From Sicily to Rome

A journey along the coast of Sicily. From Palermo to the wonders of Maratea, the sea, and spectacular beaches.

Your itinerary

Palermo - Taormina - Maratea - Rome

One way

3 days - 2 nights

From Sicily to Rome

La Dolce Vita Orient Express departs in the morning from Palermo. At midday, indulge in a delightful lunch on board curated by 3 Michelin starred Chef Heinz Beck. In the afternoon, the train arrives in Taormina, a charming town nestled along the rugged cliffs of Sicily's eastern coast. Immerse yourself in history and splendid views or reserve optional curated experiences to discover the wonder of the island. As night descends, the train departs, continuing its journey towards Maratea.

On the second day, wake up to the aroma of a homemade Italian breakfast, featuring freshly baked pastries and rich coffee. Experience the unique journey of the train being decoupled and loaded onto a ferry to cross the Strait of Messina. Upon arriving in Maratea, you have free time to visit the city or enjoy optional curated experiences. As evening falls, bid farewell to Maratea and head back onboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express as the train departs. The third and final day, the train arrives in Rome Ostiense, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable journey.

Program of the day

Palermo and Taormina

Day 1

Your journey begins with a private transfer from your hotel or the airport to Palermo train station, where La Dolce Vita Orient Express awaits to whisk you away in elegance and comfort.

Departing in the morning, settle into your cabin and allow the Mediterranean landscapes to unfold outside your window. At midday, the Restaurant Car invites you to a gourmet lunch curated by three-Michelin-starred Chef Heinz Beck, a celebration of Italian culinary artistry with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

In the afternoon, the train arrives in Taormina, a jewel perched on Sicily’s eastern cliffs. Local assistants accompany you as you choose how to explore: stroll freely along historic streets and terraces, savor breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea, or select from curated à la carte experiences revealing the city’s art, history, and culinary traditions. As night falls, reboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express. The Restaurant Car awaits with a refined dinner, and the Bar Car offers live music, creating a perfect evening of luxury and refinement as the train departs for Maratea.

Maratea

Day 2

Crossing the Messina Straight

Awaken to the gentle rhythm of the train and the aroma of a freshly prepared Italian breakfast, served in your cabin or in the Restaurant Car. The morning is yours to savor the comfort of the journey as the train continues south.

In the afternoon, witness a singular experience as the train is decoupled and loaded onto a ferry to cross the Strait of Messina, a spectacle of engineering and maritime beauty. Once in Maratea, the “Pearl of Basilicata,” you may stroll freely through its charming streets or select from curated à la carte experiences, such as a visit to historic landmarks, a guided coastal walk, or tasting local delicacies. As evening falls, the train departs once again, leaving Maratea behind, and the Restaurant Car invites you to a dinner curated by Chef Heinz Beck, accompanied by live music in the Bar Car, creating a refined and unforgettable night on board.

Rome

Day 3

The final morning begins with a leisurely Italian breakfast in your cabin or in the Restaurant Car, as the train journeys through southern and central Italy toward Rome Ostiense. Upon arrival, disembark with lasting memories of Sicily’s beauty, Maratea’s charm, and the elegance of a journey that revealed Italy’s landscapes, flavors, and history.

Our Experiences

The spirit of Mount Etna

The Sicilian charm: Taormina and Castelmola

The Redeemer and tastes of Maratea

Tastes of Maratea: a culinary journey

The spirit of Mount Etna

Embark on a striking adventure to discover Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, through an exciting Jeep excursion and scenic trekking experience across breathtaking landscapes. This journey invites you to explore some of the most captivating panoramic trails on the volcano, where you will encounter ancient craters, lunar-like terrain, and a unique array of flora and fauna. Throughout the excursion, you will be accompanied by an expert volcanologist who will unravel the geological history of the volcano and illuminate the many facets of its vibrant ecosystem.

This experience seamlessly blends nature, culture, and gastronomy, leaving you with unforgettable memories of a unique adventure in the heart of Sicily.

*The price indicated is per person

The Sicilian charm: Taormina and Castelmola

Embark on a curated journey through two of Sicily’s most evocative destinations: Castelmola and Taormina where history, beauty, and flavor converge in an immersive celebration of local culture. Your day begins in Castelmola, a tranquil hilltop village suspended above the Ionian coast. Rich in character and charm, its cobbled alleys, medieval churches, and panoramic terraces reveal the quiet soul of authentic Sicily. Here, time seems to slow down, offering space to connect with the island’s enduring traditions.
The tour continues with a guided walk through the narrow streets of Taormina, celebrated for its graceful, Greco-Roman legacy, and breathtaking views that stretch from the cristalline shoreline to the slopes of Mount Etna. As you explore its storied streets, you’ll trace the footsteps of centuries of travelers enchanted by this jewel of the Sicilian coast.
After your cultural exploration, you’ll be welcomed into an exclusive pastry atelier for a hands-on masterclass in crafting the iconic Cannolo Siciliano. Led by a renowned local pastry chef, this interactive culinary experience reveals the secrets behind Sicily’s most celebrated dessert—from the delicate preparation of the golden shell to the artful blending of fresh ricotta and citrus zest. A sensory journey into sweetness and tradition.

This is not a tour—it’s a taste of Sicily’s soul, thoughtfully woven into a day of discovery, elegance, and genuine hospitality.

*The price indicated is per person

The Redeemer and tastes of Maratea

Begin an unmissable experience in Maratea with an exhilarating visit to the Christ the Redeemer statue on Monte San Biagio. Standing at 650 meters above sea level, this imposing statue is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the Tyrrhenian coast. The ascent to Monte San Biagio itself is a captivating journey, revealing stunning landscapes and allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
The tour continues with a visit to the Basilica of San Biagio, a site of profound historical and spiritual significance. This church, a striking example of religious architecture, is admired for its simplicity and charm. Inside, you’ll encounter invaluable frescoes and works of art, immersing yourself in the site’s spirituality and rich history. From the Basilica, the views stretch across the valley and the sea, enhancing the deeply atmospheric experience.
During the guided tour, there will also be opportunities to indulge in culinary discovery, tasting local gastronomic specialties—flavors that establish this region as a genuine gourmet destination.
Dinner at the Santavenere Hotel offers the perfect finale to conclude the day. Set against a backdrop of enchanting sea views, the hotel presents exquisite dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This refined culinary journey delivers a harmonious blend of sophisticated cuisine and breathtaking scenery, creating a memorable and sensorial finale to your visit.

*The price indicated is per person

Tastes of Maratea: a culinary journey

Indulge in a special experience at the Santavenere Hotel in Maratea, where elegance, tradition and sensory delight come together in perfect harmony. Among the hotel’s most captivating offerings is the cooking class—an immersive culinary journey inviting guests to explore the rich flavors of Lucanian cuisine. Participants will have the opportunity to uncover the secrets behind traditional regional dishes, crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Led by expert chefs, the class reveals not only techniques and recipes but also the stories and traditions infused into these dishes making them truly special.
Complementing this gastronomic adventure is a cocktail masterclass, where a skilled bartender will guide guests in crafting creative, refined cocktails. Using high-quality spirits and fresh ingredients, you’ll learn the art of mixing drinks with flair and sophistication—transforming each creation into a celebration of conviviality and the joy of taste.
The day culminates with a delicious, intimate dinner, served in a setting surrounded by panoramic views of the sea and the tranquil landscape of Maratea.
A stay at the Santavenere Hotel is a genuine sensory journey—combining the pleasures of fine cuisine, the artistry of mixology, and the natural beauty of one of the most exclusive destinations along the Tyrrhenian coast.

*The price indicated is per person