| | | The Journey | | | Impressions of Budapest Package | | | Splendours of Europe Package | | |
| | | Venice Hotels | | | Budapest Hotels | | |
Magical Venice and fascinating Budapest are linked by a journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express through the north of Italy, Austria and across central Europe.
The Hungarian capital is divided by the mighty Danube into two distinct areas: Buda, the historic centre built on a hill, which overlooks Pest, the commercial heartland of the city.
Majestic Budapest has an imperial past; more and more of the 19th century grandeur of the Hapsburg Empire is being revealed as the city is restored.
Historic Buda and modern Pest are linked by seven bridges to form one city, perhaps the most beautiful on the Danube. The hills of Buda give the best views of the city and contain ancient buildings such as the Royal Palace and Matthias coronation church. In contrast the plains of Pest contain the more recently added 19th century boulevards, parliament, city park, Hero's square and shopping areas.
Venice, unique in every way, is a city of superlatives; its grace and timeless beauty never fail to enchant even the most seasoned traveller. Wander off the tourist trail and lose yourself in the real Venice, the hidden places frequented only by the Venetians. All of Venice is easily accessible on speedy vaporetti and stately, serene gondolas on the labyrinth of canals intersected by pretty bridges and narrow walkways.
Experience both of these beautiful cities on board the elegant Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
