Embark on The Grand Tour, a five-day voyage of unparalleled elegance aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express, tracing a spellbinding roundtrip route from Rome: from the romantic canals of Venice to the ancient cave dwellings of Matera, the coastal beauty of Taormina, and the vibrant energy of Palermo, each stop reveals a new facet of Italy’s rich heritage, before returning to Rome.
Experience a curated blend of culture, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes – a celebration of Italy’s most iconic destinations.
The Grand Tour
Round trip
5 days - 4 nights
The Grand Tour
The journey begins in Rome, where the train departs from Ostiense Station at 10:30 AM. As the capital slips into the distance, lunch is served on board and the rhythm of the countryside takes over. By early evening, you’ll arrive in Venice, where canals, narrow alleys, and fading palazzi capture a beauty that feels both immediate and centuries old. Enjoy an evening in the city before rejoining the train.
The next morning, wake to views of the Adriatic coast and disembark in Bari for an inland journey to Matera - one of the world’s oldest cities and known for its ancient cave dwellings. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic Sassi districts or simply take in the slow pace of this remarkable place.
Crossing into Sicily, the train arrives in Taormina by mid-afternoon on day 3. Set between sea and sky, with Mount Etna as its backdrop, Taormina offers sweeping views. Later that evening, the journey continues down the coast toward Palermo.
By the morning of day 4, you arrive in Sicily’s vibrant capital, Palermo - where bustling markets, and quiet corners are filled with unexpected beauty. Enjoy your time to explore the city before reboarding for the final leg.
On the last morning, the train completes its circle, arriving back in Rome at 10:30 AM. Whether this marks the end of your travels or the beginning of something new, The Grand Tour offers a rare way to experience Italy, unhurried, immersive, and thoughtfully designed.
Day 1
Your journey begins with a private transfer from your hotel or the airport to the La Dolce Vita Orient Express lounge at Rome Ostiense, a refined space that offers a quiet moment to unwind before stepping aboard. At 10:30 AM, the train glides out of Rome, marking the start of your five-day voyage. Settle into your private cabin, and, as the landscape shifts beyond your window, make your way to the Restaurant Car for a lunch crafted by three-Michelin-starred Chef Heinz Beck.
By early evening, the train arrives in Venice. Here, a private water taxi awaits to bring you into the heart of the city. Wander through hidden alleyways, sip an aperitivo by the Grand Canal, or choose from a curated selection of à la carte experiences designed to connect you more deeply with the city’s atmosphere and heritage.
Later, return to the station where the train awaits. As the train continues its journey south, the Bar Car comes to life with live entertainment and musicians performing an intimate repertoire of Italian classics and modern arrangements.
Day 2
Wake to the soft movement of the train and a new landscape unfolding outside your window. Enjoy breakfast at your leisure, served either in your cabin or in the Restaurant Car as the train approaches the Adriatic coast.
In the morning, you arrive at Bari, where a private transfer will bring you to Matera - one of Italy’s most striking and storied cities. A place that feels quietly outside of time, with winding stone paths, sunlit courtyards, and dwellings carved directly into the hillside.
Enjoy the city at your own pace or choose from a collection of carefully curated à la carte experiences.
In the late afternoon, return to the train and depart toward Sicily.
Back on board, a gourmet dinner crafted by Chef Heinz Beck offers a new menu inspired by the southern regions of Italy. The Bar Car fills once more with live music, weaving together a relaxed and elegant atmosphere for your second night on board.
Day 3
The train glides through the southern tip of the Italian mainland on the third day. Enjoy breakfast in your cabin or in the Restaurant Car while the landscape grows more dramatic - coastal cliffs, olive groves, and glimpses of turquoise sea.
By late afternoon the train embarks on its iconic passage from the mainland to Sicily, crossing the shimmering Strait of Messina. In a rare and unforgettable moment, the train is carefully dismantled and carried aboard a ferry. From the dock, the landscape opens wide to sweeping views of the Mediterranean, an extraordinary scene suspended between sea and sky. It is a pause in motion, both serene and surreal.
As the train rolls back onto Sicilian tracks, settle in for a lunch curated by Chef Heinz Beck. Inspired by the bold, sun-kissed flavors of the island.
You then arrive in Taormina. Set high above the Ionian Sea with Mount Etna rising in the distance. Local assistants escort you to the city center, where the afternoon is yours to explore. Choose to wander at your own pace or select from a curated range of à la carte experiences.
By late afternoon, return to the train for your next overnight journey. Dinner is served on board, with a new menu by Chef Heinz Beck highlighting Sicilian ingredients and traditions. The evening concludes in the Bar Car with live music - offering a relaxed and elegant close to the day.
