Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to Launch New Paris-to-Monaco Route in 2027
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is adding the French Riviera to its itinerary, with a new route from Paris to Monaco set to debut on May 10, 2027. It will be the first time in the train's history that it travels to Monte Carlo, and the journey is slated to become a regular fixture on the annual schedule.
Passengers board the train's midnight blue carriages in Paris and settle in for the night. Accommodation ranges from Historic Cabins to Suites and Grand Suites, all inspired by the train's Art Deco heritage. For a bigger splurge, there's L'Observatoire, an exclusive carriage created with French artist JR that includes a bedroom, an en-suite bathroom with a freestanding bathtub, a living area, a library and a secret tearoom.
Dinner is served in one of two restaurant cars, Étoile du Nord and L'Oriental, followed by cocktails and live piano music in Bar Car 3674. The next morning, after breakfast in their cabins, guests take in Mediterranean views as the train runs along the Côte d'Azur, past the red cliffs of the Massif de l'Estérel and through Saint-Raphaël toward Cannes and Nice before arriving at Monaco-Monte-Carlo station.
Monte Carlo holds a place in the train's history: in 1977, two original carriages were bought at an auction in the principality, helping set in motion the project that became the luxury train of today. "Introducing the destination feels like a natural continuation for the Venice-Simplon Orient Express, bringing the romance of luxury rail travel to a locale that has always understood the art of arrival," said Pascal Deyrolle, Belmond's Europe area managing director for trains. He added that returning to Monte Carlo is special given the role it played in the train's history.
The route joins Belmond's growing lineup of European rail experiences, which includes the second year of its "Villeggiatura by Train" itinerary linking the train with Belmond hotels in Italy. Tickets start at €4,870 (about $5,450) per person based on two people sharing a Historic Cabin, covering the overnight journey, all meals with sommelier-selected wines, unlimited soft drinks, transfers and 24-hour steward service.