World's most famous train launches stunning new route - with an $18k price tag
One of the world's most famous trains is set to embark on a brand new journey in 2026.
Luxury sleeper train Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has unveiled its first-ever Paris to Amalfi route, which will include a stop in the ancient city of Pompeii.
The Belmond Train already travels between some of Europe's most extraordinary cities, including Rome, Vienna, Florence, Paris, Venice, and Istanbul.
READ MORE: South Australia stars in Lonely Planet's 'Best in Travel' destinations for 2026
Luxury sleeper train Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Supplied
Departing on May 4, 2026, for the first time, the Venice Simplon-Orient Express will embark on a three-night journey, starting in Paris and ending surrounded by the dramatic beauty of the Amalfi Coast.
The new route is part of a new chapter in the train's Italian journey series called Villeggiatura by Train.
The term "villeggiatura" is an Italian phrase for a leisurely summer vacation and a slow pace.
"This journey offers guests a unique way to experience one of Italy's most celebrated coastlines – with its cliffs, villages, and sea views revealed in a way that only the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express can provide," General Manager of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Pascal Deyrolle said.
READ MORE: $2 item travellers say should be in your suitcase for every holiday
For the first time the famous train will travel from Paris to the Amalfi Coast. Supplied
The voyage begins with a Champagne welcome aboard as guests settle into one of three cabin categories: historic twin cabins, elegant Suites, or Grand Suites.
On-board menus are inspired by the regions along the route, plus there are cocktails to be enjoyed and live piano music in the train's iconic Bar Car '3674'.
Guests will be treated to an exclusive exploration of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The journey ends with a stay at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, located in Ravello.
Guest will be treated to on-board luxury. Supplied
The journey ends with a stay at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, located in Ravello. Supplied
The 2026 season will also introduce new, curated Italian itineraries culminating in Venice and Florence, each offering a three-night journey.
Completing the collection, the train will also celebrate the return of its Paris to Portofino journey, connecting the French and Italian Rivieras.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, debuts it's first-ever Paris to Amalfi Coast route. Supplied
How much does it cost for a trip on the Orient Express?
As one might expect, all this doesn't exactly come cheap.
Prices for Villeggiatura by Train start from £8,600 per person ($18k) based on two guests sharing on the Paris to the Amalfi Coast itinerary, including a shared Historic Cabin on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and two nights in a Superior Garden View Room at Caruso.
Do you have to pay for meals on the Orient Express?
However, that price includes the overnight journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and 24h steward service, plus all meals with sommelier's choice of wine and unlimited soft drinks, transfers, and excursions.
What is the Orient Express?
The Orient Express has a long history and has defined luxury railway travel since it began running in May 1982.
At the time, it was the culmination of an ambitious effort by Belmond's founder, James B. Sherwood, to resurrect the "golden age of travel."
The Orient Express began running in May 1982. Supplied
The carriages you see on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express today were created between 1926 and 1949 - each with its own dynamic story and panels at the end of each car.
Sleeping Car 3309, for example, was marooned in a snowdrift for 10 days in 1929, which is the incident that inspired Agatha Christie's most famous novel, Murder on the Orient Express.
The historic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is operated by the Belmond company.
