Rome-Istanbul debut for La Dolce Vita Orient Express in October
The five-day, four-night experience is a cultural and immersive journey through landscapes, histories and civilisations that have shaped the dialogue between Europe and the East for centuries
Less than six months to the debut of the Rome-Istanbul route for the La Dolce Vita Orient Express. On 22 October, in fact, there will be the first international journey of the luxury Italia train that reinterprets the legendary and most iconic route in history in a contemporary key. As was the case for the itineraries in Italia, the international route will also delineate a new frontier of luxury Made in Italy rail travel, establishing a cultural axis across Europe where historical heritage meets modernity and the spirit of the Orient Express and is reborn through the Italian art of living.
A homage to the Orient Express
In fact, the initiative pays homage to the original Orient Express which, in 1883, reached Constantinople for the first time, redefining the very concept of luxury travel. 143 years later, that myth lives again through La Dolce Vita Orient Express, which with the new Rome-Istanbul route offers a contemporary vision of the most iconic travel experience of all time. More than an itinerary, the five-day, four-night experience on board the La Dolce Vita Orient Express is conceived as a cultural, slow and immersive journey through landscapes, histories and civilisations that for centuries have shaped the dialogue between Europe and the Orient.
L’Itinerario
The itinerary links Rome to Istanbul, passing through some of the most fascinating regions of Europe. Departure is from Rome in the evening, arriving in Venice, the first stop along the route and a symbolic gateway between East and West, where guests can discover the city's palaces, canals and artistic treasures. The journey continues to Budapest, the imperial capital and cultural centre of central Europe in the 19th century, before crossing the Carpathian landscapes with stops in Brașov and Sinaia, amidst medieval villages and historical architecture. The entry into Turkey marks the last stage of the route, until the arrival in Istanbul, a city suspended between Europe and Asia.
A model made in Italy
If in the 19th century the railway represented a symbol of technological progress and geopolitical connection, in 2026 the Rome-Istanbul route is an invitation to rediscover the value of time and slow travel.
On board the La Dolce Vita Orient Express, the myth is reinterpreted in a contemporary key through Italian excellence. The Dimorestudio-designed interiors, inspired by the elegance of the 1960s, and the gastronomic expertise of Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck, define a model of luxury based on craftsmanship, culture and attention to detail.
