I Rode Two of Europe's Most Luxurious Trains-Here's What They Were Actually Like

"Although most vintage train enthusiasts are familiar with the Orient Express for its renowned Paris-to-Venice route, they may not know that the brand has another branch dedicated to exploring Italy by rail. As a Rome-based journalist, I was lucky enough to be one of the first passengers aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express to experience its "Taste of Tuscan Vineyards" journey from Rome to Montalcino."

"With glossy lacquered wood, intricate marquetry, sumptuous fabrics, and lamps by Lalique and Baccarat, the VSOE exudes Jazz Age glamour. It has three restaurant cars, a bar car, a boutique, and 54 cabins that can accommodate up to 108 passengers. Perhaps to distinguish it from the VSOE, the LDVOE was inspired by 1960s Italian design, with details inspired by legendary midcentury architect Gio Ponti."

"When I rode the VSOE, I was assigned to a Historic Cabin, which has a banquette that converts into a bed, whereas on the LDVOE I stayed in a suite with a big, comfortable bed, a separate sofa, and a table and chairs. However, I also took a peek at a Deluxe Cabin on board the train to see how they compare."

Both trains provide luxury slow-travel experiences with gourmet meals and onboard entertainment. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE), run by Belmond, channels Jazz Age glamour through glossy lacquered wood, intricate marquetry, Lalique and Baccarat lamps, three restaurant cars, a bar car, a boutique, and 54 cabins accommodating up to 108 passengers. La Dolce Vita Orient Express (LDVOE), operated by Accor, draws on 1960s Italian design inspired by Gio Ponti, with 12 carriages, a restaurant, a bar, and 31 cabins for up to 62 passengers. Cabin layouts differ: VSOE Historic Cabins use banquettes that convert to beds, while LDVOE suites offer larger fixed beds, separate sofas, and dining tables.

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