The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has collaborated with a renowned street artist to create the world’s most expensive carriage, complete with a library, a vinyl collection and hidden treasures. Olivia Palamountain reports

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has announced the launch of “L’Observatoire” a spectacular new suite designed by French photographer and street artist, JR.

The two-person suite occupies an entire carriage and will be available for bookings from March 2025 at a starting price of a hefty £80,000 per night – a new record in rail travel.

The carriage interior features a bedroom with a double bed, a marble bathroom with a shower and free-standing bathtub, a lounge area and a library stocked with hundreds of Gallimard books.Fine craftsmanship is at the forefront of the design, with bespoke marquetry and stained glass created by both established masters and emerging artisans. The suite also showcases photography and specially curated gifts from JR.

Throughout are “secret wonders to discover”, such as the hidden tearoom with its own fireplace, while unique elements include an oculus-shaped skylight for stargazing and a record player with a vinyl collection curated by JR himself.Venice Simplon-Orient-ExpressGuests booking L’Observatoire will benefit from 24-hour dedicated cabin steward service, all drinks including premium wines and spirits, private in-suite dining and exclusive gifts. The package also includes seamless private transfers to and from the train.

As reported by Pace Gallery, JR typically uses photographs, murals, films, videos, and other multimedia works to address socio-economic and political issues.Venice Simplon-Orient-ExpressHis work—which he refers to as “infiltrating art,” a term descriptive of its ubiquity and ability to reach an audience beyond those who visit museums—has been installed across the globe, from the streets of Paris to the favelas of Brazil and the border between the United States and Mexico.

2024 has been a great year for rail revival. While the iconic Royal Scotsman continues to charm passengers with its Edwardian-styled carriages, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has expanded its reach with new routes. Having recently unveiled a Paris to Bourg-Saint-Maurice line, it launched a glamorous Paris to Portofino service in June.Venice Simplon-Orient-ExpressBut the real showstopper is yet to come: April 2025 will see the grand debut of the La Dolce Vita Orient Express , offering six Italian routes from Rome’s Ostiense station.

Not to be outdone, Accor plans to unveil its own Orient Express in 2025, reviving the classic Paris to Istanbul route.Venice Simplon-Orient-ExpressThese new journeys join an international portfolio of luxury trains, from Japan’s exclusive Seven Stars to the wildlife-rich journeys of Africa’s Rovos Rail, promising a renaissance in high-end rail travel for those seeking to explore the world at a more leisurely, luxurious pace.