La Dolce Vita Orient Express
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La Dolce Vita Orient Express: 2026 Eternal stones of Matera
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La Dolce Vita Orient Express
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 Eternal stones of Matera (Tour code: 15103)

Starts and Ends
in Rome
Travel Periods
09 May 26 - 17 Oct 26
Experience
Travel Style
Rail Journeys
From Rome, set off to discover the splendours of Matera and its UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Highlights

Discover Matera's Historic Charm with a range of Optional Off-Board Experiences*

Upon arrival in the medieval city of Pescocostanzo, enjoy free time to explore this charming town and its local artisan workshops and indulge in a delightful lunch
 

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

3 days
From
AUD 12,102
per person, twin share
Travelling with kids? Read more 
All services are subject to availability.

Overview

La Dolce Vita Orient Express offers a luxurious journey from Rome, featuring Michelin-starred dining curated by Chef Heinz Beck, Italian breakfasts and captivating tours in Matera and Pescocostanzo. Experience exquisite cuisine, cultural immersion and the elegant ambiance of Italy's landscapes as you travel in opulence, creating unforgettable memories.

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
2 nights private ensuite accommodation onboard the train in a Deluxe Cabin
Round-trip transfers to and from the train station in Rome

Day 1 Depart Rome

In the late afternoon, a dedicated Limousine Service will collect you from your hotel, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey to the La Dolce Vita Orient Express Lounge. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by the attentive Guest Relations Team, available to assist and ensure the experience begins in style.

As evening falls, La Dolce Vita train will depart from Rome Ostiense Station, marking the beginning of an unforgettable journey. A little later, dinner will be served in the elegant Restaurant Car. Surrounded by breathtaking views, you will enjoy a fine dining experience curated by renowned Chef Heinz Beck. The maître d’ will confirm the specific dining time upon boarding.

Later in the night, guests are invited to the Bar Car, where live music entertainment will create a lively and sophisticated atmosphere — the perfect way to unwind as the journey continues.

Dinner
Depart Rome
Rome

Day 2 Matera

In the early morning, breakfast is served onboard, either in the elegant Restaurant Car or in the comfort of your private cabin. Shortly after, the train arrives at Bari Centrale Station or Metaponto Station, where guests disembark and meet local guides for a transfer by minivan to the stunning city of Matera — a journey of approximately 55 minutes.

Matera, with its ancient charm and the distinctive setting of the Sassi, has served as a backdrop for numerous international films. Notable productions include The Passion of the Christ by Mel Gibson and No Time to Die, the latest James Bond film. The city’s timeless scenery and evocative architecture continue to captivate filmmakers, offering a dramatic setting that has made it a symbol of cinematic storytelling across the globe.

Late morning through the afternoon is dedicated to discovering Matera, whether by joining one of the organised Off-board experiences* or enjoying free time at your leisure. For those participating in the experiences, lunch is included and served at the renowned Michelin-starred restaurant Vitantonio Lombardo.

By late afternoon, guests will return to the train station by minivan for the next leg of the journey. As evening sets in, La Dolce Vita Orient Express departs, continuing the voyage in timeless style.

Dinner is served later in the evening in the Restaurant Car, offering panoramic views and a fine dining menu crafted by acclaimed Chef Heinz Beck. The maître d’ will confirm the exact sitting time upon boarding.

Later in the night, live music entertainment awaits in the Bar Car, providing a vibrant and elegant atmosphere to unwind.

Note: For those exploring Matera, comfortable flat shoes and practical clothing are recommended, as the terrain can be uneven and requires some walking. This ensures a pleasant and hassle-free experience throughout 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.

Breakfast, Dinner
Matera
Matera

Day 3 Pescocostanzo Rome

Begin the day with an elegant breakfast, served either in the sophisticated ambiance of the Restaurant Car or in the comfort and privacy of your cabin.

Later in the morning, the train arrives at Sulmona Station, where expert local guides await to accompany you on an exclusive journey through time. Step aboard the historic Centoporte train of the legendary Transiberiana d’Abruzzo, a beautifully restored icon of Italian railway heritage. As the train winds its way through dramatic mountain landscapes, admire sweeping views that evoke the timeless romance of rail travel.

