The Grand Premiere Of La Dolce Vita Orient Express

Orient Express

La Dolce Vita Orient Express, Italy's first luxury train, is set to launch with an ambitious mission: reinventing the travel experience while moving. It features eight crafted itineraries that blend art, views, and three-star Michelin cuisine from Heinz Beck, all celebrating Italy's brilliance in transit.

The train was launched at Roma Ostiense Station, specifically in the exclusive La Dolce Vita Lounge reserved for its passengers, just the night before its inaugural journey set for April 4th. The first trip, titled "Tastes of Tuscan Vineyards," will take guests to Montalcino.

Born of a visionary collaboration between Arsenale and Orient Express and supported by Fondazione FS Italiane and FS Treni Turistici Italiani of the FS Group, this pivotal project signals rail renaissance as the ultimate luxury. La Dolce Vita Orient Express marks a new era in the Italian tourism landscape, offering travellers an exclusive experience that fully embraces the essence of Made in Italy. It celebrates the country’s cultural, scenic and gastronomic heritage, guiding guests on a unique journey through Italy's most emblematic destinations.

The Routes

Spanning 14 Italian regions, the train features eight distinct itineraries tailored for international travellers. From the enchanting canals of Venice and the coves of Portofino to the charm of Siena and the stones of Matera, as well as the vineyards of Montalcino and the trails of Nizza Monferrato, every journey celebrates Italy’s cultural and natural heritage. Sicily unfolds gradually, showcasing Catania, Palermo, and Taormina, each reflecting a unique aspect of the island’s enduring appeal. These routes are carefully crafted to embody the spirit of slow travel, inviting guests to engage deeply with local customs, tastes, and landscapes.

The Train

The train features 31 cabins, 18 suites, 12 deluxe cabins, and the standout La Dolce Vita Suite, all born from an extensive restoration and design process. Originally Z1 Italian model carriages, each one has been reimagined through a significant investment that reflects the technical and artisanal excellence of Southern Italy, known for its railway craftsmanship and design. The work was conducted between Brindisi and Palermo. This innovative endeavour represents the launch of Italy’s first private luxury rail fleet, which includes six custom-designed trains.

Interior design

Milan’s Dimorestudio interiors pay tribute to the golden age of Italian design, reflecting geometric influences from Gio Ponti, the sensual modernism of Gae Aulenti, and subtle hints of Osvaldo Borsani. They capture the essence of mid-century glamour, celebrating La Dolce Vita and the vibrant cultural atmosphere of 1960s Italy.

Onboard experience

Guests begin their journey from the Orient Express Lounge, designed by artist-architect Hugo Toro, where historical motifs blend seamlessly with contemporary touches—an aperitivo suggests the experience awaiting under a polished tangerine ceiling. Once onboard, passengers enjoy menus crafted by chef Heinz Beck, drawing inspiration from the regions they visit. Each dish tells a story infused with local spirit. The journey is marked by exceptional service, and stops at select locations allow travellers to immerse themselves in each area's rich cultural and historical offerings. La Dolce Vita Orient Express encourages travelers to appreciate Italy's treasures slowly, elegantly, and with exquisite attention to detail.

"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. Thanks to the synergy between Italian excellence in railways and manufacturing, this project helps strengthen an integrated hospitality system that complements the cruise and hotel industries. The third pillar of tourism starts in Italy and is driven by an Italian company. I believe this is crucial for the revival of our Made in Italy, especially in the industrial and tourism sectors. Our commitment translates into a production that, to date, represents an international benchmark, with the ambition of creating a tourism offer that extends travel beyond peak seasons and promotes alternative destinations, thanks to the exclusivity and comfort of one of the most efficient and sustainable ways to travel. The Dolce Vita train can become a symbol of Italy’s dedication to enhancing its territories, supporting local entrepreneurship, and strengthening national railway production, while contributing to a more integrated tourism system," said Paolo Barletta, CEO of Arsenale.

Gilda Perez Alvarado, CEO of Orient Express, stated: “The launch of La Dolce Vita Orient Express marks the beginning of a new chapter in Italian train journeys, made possible through our partnership with Arsenale Group. 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. Onboard, 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, flavors, 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”.