New train journey linking two gorgeous European hotspots that'll cost you over £8k

The world's most luxurious and glamorous train, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE), has unveiled a new route.

The train will embark on a journey from Paris to Italy's Amalfi Coast from May 4 to May 7 in 2026. This new route, operated by Belmond, is a part of the company's "Villeggiatura by Train" series - a journey which couples rail travel with extended hotel stays at Belmond's premiere properties across Italy.

Synonymous with opulence, the VSOE continues to dazzle passengers nearly 150 years after its original launch, and this new route promises a slower, more elegant way of travel.

Departing from the French capital, guests will board the train's meticulously restored 1920s carriages as they're handed a glass of champagne before settling into their cabins - ranging from historic twin rooms to grand suites with private (and luxe) marble bathrooms. Guests will be treated to live piano music and cocktails in the famous Bar Car 3674 as they commence their journey.

The overnight voyage will take guests to the historic city of Pompeii at a leisurely pace and upon arrival, travellers have the opportunity to explore the historic UNESCO site, preserved under ash from Mount Vesuvius. Those staying in the Grand Suite of the train can gain exclusive access to the seldom-open-to-public Casa del Larario Regio V, an archaeological gem supported by Caruso through its preservation efforts.

Also known as House of the Ilion Sanctuary or The House of the Achilles Lararium, the second-century home provides a unique snapshot into the life of a middle-class Pompeian home, complete with remarkably well-preserved furnishings that were discovered in 2022. The residence is famous for its atrium, which displays stuccoed and painted walls that depict scenes from the Trojan War.

The rail portion of the train journey concludes in Ravello, post which guests will be transported by boat to the extravagant Caruso hotel in Positano for a two-night stay.

The hotel is housed in an 11th-century palazzo perched high above the Tyrrhenian Sea, and the two-night stay at this ultra-luxe property will include a private party beside the hotel's famed La Piscina infinity pool, situated 1,000 feet above the sea. An opulent gala dinner will also be hosted in the gardens overlooking the coast.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express general manager Pascal Deyrolle told WWD: "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."

However, before you rush to book your annual leave, there's something crucial to bear in mind. This trip doesn't come cheap.

While it may cover the cost of all meals, transfers, and excursions, a ticket for the Paris to Amalfi service will set you back a whopping £8,600.

Luxury travel is on the up and up, and there are several more luxury trains on offer. A 1970s-era vintage train is operating a route from Rome to Tuscany's Siena, offering passengers a slow-paced way to explore the region's hill towns and vineyards till November.

Elsewhere, the Espresso Assisi: Frantoi Aperti Edition is carrying passengers to Umbria, where they can indulge in the region's celebrated olive oil - complete with guided tastings offered onboard the train.

Belmond itself is all set to launch The Britannic Explorer, England and Wales' first luxury sleeper train, which will comprise a three-night journey through Wales this year. Guests will sleep in opulent suites, be fed food curated by a Michelin-star chef, and set off on excursions like clay pigeon shooting. Priced at £11,000 for a double cabin, the cost is inclusive of accommodation, meals, alcoholic beverages, and excursions.