The Antidote to the Airport: Why Luxury Rail is the Definitive Way to Travel in 2026/2027

Seven intentional experiences by rail:

• The Midnight Brasserie (VSOE): Indulge in the “LITS” heritage by visiting the dining car at midnight for lobster rolls and champagne. It is the ultimate antidote to the rushed meals of modern travel.

• Stargazing in the highlands (Britannic Explorer): Use the observation car’s panoramic windows to view the unpolluted night skies of the Scottish Borders, a rare, “slow travel” moment of quiet reflection.

• A private shore foray in Venice: Arrange an intentional arrival by private water taxi from Santa Lucia station directly to the Palazzo Venart secret garden.

• The afternoon tea ritual: Experience a classic British Afternoon Tea as you move through the Cotswolds. This turns a simple transit day into a curated culinary event.

• Wine tasting with a view: On the Paris-to-Amalfi route, participate in a sommelier-led tasting of Campania wines while the Mediterranean coastline begins to appear outside your window.

• Sunrise observation in the Alps: Set an intentional alarm to witness the alpenglow over the Swiss peaks. The “moving observatory” of the train offers a perspective no aircraft can match.

• Curated wellness at sea level: End your rail journey with a Dior Spa treatment at the Hotel Cipriani, transitioning from the rhythmic motion of the rails to the stillness of the Venetian lagoon.

London: The departure

• The Rivoli Bar at The Ritz London: An Art Deco jewel box that feels like an extension of a vintage Pullman carriage; it is the definitive spot for a classic cocktail before boarding.

• Holborn Dining Room at Rosewood London: Famous for its “Pie Room,” this grand brasserie offers a refined take on British culinary heritage in a vibrant, bustling atmosphere.

Venice: The floating sanctuary

• Oro Restaurant at Hotel Cipriani: Boasting a gold-leaf ceiling and Michelin-starred cuisine, this is where you go for a “slow” dinner with a cinematic view of the Venetian lagoon.

• GLAM at Palazzo Venart: Tucked away in a private courtyard, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant serves contemporary Venetian flavors that prioritize seasonal, intentional ingredients.

• Harry’s Bar: A historic landmark near San Marco; it is the birthplace of the Bellini and offers a focused, no-nonsense luxury that has hosted everyone from Hemingway to cinematic royalty.

Amalfi Coast: The coastal finale

• Ristorante Belvedere at Caruso: Perched in the clouds of Ravello, this spot offers fresh Mediterranean dishes with a terrace view that makes the entire journey feel worth it.

• Bianca Bar at Monastero Santa Rosa: An ideal setting for a sunset aperitivo, where the cocktails are infused with herbs grown in the hotel's own historic monastery gardens.

• Alici at Borgo Santandrea: This restaurant celebrates the sea with a focus on local "blue fish" and Amalfi lemons, served on a stunning terrace overlooking the fishing village of Conca dei Marini.