Experience a rare journey on the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express at the height of winter, travelling in luxury from Paris to Vienna across the heart of snow-dusted alpine Europe. A magical adventure awaits as, after a night in one of Paris’s finest hotels – reached by a Eurostar hop from London – you indulge with seasonal delicacies, fine wines and champagne cocktails onboard. It’s all accompanied by the Art Deco fineries and standout service for which the world’s most iconic train is known. You’ll end with a two-night stay in Vienna’s historic city centre, decked out in the bright lights and festive delights of an Austrian Christmas.
Your journey begins at London St Pancras where you’ll board the Eurostar for a cross-Channel hop to Paris where a private transfer will see you to your luxury hotel. Located in the heart of the city, you’ll be perfectly placed to explore its myriad attractions, from the iconic Eiffel Tower to those delightful side-street cafes, all dressed in the winter’s finery.
Paris in December
Pre-Christmas fun in Paris
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before transferring to Gare de L’Est where the iconic blue-and-gold carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express await. Having been shown to your Historic Cabin, or suite if you’ve decided to upgrade, you’ll settle down to enjoy sweeping views of rural France as you head towards to central Europe and the snow-dusted Alps. It’s all accompanied by a full spread of gourmet delights, from a sumptuous lunch to a decadent, multi-course dinner. Then, as night falls, head to the bar car for night-cap drinks served to the sound of the resident pianist. Your day ends back in your cabin, which has been transformed to a sleeping compartment by your attentive steward.
Breakfast & Dinner included
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Wake to a Continental breakfast served in your accommodation as you head towards Vienna, taking the chance to relax as magnificent alpine views rush past your window. Then, as the train pulls into the Austrian capital at around 9:30 am, it’s time to wave goodbye to your Art Deco bubble, transferring to your luxury hotel located in the very heart of this historic city. Spend the rest of the day exploring or relaxing at your accommodation, perhaps savouring an afternoon tea or the fabulous cuisine at its Michelin-starred restaurant, relaxing in its atmospheric lounges or indulging with a treatment at the spa.
Breakfast included
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Afternoon Tea, Palais Hansen Kempinski
Take the chance to immerse yourself in Medieval streets and squares dominated by spectacular Baroque architecture, or uncover a rich musical heritage that includes the likes of Mozart, Brahms, Haydn and Strauss, using your base at the irresistible Palais Hansen Kempinski to ensure that you are in the heart of the action. With Christmas just around the corner, you'll also have the chance to explore one of Europe's leading festive markets, together with the Christmas illumination. Enjoy seasonal food and wine and even go skating in the Rathauspark Ice Dream, one of the world's largest ice rinks.
Breakfast included
Vienna at Christmas
Christmas markets in Vienna
Festive food, Austrian-style
Check out this morning, full of Christmas cheer, and transfer to the airport in time for your flight home.
"With just two departures in December 2022 – one southbound, one northbound – this itinerary is a genuine rarity, and an ideal chance to experience the best of festive Europe in style and luxury. As well as a journey across the Alps on the world's most famous train, we've also thrown in stays at two standout luxury city hotels, one in Paris, the other in the heart of historic Vienna."
Andy Austen
Destination Specialist