Experience the Orient Express La Dolce Vita in 2023
A new ‘Orient Express’ journey is ready to take passengers on a luxury odyssey from Italy to several European destinations in 2023, including Paris, Istanbul, and Split.
The famed Venice-Simplon Orient Express, which takes passengers from Venice to London, faces new competition in 2023 as the Orient Express La Dolce Vita takes to the rails. This Italian train service, owned by the Accor hotel group, aims to draw in a “new generation” of travelers eager to relive the golden age of rail travel—albeit at a premium price for such an opulent experience.
Unlike the Venice-Simplon (operated by the luxury train company Belmond), the La Dolce Vita version will showcase a unique aesthetic: midcentury interiors inspired by the curves and colors of the 1960s and 70s. Each of La Dolce Vita’s six trains, crafted by Milan-based studio Dimorestudio, will offer 12 deluxe cabins, 18 suites, one honor suite for the affluent, and a restaurant carriage serving exquisite Italian haute cuisine paired with fine Italian wines.
Guests will enjoy a leisurely-paced tour through Italy, journeying from the northern Alps to the southern beaches, while gliding past picturesque countryside, serene lakes, and lush forests on off-the-beaten-path routes. They will immerse themselves in the art and culture of renowned cities such as Milan, Florence, Venice, and Rome. The Italian itineraries will encompass options ranging from one to three nights. Three international itineraries from Rome to Paris, Istanbul, and the stunning Croatian city of Split will also be available.
Accor is promoting this journey as “a new way to experience Italy,” highlighting its environmentally-friendly approach and the opportunity to explore forgotten roads. However, with average costs exceeding €2000 ($2,262 USD) per night, the adventure may appeal primarily to travelers with significant disposable income.
Stephen Alden, CEO of Raffles and Orient Express at Accor, expressed, “It is thrilling to be bringing the refined nomadic spirit of Orient Express back to life for a new generation of travelers.”
The Return of Sleeper Trains in Europe
Sleeper trains have witnessed a renaissance in Europe as travelers become more concerned about their carbon footprint while embracing the romanticism of early train travel. Some new services to look out for include a French start-up called Midnight Trains, which is described as a “hotel on rails” and will ferry passengers from Paris to various European destinations in 2024.
Moreover, it is not just luxury train journeys that are gaining momentum; new services by RegioJet and European Sleeper will link Prague, Brussels, Berlin, and Amsterdam next year, offering amenities such as free internet access, breakfast, and complimentary coffee.
