Although we’re only six months into 2023, and there’s plenty to be excited for with the summer still ahead of us, but we’ve always got one eye on what’s coming up further down the line. And 2024 is already shaping up to be an exciting year for luxury travel. To whet your appetite for 2024 travel, we’ve selected some of the new openings in the luxury travel sphere that deserve your attention. These offer the perfect reason to treat yourselves to an unforgettable luxury guided vacation to these spectacular destinations.

New luxury trains in Italy – Orient Express ‘Dolce Vita’

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Over 150 years ago, the first ever Orient Express journey launched luxury train travel into another dimension.  And to this day the name Orient Express is still the epitome timeless nostalgia and glamour.

In 2024, this five-star train will launch six new ‘Dolce Vita’ itinerates, the ultimate way to bookend your Italian vacation.

From the snow-capped peaks of the northern Alps through the picturesque hills of Tuscany and the breathtaking beaches of the southern coast, journeys visit iconic cities including Venice, Rome and Matera.

Every aspect of this luxury train pays tribute to “La Dolce Vita.” Choose from 12 Deluxe cabins, 18 suites, and one La Dolce Vita suite. In partnership with esteemed local and international chefs and sommeliers, passengers will savor a 5-star dining experience onboard, showcasing the best of Italy through world-renowned wines and delicious haute cuisine.

Plus new hotels – Orient Express Minerva Hotel, Rome and Orient Express Venice

Furthermore, bringing the Golden Age glamour of the rails to their own hotels, the very first Orient Express Hotels have announced new openings in 2024 in Rome and Venice.

The Orient Express, Minerva in Rome will be sited in the former Palazzo Fonseca and is set to be a high-class romantic landmark for Rome. This exquiste 17th century palace is adorned with Roman columns and sculptures by Rinaldi Rinaldo.

The Palazzo Donà Giovannelli, built in 1400 by architect Filippo Calendario, known for Venice’s famed Doge’s Palace is the home for the Orient Express Hotel, Venice. An ode to the city’s heritage, suites will all overlook the gardens and canals of Venice and select terraces hidden on the hotel’s rooftops will offer the most beautiful views of the wonders of the Serenissima.

Expect all the luxury and nostalgia of the Golden Age of Travel that you get from their trains, wrapped up in a sumptuous hotel, with the finest Italian gastronomy on offer.

Take a timeless Italian journey with: Ultimate Italy

You might also enjoy reading: An exclusive invitation from La Famiglia Mazzei, a Tuscan wine dynasty

Egypt – new art hotel

In the bustling capital of Cairo, Egypt is set to get its first luxury ‘art hotel.’ Set to open in early 2024, the Hyatt Centric Cairo West will create an art journey for guests from the moment they arrive.

Reflecting the outstanding historical riches of Cairo and Egypt, the urban hotel will showcase the city through the lens of contemporary artists. At every turn, including in its 283 rooms, nods to Egyptian crafts and pharaonic heritage will blend with a showcase of the country’s pop culture.

Paintings, sculptures and architectural features will be complemented by landscaped gardens, a sumptuous pool and inspiring social spaces. Located in the Pyramid Heights area close to the new Grand Egyptian Museum (set to open this year) the hotel is perfectly located to immerse yourself in the rich history of Egypt.

See the best of Cairo and Egypt with: Elegance of the Nile

 You may also enjoy reading: Riches of the Nile: Why Egypt’s icon is the grandest river in the world

Lisbon – new Melia hotel

Hailed as one of the most charismatic and vibrant cities in Europe, Portugal’s capital Lisbon is a highly desirable destination. Blending traditional heritage with striking modernism, all wrapped up in a glorious year-round climate.

To add to the city’s alure, a new ME by Meliá Hotel, an exciting new opening for Lisbon is set for 2024, bringing its unique brand of luxury to the city. Described as a destination in itself, local art will blend with the latest technology to bring an eclectic and luxurious stay.

The fully equipped spa will offer everything you need to disconnect and enjoy a total-relaxation experience, whether in the indoor pool, sauna, Turkish bath or massage cabins. And a classy Rooftop Bar will let you sip a cocktail and soak up the ambience in the city, with fantastic panoramic views.

Discover the delights of Lisbon on: Spain & Portugal in Style

London – new museum takes you back in time

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Why not top off a five-star visit to the capital with a step back to a bygone era? From spring 2024, a unique opportunity awaits visitors who wish to journey back in time, and step into the heart of Elizabethan High Society.

