Paris to Istanbul on the Danube Express
Overview
The Highlights
- Travel through seven European countries, with five nights on board the Golden Eagle Danube Express;
- 1 night at a 5-star hotel in Paris;
- 1 night at the 5-star Four Seasons Sultanahmet in Istanbul;
- Ride the underground train through Postojna Caves;
- Ascend the breathtaking Semmering Pass, renowned for its 16 viaducts and 15 tunnels;
- Take part in an onboard optional confectionary masterclass;
- Indulge in an exclusive eight-course Gala Dinner;
- Experience a private classical concert featuring the illustrious Vienna Supreme Orchestra;
- Enjoy a splendid Farewell Dinner on the atmospheric banks of the Bosphorus.
The Tour
Embark on an iconic voyage, traversing legendary cities across the continent aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express. This extraordinary journey begins in romantic Paris and ends in Istanbul, a city spanning two continents. This journey also runs in reverse, from Istanbul to Paris.
Extend your journey by combining this tour with another great trip on the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Options to extend include the Balkan Explorer, the Castles of Transylvania, or the brand-new Turkish Treasures, a 9-day extension from Istanbul to Cappadocia that will be offered in conjunction with the fall 2025 and 2026 Paris to Istanbul routing. Contact us for more details.
Itinerary
Day 1: Paris
On arrival in Paris, you’ll be greeted and transported to a luxurious five-star hotel in the city center for a one-night stay.
Enjoy a welcome reception dinner with your fellow travelers.
Day 2: Champagne
Enjoy a champagne drinks reception at Paris Gare de Lyon Station, where you will board the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Settle into your private cabin as the journey begins across the French countryside towards the train’s first destination: Champagne.
Champagne is famous for its top-quality sparkling wines, with its beautifully maintained vineyards spreading across rolling hills in a captivating display of green and gold. Aside from its renowned drink, the region is also home to historic cathedrals and majestic architecture, telling stories of medieval greatness.
Enjoy lunch and dinner on board the train.
Day 3: Vienna
After breakfast, enjoy the afternoon as you travel through the stunning Austrian countryside, passing through the magnificent Alps.
Enjoy drinks in the Bar Lounge Car, featuring an array of cocktails crafted by the train’s world-class bar staff, as you travel towards Vienna.
In the early evening, arrive in Vienna, a city of elegance. Enjoy a delicious dinner and immerse yourself in culture with a private classical concert by the renowned Vienna Supreme Orchestra.
Day 4: Vienna & Postojna
After breakfast, continue your exploration of Vienna, a city rich in history and charm. With its grand palaces, iconic cafes, and vibrant cultural scene, Vienna invites visitors to immerse themselves in its allure.
Back on board the train, indulge in a culinary masterclass led by the train’s Catering Manager and Head Pastry Chef, offering a taste of opulence through confectionary delights.
At night, embark on a refined adventure into the mystical Postojna Caves. Board an underground train to explore magnificent halls adorned with intricate cave formations and mysterious creatures, accompanied by the soulful sounds of a saxophonist.
Day 5: Belgrade
Begin your day with an exclusive tour of Tito’s famous blue train, a relic from Yugoslavia’s history. Then, treat yourself to a traditional Serbian feast, full of bold and diverse flavors.
Experience Serbian hospitality as your sample Rakija, Serbia’s beloved drink, at the city’s oldest brewery. Enjoy a tasting of different varieties of Rakija.
Before rejoining the train, enjoy free time to wander through Belgrade’s bustling streets.
At night, join your fellow travelers to a luxurious Gala Dinner prepared by Head Chef Ramon Batta. Each dish takes you on a sensory journey, capturing the essence of our destinations with local flavors. Chef Ramon combines taste and culture in every course.
Day 6: Sofia
Enjoy a morning of relaxation in the Bar Lounge Car as you head towards Bulgaria.
Sofia, one of Europe’s oldest cities, offers a rich history dating back around 7,000 years. Explore its magnificent architecture, including Orthodox churches and historic ruins like the Roman city of Serdica. Visit the City Garden and admire landmarks like the National Theatre Ivan Vazov and the Presidential Palace.
Continue the adventure with a special experience in the Crypt of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. You’ll enjoy a private performance by the famous Vanya Moneva Choir, known for their mesmerizing vocal masterpiece “Cosmic Voices,” which enchanted audiences at the Olympic Games in Tokyo.
Day 7: Istanbul
Arrival into the city of Istanbul.
The day is yours to explore this fascinating city at leisure before you enjoy a wonderful Farewell Dinner on the scenic banks of the Bosphorus.
Overnight stay at the Four Seasons Sultanahmet five-star hotel.
Day 8: Istanbul
In the morning, enjoy your final breakfast on the tour. You can extend your stay in Istanbul to explore more of the incredible city.
Day 1: Istanbul
On arrival in Istanbul, you will be met and transferred to the Four Seasons Sultanahmet five-star hotel for a one-night stay.
