More than 140 years after the Orient Express became synonymous with luxury and adventure of yesteryear, a new Rome–Istanbul route will be launched in 2026, promising five days and four nights of champagne, refined gastronomy, and impressive European landscapes, all in an Italian-accented reinterpretation.
Ticket prices start at 20,000 euros, writes Euronews.
On October 22, the first La Dolce Vita Orient Express train will set off, inspired by the original journey of yesteryear and highlighting Italian glamour in its most elegant form.
Guests will begin their luxury experience in the Orient Express Lounge at Roma Ostiense station, designed by architect Hugo Toro. Here, they will be greeted with champagne, appetizer-style dishes, and live Italian music.
In the evening, travelers will board the train and be led to apartments and cabins inspired by 1960s Italy, designed by the Milan-based studio Dimorestudio.
In the elegant restaurant car, they will be able to savor menus created by three Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck.
The Relationship Between Europe and the Orient
After a restful night in a luxury cabin of approximately 7 square meters or in an apartment of about 11 square meters, passengers will arrive in Venice.
They can choose to explore the narrow streets of the floating city or take part in experiences organized especially for them, such as a boat ride through the lagoon or a tour of the city through the lens of Casanova's story.
The next stop will be Budapest. Known as the "Pearl of the Danube," the city will offer passengers the chance to discover its rich history and impressive architecture, before enjoying a leisurely lunch in Buda or Pest, the two distinct parts of the Hungarian capital separated by the river.
The following day, the train will cross the Carpathian Mountains and stop in two of Romania's most beautiful cities: the medieval Brasov and the mountain resort of Sinaia.
That evening, guests will once again enjoy dinner and live music, which have been part of every evening spent on board, before the final night on the train.
In the following afternoon, the Orient Express will reach the end of the line, in Istanbul.
After disembarking from the famous train, passengers can explore the domes, bazaars, and vibrant streets of the city or continue their journey even further, towards the Orient.
It will undoubtedly be an adventure - for those who can afford it.
B.B.