When thinking about luxury rail travel, the first train that comes to mind is the Orient Express.
Introduced 150 years ago by Georges Nagelmackers, the Orient Express was the first rail service to allow passengers to traverse Europe in lavish comfort. Today, travellers can experience the romance of traversing landscapes via rail with the captivating La Dolce Vita Orient Express. This unique journey weaving through Italy’s diverse landscapes was developed by the esteemed French hotel group Accor in partnership with the Italian luxury hospitality group Arsenale S.P.A. With influence from the railway expertise of Trenitalia—Gruppo Ferrovie dello Stato—and the Fondazione FS Italiane, La Dolce Vita Orient Express promises an unparalleled experience that captures the essence of Italy’s rich cultural heritage while offering a glimpse into the iconic glamour of the Orient Express legacy.
With iconic routes spanning more than 16,000 km, the journeys of La Dolce Vita Orient Express have been meticulously crafted to offer exclusive travel experiences that showcase the beauty of Italy. Departing from Rome, these journeys provide glimpses of the Alps and the southern coastline, encompassing cities like Milan, Florence, and Venice, as well as the enchanting island of Sicily, accessible via the only passenger rail ferry in the world. From two-night escapades to Rome, Venice, and Portofino to single-night jaunts exploring Montalcino and Maratea, each itinerary promises a unique blend of luxury and discovery. Accompanying these journeys are Orient Express’ first hotels: the Orient Express La Minerva in Rome and the Orient Express Palazzo Donà Giovannelli in Venice, set to debut in 2024. Next year, La Dolce Vita Orient Express plans to expand the horizons of unhurried exploration and sustainable tourism with international routes to Paris, Istanbul, and Split on Croatia’s Adriatic Coast.
Through its iconic voyages, La Dolce Vita Orient Express is dedicated to showcasing Italy’s rich heritage and championing the excellence of ‘Made in Italy’. This ethos echoes throughout the train, with the interior design of its cabins drawing inspiration from the vibrant spirit of 1960s Italy. Developed by renowned architectural studio Dimorestudio, the designers have infused the train with the essence of “The Sweet Life,” evoking the glamour and sophistication of mid-century Italian design masters.
Moreover, this new service aims to transport passengers into this era of timeless elegance and luxury before they even step aboard with the addition of the new Orient Express La Dolce Vita Lounge at Rome Ostiense station. Fully staffed, the lounge offers a seamless check-in process and amenities such as changing rooms with showers, serving as the gateway to these unforgettable adventures.
These influences of classic Italian design follow through into the cabin spaces of the train. The train offers two types of accommodation: Deluxe Cabins and Deluxe Suites, each exuding comfort and sophistication. The 12 Deluxe Cabins exude sophisticated living with classic wood-beamed ceilings and carpet flooring. The innovative use of space sees the cabin’s sofa double as a lavish double bed, allowing space for guests to have an ensuite bathroom. Meanwhile, Deluxe Suites offer extra space and extravagance. Boasting a bedroom, sofa, armchairs, and a private bathroom, the suites provide a haven of indulgence, all adorned with vibrant hues and timeless elegance.
On La Dolce Vita Orient Express, dining is an exquisite affair, meticulously curated to showcase the finest Italian cuisine and wines. Under the helm of renowned three Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck, passengers are treated to a gastronomic journey through Italy’s diverse flavours, with each dish reflecting the guests’ voyage from the East to the West. From Sicilian brioche at breakfast to fresh seafood and truffles at dinner, each meal is a symphony of flavours paired with sommelier-selected wines from the regions visited. The collaboration between La Dolce Vita Orient Express and Vinitaly brings a celebration of Italian wine culture to the train, offering an annually curated selection of six wines from Northern, Central and Southern Italy.
In addition to the dining car, guests wanting to indulge in more of the unique atmosphere of La Dolce Vita Orient Express do so in the Lounge Bar. Here, a select menu of exquisite drinks and delectable snacks whilst enjoying the live Italian music. For those inclined towards games, the lounge offers a refined setting for Italian card games and chess.
Alternatively, in-room dining brings a taste of Italy directly to passengers’ cabins, with a menu featuring savoury delicacies and regional specialties. Whether dining amidst sweeping vistas or enjoying a private moment of relaxation, the culinary offerings aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express elevate the journey to new heights of indulgence.
Where history meets luxury, La Dolce Vita Orient Express invites travellers to embark on the journey of a lifetime. From the breathtaking landscapes of the Alps to the sun-kissed shores of Sicily, each voyage promises an unrivalled experience that celebrates the essence of Italian culture, cuisine, and hospitality. As the train winds its way through Italy’s diverse regions, it leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to embark on this extraordinary adventure.