Venice Simplon-Orient-Express & Verona Opera

Your holiday begins in the heart of London at Victoria Station where you'll be greeted by the iconic livery of the Belmond British Pullman. Set off on your journey across southern England, sweeping through the Kent countryside to Folkestone accompanied by a delicious Bellini-paired brunch. Then, following a short hop across the Channel, you'll arrive in Calais, where you’ll get your first glimpse of the blue-and-gold carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

Having been shown to your private cabin, or Grand Suite if you’ve chosen to upgrade, you’ll have time to freshen up and change for dinner, a sumptuous three-course affair with ingredients influenced by the train’s route; expect the likes of lobster from Brittany and salt marsh lamb from Mont St. Michel. It’s then off to the bar car for a nightcap, and to listed to the strains of the resident pianist, before retiring to bed as the train winds its way towards the Alps. 

You’ll wake to a continental breakfast, served in your cabin by your carriage’s dedicated steward, before enjoying a morning of relaxation as first the Swiss Alps and then the Italian Dolomites rush past. Then, after a three-course lunch served in one of the elegant restaurant cars, you’ll arrive into Verona where a private transfer will be waiting to whisk you to your luxury hotel – a converted 15th-century palace.

The rooms here are splendidly palatial, all handcrafted marble and intricate mosaics. There’s a rooftop bar, too, with views across the rooftops and the restaurant has three Michelin stars. Take the chance to settle in before heading out to explore Verona’s maze of Roman streets on an included private walking tour. In the company of an expert local guide, you’ll take in the city’s highlights, from Juliet’s balcony to the ancient amphitheatre. 

NH Collection Palazzo Verona, Verona

Enjoy a day free to explore Verona before the evening's entertainment begins. Then, with tickets included, you'll experience the unique thrill of a live performance of one of the great Italian operas at one of the country’s most evocative venues – the Arena di Verona. This colossal Roman amphitheatre was built in 30AD, and to help you get to grips with its history, we've included entry to its museum, which you might choose to visit before the show begins.

And what a show it will be. It’s all part of the city’s annual summer opera festival and, depending on which departure you choose, you’ll take in either Aida, La Traviatta, Il Trovatore, Tosca or Carmen. All departure dates and performances are listed below. And, please note, some schedules mean the opera will be on day two, with the walking tour moved to day three.

NH Collection Palazzo Verona, Verona

After a final, sumptuous breakfast at your hotel, you’ll sign off in style with a private transfer to the airport and a flight back to London