La Dolce Vita Orient Express introduces Istanbul to Rome route

La Dolce Vita Orient Express is set to introduce a four-night itinerary from Istanbul to Rome this October.

The news follows the announcement of the train’s inaugural journey from Rome to Istanbul, which will depart on October 22.

Rather than reversing the existing itinerary, which passes through Venice, Budapest and Romania, the new route will introduce Vienna and the Bulgarian cities of Sofia and Plovdiv.

It will also include a stop in Venice before arriving in Rome.

Off-board experiences will offer guests the chance to engage with local artisans and visit Unesco-listed sites and architectural landmarks.

The train features 31 “thoughtfully appointed” cabins, lounge spaces and a culinary programme that showcases regional flavours.

The new itinerary is said to “reimagine” one of Europe’s “most-storied” rail routes and celebrate the “enduring appeal” of train travel.