Full Steam Ahead: Belmond Unveils Four New Italian Journeys
There's something undeniably captivating about train travel. Perhaps it's the deliberate slowing of time that our hurried world desperately needs. It's in that rhythmic clatter of wheels on steel, the cinematic blur of landscapes rolling past your window, and the simple, elegant ritual of a journey you actually get to savor. This captures the heart of villeggiatura, an Italian tradition we absolutely adore. It's the art of lingering, of retreating somewhere beautiful to rest, recharge, and truly reconnect.
What if we paired that golden age of rail romance with stays at some of Europe's most legendary hotels? The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, is making that dream a reality with four spectacular new journeys set for 2026. Spend one night onboard as you travel from Paris to Venice, Florence, Portofino, or the Amalfi Coast, indulging in private tours, spa treatments, and gala dinners, followed by two unforgettable nights at exquisite Belmond hotels. These journeys are all about savoring the beauty of travel, where every step feels personal, thoughtful, and downright magical.
Paris to Venice: The Ultimate Journey, Elevated
April 25–28, 2026
The legendary Paris to Venice route is the ultimate rail dream, and this journey absolutely perfects it. Your adventure begins the moment you step into the polished, art deco world of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Settle into your cabin as the train glides out of Paris, leaving the city's buzz behind for rolling French countryside.
As daylight fades, dress for dinner and prepare for an evening of culinary mastery. Enjoy multi-course meals and sommelier-selected wines served on crisp linens, surrounded by the gentle clink of crystal and intricate marquetry. Wake to the snowtipped Swiss Alps in the first light, then cross into Italy, tracing the dramatic Dolomites before arriving at the Venetian lagoon. But here's where it gets even better.
Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel: Having been recognized as the "Best Hotel in the World" by La Liste and currently ranks among the World's 50 Best Hotels, this is where your villeggiatura truly begins. Unwind with a restorative spa treatment, then prepare for an exclusive evening.
Your stay includes a special aperitivo followed by dinner at the Michelin-starred ORO, where Head Chef Vania Ghedini's creations are perfectly paired with fine wines. To deepen your connection to Venetian artistry, you'll also enjoy a private visit to the historic Orsoni mosaic furnace, watching a craft that's been passed down through generations.
Paris to the Amalfi Coast: A Celebration of Italian Summer
May 4-7, 2026
If you've ever closed your eyes and dreamt of a sun-drenched Italian summer, this one is for you. Your night aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express takes you south, charting a course along the sparkling French and Italian Rivieras. The changing light transforms these coastal views into a moving masterpiece, best enjoyed with a flute of champagne in hand, naturally.
After a night of vintage glamour, your Italian immersion begins. You'll disembark for curated handpicked experiences, including a scenic boat tour along the dramatic coastline and a guided visit to the preserved ruins of Pompeii. The journey continues to Ravello, perched high above the sea like something from a dream, where you'll check into Caruso, A Belmond Hotel.
Caruso, A Belmond Hotel: This Michelin One-Key awarded hotel, a former 11th-century medieval palace, will be your home for the next two nights. Perched at the highest, most tranquil point of Ravello, it boasts terraced gardens scented with Mediterranean blooms and regal views of the Amalfi’s dramatic coastline cliffs.
Your first evening features a formal dinner at the Caruso Grill. The second culminates in a grand gala dinner celebrating local producers, held under the stars and accompanied by private live music in the hotel's magnificent gardens. For a dash of creative flair, you can even opt for a painting lesson to capture that ethereal coastal light. It's a journey that engages all your senses, from fresh sea breezes to the taste of just-picked lemons.
Paris to Florence: A Renaissance Retreat
September 19-22, 2026
For lovers of art, history, and a touch of the sublime, this journey from Paris to Florence is an absolute masterpiece. Settle into the timeless elegance of your cabin as the train glides away, watching the French countryside bathed in golden-hour light.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the dining car beckons. Get ready to savor an unforgettable meal of seasonal delights, perfectly paired with wines handpicked by the sommelier. After a night of deep, blissful rest, you’ll wake to the breathtaking Swiss Alps just outside your window. Breakfast arrives at your cabin, setting the tone for a relaxed morning and a leisurely lunch aboard. By afternoon, you’ll glide into Florence, where a luxury transfer awaits to whisk you to Villa San Michele, tucked away in the enchanting hills of Fiesole.
Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel: Welcome to Florence's #1 ranked hotel and Michelin One-Key recognized Villa San Michele. This former 15th-century monastery boasts a façade attributed to Michelangelo's school and grounds where Leonardo da Vinci once dreamed of flight. Yes, really.
With 15th-century frescoes, terraced gardens, and newly reimagined rooms and suites, the hotel itself is a destination worth savoring. Wander through ancient woodlands, admire centuries-old art, and feel the powerful history of a place that has inspired geniuses throughout time. Your two-night stay here is designed for complete restoration of the soul. Indulge in a 60-minute spa treatment, then choose your path to tranquility: whether that be a session of sound healing and meditation, or a private tour of Florence's hidden artisan ateliers.
Paris to Portofino: The Glamour of the Ligurian Coast
October 15–18, 2026
Capture the season's last golden rays on a sun-kissed escape to the Ligurian coast. This journey begins with a celebratory champagne reception as you board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in Paris. Wake to pastries and fresh coffee served by your steward as the train glides through the French countryside, passing Dijon, Lyon, and Avignon, chasing the sun to the Italian Riviera.
Your night is for feasting. A gastronomic dinner inspired by the region's finest ingredients awaits, perfectly paired with exceptional wines. Afterwards, it’s off to the legendary Bar Car ‘3674’ for live piano music, signature cocktails, and sparkling conversation. When you’re ready to call it a night, your cabin awaits, ready to rock you gently to sleep as you dream of the coast.
Splendido, A Belmond Hotel: This award-winning hotel has been artfully reimagined, retaining every bit of its historic charm. Perched above the iconic harbor amid terraced pines and vibrant cascading flowers, it offers a perfect dose of la dolce vita. Your stay will be filled with exclusive experiences designed to connect you with Portofino's irresistible spirit.
Challenge yourself with a tennis clinic led by a professional coach, take a guided hike to the scenic lighthouse, or learn the secrets of the perfect Italian pie in a pizza masterclass. The social centerpiece of your stay is a grand gala dinner at La Terrazza, where Chef Corrado Corti will present a menu of regional specialties, accompanied by live music and the shimmering backdrop of the bay. It's a fittingly glamorous conclusion to an unforgettable coastal escape.
Each of these four journeys gives you a fresh perspective on Italy, but they all share a core belief. Travel isn't about rushing. It's about savoring every moment. So, ditch the daily grind and step into the gentle rhythm of the rails, letting the beauty of these places truly restore you. Life often rushes by, we know. But here, you choose a different pace. Slow down, breathe it all in, and make every second count.
