Orient Express unveils a lavish New Year’s Eve journey across Italy

Celebrate the New Year la dolce vita-style.

Ringing in the New Year just became even more special and stylish with the world’s most luxurious train travel company, Orient Express, announcing its new Whispers at Midnight journey. Running from 30 December to 1 January, the new three-day, two-night journey onboard the glamorous La Dolce Vita Orient Express starts and ends in Italy’s Rome. It will take passengers on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that marries the romance of unhurried travel with the excitement of celebrating the new year, combining luxury, gastronomy and entertainment.

The ultra-chic La Dolce Vita Orient Express exudes timeless luxury. (Image: Mr. Tripper)

The iconic La Dolce Vita Orient Express exudes a mid-century Italian aesthetic inspired by the ’60s and ’70s. Richly layered with warm wood panels, textured upholstery, geometric patterns and gold accents, the locomotive has become synonymous with timeless luxury and unparalleled hospitality. 

The new route begins in Rome at the ultra-chic La Dolce Vita Lounge, before heading to Tuscany’s Montalcino, a charming medieval town surrounded by rolling vineyards and cypress-lined roads, celebrated for its world-renowned Brunello wine. Guests can opt for à la carte or optional off‑board experiences, such as wine-tasting tours, available at an additional cost.

Celebrate the New Year with a Michelin-starred dining experience. (Image: Mr. Tripper)

Dinner that evening is prepared by world-renowned three-Michelin-starred Chef Heinz Beck. Beck is widely regarded as one of the most influential chefs in contemporary Italian gastronomy, preparing modern Italian dishes with refined techniques. The evening unfolds with live performances from a pianist and singer, alongside elevated tipples, for a truly sophisticated end to the day. 

Soak up Tuscan views. (Image: Mr. Tripper)

The next morning, begin your day with breakfast in your cabin or in the dining car as the train pulls into Venezia Santa Lucia. Guests will be taken on a scenic boat journey through Venice’s canals before being treated to a spectacular, multi-course New Year’s dinner by Chef Heinz Beck, accompanied by fine wines. The festivities will continue into the evening with a burlesque show in The Bar Car and a DJ set. A leisurely breakfast on New Year’s Day before arriving at Roma Ostiense station brings the journey to a refined close. 

The Whispers at Midnight journey is set to be an unforgettable way to kickstart the new year while passing through some of Italy’s most beloved regions. 

Details

Let the gentle hum of the rails lull you to sleep. (Image: Mr. Tripper)

Price: €11,280 (A$19,875) per person (including all food, drinks, and onboard entertainment)

Journey length: 3 days, 2 nights

Dates: 30 December to 1 January

Departure and return: Starts and ends in Rome at La Dolce Vita Lounge