Custom Vacation to Venice using the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Arrive in London today and check-in at your hotel for an overnight stay. Set out to explore the British capital, perhaps taking a river cruise down the Thames or exploring the city's royal heritage with a trip to Buckingham Palace. You'll want to rest up in preparation for your luxurious journey tomorrow, but be sure to discover one of London's superb restaurants - as a major world city you will find sumptuous cuisine from Michelin-starred hotspots to quirky, elegant pubs all waiting to be discovered.

Check-in at London Victoria station for your journey on the British Pullman train, and be welcomed onboard by your steward who will show you to your seat. Enjoy a delectable lunch and a welcome cocktail as the journey begins through the Kent countryside as you head towards the coast for the Channel crossing. Board a luxury coach for the short hop under the English Channel, before climbing aboard the striking carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient Express in France. You will be shown to your private compartment and in the evening, you will be served a wonderful four-course dinner. Retire to your cabin, now transformed into a cozy bedroom, for a good night's rest.

Breakfast is served in your compartment this morning as the journey continues through the Swiss Alps. Lunch will be served in one of the opulent restored restaurant cars before retiring to your compartment to watch the stunning scenery of the Italian Dolomites pass by. As the journey continues through the Brenner Pass, afternoon tea will be served in your compartment. As the train crosses the Venetian Lagoon it will shortly arrive at Santa Lucia station, signaling the end of the journey and your arrival in the magical city of Venice. Check-in at your hotel for a three-night stay.

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 marveling 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.

After breakfast this morning, spend another day exploring the canal-side sanctuary of Venice at your own pace. Perhaps 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 specialties at the Rialto Markets.

Check out of your hotel today and continue with your onward journey. If you have more time left on your vacation, perhaps catch the train to the Renaissance paradise of Florence, or the historic Italian capital of Rome. Ask one of our Rail Vacation Specialists for details.