La Dolce Vita Orient Express
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La Dolce Vita Orient Express: Eternal stones of Matera
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La Dolce Vita Orient Express
Deluxe Cabin
Deluxe Cabin - ensuite
La Dolce Vita Orient Express
La Dolce Vita Orient Express
Lounge bar car
Restaurant Car
Suite Cabin
Suite Cabin - ensuite
Italy

La Dolce Vita Orient Express: Eternal stones of Matera (Tour code: 14283)

Starts and Ends
in Rome
Travel Periods
Apr - Dec 2025 (except Nov)
Experience
Travel Style
Rail Journeys
From Rome, set off to discover the splendours of Matera and its UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Highlights

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

Explore Matera's Historic Charm on a guided tour through its historic streets and cultural landmarks, followed by a unique lunch in a cave restaurant where traditional flavours perfectly complement the town's rustic charm.

Wander through the medieval streets of Palena, uncovering its hidden gems and cultural treasures, then savour a traditional lunch featuring the authentic flavours of the town’s heritage cuisine.

3 days
From
AUD 8,586
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 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

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
Off-train excursions and entrance fees as per itinerary
Round-trip transfers to and from the train station in Rome

Day 1 Depart Rome

As your journey commences, La Dolce Vita Orient Express departs from Rome Ostiense, embarking on an odyssey of luxury and indulgence. As night descends, immerse yourself in the culinary delights of the Italian-inspired dishes crafted by 3-Michelin starred Chef Heinz Beck. Delight in the flavours of seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, each dish a testament to Italy's rich gastronomic heritage.
 

Dinner
Depart Rome
Rome

Day 2 Matera

As dawn breaks on the second day of your journey aboard the La Dolce Vita Orient Express, wake to the enticing aroma of an Italian breakfast. Indulge in culinary delights, from freshly brewed espresso to delicate pastries, setting the tone for another day of exceptional experiences.

In the early morning, the train arrives in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its iconic Sassi – ancient cave dwellings carved into the rugged landscape. Embark on a captivating city tour, immersing yourself in the rich history and cultural fabric of this extraordinary destination. For lunch, enjoy the unique ambiance of a cave restaurant, where traditional flavours seamlessly blend with the rustic charm of Matera’s ancient surroundings.

As the afternoon unfolds, reboard the train for a journey filled with elegance and indulgence. Savour an Italian aperitivo, a delightful prelude to the evening’s festivities.

As night falls, Le Grand Soir dinner awaits, where exquisite flavours and a refined atmosphere come together for an unforgettable dining experience. Let live music and entertainment add a touch of magic to the evening’s proceedings.

As the night draws in, let the gentle rhythm of the train lull you into a blissful slumber, eagerly awaiting the adventures that the next day will bring.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Matera
Matera

Day 3 Palena Rome

As dawn breaks on the third day of your magnificent journey aboard the La Dolce Vita Orient Express, indulge in the delights of a traditional Italian breakfast. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the taste of artisanal pastries will awaken your senses, setting the stage for another enchanting day.

The train arrives in Palena, a medieval town brimming with history and charm. Explore its ancient streets, uncovering hidden gems around every corner. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of times past as you admire Palena’s medieval architecture and cultural landmarks. For lunch, savour a traditional feast, enjoying flavours passed down through generations.

In the afternoon, reboard the La Dolce Vita Orient Express, reflecting on the memories and experiences gathered throughout your journey across Italy’s breathtaking landscapes. Upon arrival at Rome Ostiense, carry with you treasured memories of exquisite dining, cultural immersion, and luxurious travel aboard the La Dolce Vita Orient Express.

Breakfast, Lunch
Palena → Rome
Palena

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.

Additional information

Official language
Italian
Local currency
EURO

2025 departure dates:

  • 13 & 19 April
  • 05 & 17 May
  • 01 & 14 June
  • 17 & 24 July
  • 01, 09, 17 August
  • 08 & 26 September
  • 10, 16, 20 October
  • No departures in November
  • 03 & 13 December

Excluded

  • International airfares and taxes
  • Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
  • Visa expenses, processing and issuance fees
  • Meals 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, excursions, 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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