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La Dolce Vita Orient Express: 2026 From Sicily to Rome
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Bay of Taormina
La Dolce Vita Orient Express
Lounge bar car
La Dolce Vita Orient Express
Deluxe Cabin
Deluxe Cabin - ensuite
Restaurant Car
Suite Cabin
Suite Cabin - ensuite
Italy

La Dolce Vita Orient Express: 2026 From Sicily to Rome (Tour code: 15105)

Starts and Ends
Palermo to
Rome
Travel Periods
07 Jun 26 - 08 Sep 26
Experience
Travel Style
Rail Journeys
A journey along the coast of Sicily. From Palermo across the wonders of Maratea, the sea and spectacular beaches.

Highlights

Savour a Michelin-starred lunch curated by Chef Heinz Beck with Italian-inspired, seasonal dishes

Arrive in Taormina, Sicily, and immerse yourself in its rich history with a range of Optional Off-Board Experiences*

Discover the picturesque town of Maratea with a range of Optional Off-Board Experiences*

3 days
From
AUD 14,538
per person, twin share
Travelling with kids? Read more 
All services are subject to availability.

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express, beginning in Palermo and weaving through Italy's most captivating landscapes. Savour exquisite Italian cuisine, from delightful lunches and Sicilian dinners to artisanal breakfasts each morning. Discover historic Taormina and Maratea, where iconic landmarks await. 

Inclusions

24-hour onboard service and entertainment
Table d’hôte meals featuring innovative Italian cuisine with beverages, including selected wines, spirits, mineral water, soft drinks, tea and coffee
One-night private ensuite accommodation onboard the train in a Deluxe Cabin
Round-trip transfers to and from the train station in Rome

Day 2 Maratea

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast, served either in the elegant Restaurant Car or in the comfort of your cabin. As the morning progresses, the train approaches the Strait of Messina for a unique crossing from Messina to Villa San Giovanni. During this process, the train is carefully loaded onto a ferry, with carriages moved in small groups. Guests are required to remain on board during the manoeuvring operations, after which they may choose to stay on the train or step onto the exclusive indoor and outdoor decks of the ferry to enjoy panoramic views of the Strait. Please note that some onboard services may be temporarily affected during this time.

Around midday, lunch is served in the Restaurant Car, where sweeping landscapes provide the perfect backdrop to an exceptional menu created by Chef Heinz Beck. The maître d’ will confirm your scheduled dining time.

Later in the day, the train nears its next destination: Maratea. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to explore at your own pace or participate in one of the optional Off-board experiences* available. For daytime activities off the train, smart-casual dress and comfortable footwear are recommended.

In the evening, a transfer returns you to the train for the next stage of your journey. As the train departs once again, the Bar Car invites you to relax with live music, bringing the day to a memorable close.

*Off-board experiences are optional and not included in the package price unless specifically requested. Please consult our team at the time of booking or inquiry to arrange and receive a price for your chosen Off-board experience. Visit the 'Optional Extras' section to explore the range of available experiences and select the option that best complements your journey.

Breakfast, Lunch
Maratea
Maratea

Day 3 Journey back to Rome

Begin the morning with a relaxed breakfast, served either in the refined atmosphere of the Restaurant Car or in the privacy of your cabin. As the train approaches its final destination, preparations begin for disembarkation in Rome.

On arrival, guests are welcomed at the La Dolce Vita Orient Express Lounge by the attentive Guest Relations Team. From there, a comfortable transfer is arranged to take you onward to your next destination, ensuring a smooth and elegant conclusion to your journey.

Breakfast
Journey back to Rome
Rome

Day 1 Palermo Taormina

Your journey begins with a seamless transfer from your hotel or the airport, arranged in advance to ensure a relaxed arrival for embarkation. Upon reaching the platform, you'll be welcomed on board La Dolce Vita Orient Express, where your dedicated conductor will escort you to your cabin.

As the train departs from Palermo, your unforgettable experience officially begins. Around midday, lunch is served in the elegant Restaurant Car. While stunning landscapes pass by, enjoy a fine dining menu crafted by Chef Heinz Beck, with seating times confirmed by the maître d'.

