The refurbished luxury Venice Simplon Orient Express is ready to take to the rails around Europe this coming season, with iconic journeys spanning London, Venice and Budapest along its route.
Following the end of the 2012 season last November, the train has spent the winter months under a period of refurbishment, particularly to two of its three restaurant cars. In planning for years, furnishings have been removed, sandblasting has taken place, and the exterior has been repainted in the train’s iconic royal blue shade before varnishing.
Covering the routes once favoured by Agatha Christie, the train has kept its 1920’s charm and its Art Deco features with the help of artisan experts.
For the first time in its history, the train will take on a trip to Stockholm this year on a new itinerary. Departing Venice on April 8th, it will take in the sights of Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Germany and Denmark, with the final leg being Copenhagen to Stockholm.
The train’s signature voyage of London to Venice via Paris will be available throughout the season, as will be an annual trip to Istanbul via overnight stays in Bucharest and Budapest.
On May 22nd and October 23rd, guests can travel to London from Venice via Budapest and Vienna on a four-night trip, while another route to London from Venice will take in Prague, departing May 1st, June 5th and October 2nd.
The company is currently promoting a number of offers for travellers this season, including 300 Euros complimentary credit for on-board spending on any Venice to Paris or London, or Paris or London to Venice trips departing May, June or July. The credit can be used for champagne, caviar, fine wines, cocktails and gifts from the train’s boutique, amongst others.
