The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train is the world’s most expensive train to ride. It’s also the most luxurious. The train’s 1920s decor is like that of a five-star hotel. But it’s not all. There’s a Michelin-starred chef on board cooking all the meals; there’s a bar car where passengers can indulge in handcrafted cocktails; there’s a resident pianist and a three-man-band to keep everyone entertained; and, of course, there are the most elegant guests cabins ever made, some with marble ensuite bathrooms and queen beds.
Photo: Belmond
This Beautiful Paris to Italian Riviera Train Route Only Happens Once Per Year
Photo: Belmond
Photo: Belmond
Photo: Belmond
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train travels throughout the year all around Europe, and even ventures all the way to Istanbul, Turkey. In 2024, the famous blue train will add a new route to its schedule: a three-day trip from Paris, France, to Portofino, Italy. This trip will happen only once per year and in 2024, the inaugural year, it will depart on June 20.
On this new route, the train will run through the French countryside before reaching the Mediterranean coast and go through Cannes, Nice, and Monaco. It will then cross the Italian border and pass through Ventimiglia, Savona, Genoa, and Santa Margherita Ligure, its final stop.
Guests will spend one night on board the train and two nights in the five-star Splendido hotel in Portofino. The Spendido is a former 16th-century Benedictine monastery built high up in the hills. That means that the views of the Portofino Gulf are unbeatable, whether from the salt-water swimming pool, the suites and rooms, the gardens, or the two restaurants.
Photo: Belmond
Photo: Belmont
Photo: Belmond
The 2024 trip will start at $8,525 per person based on double occupancy (£7,920). 