For the first time in its history, Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express has launched new journeys through Italy with a departure on 11 May from Paris and ending on 12 May at Castello di Casole.

The journey begins in Paris with a champagne welcome as guests settle into their cabins with the choice of three lavish accommodations including the characterful Historic Cabins, the Suites, and the opulent Grand Suites. Guests begin their journey over pastries, tea, and coffee whilst admiring the timeless beauty of the countryside through their windows. As night falls, Chef Jean Imbert prepares an exceptional menu inspired by the regions the train travels through. In the famous Bar Car “3674”, drinks continue to flow throughout the night, over live piano music.

Awakened by idyllic Italian vistas, a leisurely breakfast is served in the comfort of the cabins as the train makes its way towards the city of Arezzo. Here, a transfer awaits to lead travellers through the lush Tuscan landscape towards the medieval city of Siena where a typical local lunch sets the stage for a cultural afternoon. Guests embark on a private guided tour of Siena’s UNESCO-listed historic centre, celebrated for its architectural grandeur and timeless allure, an exclusive visit to Palazzo Pannocchieschi d’Elci, a majestic 13th-century aristocratic palace overlooking Piazza del Campo, and the iconic site of the world-famous Palio di Siena horse race.

The day concludes at Castello di Casole, Belmond’s farm estate surrounded by verdant vineyards, olive groves, and abundant wildlife, dating back to Etruscan times. Guests settle into enchanting Suites where they will spend two luxurious nights. In the evening, an exclusive stargazing session takes place in the outdoor amphitheater, under “one of the most beautiful skies in Italy”, awarded by Astronomitaly, the network of Astronomical tourism. Guided by astro tourist experts, guests will explore the night sky constellations, navigating through stars, galaxies, planets, and nebulae using state-of-the-art telescopes for an unforgettable celestial journey.

On the second day of the Paris to Tuscany itinerary, the hotel’s courtyard comes alive with the “Festa del Villaggio”, a weekly convivial village celebration mirroring the traditions of Tuscany by gathering local producers and creative artisans over warming dishes and live musical entertainment. Furthermore, the hotel offers a range of guest experiences from wellness activities, including biking, hiking, yoga, or indulging in a relaxing spa treatment at Essere Spa or a sound healing experience across the hotel’s expansive grounds, available for an additional fee. The following day, a morning stroll through the estate brings the Tuscany experience to a peaceful close before guests continue their personal onward journey.

The unforgettable return to Portofino

Following the success of the first voyage in June 2024, the Venice- Simplon-Orient-Express once again makes its annual journey to Portofino delivering an unmatched luxury rail experience through the French countryside, the Riviera, and the Ligurian Coast before arriving at Splendido.

On this iconic journey winding through the glamorous French Riviera, guests will be able to choose from four luxurious accommodation options. The latest accommodation type to join the rails in March 2025 will be L’Observatoire sleeper carriage designed by acclaimed artist JR, offering the most exclusive and spacious accommodation on the train.

The evening’s ambiance is elevated with a visit to Bar Car “3674” where travellers can sip champagne or bespoke cocktails before enjoying a fine dining experience by Chef Jean Imbert, celebrating regional flavours. The journey continues with incredible views of the Cote d’Azur, across captivating destinations like Cannes, Nice, Monte Carlo, and Genoa.

After disembarking in Santa Margherita Ligure, travellers are transferred to Splendido, reopening after a new, major phase of its multi-year renovation led by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, capturing the spirit of Ligurian craftsmanship and design.

For the 2025 season, the grand dame continues its evolution revealing an entirely new main building, with a focus on new rooms and communal areas, including a new signature bar, breakfast area, retail space and Dior Spa. Upon arrival at Splendido, guests are welcomed by the stunning views of the Gulf of Tigullio. They might choose to unwind by the pool, explore the new wellness spaces or enjoy dinner at DaV Mare, situated at the sister hotel, Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino, down by the harbour. The evening is perfectly rounded off with drinks at Splendido’s newly renovated cocktail bar, a historic spot once visited by Elizabeth Taylor and Humphrey Bogart.

On the third and final day, the hotel’s many attractions continue to impress with the option to play tennis on the panoramic courts led by a professional from LUX tennis; soak in the sun by the heated, saltwater pool; savour homemade pizza at the Pool Grill restaurant; or relax with bespoke treatments the newly launched Dior Spa. Further afield, guests can take the hotel shuttle to Portofino’s Piazzetta, or enjoy nature walks and kayaking, arranged through the Concierge. The evening culminates in an aperitif in the gardens, followed by a gala dinner at La Terrazza, featuring chef Corrado Corti’s cuisine and live entertainment.