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Railbookers · Independent rail vacation

The Gems of Italy and La Dolce Vita Orient Express - Eternal Stones of Matera

Luxury Italy trip with two nights on La Dolce Vita Orient Express

Illustration of The Gems of Italy and La Dolce Vita Orient Express - Eternal Stones of Matera

Railbookers operates this independent 10-day, 9-night rail vacation through Italy, built around two nights aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express in Deluxe class. After two days in Rome, including a guided tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum, travelers board the Orient Express at Rome Ostiense Station for an overnight to Matera, known for its ancient cave dwellings, before a stop in Sulmona and the hilltop town of Pescocostanzo and a return to Rome. From there, a high-speed train continues to Florence for a walking tour of the Uffizi and Accademia galleries, then on to Venice by Trenitalia for a small-group tour of the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica. The onboard nights are all-inclusive, with table d'hote meals, selected beverages and cabin service, a different standard from the hotel-only nights in Rome, Florence and Venice. It suits travelers seeking a luxury train centerpiece alongside Italy's classic cities rather than a budget itinerary.

What to know before you look closer

  • The evidence gives conflicting endpoints: the route summary lists Pescocostanzo as the final stop, but the day-by-day itinerary ends in Venice on day 10.
  • The evidence for this trip does not list specific hotel names, only the city and number of nights for each stop.
  • The evidence for this trip does not include current departure dates; confirm availability and current pricing with Railbookers before booking.

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: 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: 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 3railovernight: Onboard Orient Express

    Overnight Onboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express

    Begin your day with a delightful breakfast and Italian coffee at your hotel, before a scheduled transfer takes you through the city to Rome Ostiense Station. Here, you will board the luxurious carriages of the La Dolce Vita Orient Express. After a swift check-in, your steward will escort you to your elegantly appointed cabin. Once settled, enjoy a gourmet Italian dinner in the Dining Car, savoring the peaceful views of the countryside through your window. The evening will culminate with live musical entertainment and cocktails in the Bar Car.

  4. Day 4railovernight: Onboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express

    Overnight Onboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express

    Wake up to breakfast onboard as the train arrives in Matera, one of Italy's most fascinating and historic destinations. Known for its ancient cave dwellings and UNESCO-listed old town, Matera offers a unique glimpse into centuries of Italian history. Spend time exploring the city at leisure or choose from a selection of curated experiences designed to showcase its rich culture, heritage, and cuisine. Later this afternoon, rejoin the La Dolce Vita Orient Express and continue your journey through the beautiful landscapes of southern Italy. Enjoy an Italian aperitivo before another exceptional dining experience onboard as the train travels towards Sulmona.

  5. Day 5railovernight: Rome

    Rome

    This morning, arrive in Sulmona and continue by local train to the charming hilltop town of Pescocostanzo. Nestled in the heart of the Abruzzo region, this beautifully preserved village is renowned for its historic architecture, artisan traditions, and picturesque streets. Explore at your own pace or participate in one of the curated experiences available during your visit. Later, return to the La Dolce Vita Orient Express for the journey back to Rome. On arrival, make your way to your hotel and check in for a final overnight stay. In the evening, enjoy a tour of Rome by night.

  6. Day 6railovernight: Florence

    Rome to Florence

    After breakfast, make your way to Rome Termini station and board a direct high-speed train to Florence – the city of Renaissance Art! Upon arrival, make your way to your hotel and check in for a two-night stay. The rest of the afternoon is yours at leisure – why not take a stroll over to Ponte Vecchio bridge and visit the boutique jewelry stores, followed by a visit to the Pitti Palace. In the evening, enjoy an included sunset gondola ride along the river Arno.

  7. Day 7overnight: Florence

    Florence

    After breakfast, make your way to your walking tour and visit the world-famous Uffizi and Accademia galleries. The Uffizi Gallery, one of the most renowned art museums in the world. Inside, you will encounter a stunning collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Titian. The Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo's David.

  8. Day 8overnight: Venice

    Florence to Venice

    Board Trenitalia to magical Venice. On arrival at Santa Lucia station, you will quickly realize just how wonderful this corner of the world is. Settle in at your hotel then step out and start discovering the sprawling canals and local charms on your own.

  9. Day 9overnight: Venice

    Venice

    This morning, make your way to St Mark's Square for the start of your small group tour to the Doges Palace, and mesmerizing Golden Basilica. Following this, it is a guided walking tour through the quieter lanes and alleys, where you will see some architectural gems and historical buildings that are often overlooked by the crowds.

  10. Day 10rail

    Your Journey Ends in Venice

    Check out of your hotel after breakfast this morning and continue with your travels. If you would like to extend your vacation 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 3Travelers board the La Dolce Vita Orient Express at Rome Ostiense Station, settle into an elegantly appointed cabin, and enjoy a gourmet Italian dinner in the dining car.
  • Day 4The train arrives in Matera, known for its ancient cave dwellings and UNESCO-listed old town, for a day of curated experiences.
  • Day 5The train stops in Sulmona, connecting by local train to the hilltop town of Pescocostanzo in the Abruzzo region, before returning to the Orient Express.
  • Day 6A direct high-speed train carries travelers from Rome to Florence, the city of Renaissance art.
  • Day 9A small-group tour visits St. Mark's Square, the Doge's Palace and the Golden Basilica, followed by a guided walk through Venice's quieter lanes.

Included

  • Rail travel as per itinerary
  • 3 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Rome
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Florence
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Venice
  • 2 nights of all-inclusive accommodation onboard 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
  • Small-group walking tour of Rome with the Roman Forum and Colosseum
  • Culinary Food Tour in Rome at Night
  • Private Sunset Florence Boat Ride
  • Small-group walking tour of Florence with the Uffizi and Accademia Gallery
  • Multi-day Vaporetto pass in Venice
  • Small-group walking tour of Venice with the Doge's Palace and St Mark's Basilica
  • Private Transfer from Rome Hotel to Rome Station
  • Private Transfer from Rome Station to Rome Hotel
  • Private Transfer from Venice Hotel to Venice Airport

Questions travellers ask

Is the train travel included?
Yes, rail travel throughout, including two nights onboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express in Deluxe class between Rome, Matera and back.
Is this trip guided or independent?
It is an independent trip; the evidence does not describe a tour leader accompanying travelers on non-train days, though several small-group walking tours are included.
Is there an overnight train?
Yes, two nights onboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express, with all meals, beverages and cabin service included.
Which places does the route visit?
Rome, Matera, Sulmona, Pescocostanzo, Florence and Venice.
What is included with the hotels?
Breakfast is included with every stay: 3 nights in Rome, 2 in Florence and 2 in Venice, plus 2 all-inclusive nights onboard the train.
Where does the trip end?
The day-by-day itinerary ends in Venice on day 10, though the evidence's route summary separately lists Pescocostanzo as the final stop.

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