Europe's allure lies not only in its storied cities, stunning landscapes, and world-renowned cuisines but also in the romanticism of its railways.
Classic routes, like that of the Belmond Royal Scotsman, traverse the dramatic Scottish Highlands, revealing lochs and castles at every turn. The Golden Eagle Danube Express, which connects vibrant Central European capitals like Vienna, Budapest, and Prague, showcases a tapestry of history and culture along the way. Meanwhile, the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express will not only transport you back in time with its vintage carriages but will take you from Paris' urban energy to the quiet canals of Venice after traversing the picturesque French countryside and the towering Swiss Alps.
These historic routes are experiencing a renaissance, and at the heart of this revival is the dining car, now elevated to include Michelin-starred cuisine. For discerning travelers, the voyage itself becomes a culinary adventure.
Where Luxury and Gastronomy Meet
The concept of dining cars on trains dates back to the 19th century when they were introduced to enhance the comfort of long-distance travel. These early models were far more than mere restaurants on wheels; they were symbols of luxury, often featuring lavish décor, impeccable service, and elaborate, multi-course menus showcasing the finest cuisine. For decades, they remained a staple of sophisticated train travel, but there was a shift in the mid-20th century. As air travel became more accessible and trains increasingly focused on speed and efficiency, the elegance of the dining car faded, becoming more of a functional necessity.
However, a new trend is emerging that promises to bring back this golden age of train travel, one that marries iconic routes and luxurious train carriages with gastronomic excellence: Michelin-starred dining through curated, culinary-focused routes. This recent resurgence embraces the modern slow travel movement and represents a new chapter in rail travel's rich legacy.
A Symphony of Senses, from Paris to Venice
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express retraces the path of the legendary Orient Express, a train synonymous with luxury and intrigue since the late 19th century.
Picture settling into the plush, navy-blue velvet seating of your meticulously restored carriage in Paris’ Gare de l'Est station. The train, a legend in its own right with its iconic, instantly recognizable carriages, exudes an Art Deco flair, with polished wood paneling, gleaming brass fixtures, and intricate marquetry. As the train gently pulls away from Paris, the city's iconic skyline gives way to the rolling vineyards of Champagne, and a sense of anticipation builds.
A white-gloved waiter appears, presenting a flute of chilled Champagne. This is just a prelude to the moveable feast that awaits. Later, in the opulent dining car, you're presented with a menu crafted by the celebrated Chef Jean Imbert, whose eponymous restaurant at the Plaza Athénée in Paris has a Michelin star. Each dish is a work of art, a testament to seasonal ingredients and classic French techniques. You might find a delicate pâté en croûte, reimagined with seasonal vegetables and a rich jus, or perhaps a perfectly seared filet de boeuf (beef tenderloin) served with a truffle-infused potato mousseline and glazed heirloom carrots.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express's classic route from Paris to Venice is a journey of approximately 927 miles (1,492 kilometers), typically taking two days and one night. You might wish to relax and socialize during the first day of the journey, perhaps enjoying elaborate afternoon tea as you do so.
The initial stretch on the first day takes you through the heart of France where you’ll pass charming villages with terracotta rooftops and ancient stone churches, nestled amidst the diligently cultivated vineyards of Burgundy and Jura. These areas are famed for their wines and cheeses and will welcome you with their vibrant green vines in spring and rich golds and reds in autumn. As the day winds down, it's time to dress up for the main event. Evenings are typically formal affairs, with passengers donning cocktail dresses and suits. The multi-course dinner created by Chef Imbert is a theatrical performance, with each dish meticulously presented and paired with exceptional wines. The dining cars, with their crystal chandeliers, crisp white linens, and attentive service, create an ambiance of unparalleled elegance.
Once you finish your meal, Bar Car 3674 beckons for a nightcap. After listening to the gentle sounds of a live pianist while recounting the day's adventures with other guests, you can retire to your cabin, which has been transformed into a cozy bedroom.
