There's a New Luxury Sleeper Train Route Coming to the French Riviera Next Spring

As someone who travels a lot for work, I would give anything to swap a flight for a train—even if that means spending eight hours on the rails.Thankfully, it's easy to travel Europe by train at nearly any price point. And although I am a big fan of modern high-speed routes, the most romantic way to see the continent is certainly aboard one of Belmond's gorgeous luxury trains, which travel to destinations such as the British countryside, the Amalfi Coast, and the Scottish Highlands.But in 2027, my bucket-list Belmond journey is a glamorous new addition to its already impressive collection of itineraries: the French Riviera.The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers three cabin types: Historic Cabins, Suites, and Grand Suites. On May 10, 2027, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is launching a new route from Paris to Monaco, traveling to Monte Carlo for the first time in its history.The journey, which will become a regular addition to the train's annual schedule, will take passengers through some of the most spectacular scenery along the French Riviera before arriving in the glamorous principality.The new route will take travelers to Monte Carlo for the first time in the train's history. The experience begins in Paris, where passengers will board the train's distinctive midnight blue carriages before settling into their accommodation for the night. There are several options to choose from, including the classic Historic Cabins, Suites, and Grand Suites, each drawing inspiration from the train's Art Deco heritage.For those looking to really splash out, there's also L'Observatoire, an exclusive carriage created in collaboration with French artist JR. Designed as a private sanctuary on the rails, it comes complete with a bedroom, an en-suite bathroom featuring a freestanding bathtub, a spacious living area, a library, and even a secret tearoom.As evening approaches, guests can enjoy dinner in one of the train's two restaurant cars, Étoile du Nord and L'Oriental, before heading to the famous Bar Car 3674 for cocktails and live piano music.But perhaps the most exciting part of the new journey comes the following morning. After waking up to breakfast served in their cabins, passengers will be treated to sweeping views of the Mediterranean as the train makes its way along the Côte d'Azur. The route passes the red cliffs of the Massif de l'Estérel and travels through Saint-Raphaël towards Cannes and Nice. The train will then continue towards Monaco before arriving at Monaco-Monte-Carlo station.Breakfast served aboard the Venice-Simplon Orient Express. Monte Carlo also has a surprising connection to the train's history. In 1977, two original train carriages were purchased at an auction in the principality, helping set in motion the project that would eventually become the luxury train we know today.“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,” says Pascal Deyrolle, Belmond's Europe area managing director for trains. “There's also something rather special about coming back to Monte Carlo, given the role it played in the train's history.”The new journey is part of Belmond's expanding collection of European rail experiences, alongside the second year of its “Villeggiatura by Train” itinerary, which connects the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express with Belmond hotels in Italy.Of course, a journey this luxurious comes with a price tag to match. Tickets for the new Paris-to-Monte-Carlo route start from €4,870 (approximately $5,450) per person, based on two people sharing a Historic Cabin. The fare includes the overnight journey, all meals with sommelier-selected wines, unlimited soft drinks, transfers, and 24-hour steward service.A version of this article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK.