DAY1 - VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT-EXPRESS TO VENICE
As you board the British Pullman at London Victoria station, your steward will show you to your reserved seat. Sit back and enjoy brunch served with a Bellini as you travel throughout the Kentish countryside. After crossing the Channel, board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train. Throughout your journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express you will be attended by your own personal steward. After you have settled into your private compartment, you will be served a delicious four-course dinner. When you are ready, retire to your compartment, which has now been transformed into a bedroom. (Overnight on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express)
DAY 2 - VENICE
Breakfast is served on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in the comfort of your compartment, at a time to suit you, as you travel through the magnificent mountain and countryside scenery of the Swiss Alps. Spend the morning relaxing in your compartment or in the Bar Car chatting to fellow guests. Enjoy a leisurely three-course lunch which is served in another one of the beautiful restaurant cars.
While away the afternoon admiring the passing scenery of the Brenner Pass and the Italian Dolomites. Later, a selection of pastries are served in your compartment. All too soon it is time to prepare to disembark as the train crosses the Venetian Lagoon and pulls into Santa Lucia station.
FOR THOSE WHO HAVE BOOKED THE 5 DAY TRIP ONLY:
On arrival at Santa Lucia station, a shared taxi transfer service will take you to your hotel. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for a three-night stay. (Overnight in Venice)
DAY 3 - VENICE (5-DAY TRIP ONLY)
Start today with a short walking tour with a local guide for some stories of the city's labyrinthine streets and campos (squares), then enjoy a gondola ride down the Grand Canal. A visit to Venice is not complete without a ride on a Gondola, a mode of transport that has been in existence in Venice for over 1000 years! Soak up the vibrant atmosphere in St. Mark’s Square, while marvelling at the beautiful mosaics that adorn the Basilica and maybe visit the Doge's Palace, with its origins dating back to the 14th century. It is advisable to take a tour of this important Venetian landmark to fully understand its extensive history. (Overnight in Venice)
DAY 4 - VENICE (5-DAY TRIP ONLY)
After breakfast this morning, spend another day exploring the canal-side sanctuary of Venice at your own pace. Why not take a water taxi to the Lido and soak up the sunshine on the pristine, sandy beach? Alternatively, indulge your inner culture vulture and head to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, boasting a large collection of modern art. For tasty treats and souvenirs to take back home, perhaps search for local specialities at the Rialto Markets. (Overnight in Venice)
DAY 5 - VENICE TO UK (5-DAY TRIP ONLY)
After breakfast, make your way to the airport and check in for your flight back to the UK. Prefer the train to flying? Ask us for details on taking the train for your return to London instead.