In the afternoon, the train arrives in Taormina. Whether you choose to join one of the optional Off-board  experiences* or explore independently, this charming destination offers a variety of ways to spend your time. For time off the train, smart-casual dress and comfortable shoes are recommended. Dinner is included for those taking part in the organised activities.

Later in the evening, a transfer brings you back to the train as the journey continues. The Bar Car comes alive with live music, providing the perfect setting to unwind and reflect on the day.

*Off-board experiences are optional and not included in the package price unless specifically requested. Please consult our team at the time of booking or inquiry to arrange and receive a price for your chosen Off-board experience. Visit the 'Optional Extras' section to explore the range of available experiences and select the option that best complements your journey.

Lunch
Palermo → Taormina
Taormina

Accommodation

La Dolce Vita Orient Express

Upgrade available

Choose from two categories on board the Orient Express: Deluxe and Suite Cabins. Each cabin radiates sophistication and offers thoughtful amenities and traditional room service.

The room service menu offers a tempting selection of savoury Italian delights, such as olives, fennel taralli, Italian cheese platters and breadsticks. Simply place your order with the steward via the in-room call button, and your chosen dishes will be served on trays, either at your bedside or table, allowing you to enjoy them while admiring the stunning views.

DELUXE CABIN
The 12 Deluxe Cabins are designed to help you unwind and disconnect. With carpeted floors and wood-beamed ceilings, each cabin offers a refined ambiance that sets the tone for a captivating journey. For added comfort, every cabin includes a private ensuite bathroom. As night falls, experience the “Great Transformation,” where the cabin seamlessly converts into a cozy bedroom. The sofa transforms into a double bed, and the footstools turn into coffee tables and stools. The room, measuring 7 m² (75 sq ft), offers a truly enchanting experience.

Deluxe Cabin

Room Upgrades

Suite Cabins

Choose from one of 18 Suites, each offering an exquisitely designed bedroom that also offers the option for a twin room layout, furnished with a sofa, table, two armchairs and a private ensuite bathroom. Measuring 11 m² (118 sq ft), these Suites boast vibrant hues of orange, terracotta, and purple, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Brass accents, reflective smoked mirrors, glossy lacquered "burnt sienna" ceilings, and sumptuous carpets and curtains, along with lighting fixtures by renowned 20th-century designers, infuse the space with timeless elegance and charm.

Suite Cabins

Prices are dynamic based on travel dates. Please proceed to Book Now or Contact Us for details.

Optional Extras

Crater Roads & Vineyard Tables

Begin your journey with a guided walk through the enchanting streets of Taormina, before setting off on a private adventure to Europe’s highest active volcano—Mount Etna. Aboard a Jeep, traverse the volcano’s dramatic landscapes, from ancient craters to moon-like lava fields, led by a local naturalist who brings the mountain’s powerful story to life. Along the way, discover the rich biodiversity that thrives in this resilient, ever-changing ecosystem, making this experience truly one of a kind.

As the day unfolds, enjoy a refined dinner at a local wine estate, where regional specialities are thoughtfully paired with an exceptional selection of wines. Relax and indulge in traditional Sicilian cuisine in a welcoming, picturesque setting.

Blending nature, history, and gastronomy, this experience promises to leave you with lasting memories of one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world.

Starting from $2,369 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

The Sicilian Charm: Taormina and Castelmola

Embark on a curated journey through two of Sicily’s most evocative destinations: Castelmola and Taormina, where history, beauty, and flavour converge in an immersive celebration of local culture.

Your day begins in Castelmola, a tranquil hilltop village suspended above the Ionian coast. Rich in character and charm, its cobbled alleys, medieval churches, and panoramic terraces reveal the quiet soul of authentic Sicily. Here, time seems to slow, offering space to connect with the island’s enduring traditions.

The tour continues with a guided walk through the narrow streets of Taormina, celebrated for its graceful Greco-Roman legacy and breathtaking views that stretch from the crystalline shoreline to the slopes of Mount Etna. As you explore its storied streets, you'll trace the footsteps of centuries of travellers enchanted by this jewel of the Sicilian coast.

