Book online

Depart: 
Search »
English English
by Orient-Express
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Orient-Express Restaurant Car in 1883

The Beginning: 1864 - 1883

The history of 'luxury' train travel can be traced back to 1864 when the innovative railway builder, George Mortimer Pullman, created a train in Britain, featuring the ultimate in nineteenth century technology and opulence and was far more advanced than anything that existed in Europe.

In the 1870's the first sleeping carriages and parlour cars in Britain went into service and for the first time meals were served on board a train. The first all Pullman train in Europe, the Pullman Limited Express, began operating in 1881.


It ran from London to Brighton and was the first train to be illuminated by electricity. Shortly afterwards, by connecting trains to ferries, George Mortimer Pullman made safe and comfortable train travel between London and Paris a reality.

Georges Nagelmackers, a young Belgian railway enthusiast, also began building luxury railway carriages and gradually proceeded to do for continental train travel what Pullman had for Britain. In 1881 after experimenting with several demands, Nagelmackers introduced the first restaurant car aboard a continental train.
 

Features & Offers

Be Our Guest...

Be Our Guest...

Enjoy complimentary luxury hotel stays with selected journeys across Europe... More »
3D Cabin Animations

3D Cabin Animations

Take a fresh look at Orient-Express luxury train cabins with our new 3D animations.  More »
Venice-Krakow-Dresden-Paris

Venice-Krakow-Dresden-Paris

A luxurious journey on the Orient-Express exploring some of Europe's finest cities.  More »
1st Place in Condé Nast Awards

1st Place in Condé Nast Awards

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express achieves top position in 'Trains' category. More »
Inclusive Packages

Inclusive Packages

Unforgettable Orient-Express train journeys combined with tours and luxury hotel stays. More »
Private Parties

Private Parties

Host an unforgettable private party with a journey on the Orient-Express luxury train. More »