The new "Orient Express" train in Italy has not yet started operating, but its ticket prices are already skyrocketing.

The "La Dolce Vita Orient Express" train's reservations open on Tuesday in Italy.

Train aficionados should secure the present rate before it increases further.

The cost of a one-night journey on the luxury train has risen from 2,000 euros ($2,168) per person in December 2022 to 2,500 euros per person in November 2023. Both rates were set during a pre-sales reservation period that required a refundable deposit.

According to a March press release, starting rates have now increased to 3,500 euros per person per night.

That's an eye-watering 75% price increase in a 16-month period.

The train, operated by Accor, is scheduled to commence running in spring 2025.

What is happening?

CNBC did not receive a direct response from Accor regarding the reason for the significant price increase.

According to a representative, pricing changes based on occupancy, season, route, and cabin type.

However, again, the train isn't operating yet.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, operated by Belmond, still has lower ticket prices compared to another train using the "Orient Express" moniker in Europe, despite nightly rates starting from £7,060 British ($8,925) per passenger, according to a review of its website.

Dave Goodger, the managing director for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company, stated that rising prices are due to consumers' willingness to pay higher rates for luxury experiences. However, he added that this may not be the sole reason.

"He stated that luxury travel demand is reflected in some continued price increases, but these increases are not profiteering and are in line with rising costs, such as higher staff costs and increased debt service requirements."

The La Dolce Vita train's price increase was considered an outlier by Goodger, but he also acknowledged it reflects the exceptional service it offers.

The 'La Dolce Vita' trains

The La Dolce Vita Orient Express train will operate nine routes in Italy, including a coastal trip from Palermo to Rome and another from Rome to Montalcino.

The "La Dolce Vita" train embodies the spirit of Italian elegance depicted in Federico Fellini's iconic 1960 film of the same name. The movie is most notable for the memorable scene where Anita Ekberg dances in the Trevi Fountain, an action that can result in a hefty fine for those attempting to replicate it.

The train's website will open reservations on April 24, while reservations via telephone will be available on April 2.

The Orient Express, a new train by Accor, will be launched using restored 19th-century carriages that were previously part of the historic "Nostalgie-Istanbul-Orient-Express."

The train, originally planned to launch this year, is now slated to start operations in 2026.