From the moment of my warm welcome into the lounge at Rome's Ostiense Station, I was very impressed. The lounge is certainly a unique selling point and a fantastic idea, with many other passengers arriving more than 90 minutes before departure to make the most of the top-class hospitality. Food and drinks are available as required, and of course, the 1960s-influenced jazz band playing adds a great atmosphere.
Another touch that really made me feel I was taking part in a special occasion was that during this time in the lounge, most of the immaculately dressed crew – including the maître d' – introduced themselves personally. A friendly crew member also handed me my traditionally designed paper ticket, which made for a memorable souvenir. It’s worth noting that there’s also a full service in the lounge when the train returns to Ostiense Station at the end of the journey.
The design of the lounge itself reflects the train perfectly, from the layout to the expensive varnished wood, to the Murano glass chandeliers and lamps. This is accentuated if you opt to stay in their Minerva hotel before and after, which also has the same interior designs and connections, with the corridors even matching the train carriages.
Lounge at Ostiense Station
Excellent service is at the heart of the whole experience, beginning and ending at the station. The key takeaway from the journey is that the La Dolce Vita is not just a train ride, but a broader experience and a way of life that includes your entire stay in Italy. This really captures the essence of the phrase itself.
As the train itself couldn't linger long in the station, boarding was brisk – another good reason to arrive early and check in your luggage, which awaits you in your cabin. There was a moment of theatre as the lounge musicians followed passengers out onto the platform, playing us aboard like stars in a Fellini film.
Bar carriage aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express
Walking through the corridor to my cabin, my first impression of the train was one of atmosphere and detail. The walls are covered in a soft light red fabric, with golden-framed black-and-white photographs of Italian film stars and scenes from the 1950s and 60s. Combined with the sound of the music outside, it was impossible not to feel transported to this era of Italy.
All cabins come with a charming small ensuite. The Deluxe Cabins have a sofa that cleverly converts into a double bed in the evening, while the more spacious suite cabins have a ready-made bed and a small table to sit at. The design and materials in the cabins clearly match the corridor and the lounge, which really builds on the cohesive style and connection throughout the train.
Suite Cabin on La Dolce Vita Orient Express
This theme continued in the spacious bar carriage, where plush sofas and armchairs line either side of the bar and the band’s performance area. The dim lighting, small lamps along the windowsills, and relaxed setting created a very atmospheric evening space. During the day, it’s noticeable how large the windows are, letting in lots of natural light when it’s preferred.
The dining carriage carries many of the same design elements, with subtle differences like distinct lighting and carpet patterns that make it stand out. The highlight here is definitely the food. The menu is designed by Heinz Beck, a chef with three Michelin stars, and the quality absolutely reflects that.
Dining carriage on La Dolce Vita Orient Express
Whichever route you choose, the off-train excursions are thoughtfully curated and well worth taking part in if you want to fully immerse yourself in the rich culture, landscapes and flavours of Italy. That said, even without venturing beyond the train itself, the experience remains something truly special. The combination of the elegant onboard atmosphere and the refined service – beginning and ending with the exceptional lounge – captures the very essence of la dolce vita. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or indulging in a once-in-a-lifetime journey, the La Dolce Vita Orient Express stands out as Italy’s most authentic and immersive luxury rail experience, showcasing the country’s beauty and charm in a way that few others can.