The iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is set to debut a new three-night route from Paris to the Amalfi Coast starting in May 2026. This voyage marks a major moment in luxury rail travel, combining the glamour of a bygone era with Mediterranean splendor. Guests will board in Paris and arrive in Ravello, offering an immersive blend of Art Deco elegance, scenic landscapes and indulgent experiences. This journey introduces a fresh chapter for the famous train, enhanced by Mediterranean discovery and Italian sophistication.
Departure in Paris and Historic Elegance
The experience begins at Paris Gare de Lyon, where polished 1920s-style carriages await. Passengers will step into a refined environment of brass detailing, velvet upholstery and richly crafted wood-panel interiors. The onboard ambiance promises the atmosphere of the golden age of rail travel. Upon boarding, travellers can sip champagne, settle into cabins—either a historic twin or a spacious suite with marble bath—and feel the rhythm of the train as it glides out of Paris.
Scenic Landscapes and Destination Highlights
As the train departs the city, the route traverses French countryside with vineyards, verdant valleys and coastal scenes before entering Italy. The journey touches key landmarks including a visit to the ancient ruins of Pompeii, providing unique access to heritage and history. Travellers will witness dramatic turns in the landscape—cliffside villages, sparkling coves and high Mediterranean views. The travel experience crafts moments of discovery at every mile.
The Grand Finale: Ravello on the Amalfi Coast
Arrival in Ravello marks the grand crescendo of the journey. Guests will stay two nights in a historic 11th-century palazzo converted into a luxury hotel perched above the Tyrrhenian Sea. The setting allows indulgence amid lemon groves, sweeping sea views and cobbled lanes. Activities include private gala dinners beneath the stars, scenic coastal boat rides and immersive painting sessions capturing the region’s timeless beauty.
Crafting the Luxury Experience
The journey exceeds mere transport and becomes a celebration of craftsmanship, service and exclusivity. Each onboard moment is curated—from gourmet multi-course dining in lavish restaurant cars to intimate cocktails in elegant bar lounges. The train pays homage to its heritage while offering modern comfort and surprise. Every cabin has been designed to allow travellers to relax, unwind and embrace the journey itself as a destination.
Accessible Yet Exceptional Alternative
For travellers seeking a similar Mediterranean escape without full luxury pricing, high-speed trains from Paris through Lyon, Milan, and Florence offer one-day progress to Italy. From Rome regional links lead to the Amalfi region. Though not as opulent as this new train route, they still provide elegant experience and scenic transition into Italian coastal landscapes. This option allows for progressive discovery of the region with less cost.
Broader Impacts on Luxury Travel
This route expansion signals a shift in luxury tourism. It emphasizes not just destinations but the journey itself—turning travel time into a highlight. For those accustomed to air travel or fast transport, this train offers a slower, richer pace defined by ambiance and visual reward. It underscores how luxury travel now places experience and moments ahead of simply arrival.
Booking and Anticipation
The launch date is set for 4 May 2026. Reservations are expected to open early, given the limited capacity and high demand. Travellers looking for unique rail-based luxury experiences should secure bookings ahead. The route’s exclusivity and combination of train journey, historic hotel stay and regional immersion make it one of the most anticipated new luxury travel products of the year.
Ideal For Discerning Travellers
This journey is tailored to travellers who value craftsmanship, story and sensory experience. Whether honeymooners, cultural explorers or luxury connoisseurs, the route delivers a sense of occasion unmatched by standard cruises or flights. The train’s historic roots, elegant presentation and Mediterranean finale appeal to those seeking a deeper travel moment rather than mere transit.
Final Thoughts
The Paris to Amalfi Coast route aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express redefines what luxury train travel can offer. It blends heritage, design, destination and indulgence into one uninterrupted experience. From the moment the wheels roll out of Paris until the Amalfi coastline unfurls before guests in Ravello, the journey invites travellers to savour every vista, every meal and every elegant detail.
For those ready to treat travel as art rather than simply movement, this itinerary offers a journey to remember. With limited departures, refined style and premium locations, the experience represents both opportunity and rarity. Travel on this route and you carry not just luggage, but stories of elegance, craft and coastal beauty.
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