specially designed by chef Jean Imbert, who serves travellers different dishes depending on the passing landscape. For those who love their music, the train has a designated social hub called the ‘Bar Car 3674’. You can enjoy the resident pianist playing some classic jazz while taking a sip of a classic cocktail.
What It Costs
Indian travel enthusiasts, feeling excited about the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, would be keen to learn about its ticket prices and overall costs involved. According to Belmond.com, the prices vary based on the route, cabin type and time of year. The twin cabins with convertible sleeping berths will cost around £3,885 per person (approx Rs 487,300) in 2026.
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The price is set to increase the following year, up to Rs 490,990.
Suites with a private marble en-suite bathroom, mosaic floor, and lounge area would cost an Indian traveller around Rs 10,01,557 per person for departures in 2026. The grand suites, which come with the spacious marble en-suites, plush lounging area and 24-hour butler service, will cost you £11,180 per person (approx. Rs 1,402,306).
