Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: London or Paris to Cannes

Your journey begins in the heart of Paris where you'll make your way to your city-centre accommodation, set within a 19th-century Parisian townhouse on a quiet side street just moments away from the Champs-Élysées – ideally positioned for you to make the most of your stay in the City of Lights. Take a stroll along the banks of the Seine, pause for coffee in Montmartre or dine in style at your hotel. If you're travelling from the UK, speak to your specialist to book a flight or the Eurostar from London's St Pancras International.

After a morning of relaxation and a final chance to explore Paris, a private transfer will whisk you to the station where the gleaming blue-and-gold carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express await. Once aboard, settle into your cabin, where a selection of pastries with tea and coffee is served. Then, as the bucolic landscapes and vineyards of Burgundy race past your window, you'll dress for dinner and make your way to one of the ornate restaurant cars for seasonal delicacies prepared by the Chef Imbert and his talented team. Expect dining inspired by the seasons, all paired with fine wines – a truly memorable gourmet adventure. After dinner, Bar Car ‘3674’ is calling. Mingle with your fellow guests over a digestif to the sounds of the resident pianist. Meanwhile, your cabin has been transformed into a bedroom, ready to welcome you for a good night's sleep.

As the sun rises over Marseille, you'll wake to fresh coffee, juice and pastries served in your cabin. Relax and take in the views of the Côte d'Azur, your route often hugging the coastline and offering tantalising glimpses of the Mediterranean beyond. On arrival in Cannes itself, you'll say goodbye to the train and head for the Carlton Cannes – a classic gem overlooking the beach beside the famous Promenade de la Croisette. It's the perfect base for enjoying the town itself, or you might choose to head further afield, perhaps with a trip along the coast to Cap d'Antibes with its 16th-century ramparts and star-shaped Fort Carré. We've included a two-night stay, so you'll have ample time to explore. 

Stay: Carlton Cannes

After breakfast at your hotel, perhaps take a final stroll along the promenade as your journey comes to an end.