La Dolce Vita Orient Express: 2026 Venice & Portofino

Highlights

Explore Venice with a range of Optional Off-Board Experiences*

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

Explore the picturesque town of Portofino with a range of Optional Off-Board Experiences*

3 days

From

AUD 15,522

per person, twin share

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All services are subject to availability.

Overview

Set-off on an unforgettable journey aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express, where luxury meets culture. Enjoy a gourmet lunch curated by 3-Michelin-starred Chef Heinz Beck as you travel from Rome to Venice and Portofino. Explore historic treasures, savour Ligurian cuisine, and experience exquisite dining, all while indulging in Italy's breathtaking landscapes.

Inclusions

Two nights private ensuite accommodation onboard the train in a Deluxe Cabin

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

Round-trip transfers to and from the train station in Rome

Itinerary

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Day 1 Rome Venice

The day begins in Rome with a private transfer to La Dolce Vita Orient Express Lounge for a smooth and elegant start to the journey.

After a warm welcome, guests board the train at Ostiense Station, setting off towards Venice. Late morning gives way to a refined lunch experience in the Restaurant Car, where a gourmet menu by acclaimed chef Heinz Beck is served against a backdrop of rolling Italian countryside.

During the afternoon, there is time to relax in the comfort of a private cabin or enjoy signature cocktails, premium teas, and light entertainment in the Bar Car.

As evening approaches, the train glides into Venice Santa Lucia station. From there, guests are escorted on an exclusive boat ride along the Grand Canal, taking in the splendour of “La Serenissima.”

The evening is free to explore Venice through curated Off-board experiences* or personal discovery, with a formal dress code recommended for the Gala evening.

Later in the evening, a return boat journey leads back to the station, where the train awaits. The day concludes with live music in the Bar Car, offering a perfect finale before retiring for the night.

*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, Dinner

Venice

Day 2 Portofino

A leisurely morning unfolds with breakfast served either in the elegant Restaurant Car or in the privacy of the cabin. As the journey continues, the train approaches the Ligurian coast, with arrival at Santa Margherita Ligure in the late morning. From there, guests are transferred to the picturesque harbour town of Portofino. A short drive followed by a scenic boat transfer offers breathtaking views of the coastline upon approach.

Please note: Guests will have to remove shoes before stepping aboard the private boat.

Time in Portofino allows for either guided Off-board experiences* or relaxed enjoyment of its charm and natural beauty. Smart casual attire and comfortable footwear are recommended for the day’s activities.

In the late afternoon, a return journey is arranged, leading back to the station for re-embarkation. The evening onboard features a multi-course dinner in the Restaurant Car, accompanied by an expertly curated wine selection.

As the night unfolds, the Bar Car hosts live music once again, setting a delightful tone for the final evening of the journey.

Breakfast, Dinner

Portofino

Day 3 Journey back to Rome

The final morning is spent enjoying breakfast on board while travelling south through the Italian landscape. By late morning, the train returns to Rome Ostiense Station. Upon arrival, private transfers are arranged to ensure a smooth and comfortable continuation to the next destination, marking the close of an unforgettable journey through some of Italy’s most iconic cities and coastal treasures.

Breakfast

Rome

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.

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.

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

Optional Extras

Scala del Bovolo: Venice's Hidden Treasure

Embark on an intimate evening journey through Venice’s quiet canals and hidden alleyways, revealing secret corners and a magical atmosphere. The highlight of the experience is a visit to Scala Contarini del Bovolo, a Gothic-Renaissance architectural gem offering panoramic views over the illuminated city. As the tour continues through silent courtyards, local legends and historic mysteries bring the city’s past to life. The evening culminates in an exclusive dining experience within the opulent halls of a noble Venetian palace. Surrounded by frescoes, candelabras, and refined dishes inspired by traditional local cuisine, this is a true taste of the Serenissima in its most enchanting form.

Starting from $3,470 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

Culinary Venice Uncovered

This exclusive guided tour is a celebration of Venice’s culinary heritage, featuring a curated selection of cicchetti (small tastings) and traditional flavours. As the journey unfolds through the enchanting calli, the vibrant backdrop of the city becomes the stage for an extraordinary gastronomic experience. The tastings include local delicacies such as sarde in saor and baccalà mantecato, as well as contemporary bites showcasing regional innovation. Thoughtfully paired wines accompany each dish, enhancing every flavour and revealing the artistry of Venetian cuisine. This immersive experience highlights the perfect balance between tradition and creativity, offering a multi-sensory journey through the spirit of the city, where each cicchetto pays tribute to generations of culinary mastery.

Starting from $1,044 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

Opening Doors to Venetian Palaces

A luxurious journey begins with a Grand Canal tour leading to Piazza San Marco, where the city reveals its splendour in one of its most iconic cafés. Meandering through historic calli and campielli, fascinating tales emerge, unveiling the lesser-known side of Venice. The experience continues with exclusive after-hours access to the Doge’s Palace, an enduring symbol of Venetian power. In the stillness of the night, explore its silent corridors and magnificent halls, fully immersed in the palace’s grandeur. The evening concludes within the refined setting of a noble Venetian palazzo, where an intimate, private dinner is served. Rooted in tradition and steeped in elegance, this final chapter offers a taste of timeless sophistication.

Piazza San Marco

Starting from $3,227 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

Love in Portofino

This enchanting experience begins in the iconic Piazzetta of Portofino, unfolding through the scenic alleyways of this charming fishing village. The walk leads to Castello Brown, a historic residence perched in a commanding position above the bay. Reserved exclusively for this visit, the castle provides a striking setting for an aperitivo overlooking the harbour. Within its ancient walls and gardens, discover the rich history and art of the estate. The day continues with a refined lunch at a traditional local restaurant, where Ligurian specialities are served in a warm and inviting atmosphere. This perfect blend of culture, natural beauty, and gastronomy offers an unforgettable exploration of Portofino’s timeless elegance.

Portofino

Starting from $1,673 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

The Pesto Experience

Immerse yourself in the rich culinary tradition of Liguria with a hands-on cooking class in one of Portofino’s most picturesque settings. Under the guidance of a master pesto maker, learn the art of crafting fresh pasta and preparing traditional Pesto alla Genovese. From selecting fragrant basil to achieving the perfect balance of extra virgin olive oil, pine nuts, and a blend of Parmigiano and Pecorino cheeses, every element is explored with care. The experience continues with a relaxed lunch, featuring regional specialities made from the freshest ingredients. Set against a backdrop of coastal beauty, this culinary journey is a celebration of taste, tradition, and local craftsmanship.

Starting from $1,949 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

Portofino: Eco-Luxury on the Horizon

This immersive experience takes place at La Portofinese eco-farm, where sustainable farming and traditional methods combine to create a unique vision of eco-luxury. Explore the grounds with a guided walk through lush gardens and animal enclosures, learning about responsible agriculture and the preservation of local products. Fresh ingredients can even be handpicked directly from the land. The visit concludes with an aperitivo and a farm-to-table lunch at Osteria dei Coppelli. Every dish reflects a respect for regional flavours, crafted from locally sourced produce. This is a refined yet grounded celebration of heritage, gastronomy, and the serene beauty of the Portofino countryside.

Starting from $2,251 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

Additional information

2026 departure dates:

30 April
11 June
24 July
29 September
16 October

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.

La Dolce Vita Orient Express: 2026 Venice & Portofino

Rome / Rome

From AUD 15,522pp

4.9 stars, 74 reviews

From AUD 15,522pp

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