Italy is offering a spectacular new way to welcome 2026 with the launch of La Dolce Vita’s exclusive New Year’s Eve rail journey, a three-day celebration blending Tuscan vineyards, Venetian elegance, and Michelin-starred dining.
Designed for travelers seeking an intimate and immersive holiday escape, the itinerary begins and ends in Rome, delivering an indulgent experience that functions more like a moving five-star hotel than a traditional train trip. With tickets starting at €11,280 per passenger, this journey is crafted for those who want the New Year to feel unforgettable, refined, and free from the usual crowds.
Tuscan Wines, Venetian Glamour, and a Midnight Celebration On Board
The adventure begins on December 30 at Rome’s Ostiense Station, where guests gather in a private lounge before boarding La Dolce Vita Orient Express around midday. The first leg heads to Montalcino, one of Tuscany’s most celebrated wine regions.
Travelers enjoy guided walks through the medieval town and exclusive wine tastings at the 14th-century Fortress of Montalcino. A highlight of the day is a private visit to Antinori’s Pian delle Vigne estate for a Brunello tasting – a rare experience typically inaccessible to the public.
From Tuscany, the train continues toward Venice, arriving just in time for a curated series of cultural experiences. Guests glide along the canals by private boat and take part in exclusive activities such as a glassblowing workshop and a concert in a former church. While Venice sparkles outside, the real celebration unfolds on board.
The New Year’s Eve dinner is created by Heinz Beck, the three-Michelin-star chef behind Rome’s La Pergola, setting the tone for an indulgent evening. Afterward, the bar car becomes the center of the festivities, with live performances and a DJ carrying guests into the new year before the train begins its journey back to Rome.
A Five-Star Hotel on Rails Redefining Italian Luxury Travel
Created by Orient Express and Accor, La Dolce Vita is a modern interpretation of mid-century Italian glamour. The 12-carriage train hosts just 62 passengers, offering plush cabins, elegant lounges, and the signature La Dolce Vita Suite with expansive living space and ensuite facilities. Every detail – from design to dining – has been chosen to immerse travelers in Italy’s cultural heritage.
Beyond this special New Year’s Eve journey, the train operates seasonal itineraries across Italy, exploring regions such as Portofino, Matera, Sicily, and Venice, along with themed departures focused on vineyards, truffles, or golf. The price reflects its exclusivity, with many trips exceeding €12,000 per passenger, yet demand continues to grow among high-net-worth travelers seeking meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
For those craving a distinctive and luxurious way to ring in the new year, La Dolce Vita’s “Whispers at Midnight” journey offers an exquisite blend of culture, cuisine, and celebration – an elegant invitation to step into 2026 in true Italian style.
