In an era where speed is everything, something remarkable is happening in the world of travel: slowing down is making a comeback—in the most luxurious way imaginable.
The legendary Orient Express is returning to Italy in 2025, ushering in a new golden age of rail travel that celebrates comfort, craftsmanship, and nostalgia. No longer just a relic of the past, this iconic train is now the centerpiece of a broader trend: slow, indulgent travel that turns the journey itself into the destination.
For those craving a taste of the Dolce Vita, this isn’t just transportation. It’s theatre on rails.
The Revival of a Legend
The original Orient Express—famous for transporting royalty, spies, and starlets across Europe—has long held a mythical status. Its art deco interiors, gourmet dining, and storied history made it the gold standard of glamorous travel.
Now, after a detailed restoration by luxury hospitality brand Accor in partnership with La Dolce Vita rail service, the new train is ready to dazzle again. The rebirth includes luxury sleeper routes running through Italy’s most romantic landscapes—Rome to Venice, Milan to Palermo, and more.
Each journey promises hand-crafted details: brass fixtures, velvet headboards, curated wine lists, and private suites that feel more like five-star hotel rooms than carriages.
Why Slow Travel Now?
Modern travelers are growing weary of long lines, overbooked flights, and sterile airports. Many are seeking meaningful travel, not just movement. Train travel—especially when it’s this indulgent—invites you to reconnect with the romance of the road.
You’re not rushed. You’re not crammed into middle seats or checking your bag’s weight. You’re sipping Chianti while gliding past rolling Tuscan hills. You’re dining on truffle risotto as Lake Garda sparkles outside your window. It’s transport turned into poetry.
This return to rail is more than nostalgic—it’s sustainable, sophisticated, and in perfect sync with the new values of luxury travel.
Italy’s New Rail Renaissance
Italy is at the forefront of this movement. Beyond the Orient Express, the country is investing in luxury rail corridors, enhancing both heritage lines and high-speed options.
One of the standout experiences is the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, which offers overnight routes linking major Italian cities with Paris, Vienna, and Istanbul. But the domestic versions—those focused solely on Italian terrain—are sparking just as much excitement.
Popular routes include:
- Rome to Matera: through ancient hill towns and lush vineyards.
- Florence to Palermo: offering sunrise views over the Mediterranean.
- Milan to Venice: a shorter but visually stunning journey, perfect for couples.
Inside the Carriages: A World Apart
The interior of the new Orient Express blends 1920s glamor with modern comfort. Think velvet upholstery, mahogany paneling, and mosaic-tiled bathrooms. The suites are fully equipped with plush bedding, ensuite facilities, and personalized concierge service.
But what sets this apart isn’t just the aesthetics—it’s the experience. Guests are treated to:
- Fine dining menus designed by Michelin-star chefs
- Onboard sommeliers offering regional Italian wine tastings
- Live piano performances in the lounge car
- Private guided excursions at scenic stops
Every detail is intentional, and every moment feels like something out of a Fellini film.
Who Is Booking the Train?
You might think this is reserved for ultra-wealthy jetsetters, but the demographic is broader than expected. Couples celebrating anniversaries, solo travelers seeking inspiration, families looking for a generational bonding experience—it’s a diverse mix drawn by the allure of storybook elegance.
And interestingly, the trend is being driven in part by younger travelers. Millennials and Gen Z—often labeled budget-conscious—are increasingly choosing experiential luxury over material goods. For them, this is less about showing off and more about collecting rare, meaningful memories.
Beyond Luxury: A New Way to See Italy
The beauty of train travel is in what you don’t expect. You might stumble across a fog-covered vineyard at sunrise. Or strike up a conversation with a local historian onboard. Or stop in a town you’ve never heard of, only to find the best cannoli of your life.
That’s what makes the Orient Express revival so powerful. It isn’t just about curated opulence—it’s about leaving space for serendipity.
And in a country like Italy, where every mile tells a story, there’s no better way to experience its essence than from a slowly moving window framed in brass and velvet.
Tips for Booking
- Plan ahead: Routes sell out months in advance.
- Consider shoulder seasons: Spring and fall offer better prices and fewer crowds.
- Look for themed journeys: Some trains include culinary tours, wine weekends, or art excursions.
- Pair with a Vexo Italy itinerary: Combine your luxury rail trip with guided city tours or rural experiences for the ultimate adventure.
Final Thoughts: Travel as Art
In a world obsessed with instant gratification, the Orient Express revival reminds us that the best things are worth waiting for. That slowing down is not a loss—it’s a luxury. And that Italy, with all its timeless charm, is best savored like a fine Barolo: slowly, lovingly, and with a sense of wonder.
So if you’re dreaming of a journey that makes you feel something—not just see something—the new Orient Express awaits.
Explore luxury train experiences and curated Italian travel itineraries on VexoItaly.com.