Enjoy a welcome reception dinner with your fellow travelers.
Day 2: Istanbul
Enjoy a champagne drinks reception at Istanbul Halkali Station, where you will board the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Settle into your private cabin as the journey unfolds through the picturesque landscapes of Turkey.
Dinner on board the train as you travel into Bulgaria.
Day 3: Sofia
Sofia, one of Europe’s oldest cities, offers a rich history dating back around 7,000 years. Explore its magnificent architecture, including Orthodox churches and historic ruins like the Roman city of Serdica. Visit the City Garden and admire landmarks like the National Theatre Ivan Vazov and the Presidential Palace.
Continue the adventure with a special experience in the Crypt of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. You’ll enjoy a private performance by the famous Vanya Moneva Choir, known for their mesmerizing vocal masterpiece “Cosmic Voices,” which enchanted audiences at the Olympic Games in Tokyo.
Day 4: Belgrade
Begin your day with an exclusive tour of Tito’s famous blue train, a relic from Yugoslavia’s history. Then, treat yourself to a traditional Serbian feast, full of bold and diverse flavors.
Experience Serbian hospitality as your sample Rakija, Serbia’s beloved drink, at the city’s oldest brewery. Enjoy a tasting of different varieties of Rakija.
Before rejoining the train, enjoy free time to wander through Belgrade’s bustling streets.
Dinner on board the train.
Day 5: Postojna & Vienna
After breakfast, embark on a refined adventure into the mystical Postojna Caves. Board an underground train to explore magnificent halls adorned with intricate cave formations and mysterious creatures, accompanied by the soulful sounds of a saxophonist.
Back on board the train, indulge in a culinary masterclass led by the train’s Catering Manager and Head Pastry Chef, offering a taste of opulence through confectionary delights.
In the early evening, arrive in Vienna, a city of elegance. Enjoy a delicious dinner and immerse yourself in culture with a private classical concert by the renowned Vienna Supreme Orchestra.
Day 6: Vienna & Semmering
This morning, continue your exploration of Vienna, a city rich in heritage and allure. Embark on a splendid afternoon journey through the breathtaking Austrian countryside, where you can unwind in your cabin or enjoy the ambiance of the Bar Lounge Car.
Tonight, indulge in a culinary journey with a Gala Dinner prepared by Head Chef Ramon Batta. Each dish captures the essence of our destinations, blending local flavors into a symphony of taste and culture.
Day 7: Champagne & Paris
Champagne’s vineyards, known for their exquisite sparkling wines, create a beautiful landscape of green and gold. Besides its famous drink, the region is rich in history with historic cathedrals and grand architecture, offering a blend of flavors, history, and elegance.
After returning to the Golden Eagle Danube Express, prepare for your Farewell dinner as you head to Paris. Start the evening with a glass of Champagne in the Bar Lounge Car.
Day 8: Paris
In the morning, enjoy your final breakfast on the tour before arriving in Paris.
Dates & Prices
2025 Dates
May 18 - 25 *
May 24 - 31
September 5 - 12 *
September 11 - 18
*This date runs from Istanbul to Paris.
Accommodation | Double | Single | Deposit |
---|---|---|---|
Deluxe Class | $17,595 | $23,995 | $2,000 |
Superior Deluxe Class | $21,995 | $29,395 | $2,500 |
- All prices are per person.
2026 Dates
May 17 - 24 *
May 23 - 30
September 6 - 13 *
September 12 - 19
*This date runs from Istanbul to Paris.
Accommodation | Double | Single | Deposit |
---|---|---|---|
Deluxe Class | $17,595 | $23,995 | $2,000 |
Superior Deluxe Class | $21,995 | $29,395 | $2,500 |
- All prices are per person.
- 2026 dates and prices are preliminary and are subject to change.
Book Your Journey
Reviews From Our Travelers
"The trip went beautifully! It was incomparable, the experience of a lifetime."
"The events were outstanding. The staff on the train was outstanding. Excursions were so carefully orchestrated. I didn’t have to worry about a thing. It was so perfect."
"The service, quality of food on the train, the tours, and equally important, the great people we met on board, made this trip one to remember."
More
For a first-hand report of Angela Walker’s journey on the Golden Eagle Danube Express, click here.
Included in the tour price:
- Arrival and departure transfers
- A generous drink allowance, including wine, with lunch and dinner
- All gratuities
- All off-train touring, with personal headsets to make it easy to hear your guide
- Complimentary tea, coffee, and bottled drinking water are available in your cabin 24 hours a day
- An on-board doctor, with medical facilities, is available, should the need arise
- 24-hour service attendant
- Porterage of bags; your bags will be stowed for you on the train and transported to your hotel at the end of your trip
Inquire About This Journey
For dates and prices, please click here.
Questions? Our experienced luxury rail travel consultants are ready to help.