Belmond Train Journeys in Europe: The Most Elegant Way to Travel Through the Continent

There are few experiences that capture the romance and artistry of travel quite like a Belmond train journey. These iconic routes are more than transportation—they are moving worlds of elegance, restored heritage, and slow-travel luxury. With vintage carriages, exceptional cuisine, and attentive service, Belmond invites travelers to experience Europe in a way that feels timeless, intentional, and unforgettable.

At Tribù Travel, we love weaving these rail experiences into bespoke itineraries, adding a sense of wonder and occasion to journeys across the continent. Here’s a closer look at Belmond’s most celebrated European trains.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Europe’s Most Iconic Journey

The legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) is perhaps the most famous train in the world — a masterpiece of Art Deco design and a symbol of the golden age of travel. The classic overnight route from Paris to Venice remains the crown jewel, winding through France and the Alps before arriving in Italy.

Guests settle into restored 1920s cabins, enjoy multi-course dinners crafted by renowned chefs, and sip champagne as the scenery shifts outside their window. Other seasonal routes link cities like Vienna, Prague, Amsterdam, and Istanbul, each offering its own sense of cinematic charm. This is the train of celebrations, honeymoons, proposals, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

Royal Scotsman: A Rolling Country House Through the Highlands

With its rich interiors, warm tartans, and intimate size, the Royal Scotsman feels like a luxury country house on rails. Traveling deep into the Scottish Highlands, this train blends elegant rail travel with immersive off-train excursions—think castle visits, whisky tastings, guided hikes, and private estate experiences.

One of the most beloved features is the onboard Bamford Spa: the first spa carriage of its kind. This journey pairs beautifully with time in Edinburgh, the Isle of Skye, or a longer exploration of northern Scotland.

British Pullman: Day Journeys in Timeless British Style

Departing from London Victoria, the British Pullman offers glamorous day trips through the English countryside in exquisitely restored 1920s and 1930s carriages. Each car has its own history and personality — some once carried royalty, others dignitaries or wartime travelers. Guests can enjoy themed journeys such as culinary experiences with visiting chefs, murder mystery lunches, countryside excursions, seasonal celebrations, and private charters. It’s perfect for a special occasion or as a luxurious addition to a London-based itinerary.

Britannic Explorer: A Journey Through Britain’s Hidden Corners

The lesser-known but beautifully crafted Britannic Explorer is a curated multi-day journey that showcases the landscapes and heritage of Great Britain. With a focus on culture, craftsmanship, and regional flavors, this journey takes travelers beyond classic city routes and into quieter corners of the country—charming villages, dramatic coastlines, and historic estates.

The experience feels intimate, immersive, and richly British, making it a remarkable option for travelers wanting to see the UK through a more atmospheric lens.

Pairing Belmond Rail With a Tribù Travel Itinerary

Belmond trains integrate seamlessly into bespoke itineraries across Europe. At Tribù Travel, we often design journeys such as:

• A romantic escape beginning in Paris, boarding the VSOE to Venice, and continuing through Northern Italy

• A culture-and-whisky immersion combining the Royal Scotsman with time in Edinburgh and the Highlands

• A London-focused celebration trip complemented by a British Pullman dining journey

• A UK grand tour that includes a multi-day Britannic Explorer route paired with time in the Cotswolds or Cornwall

These routes add depth, elegance, and a sense of occasion — perfect for anniversaries, milestone trips, or anyone seeking the magic of slow travel.

When to Book

Belmond journeys are in high demand, especially the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. We recommend securing cabins 6–12 months in advance for ideal dates and availability.

Ready to Experience Europe by Rail?

Belmond’s European trains bring back the age when travel was as meaningful as the destination itself. If you’re curious about weaving one of these extraordinary journeys into your next European adventure, we’d love to create something beautifully tailored.

Contact Tribù Travel to begin planning your journey.