The new Shakespeare Museum in London is one of London’s most exciting new openings for 2024. Situated on the grounds of the old playhouse that staged productions like Romeo & Juliet and Henry V, the museum is set to transport visitors to this captivating era.

Guests can anticipate immersive, multisensory encounters, wrapping you in the sights, smells, sounds and ambiance that inspired Shakespeare’s plays. Through cutting-edge AI technology and a projected reconstruction of the playhouse, you’re promised a remarkable resurrection of the past, and can even step onto the stage yourself.

Visit London on: Castles & Kingdoms and British Royale

You may also enjoy reading: How Travel Concierge Michael Gives a Royal Welcome in the UK

When it comes to luxury travel, the difference is in the details. It’s the little things, like priority access, door-to-door transfers, special surprises, and personalized service that elevate your tour and give you the full royal treatment.

From unparalleled attention to detail from your Travel Concierge to exclusive curated experiences, here are all the ways we make your trip exceptional. 

Personalized service from your Travel Concierge

At the heart of every Luxury Gold tour is your dedicated Travel Concierge. As masters of anticipating your needs and identifying your preferences, they ensure you receive personalized attention throughout your journey. From making restaurant reservations to offering local recommendations and fulfilling special requests, the Travel Concierge goes the extra mile to tailor every detail to your individual preferences. 

Read more: Cape Expectations: How Travel Concierge Jameel Makes South Africa Sing

@luxurygoldvacations

Private door-to-door transfers

Forget frantic trips to the airport. The royal treatment starts as soon as you step out your door. Your bespoke Luxury Gold experience begins with private door-to-door transfers. You’ll enjoy a seamless transfer from your home to your local airport with a private car and driver. That also includes door-to-door porterage. We take care of your luggage with the utmost care and attention, with hassle-free transfers and convenient door-to-door porterage between every destination. 

Special surprises

While you can count on unwavering support and service on your Luxury Gold tour, you can expect the unexpected when we surprise you with special treats or experiences throughout your journey. It’s just one of the ways we add a touch of magic to your trip. 

Read more: 5 of the best Passport Moments you’ll enjoy with Luxury Gold

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Priority access

Avoid long queues and enjoy priority access and reserved seating at all the popular attractions and events you visit on your tour. 

Read more: Royalty & Noblemen: The fascinating people you’ll meet in Europe with Luxury Gold

Exclusive VIP experiences

The standout highlights of any Luxury Gold tour are the exclusive VIP experiences. These unique opportunities allow you to access venues or events that are typically off-limits to the general public. 

Tour castle gardens with a Duchess, meet an Austrian princess, or have lunch with an iconic Peruvian politician. Set off on a private tour of a renowned art gallery after hours, dine in a historic castle, or enjoy an exclusive wine tasting with a world-class sommelier. Our curated experiences take you beyond the velvet rope to create unforgettable moments and a truly royal treatment. 

Read more: Exclusive travel encounters: Founder’s Collection

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Exceptional dining experiences

Fine dining is a key part of the Luxury Gold experience and our team goes above and beyond to provide remarkable dining experiences. We take you to the impossible-to-get-into Michelin-star restaurants and arrange private culinary events where you can savor gourmet meals and local flavors that will satisfy even the most discerning tastes. 

Read more: What to expect when dining at a Michelin starred restaurant

Unique stays

An exceptional tour isn’t simply about luxury stays. We handpick each accommodation to ensure you experience not only luxurious comfort but also authentic and unique stays. From historic mansions and castles to opulent properties that are loved by royals themselves, you’ll explore some of the most extraordinary establishments in the world.

Read more: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

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Luxury transport

A truly remarkable trip understands that every stage of your journey needs to be outstanding – including your transport. From private transfers to first-class train carriages, we ensure your transport is just as enjoyable as the destination. Our spacious luxury coaches come with comforts like complimentary Wi-Fi, extra legroom, and refreshments and snacks on board.

Discover the journey of a lifetime on our Luxury Scandinavia Tours

Small group journeys

Another one of the ways we make your trip extraordinary is by limiting our luxury small group tours to an average of 20 guests. This ensures an intimate and more personal travel experience. With fewer guests, you’ll have a more relaxed pace of travel, better access to attractions, and richer encounters with locals. 

Read more: 7 ways Luxury Gold makes your travel experience completely stress free

Expert local guides

We partner with knowledgeable local guides who provide expert insights into each destination’s history and culture. These passionate guides share their personal stories and insider perspectives, bringing each location to life in the most unique way.

