Is the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Still Running?

Yes, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) is still operating and remains one of the most luxurious and iconic train journeys in the world. This legendary service, known for its opulent decor, refined service, and connection to 19th-century elegance, continues to offer a wide range of journeys across Europe. With a rich history that dates back to the golden age of train travel, the VSOE is a beloved and exclusive experience for those who want to relive the glamour of luxury train travel.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express connects some of Europe’s most beautiful cities, offering routes to destinations such as Venice, Paris, Istanbul, Vienna, and Prague. With several trips planned every year, its carriages—beautifully restored to their 1920s and 1930s Art Deco design—remain a popular choice for travelers seeking an unparalleled rail journey.

A Peek into the Past

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express revives the mystique and prestige of the original Orient Express that began in the late 19th century. The first route, launched in 1883, connected Paris to Istanbul (then Constantinople), spanning multiple European countries and evoking a sense of romance and adventure. The VSOE, first launched in 1982 by American businessman James Sherwood, retains the essence of this historic journey but with modern amenities.

The original Orient Express had become legendary, in part due to Agatha Christie's famous novel Murder on the Orient Express. With a combination of intrigue, exotic destinations, and opulence, the train was synonymous with luxury travel. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express continues that tradition, maintaining a level of exclusivity that makes it a top choice for luxury travelers.

Current Operations

Today, the VSOE offers several routes throughout Europe, with the most famous being the trip from London to Venice, which can include stops in cities such as Paris, Innsbruck, and Verona. Other destinations include:

• Paris to Istanbul: A six-day journey covering nearly 2,000 miles, recreating the historical route of the Orient Express.
• Venice to Paris: A popular overnight journey, providing the opportunity to soak in the scenic views of the Italian countryside and the Swiss Alps.
• Paris to Vienna or Budapest: Shorter journeys that still provide the full VSOE experience with gourmet dining, lavish suites, and immersive views of Europe's stunning landscapes.

The Luxury Experience

What sets the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express apart from any other train service is the sheer attention to detail and the nostalgia for a bygone era of luxury travel. Onboard, passengers are treated to world-class service in dining cars adorned with gleaming glass and wood paneling. Gourmet meals are prepared with fresh ingredients sourced along the journey's route, and travelers can enjoy the finest wines and champagnes. The three-course lunches and lavish four-course dinners are events in themselves, served on fine china with silver cutlery.

The train features three types of accommodations:

1. Historic Cabins: These are the original, restored cabins from the 1920s and 1930s. By day, the cabins serve as private seating rooms, and by night, they are transformed into comfortable sleeping quarters with fold-down beds.
2. Grand Suites: Introduced in recent years, the Grand Suites offer a higher level of luxury with private bathrooms, double beds, and opulent decor inspired by different cities, such as Paris and Venice.
3. Suite Cabins: A new addition to the train, these suites offer double the space of the historic cabins, with a seating area that can be converted into two beds, providing a more spacious and comfortable experience.

Each cabin exudes timeless charm, with attention to period details like velvet furnishings, mahogany woodwork, and elegant lamps. Beyond the luxury of the train itself, the scenic beauty of the journey—whether it's the snow-capped Alps or the winding canals of Venice—adds to the magical experience.

Cultural Influence and Popularity

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express continues to hold a place in popular culture, largely due to its association with mystery and romance. It has appeared in films, literature, and even fashion, with its vintage elegance influencing designers and artists alike. But beyond its cultural significance, the train has remained a bucket-list experience for luxury travelers worldwide.

In recent years, the VSOE has expanded its offerings to cater to a wider range of passengers, introducing shorter trips and special themed journeys. Some of the most sought-after trips include:

• The Festive Season Train: A holiday-themed journey that takes place in December, decorated with festive lights and offering special menus.
• Art and Culture Tours: Trips that include exclusive access to art galleries, historic sites, and private cultural tours at the destinations.
• Themed Excursions: These may include journeys based on literature, such as the Agatha Christie route, or gastronomic tours focused on local cuisine.

Despite its vintage appeal, the train has made some concessions to modern comforts. In 2021, Belmond, the company that operates the VSOE, introduced a wellness program onboard, including spa treatments in select carriages.

What Does It Cost?

While the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers unparalleled luxury, it comes at a price. The cost of a journey varies depending on the route, cabin type, and season. For instance:

• A one-night journey from Venice to Paris starts at around $3,000 per person for a double occupancy in a historic cabin. The price increases for Grand Suites or private dining experiences.
• A four-night trip from Paris to Istanbul can cost upwards of $15,000 for a Grand Suite, but offers an unforgettable experience filled with bespoke excursions and cultural tours.

Environmental Considerations

With rising awareness around sustainable travel, many luxury experiences have faced scrutiny. The VSOE is no exception, but Belmond has made efforts to make the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express more eco-friendly. The company has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint, including:

• Sourcing local ingredients for meals to cut down on transportation emissions.
• Eco-friendly onboard amenities, such as biodegradable toiletries.
• Reduced plastic usage, replacing single-use items with sustainable alternatives.

Despite these efforts, train travel remains one of the more environmentally friendly options compared to air travel, especially for intercontinental journeys.

The Future of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express shows no signs of slowing down. With increasing demand for unique luxury experiences, it is expected that the train will continue to operate for many years. There are even rumors of new routes being added, including the possibility of expanding journeys into Eastern Europe or beyond the European continent. Belmond has also expressed interest in introducing more themed journeys, appealing to niche markets such as history buffs, gastronomes, or even art aficionados.

In summary, yes, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is still running and continues to offer one of the most luxurious and memorable train journeys available. Whether you are drawn to its historical charm, its lavish onboard experience, or simply the adventure of crossing Europe in style, this legendary train remains a symbol of timeless luxury travel.