On the second day, wake up to panoramic views of the Swiss Alps as the train glides alongside crystal-clear lakes, such as Lake Lucerne, and through dramatic mountain passes. The view from the window is a mesmerizing tapestry of snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, and classic Swiss chalets. Many travelers make their way towards the Observation Car at this time, using the opportunity to take once-in-a-lifetime photos.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as the train winds into Austria. Savor freshly baked pastries, artisanal cheeses, and perhaps a decadent Eggs Benedict. After passing Innsbruck, the train continues onwards, crossing the Brenner Pass into Italy. Marvel at the dramatic Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, while having your lunch, your third and final meal aboard the train.
Reflecting the shift into Italian culinary territory, lunch might begin with a vibrant antipasto platter featuring cured meats like Prosciutto di Parma and salami, alongside regional cheeses, marinated olives, and artichoke hearts. The primo course could be a delicate handmade pasta, such as tagliatelle al ragù (ribbon pasta with a rich meat sauce), a classic risotto with porcini mushrooms, or perhaps a lighter cappellacci di zucca (pumpkin-filled pasta) with sage butter. For the secondo course, you might be offered a choice of pan-seared sea bass with roasted Mediterranean vegetables or a traditional osso buco (braised veal shanks) served with saffron risotto.
In the late afternoon, the train pulls into Venice Santa Lucia station, offering the first views of Venice's shimmering lagoon, a truly breathtaking moment. You've arrived in the City of Canals, where your luxurious rail journey ends and the next stage of your adventure begins.
Beyond the Orient Express: Other Culinary Rail Adventures
While the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is considered an icon of luxury train travel, other rail journeys across Europe are also embracing the Michelin-star dining concept. Certain trains may have unique traditions, such as a formal gala dinner on the last night or a specific dress code for afternoon tea, which only add to their charm.
Belmond Royal Scotsman: This exclusive train traverses the Scottish Highlands, a land of dramatic lochs, glens, and castles. The onboard dining experience is a celebration of Scotland's rich culinary heritage. Menus showcase the finest local ingredients, with dishes like wild Scottish salmon, perhaps served smoked with traditional oatcakes and a dill crème fraîche or pan-seared with seasonal vegetables. Expect to find world-renowned Aberdeen Angus beef, prepared to highlight its exceptional flavor and tenderness, possibly as a classic roast or a refined steak with a whisky-infused sauce.
Depending on the season, you might also encounter dishes featuring local game, such as venison or grouse, prepared with traditional techniques and modern flair. The experience is often complemented by a curated selection of fine Scotch whiskies, perfectly paired with each course to "enhance the flavors of the Highlands."
The Golden Eagle Danube Express: This train offers various itineraries through Central and Eastern Europe, including routes that link culinary hotspots like Vienna, Budapest, and Prague, allowing travelers to experience different culinary styles on their journey. Onboard, Michelin-trained chefs create menus that reflect the regional specialties of the areas you traverse, bringing the stunning landscape outside your window onto your plate.
For instance, as the train passes through Austria, you might savor a classic Wiener schnitzel, a perfectly breaded and pan-fried veal cutlet served with a traditional potato salad and a wedge of lemon. In Hungary, expect rich and flavorful dishes like goulash, a hearty beef stew simmered with paprika, onions, and tomatoes, often served with nokedli (small, spaetzle-like dumplings). When traversing the Czech Republic, you could be presented with svíčková, a braised beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce, typically served with bread dumplings, a dollop of cranberry sauce, and a slice of lemon.
These unique European train journeys offer more than just a luxurious way to get to your destination. They provide an immersive, cultural, and gastronomic adventure. By combining the splendor of train travel with the artistry of Michelin-star dining, they redefine the very concept of a culinary tour. It's a symphony of the senses, a journey where the clinking of fine crystal, the aroma of exquisite cuisine, the changing landscapes, and the stories shared with fellow passengers all blend into an unforgettable experience.