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A first look at the Orient Express trains that will return to Italy in 2023

The legendary rail service is making a big comeback, with six brand-new trains running all the way to Istanbul

Sophie Dickinson
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Sophie Dickinson
Freelance contributor
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Once upon a time, you could jump on a glamorous night train and travel along the Italian coast, taking in icy Alpine peaks and vast forests as you go. You could criss-cross through the country, gazing at the bustle of Milan – and then the splendour of Florence. Basically, you could live in an incredibly romantic Italian movie, and it was buonissimo.

But you know what? Soon, you could do exactly that again, as the Orient Express is set to make its grand return to Italy in 2023. Six new trains will connect ParisRomeSplit and Istanbul, with several different itineraries available to travellers looking to relive the glamour of twentieth-century rail travel.

Orient Express
Photograph: Orient Express / Dimorestudio

The exact routes are still to be confirmed, but the trains will also run the length of Italy, with a dedicated Orient Express hotel set to open in Rome – meaning guests can linger in the capital for a little longer. The trains will then run all the way along along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, and finally wind up in Turkey.

As these photos show, you’ll find fine dining, entertainment and a lounge bar on board. And as for the cabins themselves? Think mid-century design meets contemporary chic. Very, very cool.

While the details of the services still need to be fleshed out a bit, you can find out the latest about the new Orient routes here. See you in the restaurant car?

Orient Express
Photograph: Orient Express / Dimorestudio

Planning a big trip for 2022? Here are 11 of the most incredible train journeys around the world.

Plus: here are five brand-new train routes that could revolutionise European rail travel.

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