All Aboard Italy’s Most Glamorous Ride, the La Dolce Vita Orient Express

There’s a new way to see Italy, and it’s all about slow travel, good food and a lot of charm. The La Dolce Vita Orient Express has finally arrived, and it is the first Italian-made luxury train, designed to bring back the romance of train travel with a modern Italian twist. “With La Dolce Vita Orient Express, we are introducing a new model to the global tourism landscape, leading an emerging trend: rail cruises, which are becoming increasingly relevant worldwide,” said Paolo Barletta, CEO of Arsenale.

Unveiled at Rome’s Roma Ostiense Station just before its first official journey, the train is set to take guests on a ride through the heart of Italy. The first trip, called Tastes of Tuscan Vineyards, will take guests to the charming destination of Montalcino – one of the country’s most beautiful wine regions.

La Dolce Vita Orient Express is an exciting project created through a partnership between Arsenale and Orient Express, with backing from Fondazione FS Italiane and FS Treni Turistici Italiani of the FS Group. This venture is all about bringing back the idea of train travel as a luxury experience. It’s a fresh take on Italian tourism, offering travellers a unique and upscale way to explore the country. The journey highlights Italy’s amazing culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food, taking guests through some of the most iconic spots in the country. In essence, it’s about enjoying the ride and soaking up all the beauty along the way.

Gilda Perez Alvarado, CEO of Orient Express, elaborated on the vision for the new project.“This unique experience is an invitation to rediscover Italy through a new lens, where the glamour of 1960s and 1970s Italy meets the country’s rich hospitality and warm conviviality. The train’s design is brought to life by Dimorestudio, with every detail embodying the spirit of this celebrated period, with all of its zest and charm. The guest journey begins at the La Dolce Vita Lounge at Ostiense Station, a historic space crafted by artist-architect Hugo Toro, setting the stage for an exceptional Italian adventure. On board, guests can indulge in gastronomy signed by Michelin-star chef Heinz Beck. A true celebration of all that Italy represents, this voyage captures the essence of the country’s landscapes, flavours, and way of life. From the moment the journey begins at the La Dolce Vita Lounge, guests are brought into a new travel experience that celebrates Italy’s landscapes, flavours, and culture, signed by Orient Express.”

The Itineraries

Hop aboard a train that takes you through 14 beautiful Italian regions with eight amazing itineraries crafted especially for travellers. Imagine gliding through the scenic canals of Venice, exploring the charming coves of Portofino, soaking in the medieval charm of Siena, and wandering among the sun-kissed stones of Matera. You can even enjoy the famous vineyards of Montalcino and hunt for truffles in Nizza Monferrato—each stop is a delightful celebration of Italy’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. For a little more exploratioin, Sicily is a treasure waiting to be discovered, with its vibrant cities like Catania, Palermo, and Taormina, each offering a unique glimpse into the island’s timeless beauty. These journeys are thoughtfully designed for slow travel, allowing you to truly connect with local traditions, savour delicious flavours, and take in stunning scenery.

Guests onboard are treated to menus created by Chef Heinz Beck, inspired by the regions they explore. Each dish narrates a story infused with the essence of the local culture. The experience is characterised by outstanding service, and stops at select destinations allow passengers to discover the unique cultural and historical aspects of each area. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Italy!

The Interiors

The La Dolce Vita Orient Express is created by artist-architect Hugo Toro, where classic motifs are reinterpreted through a contemporary lens.  The interiors, designed by Milan’s Dimorestudio, pay homage to the golden age of Italian design, featuring geometric influences from Gio Ponti, the sensual modernism of Gae Aulenti, and echoes of Osvaldo Borsani. This train embodies the spirit of mid-century glamour and celebrates the cultural vibrance of 1960s Italy. As you move inside, the train includes 31 cabins, 18 suites, 12 deluxe cabins, and the signature La Dolce Vita Suite.

This innovative project marks the establishment of Italy’s first private luxury rail fleet, which will ultimately consist of six bespoke trains.