Railbookers · Luxury train vacation

La Dolce Vita Orient Express - From Rome to Sicily

Nine-day Rome to Naples tour on Orient Express via Sicily

Illustration of La Dolce Vita Orient Express - From Rome to Sicily

Railbookers operates this 9-day, 8-night luxury train vacation from Rome to Naples, using two nights aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express in Deluxe class to cross southern Italy. The trip opens with two nights in Rome, including a guided tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum, before travelers board the Orient Express and arrive that evening in Maratea, known as the 'Pearl of the Tyrrhenian' for its cliffs and beaches. The train continues overnight to Taormina, where a guided tour of the ancient Greek theatre takes in views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, then carries travelers on to Palermo for two nights that include a hands-on cooking class in traditional Sicilian dishes. The trip closes with two nights in Naples, including a full-day tour of the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. This suits travelers who want a single, focused Orient Express itinerary through Sicily.

What to know before you look closer

  • The evidence names hotel options only for Rome (including the Kolbe Hotel Rome, InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace, Hotel Indigo Rome - St. George, Mercure Roma Centro Colosseo and Hotel Mediterraneo The Inn At The Roman Forum); specific hotels for Palermo and Naples are not listed.
  • The evidence does not list specific current departure dates for this itinerary; confirm live availability and pricing directly with Railbookers.

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: Overnight in Rome

    Your Journey Begins in Rome

    Welcome to Rome! Make your way to your hotel and check in for a two-night stay. The rest of the day is yours at leisure – the perfect opportunity to stroll through the city and visit some of the key spots! Why not head over to trevi fountain at a chance for some good luck, followed by a walk around the Pantheon and across to the Spanish Steps. End your first day with a taste of one of Rome’s specialties – Cacio E Pepe!

  2. Day 2overnight: Overnight in Rome

    Rome

    After breakfast, make your way over to the Colosseum for a guided tour of the famous amphitheater, then walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans once more with a guided stroll around the Roman Forum. These amazing ruins were for centuries the center of day-to-day life in Rome.

  3. Day 3rail

    Overnight Onboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express

    Begin your luxurious journey on the La Dolce Vita Orient Express in Rome. As you settle into your elegant, well-appointed cabin, the train will whisk you away towards the southern coast of Italy. In the late afternoon, arrive in Maratea, known as the "Pearl of the Tyrrhenian." This charming coastal town boasts spectacular sea views, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches. Explore its picturesque streets, visit the impressive Statue of Christ the Redeemer, and enjoy some leisure time soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of this hidden gem. (Overnight onboard Orient Express) B,

  4. Day 4rail

    Overnight Onboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express

    After an overnight journey filled with comfort and luxury dining, wake up to the stunning coastal views of Sicily. Taormina greets you with its historic charm and vibrant cultural scene. Spend the day touring Taormina's most famous attraction, the ancient Greek Theatre, which offers dramatic views over the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Wander through the town's narrow medieval streets, lined with boutique shops and quaint cafes, and perhaps sample some local Sicilian delicacies. Return to the train for a gourmet dinner as you recount the day's adventures. The train sets off towards your next destination, ensuring a peaceful night's rest as you travel through the picturesque Italian landscape. (Overnight onboard Orient Express) B,L,

  5. Day 5railovernight: Overnight in Palermo

    Palermo

    Begin your day with a delightful breakfast, followed by a leisurely morning as you admire the picturesque views from the train. On arrival in Palermo, make your way to your hotel and check-in for a two-night stay. Make use of your included Hop-On, Hop-Off pass to explore the city as a perfect independent introduction.

  6. Day 6overnight: Overnight in Palermo

    Palermo

    Following breakfast, make your way to your included guided cooking class where you will learn to prepare traditional Sicilian dishes using local ingredients under the guidance of expert chefs. This is the best way to immerse yourself in new culinary experiences at the hands of a local and take home skills you can implement into your cooking! In the afternoon, discover Palermo's storied past with visits to key historical sites and bustling markets, immersing yourself in the local culture and history.

  7. Day 7railovernight: Overnight in Naples

    Palermo to Naples

    Today, embark on a full-day train journey from Palermo to Naples, crossing scenic views of the gulf of Naples and Sicily. Be sure to take in the views and enjoy the ride along the way. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. In the evening, sample some of the best pizza in Italy or take in a performance at the world-famous Teatro di San Carlo, the country's largest and oldest opera house.

  8. Day 8overnight: Overnight in Naples

    Naples

    Embark on a captivating journey from Naples to the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Frozen in time by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. As you explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, wander through remarkably preserved streets, visit hauntingly intact homes, and marvel at the well-preserved frescoes and artifacts. Expert guides bring the city's vibrant past to life, offering insights into daily life in Pompeii before disaster struck in 79 AD. Nestled at the base of Mount Vesuvius, Herculaneum offers an intimate and well-preserved glimpse into daily life during the Roman era. Wander through narrow streets lined with well-preserved buildings, explore intricate mosaics, and witness the haunting remains of homes and public spaces.

  9. Day 9rail

    Your Journey Ends in Naples

    Check out of your hotel after breakfast this morning and continue with your travels. If you would like to extend your journey to another city, just ask your Rail Expert and we can help you make all the arrangements.

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 2Guided tour of the Colosseum and a walk around the Roman Forum
  • Day 3Board La Dolce Vita Orient Express in Rome and arrive that evening in Maratea, the 'Pearl of the Tyrrhenian,' with its cliffs and beaches
  • Day 4Guided tour of Taormina's ancient Greek Theatre with views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea
  • Day 6Guided cooking class in Palermo learning to prepare traditional Sicilian dishes
  • Day 8Full-day tour of the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum from Naples

Included

  • Rail travel as per itinerary
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Rome
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Palermo
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Naples
  • 2 nights of all-inclusive accommodation onboard The La Dolce Vita Orient Express in Deluxe class including: All table d’hôte meals of innovative Italian cuisine on board All selected beverages during the whole journey Breakfasts and afternoon tea service in your cabin All excursions mentioned in the programs All meals and offered beverages during the excursions 24-hour onboard service and entertainment Private Transfer from Rome Hotel to Rome Station Private Transfer from Palermo Station to Palermo Hotel Private Transfer from Naples Hotel to Naples Airport Small-group walking tour of Rome with the Roman Forum and Colosseum Palermo Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Pass Palermo Cooking Class and Food Market Tour Full Day Tour of Pompeii and Herculaneum from Naples

Questions travellers ask

Is the train travel included?
Yes, rail travel is included as per the itinerary, plus 2 nights of all-inclusive accommodation onboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express in Deluxe class.
What is the route?
Rome to Naples, with the train passing through Maratea and Taormina en route to a stay in Palermo.
Which trains are used?
Trenitalia, Eurostar and La Dolce Vita Orient Express, with 2 nights onboard in Deluxe class.
What's included in Palermo?
A Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Pass and a guided cooking class and food market tour.
How much does this trip cost?
Railbookers prices this trip from $19,059 per person for the 9-day, 8-night package.

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