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More than 140 years after the original Orient Express became synonymous with old-world luxury and adventure, a new Rome to Istanbul route is launching in 2026, promising five days and four nights of champagne, fine dining and sweeping European scenery, all with a distinctly Italian twist.
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On 22 October, the first La Dolce Vita Orient Express will set off, inspired by the original journey all those years ago, and embracing the height of Italian glamour throughout.
Lucky guests will kick off their luxury experience in the Orient Express Lounge at Roma Ostiense station, designed by architect Hugo Toro. Here, they’ll be welcomed with bubbles, aperitivo-style dining and live Italian music.
Stepping onboard in the evening, travellers will be welcomed into suites and cabins influenced by 1960s Italy, and designed by Milan-based Dimorestudio, and can sample menus by three-Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck in the elegant dining car.
The relationship between Europe and the East
Waking up after a restorative sleep in a 75 sq ft deluxe cabin or a 118 sq ft suite, guests will arrive in Venice. They can choose to wander the narrow streets of the Floating City or opt for a curated experience. Options include a boat tour of the lagoon or an opportunity to see the city through the eyes of Casanova.
The next stop is Budapest. Known as the “pearl of the Danube”, Orient Express passengers can explore its rich history and striking architecture, before enjoying a leisurely lunch in either Buda or Pest, the two distinctive parts of the city which straddle the river.
The next day, the train crosses the Carpathian mountains and stops off at two Romanian gems – pretty, medieval Brașov and the mountain town of Sinaia.
Onboard that evening, guests will sample the aperitifs, dinner and music they’ve experienced every night, before heading to bed for a final sleep.
The next afternoon, the Orient Express will make its last stop along its historic route and arrive at its final destination of Istanbul.
Disembarking the iconic train, guests can explore the city’s domes, bazaars, and vibrant streets, or continue on their journey even further east.
It’s bound to be an adventure – for those who can afford it. The rest of us may need to save up, though, as tickets start from €20,000 per person.
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