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Overview
An iconic rail odyssey across the continent - new for 2025.
Carefully selected excursions are complemented by leisurely afternoons spent aboard your exclusive, five-star hotel on wheels. In this unmatched environment, indulge in the blend of stunning scenery and personalised, attentive hospitality, transforming every moment into a testament to the pinnacle of opulent travel.
Itinerary
Day 1 Paris, France
Upon arrival in Paris, you will be greeted and transported to a centrally situated five-star hotel (Paris Le Grand or similar) for an overnight stay. Enjoy a welcome reception dinner in the company of your fellow guests.
Day 2 Champagne, France
Commencing your extraordinary rail odyssey from Paris, guests will be escorted this morning to Paris Gare de Lyon Station. The journey unfolds with a champagne drinks reception before boarding the elegant Golden Eagle Danube Express. Settle into life onboard the private train as the journey traverses the tranquil French countryside towards the first destination – Champagne.
Famed for producing the world’s finest sparkling wines, Champagne's meticulously tended vineyards, draped over undulating hills, form a captivating mosaic of green and gold. Besides the renowned bubbly, the region showcases historic cathedrals and majestic architecture, recounting stories of medieval splendour. Your explorations through this region will uncover a rich blend of flavours, history, and refinement, rendering Champagne an unmatched destination for the senses.
Day 3 Vienna, Austria
Embark on a magnificent afternoon journey through the awe-inspiring Austrian countryside, crossing the majestic Alps en route to Switzerland. Whether you prefer to relax in the comfort of your cabin, attended to by your dedicated cabin attendant, or opt for the elegant ambiance of the Bar Lounge Car, where you can enjoy the captivating melodies of the resident pianists and savour a selection of expertly crafted cocktails by renowned bar staff – every moment promises a luxurious blend of breathtaking scenery and sophisticated leisure.
As twilight descends, you will gracefully arrive in the imperial city of Vienna, where the evening unfolds into an epitome of refinement. Indulge in a lavish dinner and immerse yourself in the height of cultural splendor with a private classical concert featuring the prestigious Vienna Supreme Orchestra. Tonight, relish in the seamless fusion of fine dining and timeless music, creating an evening that transcends the ordinary and embodies the essence of refined travel.
Day 4 Vienna to Postojna, Slovenia
Continuing your exploration of Vienna's refined splendours this morning, guests immerse themselves in the captivating allure of Austria's stunning capital. With its opulent palaces, iconic coffee houses, and a cultural fabric interwoven with classical music and captivating opera, Vienna entices visitors with its rich heritage.
After lunch, indulge in an exquisite culinary experience with an exclusive confectionary masterclass led by our esteemed Catering Manager, Krisztian, and the renowned Head Pastry Chef, Rebeka.
Tonight, embark on a journey of refined discovery as guests explore the mesmerizing depths of Postojna Caves. Aboard an underground train, guests delve into a subterranean world of grandeur, traversing a labyrinth of expansive halls adorned with intricate cave formations and inhabited by enigmatic creatures. Immerse yourself in the atmospheric ambiance, accompanied by the soulful melodies of a saxophonist echoing through the cavernous spaces.
Day 5 Belgrade, Serbia
Today, your journey leads you into the hidden gems of Belgrade, starting with an exclusive tour of Tito’s renowned blue train, a relic from Yugoslavia's storied past. Delight in a lavish traditional Serbian feast, treating your palate to bold and diverse flavours reflective of the city's vibrant character.
Prepare to embrace Serbian hospitality as you delve into the world of Rakija, Serbia’s cherished elixir. At the city’s oldest brewery, sample a variety of Rakija blends while immersing yourself in captivating stories that bring Belgrade's spirited history to life.
Before you board the train, take the opportunity to explore Belgrade's lively streets, each corner unveiling a new aspect of its dynamic culture. Uncover the mysteries of this captivating city, where luxury and adventure intersect at every juncture.
Tonight, you are invited to embark on a culinary odyssey with an exquisite Gala Dinner, crafted by esteemed Head Chef, Ramon Batta. Through each meticulously prepared dish, Chef Ramon offers a sensory experience, capturing the essence of the journey through the art of gastronomy. Drawing inspiration from local ingredients and flavours encountered along the way, Chef Ramon transforms each course into a symphony of taste and culture.
