He started today from the Ostiense station of Rome, and in the direction of Montalcino, the first trip of “The Dolce Vita Orient Express“, A luxury train that promises to revolutionize the concept of Tourism in Italy. The result of the collaboration between Arsenale and the legendary Orient Express brand, with the support of the Fs Italian Fondazione and FS Italian tourist trains, this new means of transport wants to merge elegance, comfort and sustainability in an unprecedented experience.
A new chapter for forgotten carriages
One of the most interesting aspects of the project is its soul sustainable and circular: the 31 cabins (18 suite, 12 Deluxe and a special suite “La Dolce Vita”) were obtained from old intercity carriages of the 60s and 80s, intended for divestment and now brought back to new life thanks to the restoration performed between the CPL of Brindisi and the Omer of Carini, two excellence of the Italian railway industry.
He starts “La Dolce Vita”, the first luxury train made in Italy. On April 4 the first trip. #HANDLE https://t.co/bsyojtdpts pic.twitter.com/u84atvo3ma
– Ansa agency (@agenzia_ansa) April 3, 2025
“With the Dolce Vita Orient Express we introduce a new travel model: rail cruises, an emerging trend that is conquering travelers from all over the world,” he explained Paolo BarlettaCEO of Arsenale. An idea that Series slow and conscious tourismallowing passengers to discover Italy exclusively and authenticly.
Eight itineraries to explore Italy
True innovation lies in the paths designed to enhance not only the most iconic destinations, but also the less known ones. The eight itineraries cross 14 Italian regionsranging from the vineyards of Montalcino (first stage of the inaugural journey) to Venice, from Portofino to the Sassi di Matera, from the way to the truffle towards Nice Monferrato to the suggestive stops in Sicily, between Catania, Palermo and Taormina.
“This train responds to the needs of more sustainable, slow and authentic tourism, bringing to light less beaten but equally extraordinary territories,” he said Daniela SantanéTourism Minister, during the inauguration.
Slow Tourism as an answer to the loveourism
The concept behind this project is the decongestion of overcrowded goalsoffering travelers a luxury alternative that encourages the discovery of less crowded locations. Each stop is designed to allow a true cultural and gastronomic immersion in the territories visited, distributing tourist flows and supporting local economies.
“The launch of La Dolce Vita Orient Express is an invitation to rediscover Italy with a new gaze, letting itself be lulled by the timeless charm of the journey on rail,” he said Gilda Perez-Alvaradodelegated administrator of Orient Express. The adventure begins even before departure, in the Dolce Vita Lounge of the Ostiense station, a historic hall reinvented by the architect Hugo Toro.
Italian design and taste
The interiors of the train celebrate the golden age of Italian design with references to the great masters Giò Ponti, Nanda Vigo, Gae Aulenti And Osvaldo Borsani. Precious materials and artisan details transform each cabin into a refined and comfortable environment.
The gastronomic experience is signed by the chef three Michelin stars Heinz Beckwhich conceived menu inspired by the territories crossed, giving travelers a journey into the journey, in the name of taste and tradition.
An ambitious project for the future of railway tourism
Only one convoy is currently operational, but A second will be added by July 2025with the aim of reaching six trains by 2027. With an investment of 280 million euros, the project aims to become the largest private railway fleet dedicated to sustainable luxury tourism.
The Dolce Vita Orient Express is not only a journey, but an icon of a new way of exploring the Belpaese, combining nostalgia and innovation, luxury and environmental responsibility. A dream on rail ready to conquer travelers from all over the world.
