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Train: Danube Express
Train Type: First-Class
Introduction/History:
When we experienced the new Danube Express private train on a preview trip in 2007, we knew it would jump to IRT's World’s Top 25 Trains list. This lovely train, with its brand-new deluxe carriages, was hot out of the shops in the summer of 2008. Service began in the fall of 2008. All itineraries either start or go through Budapest, Hungary, where the train is headquartered. They run north to Berlin and Gdansk, west to Brussels and Vienna, east to Istanbul; and include Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Bulgaria and Romania. Journeys can be combined, such as Istanbul to Budapest to Berlin, with the European Steam Grand Prix and International Dining Car Competition in Budapest in between.
Accommodations
The new deluxe sleeping carriages offer the best train accommodations in Europe. Private compartments are air conditioned, with private, ensuite facilities and two lower beds that fold up into seating during the day. They are roomy at 83.4 square feet, including the bathroom. Those who don’t require the top level of service will find the two older “classic” carriages have roomy and comfortable compartments, 33.2 square feet, with plenty of storage and bunk-style beds that fold into seating by day; shower and toilet are down the hall. And classic compartments are priced right, especially for single travelers. There are windows that open throughout the train, a boon for photographers.
Dining
Dining is delicious but not fancy. Dress is smart casual. Gourmet meals and white-glove service are not the aim here; meals are hearty local specialties such as goose, mashed potatoes and braised red cabbage and service is friendly and experienced. Staff members do not speak much English, but they are pleasant and cheerful. As one staff member said to a recent IRT traveler: "We are smiling."
Lounge Cars
The lounge car is spacious, with room for most of the train’s passengers. The atmosphere is friendly, and the brandy—the local specialty—is tasty. Wine and beer on the train are included with the price of the journey; spirits are not included. The pianist, Apollo, is talented and jolly; the songbook on board seems two inches thick stuffed with every song you ever thought of singing.
Other
The itineraries are designed to take you to the heart of Central and Eastern Europe in comfort and style. The off-train sightseeing calls for plenty of walking, often over cobblestones and uneven pavement. None of the compartments on the train is handicapped accessible. Note that no drinks are included off the train except for water on the touring buses. Gratuities are included in the price of your program.
Journeys Available on this Train
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