Day 6 Sofia, Bulgaria
Guests can enjoy a morning of relaxation in the Bar Lounge Car as the journey progresses towards Bulgaria. Soak up the sophisticated ambiance while being serenaded by the dulcet tones of the resident pianist, creating a symphony of relaxation. Savour the luxury of time as you recline, observing the world gracefully unfold outside the window.
Sofia, one of the oldest cities in Europe dating back around 7,000 years, lies at the foot of Mount Vitosha, providing a stunning backdrop to the explorations. The city boasts magnificent architecture, showcasing a blend of Western and Central European influences, particularly evident in many of the Orthodox churches. The adventure commences amidst the captivating ruins of the Roman city of Serdica, where echoes of a bygone era whisper tales of glory and conquest. Guests can wander through the enchanting City Garden, home to the prestigious National Theatre Ivan Vazov, and admire the opulent façade of the Presidential Palace and other iconic landmarks that grace Sofia’s skyline.
But the excitement doesn't stop there. Guests are encouraged to brace themselves for an exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime experience as they descend into the hallowed Crypt of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. In this sacred space, they will be enraptured by the mesmerizing melodies of the “Cosmic Voices,” a transcendent vocal masterpiece that captivated hearts at the opening of the Olympic Games in Tokyo. Enchanting and evocative, this private performance by the renowned Vanya Moneva Choir promises to transport guests to realms of sublime beauty and spiritual awakening.
Day 7 Istanbul, Turkey
Today marks the culmination of your European rail odyssey as you reach the legendary city of Istanbul, straddling both Asia and Europe. The remainder of the day is yours to discover the charms of this captivating city at your own pace before guests gather for a magnificent Farewell Dinner along the enchanting banks of the Bosphorus.
Overnight stay at the Four Seasons Sultanahmet (or similar)
Day 8 Istanbul
This morning, after an overnight stay at your centrally located five-star hotel, enjoy your final breakfast on the tour.
Why not extend your stay in Istanbul to explore the Turkish capital at your leisure? Please contact us for hotel options and rates.
Accommodation
Golden Eagle Danube Express
Upgrade availableLIFE ABOARD THE GOLDEN EAGLE DANUBE EXPRESS
The Golden Eagle Danube Express is your luxurious hotel-on-wheels. Unpack just the once and settle into your well-appointed and comfortable cabin as you begin this voyage of a lifetime. Your cabin attendant will be on hand to look after all your needs.
In addition to our luxury sleeping cabins, we offer a first class Bar Lounge Car and Restaurant Cars.
DELUXE CABIN
Travel in some of the finest rail accommodation available in Europe.
Private bathrooms feature a shower with constant hot water, washbasin and toilet. There is a heated towel rail, shaver socket and hairdryer. A range of toiletries and a dressing gown are provided. Cabins have individually controlled air-conditioning, lighting with dimmer switches, individual reading lights, power sockets and a safe.
Co-ordinated fabrics complement wood-panelled walls and brass fittings. Two comfortable armchairs provide daytime seating, and a free-standing chair adds flexibility. Cupboards and a full-length wardrobe provide ample storage whilst the large picture window and full-length mirror enhance the spacious feel. A second window will open for fresh air and for that perfect photo opportunity.
During dinner each evening the living room is converted into two comfortable lower beds by your attendant who is also on hand to bring you early morning tea or coffee.
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Room Upgrades
Superior Deluxe Cabin
Superior Deluxe cabins, with private en-suite facilities, offer the ultimate in European rail accommodation in terms of space, facilities, and comfort.
With 12 cabins per departure, each cabin offers comfortable daytime seating with a full-length sofa and two additional chairs. The large cabin also benefits from two full-size picture windows, one of which is openable to add to the bright and airy feel of the interior.
Each evening the cabin is transformed into a luxurious bedroom with a UK-standard King Size bed. All cabins have, as standard, a large double wardrobe with excellent storage space, individually controlled air-conditioning, lighting with dimmer switches, individual reading lights, in cabin Wi-Fi and USB ports, power sockets and a safe.
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Prices are dynamic based on travel dates. Please proceed to Book Now or Contact Us for details.