The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Belmond's celebrated Art Deco train, is expanding its European network with a new route that will take passengers from Paris to Monte Carlo before continuing to Venice. Starting in May 2027, the overnight journey will become a permanent addition to the train's annual schedule, offering travellers a chance to experience the glamour of the French Riviera and the principality of Monaco.
The train will depart from the French capital, its midnight-blue carriages evoking the golden age of rail travel. Guests can choose from historic cabins, grand suites, or the exclusive L'Observatoire carriage, designed by French artist JR. The latter features a bedroom, an en-suite bathroom with a freestanding bathtub, a spacious living area, a library, and a hidden tearoom.
A Riviera journey steeped in style
As the train winds south, it hugs the dramatic red cliffs of the Massif de l'Estérel, passing through Saint-Raphaël, Cannes, and Nice, with panoramic views over the Mediterranean. Closer to Monaco, the railway cuts into the mountainside before arriving at Monte Carlo station, which sits deep beneath the famous rock.
Monte Carlo has long been a magnet for the international elite, known for its Casino de Monte-Carlo and the annual Formula One Grand Prix. Belmond's decision to add the destination was, according to the company, a natural one. Pascal Deyrolle, Area Managing Director for Trains – Continental Europe, said: “Monaco has long held a special place in the story of European travel, with generations drawn to the Côte d'Azur by its distinctive sense of style, culture, and occasion. Introducing the destination feels like a natural continuation for the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, bringing the romance of luxury rail travel to a locale that has always understood the art of arrival.”
On board, passengers can dine in one of two restaurant cars, Étoile du Nord or L'Oriental, before retiring to the Bar Car '3674' for cocktails accompanied by live piano music. The following morning, breakfast of fresh pastries and pressed juices is served as the train glides along the coast.
The new route is part of a broader trend of luxury rail travel gaining popularity across Europe, as travellers seek more sustainable and immersive ways to explore the continent. While the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express remains the most iconic, other operators are also expanding their offerings, from the British Pullman to the Royal Scotsman.
Fares for the Monte Carlo journey start at €4,870 per person, based on two guests sharing a historic cabin. This includes 24-hour steward service, all meals with the sommelier's choice of wine, unlimited soft drinks, and transfers. For many, the price may seem steep, but for those seeking an unforgettable journey through some of Europe's most beautiful landscapes, it could be worth the investment.
As the train prepares to add Monte Carlo to its roster, it joins a growing list of European destinations served by Belmond. The company already operates routes through the Alps, the Italian lakes, and the Balkans, and has been expanding its network in recent years. The addition of Monaco underscores the enduring appeal of the Riviera as a symbol of European elegance and leisure.
For those interested in the broader cultural scene of the region, the Venice Film Festival remains a highlight, with recent winners such as May el-Toukhy's 'Woman Unknown' taking the Golden Lion. Meanwhile, the ongoing debate over Montenegro's EU accession shows that the Balkans continue to be a focus of European integration efforts.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has long been a symbol of the romance of rail travel, and its new Monte Carlo route promises to add another chapter to that storied history. Whether for the scenery, the service, or the sheer indulgence, the journey is set to become a sought-after experience for travellers from across the continent and beyond.