After your cultural exploration, you’ll be welcomed into an exclusive pastry atelier for a hands-on masterclass in crafting the iconic Cannolo Siciliano. Led by a renowned local pastry chef, this interactive culinary experience reveals the secrets behind Sicily’s most celebrated dessert—from the delicate preparation of the golden shell to the artful blending of fresh ricotta and citrus zest. A sensory journey into sweetness and tradition.

Your experience concludes with a delightful dinner in a garden setting, where traditional Sicilian dishes are reimagined with refinement and care. Surrounded by aromatic herbs, soft lighting, and sweeping sea views, you’ll savour a final moment of connection—with place, palate, and memory.

This is not just a tour—it’s a taste of Sicily’s soul, thoughtfully woven into a day of discovery, elegance, and genuine hospitality.

Starting from $2,343 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

The Spirit of Mount Etna

Embark on a striking adventure to discover Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, through an exciting Jeep excursion and scenic trekking experience across breathtaking landscapes.

This journey invites you to explore some of the most captivating panoramic trails on the volcano, where you will encounter ancient craters, lunar-like terrain, and a unique array of flora and fauna. Throughout the excursion, you’ll be accompanied by an expert volcanologist who will unravel the geological history of the volcano and illuminate the many facets of its vibrant ecosystem.

The day will culminate with dinner at one of the region's most prestigious wine estates, where you can savour some of Sicily’s finest wines, cultivated from the fertile lands shaped by volcanic soil. Indulge in traditional Sicilian dishes, crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and fully immerse yourself in the authentic flavours of the region.

This experience seamlessly blends nature, culture, and gastronomy, leaving you with unforgettable memories of a unique adventure to the heart of Sicily.

Starting from $2,232 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

Maratea and its artisans

Join a unique and captivating journey through the hearth of Maratea, where history, nature , and craftsmanship converge in an unforgettable experience curated for the curios and refined traveller. Your private guided tour begins at the awe-inspiring Christ the Redeemer statue, rising 650 meters above sea level. From this commanding height, take in sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian coastline—an endless horizon of sapphire waters, rugged cliffs, and lush valleys that define the natural beauty of Southern Italy.

From there, ascend into a world of reverence and elegance at the Basilica of San Biagio. Nestled on the mountain ridge, this architectural treasure invites quiet contemplation with its centuries-old sacred art, frescoes, and panoramic views of the sea below.

The experience continues with an intimate visit to a local Libbani artisan workshop, a hidden gem where age-old traditions live on. Watch as master craftspeople breathe life into raw materials, transforming them into exquisite handmade creations. This is more than a visit—it’s an immersion into Lucanian heritage, where every gesture tells a story passed down through generations. Throughout the experience, expect a pace that allows for presence, reflection, and genuine connection—with place, people, and culture.

Starting from $2,527 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

The Redeemer and Tastes of Maratea

Begin an unmissable experience in Maratea with an exhilarating visit to the Christ the Redeemer statue on Monte San Biagio. Standing at 650 metres above sea level, this imposing statue is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the Tyrrhenian coast. The ascent to Monte San Biagio itself is a captivating journey, revealing stunning landscapes and allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

The experience continues with a visit to the Basilica of San Biagio, a site of profound historical and spiritual significance. This church, a striking example of religious architecture, is admired for its simplicity and charm. Inside, you’ll encounter invaluable frescoes and works of art, immersing yourself in the site’s spirituality and rich history. From the Basilica, the views stretch across the valley and out to sea, enhancing the deeply atmospheric experience.

During the guided tour, there will also be opportunities to indulge in culinary discovery, tasting local gastronomic specialities—flavours that establish this region as a genuine gourmet destination. A gourmet dinner at the Santavenere Hotel offers the perfect finale to conclude the day. Set against a backdrop of enchanting sea views, the hotel presents exquisite dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This refined culinary experience delivers a harmonious blend of sophisticated cuisine and breathtaking scenery, creating a memorable and sensorial end to your journey.