Day 4
Awaken to breakfast served in your cabin or in the Restaurant Car as the train approaches Sicily’s vibrant capital, Palermo. You will be escorted to the heart of the city - where Arab-Norman architecture stands beside lively markets, and centuries-old churches sit amid bustling streets. The day is yours to explore at a leisurely pace or choose from a range of curated à la carte experiences designed to bring Palermo’s unique culture and history to life.
By mid-afternoon, return to the train for departure. As the journey continues, the train crosses back over the Strait of Messina at sunset, offering another chance to take in the stunning golden Mediterranean views from the ferry.
Dinner on board, crafted by Chef Heinz Beck, reflects the flavors of Sicily and the mainland. The evening’s live entertainment in the Bar Car—featuring a pianist, singer, and musician—creates the perfect atmosphere for your last night on this Grand Tour.
Day 5
On your final morning, enjoy a relaxed breakfast served in your cabin or in the Restaurant Car as the train travels back to Rome. Take a moment to reflect on the journey - the cities visited, the landscapes admired, and the unforgettable experiences shared both on board and ashore.
At 10:30 AM, the train arrives at Rome Ostiense, bringing The Grand Tour to its conclusion. From here, you are free to continue your travels or return home, carrying with you memories of a remarkable exploration through Italy.
OUR EXPERIENCES
The ritual of Cicchetti: a Venetian tradition
Embark on an unparalleled experience in the heart of Venice: join us for an exclusive guided tour where you will indulge in a curated selection of Cicchetti (small tastings) and immerse yourself in the allure of ancient traditions and authentic Venetian flavors. As you wander through the enchanting Calli, the lively atmosphere becomes the backdrop […]
Venice through Casanova’s Eyes
Step into the enchanting world of Casanova’s Venice, a journey interwoven with history, intrigue, and undeniable allure. As you meander through the Calli and Campielli, you will be transported to an era of opulent masquerade balls, where noble ladies and dashing cavaliers, draped in resplendent attire, once glided gracefully to the melodies of Rondò in […]
Venice’s spiral majesty: Scala del Bovolo
Join an intimate evening journey through the silent Calli of Venice and its quiet canals, witnessing the city’s enchanting vistas, secret corners and uncovering its hidden gems. The highlight of this experience is the Scala Contarini del Bovolo, a stunning Gothic-Renaissance masterpiece. Ascend this spectacular spiral staircase to reach a panoramic terrace revealing breathtaking views […]
Matera: 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. Accompanied by an expert local guide, you’ll venture deep into the rock, uncovering the rich stories etched into its stone walls, and enjoy a unique live musical […]
Matera: 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 […]
Murgia & Matera: Where Beauty Meets Flavor
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 features, this area invites you to experience the untamed elegance of Southern Italy at its most profound. Discover the evocative Chapel of Original Sin, a remarkable site where […]
Matera: the enchantement of traditions
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience, drawing you into the soul of Matera. Begin your journey with a private guided exploration of the Sassi—the city’s iconic stone, carved district and UNESCO treasure—where every winding alley and weathered dwelling tells the story of civilization’s long past. Your journey continues with an exclusive hands-on workshop in terracotta […]
Sicily from above: Castelmola & Taormina
Discover the soul of Sicily with an exclusive journey through Castelmola and Taormina—two timeless jewels set between sky and sea. The excursion begins with a journey to the hilltop village of Castelmola, perched above Taormina—an authentic slice of Sicily, with its winding alleys, historic churches, and breathtaking views over the sea and the surrounding hills. […]
Crater Roads & Vineyard Tables
Begin your journey with a guided walk through the enchanting streets of Taormina, before setting off on a private adventure to Europe’s highest active volcano—Mount Etna. Aboard a Jeep, traverse the volcano’s dramatic landscapes, from ancient craters to moonlike lava fields, led by a local naturalist who brings the mountain’s powerful story to life. Along[…]
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 […]
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 […]
The Spirit of Palermo
Step into the soul of Palermo with an exclusive experience that weaves together elegance, heritage, and Sicilian flair. Begin with a private visit to a storied aristocratic palace, where the grandeur of its interiors and the warmth of its hosts offer a glimpse into the refined life of Palermo’s past. As you wander through charming […]
Monreale: from Cloisters to Cellars
Indulge in a visit of the magnificent Cathedral of Monreale—a true masterpiece of Norman architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Renowned for its resplendent golden mosaics, the Cathedral vividly depicts biblical stories with such exquisite craftsmanship, leaving visitors in awe. After exploring this architectural marvel, continue your journey into the rich history and culture […]
Palermo and Teatro Massimo: a journey through opulence
Embark on a guided tour of Palermo’s historic center—an enchanting journey that will lead you through the city’s most iconic landmarks and architectural masterpieces. Our route begins in the narrow streets of the old town, where history, art, and culture intertwine to create a vibrant, captivating city. Throughout the tour, you will visit highlights such […]