It may be the world’s most famous train, but Orient Express seems to be steering into uncharted territory for 2025. Not only does the next few years promise a return to the rails, with the legendary locomotive La Dolce Vita Orient Express making regular departures from April 2025, and the Accor-owned brand’s debut splash with the Orient Express Corinthian (the world’s largest sailing yacht, no less) taking to the waters in 2026 – but Orient Express has now announced its first hotel, La Minerva, will be opening this spring in Rome.
Steps from the Pantheon in Rome’s historic Piazza della Minerva, the 93-room La Minerva is set within a meticulously restored 17th-century palazzo, reimagined under the artistic eye of architect and interior designer Hugo Toro.
But La Minerva isn’t just another pretty palazzo. Orient Express is rolling out the red carpet for gourmands and luxury seekers alike. The rooftop restaurant and bar, Voliera, pairs Mediterranean cuisine with panoramic views. Downstairs, La Minerva Bar, tucked under a historic skylight, offers a nod to the hotel’s namesake and the Roman goddess of art and craftsmanship, by serving cocktails worthy of her divine approval.
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“Nestled in the heart of Rome, [Orient Express La Minerva] is not only a destination for the most discerning travelers seeking exceptional experiences, but also a place for Romans to come together,” said Gilda Perez-Alvarado, CEO of Orient Express. “Here, Orient Express meets the soul of the Eternal City, creating a unique space where stories are shared, and cultures converge. It is with great pleasure to officially introduce the first asset to the iconic Orient Express’ portfolio of hotels, trains, and sailing yachts.”
Originally built in 1620 as a residence for the Portuguese Fonseca family, the property later became a hotel in the 19th century under the French Sauve family, hosting luminaries like Stendhal and even Pope Pius IX. Now, La Minerva marries this rich history with Orient Express’s signature Art Deco-inspired elegance.
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La Minerva will host the Olimpo Ballroom, which practically begs to host a grand soirée: think Murano chandeliers, 12 statues depicting the elements and continents, and a level of opulence that would make a Roman emperor jealous. For those seeking the indulgence of a quieter kind, the spa channels the rituals of ancient Roman baths, but with a modern, lavish twist.
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And La Minerva is just the beginning, as next year, Orient Express will keep the momentum going with a second hotel set to open in Venice.
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“In a period of renaissance for the city, Rome is the ideal setting for a global project aimed at creating an authentic, memorable, and personalized luxury hospitality experience, marked by excellence,” said Giampaolo Ottazzi, general manager of Orient Express Hotels Italy.
“With the opening of Orient Express La Minerva, we restore a historic stage to the city that for years has been a refuge for renowned intellectuals and artists. At the same time, we are bringing an iconic name like Orient Express to the capital, a universal symbol since 1883 of the art of travel and bold, refined adventures. Now tied to the allure of our country, and positioning Italy as a privileged destination for sophisticated and demanding tourists.”
[See also: First Look at Palazzo Castelluccio, Rocco Forte’s Third Sicilian Hotel]