Starting from $2,472 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

Tastes of Maratea: A Culinary Journey

Indulge in a special experience at the Santavenere Hotel in Maratea, where elegance, tradition, and sensory delight come together in perfect harmony.

Among the hotel’s most captivating offerings is the cooking class—an immersive culinary journey inviting guests to explore the rich flavours of Lucanian cuisine. Participants will have the opportunity to uncover the secrets behind traditional regional dishes, crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Led by expert chefs, the class reveals not only techniques and recipes but also the stories and traditions infused into these dishes, making them truly special.

Complementing this gastronomic adventure is a cocktail masterclass, where a skilled bartender will guide guests in crafting creative, refined cocktails. Using high-quality spirits and fresh ingredients, you’ll learn the art of mixing drinks with flair and sophistication—transforming each creation into a celebration of conviviality and the joy of taste.

The day culminates with a delicious, intimate dinner, served in a setting surrounded by panoramic views of the sea and the tranquil landscape of Maratea.

Starting from $977 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

Additional information

Official language
Italian
Local currency
EURO

*Off-board experiences are optional and not included in the package price unless specifically requested. Please consult our team at the time of booking or inquiry to arrange and receive a price for your chosen off-board experience.

2026 departure dates:

  • 07 June
  • 21 July
  • 08 September

Excluded

  • International airfares and taxes
  • Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
  • Visa expenses, processing and issuance fees
  • Meals & Off-board experiences other than as specified in our holiday package
  • Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.),
  • Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, hotel, restaurant or boat staff, etc. 
  • Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package

FAQs

What is included in the La Dolce Vita Orient Express Offer?

The La Dolce Vita Orient Express offer includes round-trip transfers to and from the train station, accommodation onboard, table d’hôte dining, selected beverages (such as wine, spirits, mineral water, soft drinks, tea, and coffee), onboard entertainment and all applicable taxes.

Please note that certain premium wines, spirits, and à la carte dishes incur an additional charge. Insurance, gratuities, and travel items sold onboard are not included in the price.

What is the dress code onboard the train?

You can never be overdressed aboard the La Dolce Vita Orient Express! For daytime excursions, we recommend casual, comfortable clothing, while smart daywear is suitable for time spent on board during the day. For dinner on board or evening events off the train, many guests choose to dress in their most glamorous attire, so formal wear is highly recommended. Please note that flip-flops are not permitted on board.

How should I plan my packing?

We recommend travelling with one suitcase and one carry-on bag. Please note that any luggage checked in at departure will not be accessible during the journey. Each cabin is equipped with a safe.

Can I secure dining reservations in advance?

Dinner reservations are arranged on board with the Maître D’, and each meal offers multiple seating times. You may request preferred seating times in advance; however, these cannot be confirmed until you are on board. Please note that you may be asked to share tables with other guests. For any special requests, please contact us.

Can dietary preferences or special meal requests be accommodated on board?

Certainly. To ensure your needs are met, please provide detailed requests at the time of booking. Without prior notice, the Chef will do their best to offer alternatives based on available ingredients. Please note that meals requiring strict religious observance cannot be prepared.

Are there interconnecting cabins available?

Cabins are not interconnected. Each cabin and suite, whether with a double bed or twin arrangement, can accommodate up to two guests. The La Dolce Vita Suite and Suite cabins can accommodate a third guest under two years old.

Can passengers with mobility limitations travel onboard the train?

Yes, there is one Suite cabin specifically designed for guests with mobility limitations. This Suite is located close to the common areas to allow easier wheelchair access. Please note that space in the corridors throughout the train is limited, with a width of 609 mm.

Is Wi-Fi available on the train?

Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the train. However, phones and electronic devices should be used exclusively in the cabins, and video streaming is restricted on the onboard Wi-Fi.

Is there air conditioning on board?

The La Dolce Vita Orient Express is equipped with a central air conditioning system, allowing guests to control the temperature in their cabin. Additionally, vents in the cabins can be opened or closed as needed.

Will I need travel insurance?

As with all holidays and trips abroad, we strongly recommend that you have travel insurance. Please consult with our agents at time of booking and we can assist you with this.

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