Your destination is Pescocostanzo, a picturesque village nestled in the Apennine Mountains. Here, enjoy a leisurely guided stroll through cobbled streets steeped in tradition and artisan craftsmanship. A refined lunch will be served at a carefully selected local restaurant, where regional flavours and culinary heritage come together in an authentic gastronomic experience. Following lunch, the historic train will return you to Sulmona Station.

Recommended dress code: Smart-casual attire, combining refined elegance with comfort, is recommended for the day’s activities.

By mid-afternoon, La Dolce Vita Orient Express continues its journey from Sulmona Station. Take time to relax in the privacy of your cabin or enjoy a crafted signature cocktail in the Bar Car, accompanied by classic board games and a curated selection of premium teas served by the onboard bartender.

As the golden hour sets in, a traditional Italian aperitivo awaits in the Bar Car — the perfect prelude to a sophisticated evening. Dinner is served later in the Restaurant Car, featuring a gourmet menu presented in an atmosphere of elegance and grace. The maître d’ will confirm your specific dining time during the evening.

Later in the evening, the train arrives at Rome Ostiense Station. A dedicated Limousine Service will be arranged for your onward journey, ensuring a seamless and luxurious conclusion to the day’s experience.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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

A tale as Old as Time

Engage in a special journey in the heart of Matera, a city steeped in history and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your day will begin with a guided tour through the fascinating Sassi district, where you will immerse yourself in the millennia-old history of this captivating city carved into the rock. As you explore the ancient stone dwellings, you'll uncover the hidden and surprising corners of Matera, including its underground area, which reveals a mysterious world that is both ancient and enigmatic.

Afterward, you'll enjoy a delightful lunch at one of the most iconic restaurants in the city. Set in a unique environment, you will savour a typical Lucanian cuisine, celebrating the authentic flavours of the region. This experience offers the perfect opportunity to experience both the past and the present of Matera, one of Italy's most extraordinary cities.

Sassi

Starting from $2,040 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

A Symphony in Wine & Stone

Step into a world of timeless elegance with an exclusive journey through the ancient Sassi of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where history whispers from every stone. Accompained by expert local guide , you'll venture deep into the rock, uncovering the rich stories etched into its stone walls, and enjoy an exclusive live musical performance in an intimate cave setting— where pure acoustics and ethereal ambiance create an unforgettable sensory moment.

Savourr a refined tasting of prestigious regional wines, perfectly paired with a gourmet selection of artisanal delicacies—each bite and sip deepening your connection to the land and its traditions. Conclude your experience with a delightful lunch at one of Matera’s most refined restaurants, where the finest local cuisine is served in a setting that harmoniously blends tradition, elegance, and charm.

Sassi

Starting from $2,040 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

The Enchantement of Traditions

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience, drawing you into the soul Matera. Begin your journey with a private guided exploration of the iconic Sassi—the city's iconic stone, carved district and UNESCO treasure—where every winding alley and weathered dwelling tells the story of civilisation long past. Your journey continues with an exclusive hands-on workshop in terracotta and clay craftsmanship. Under the guidance of master artisan, you'll sculpt your own masterpiece Cucù, a bird-shaped charm, symbolising light, luck, and the enduring spirit of Southern Italy. The day culminates in a refined lunch at one of Matera’s most esteemed restaurants, where you'll indulge in the region’s rich culinary traditions reimagined through elegant and authentic flavours. 
 

Sassi

Starting from $1,540 per person, with pricing subject to availability and confirmation.

Where Beauty meets Flavour

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the Murgia, a breathtaking natural landscape overlooking the timeless city of Matera.

Renowned for its sweeping panoramic views and dramatic geological formations, this area invites you to experience the untamed elegance of Southern Italy at its most profound. Discover the evocative Chapel of the Original Sin, a remarkable site where history, art and spirituality converge in perfect harmony. After immersing yourself in this cultural and natural treasure, unwind with a sophisticated aperitif in a picturesque setting before savouring a leisurely lunch in the heart of the Sassi—inside an authentic cave restaurant that celebrates the refined culinary heritage of Lucania.

This captivating experience offers an immersive exploration of the Murgia’s soul, culminating in an exclusive gastronomic journey that lingers in the memory long after the last bite.

Matera

Starting from $1,635 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:

  • 09 May
  • 23 June
  • 05 July
  • 14 August
  • 12 September
  • 17 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. (unless specified)
  • 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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