Looking to cross another nation off your list?
Italy has just surpassed itself with some of the world’s most Instagrammable sites, breathtaking Mediterranean coasts, and world-renowned gastronomic delights.
Prepare yourselves, railway enthusiasts: the country is reinstating a number of historic trains, reconnecting carriages with tracks throughout three sparkling itineraries to present tourists with a one-of-a-kind experience.
The trains are a significant challenger for eco-conscious vacationers, as part of a new brand called FS Treni Turistici Italiani, which has three categories: lusso (luxury), espressi (express), and omnibus-regionali.
Operated by Italy’s state-run operator Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane, the long-distance routes include the Orient Express La Dolce Vita, launching in 2024.
In addition, the omnibus-regionali services will provide an inexpensive, slower option, while the express services will provide quick transit from key cities to tourist sites, including a night train that will pass via southern hotspots such as Milan and the Tuscan coast.
Some lines also provide access to ski destinations throughout the season, with one ‘cruise train’ option transporting passengers from Rome to Cortina d’Ampezzo in the northern Dolomiti Superski area.
This package also includes a return route, allowing passengers to board on Friday evening and ski all weekend before being picked up again on Sunday night to return to the city.
The original Orient Express trains, built 150 years ago by Georges Nagelmackers and the most luxury of the three renovated lines, were Europe’s first of their type.
The overhauled vehicles are a tribute to the ‘glamour, joie de vivre and artistic fervour’ of the 1960s, capturing ‘life, the spirit of freedom, wellbeing and pleasure’ in their essence.
The new designs were created by the architectural and design company Dimorestudio, which was formed by Emiliano Salci and Britt Moran, both of whom were heavily influenced by the golden period of Italian design.
There are 18 suite cabins to select from, each featuring a master bedroom, private bathroom, and a variety of beautiful couches and armchairs.
The décor, which include tones of orange, terracotta, and purple, are concentrated on twentieth-century designs – and room service is also provided to make the experience even more spectacular.
Meanwhile, the stunning deluxe cabins are one step higher, featuring a sofa that unfolds into a double bed. Footstools that double as coffee tables and seats are a creative use of space.
The trains also provide entertainment in the form of La Dolce Vita ballet and the players’ club, which hosts live music, refreshments, and games of backgammon, chess, and cards.
There are also a variety of itineraries available: travellers can stay for one to two nights and go via Rome, Venice and Portofino, Palenta and Matera, and other locations.
You only need a spritz and some bruschetta to live the Italian dream.
Source My Celebrity Life.