The Venice Simplon Orient-Express is an experience in time travel. In 1982, James Sherwood began purchasing and restoring 35 train carriages to their full art deco glory for a total cost of $16 million. In service largely during the 1920s and 1930s, these cars today offer passengers arguably the most luxurious means of train travel in Europe. Elegantly dressed passengers benefit from the expertise of French chefs in three individually designed carriages; black ties and gowns are encouraged, suits and dresses are mandatory. Departing from London and arriving in Venice the following day, sunrise greets passengers with views of the Alps.
Venice Simplon Orient-Express
20 Upper Ground
London SE1 9PF, England
011-65-6395-0678
orient-express.com
The Danube Express offers train lovers a private option for those whose interests lie in combining travel and tourism in Central and Eastern Europe. Departing from Budapest, passengers are led through Transylvania and Bulgaria before skirting the edge of the Sea of Marmara and arriving in Istanbul nine days later. The journey includes regular stops along the way, such as walking tours of Bran Castle, known by most as Dracula's Castle; Veliko Turnovo, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Bulgaria; and the historically rich Istanbul. Less formal than the Venice Simplon Orient-Express, service includes restaurant cars without dress codes, a lounge car with a pianist and a relaxed atmosphere spearheaded by the train staff.
Danube Express
Offley Holes Farm
Hitchin SG4 7TD, England
011-44-0-1462-441400
danube-express.com
Spend the day gaping in awe at the majestic scenery of the Swiss Alps while enjoying a sublime trip aboard the Glacier Express. Departing from Zermatt, this train travels northeast 180 miles until arriving at St. Moritz more than seven hours later. Passengers are treated to grand vistas regardless of which side they sit on, thanks to oversize windows that partially wrap the roof of each car. A three-course lunch is served in addition to Swiss white wine. The Glacier Express begins its journey within view of the Matterhorn before passing over the Gotthard Pass (notable as the source of the Rhine and Rhone rivers) and later over Oberlap Pass, the highest elevation on the trip.
Glacier Express
Bahnhofplatz 7
CH-3900 Brig-Glis, Switzerland
011-41-0-81-288-6565
glacierexpress.ch