Explore our luxury tours and find out more about how we give you the royal treatment when you travel with Luxury Gold.

Have you ever considered booking a festive train journey? The Christmas season is the best time of year to treat yourself to all the glitz and glimmer luxury train travel has to offer. We scoured the globe in search of seven of the most beautiful train journeys this holiday season. Step aboard with us. 

CTA Holiday Train 

Watch the Windy City whizz by on Chicago Transit Authority’s very own Holiday Train. This festive tradition, now in its 31st year, takes travelers throughout the city on eight train lines and the elevated Loop (or “L”) decorated in thousands of colorful holiday lights and décor. Santa and his reindeer lead the charge in an open-top flatcar lined with Christmas trees. The Holiday Train is more than dazzling lights, it also delivers hundreds of food baskets to local community organizations and charities. In some years, the train has delivered 600 food baskets through the season running from after Thanksgiving until Christmas.  

@barrybutler9

 Napa Valley Wine Train 

Take in the best of California’s rolling Napa Valley aboard one of their three festive Jolly Journeys. Families will love Santa’s Cookie Car for the opportunity to visit the man himself while sipping a cup of warm cider or cocoa and nibbling on holiday cookies. Take your celebrations up a notch on the Gourmet Holiday Express. This journey includes a three-course holiday meal, holiday cookie and cocoa, digital and printed photo with Santa and a table-side visit from Santa in an antique Pullman dining car. Or, soak in stunning views aboard the Very Merry Vista Dome journey where you’ll enjoy fine dining paired with 360-degree views. Whichever you choose, you’ll be welcomed at the station by cheerful carolers. 

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Polar Express  

Head to Colorado for another festive train journey on a vintage steam train aboard the Durango & Silverton’s Narrow-Gauge Railroad’s Polar Express. Your half-hour journey begins in Durango Depot with a welcoming musical pre-show. En route to the North Pole, sip hot chocolate and feast on sweet treats as the conductor reads the award-winning book by Chris Van Allsburg. Upon arrival, enjoy a musical light show and a visit from Santa—complete with gifts, his reindeer and elves and characters from the Polar Express movie. 

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Santa Claus Express  

Our search for the best train journey takes us across the Atlantic to Finland’s Santa Claus Express. This double-decker overnight train takes you from Helsinki to Finland’s northernmost region of Lapland passing through spectacular winter landscapes. On a stop at Rovaniemi, the “official residence of Santa Claus,” children can drop off signed letters for Santa, visit an elf school, ride a reindeer or even take a snowmobile safari. As you wind through the winter wonderland of snow-capped trees, you’re also in the perfect spot to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. 

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Canterbury Christmas Carols 

Hop over to the UK for a beautiful train journey on one of Belmond’s British Pullman trains. The Canterbury Christmas Carols train finds you aboard a luxurious train traveling to the historic city of Canterbury. Sit back in your plush seat as you indulge in an elegant three-course brunch and sparkling Bellini. In Canterbury, tour the famous cathedral accompanied by the Canterbury Singers and do a bit of holiday shopping before stepping back on board. Enjoy a Champagne toast before savoring a four-course dinner paired with the sommelier’s wine selection. Finish with coffee, tea and petit fours.

Festive Lunch 

You can also celebrate the season on the Festive Lunch British Pullman train. Your vintage train departs from London’s Victoria Station. Relax in your wood-paneled carriage as you travel through the British countryside on this elegant, round-trip journey. Begin your fine dining experience with a welcome glass of Champagne in cut glassware. Then, tuck into your five-course meal served on commissioned china atop white linen.  

Bath at Christmas 

Lastly, Belmond’s Bath at Christmas experience will find you embracing the best of the Christmas season on this festive train journey to the World Heritage City of Bath. Begin with a bit of bubbly, brunch and coffee or tea in your Art Deco carriage. In Bath, enjoy shopping in the town’s traditional Christmas market. Here 170 chalets tempt you with unique gifts, festive food and hot drinks. Wander the historic streets and pop into the quirky shops while the sounds of Christmas add to the holiday mood. Back on board, clink glasses over a champagne reception followed by a decadent, four-course, wine-paired dinner. 

@belmondbritishpullman

@belmondbritishpullman

Explore more Belmond train trips and get inspired by celebrities who ride the rails. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard our luxury train journeys.  

Where will you travel with Luxury Gold?