Venice Simplon Orient Express FAQs

Traveller Tips

Venice Simplon Orient Express FAQs

Venice Simplon Orient Express FAQs - Frequently asked questions and useful things to know before you travel.

Can I smoke on board the Venice Simplon Orient Express?

No. To comply with Italian and other European regulations, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train operates a no smoking policy on board both the Belmond British Pullman and the continental train.

Dress code - what do I wear on the Venice Simplon Orient Express?

You can never be overdressed on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train. For dinner, men should wear a suit and tie and women dress in smart attire, but many guests like to don black tie or evening dress for the occasion. During the day, the dress code is smart-casual. At lunch, for example, a jacket and tie is suitable for men. Jeans are not acceptable at any time.

What languages does the Venice Simplon Orient Express train staff speak?

French, English and Italian are spoken by most stewards on board the continental train.

What currency do I need on board the Venice Simplon Orient Express?

Prices are quoted in Euros and it is recommended that passengers have a small number of Euros for on-board purchases. However, most major currencies are accepted, as well as travellers' cheques, Eurocheques and major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and JCB). The exchange rate on board is displayed in the Bar Car.

How long does the Venice Simplon Orient Express journey take?

Journeys on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train can last from one to several days. The traditional and most popular route between London and Venice takes two days, with one night on board. See The Calendar of Luxury Train Journeys for details of other departures.

How do we cross the English Channel / La Manche?

Passengers travel on the Belmond British Pullman carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train between London and Folkestone. The following describes the journey England to France, but the process is the same, France to England. The British Pullman stops at Folkestone. Baggage (except hand luggage) is managed by Belmond staff throughout. Passengers board luxury coaches, with the assistance of hostesses. Coaches have tables, toilets, snacks and soft drinks. They drive to the Eurotunnel Passenger Terminal; there may be time to visit - there are washrooms, shops etc. The coaches drive onto the Eurotunnel train. At Calais there is a 5-minute drive to the waiting Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

Will I need insurance for the Venice Simplon Orient Express journey?

As with all holidays and trips abroad, we strongly recommend travel insurance.

Will there be room in my Venice Simplon Orient Express cabin for my entire luggage?

Despite having luggage racks in the cabins, space constraints require that luggage is limited, per passenger, to: one suitable piece of hand luggage (plane cabin size), one suit carrier or overnight bag, with you in your cabin, and one suitcase to be stored in the baggage car, where it will not be accessible until you reach your destination.

Is there a safe in the cabin?

There is no safe in your cabin. Cabins are locked - you will have a key. Passports are looked after by your steward for border crossings. You can ask the Train Manager for assistance if required.

Will I need to tip the Venice Simplon Orient Express train staff?

Any gratuities you wish to give are entirely at your discretion.

Do Venice Simplon Orient Express cabins have toilets and showers?

There are no cabins with en suite bathrooms. Travelling on the train is to experience it exactly as you would have done in the 1920s. Even the heating in your cabin is powered by a coal stove at the end of each carriage. Each cabin has a little vanity unit with basin, and then there are toilets at the end of each carriage. There are no baths or showers on the train.

Does the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express have air-conditioning?

Air Conditioning is provided in all carriages throughout the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Cabin windows still open, 1929-style, for fresh mountain air!

Do the Venice Simplon Orient Express cabins have wash bowls and power sockets?

A washbasin with hot and cold water is in a closed cabinet in both Twin Cabins and Cabin Suites. Towels and quality toiletries are provided. There are European 'continental' two-pin electric sockets (230 volts) and a 115-volt socket for razors. Grand Suites have private bathrooms.

Does the Venice Simplon Orient Express have laundry and ironing facilities?

No it does not. We advise the use of suit carriers. There is hanging space in the cabin.

Can I choose first or second sitting for Venice Simplon Orient Express meals?

The Chief Steward will come to your cabin to note your preference for sittings. If you have booked through the Club, we can request this of the train management in advance, if you wish. Private dining is possible in Grand Suites.

How do I travel between my hotel and the Venice Simplon Orient Express station in Venice?

Free transfers in Venice from Santa Lucia station to any central Venice hotel on arrival, or when departing, from any central hotel to the station; can be combined with any other promotion for this train; see more here. The Club can otherwise arrange a transfer between station to hotel (shared with fellow Venice Simplon-Orient-Express guests). Alternatively your hotel will book a transfer. Both these options are more costly than taking the public water bus, the Vaporetto. If you don't have a lot of luggage, consider walking.

What is the Venice Simplon Orient Express fare policy for children?

2 yrs old and younger - free; 3 to 12 yrs old - 20% discount. Age at date of travel.

Why do you need my pre- and post-journey hotel accommodation details?

We need your hotel or other accommodation details as soon as you know them but in any case preferably at least two weeks before travel so that the complimentary shared transfer can be arranged.

Why do you ask for my passport details?

We must have your passport details prior to travel so they can be added to the train booking system since national border authorities may ask to check them. Any other questions?

Why are prices for the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express shown as 'from'?

Following a decision by the train operator Belmond, prices for the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express are subject to dynamic pricing based on variable fares. These prices change according to supply and demand calculations. The price of the same itinerary can vary substantially on different dates. A price for the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express can only be fixed when the Club gives you a Belmond reference number (e.g. UK 99879); a deposit or full payment must be made by the date given on booking. The Luxury Train Club guarantees to apply any valid offer or promotion to a reservation unlike with many other booking methods.

Contact

Contact us for more information, or to book.

General information partly provided by Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, with additions by the Luxury Train Club.

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