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Golden Eagle Luxury Trains has launched an experience that redefines rail travel. Its inaugural Paris-to-Istanbul voyage offers a rare opportunity to traverse seven countries aboard the exquisite Golden Eagle Danube Express, in either direction. Here’s why it should be on your travel radar.
Be the first to experience this journey
Being among the first to board this luxury locomotive on a remarkable new route is a thrill in itself. With just four departure dates in 2025 – two in May and two in September – this exclusive journey offers a front-row seat to Europe’s splendours. Embark in May to be one of the first to travel or set your sights on a September departure to watch as hues of red and orange begin to transform Europe’s terrain.
Taste champagne where it’s meant to be sipped in France
A journey of this calibre deserves an equally exquisite welcome toast. From Paris, the train glides toward the storied Champagne region, where guests will enjoy a private visit to J Lassalle, a renowned family-run estate. A bespoke tasting of the vineyard’s finest, paired with regional delicacies, offers an insight into the meticulous craft behind one of the world’s most celebrated (and celebratory) beverages.
Be serenaded in Vienna
Austria’s capital city is synonymous with elegance and guests travelling on the Golden Eagle Danube Express experience it at its most refined. A private concert by the Vienna Supreme Orchestra inside an opulent venue turns an evening into a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of classical music. By day, guests may opt to explore the stately Schönbrunn Palace or lose themselves in the city’s world-class museums before retreating to the comfort of their luxurious rail cabin.
Go into the depths of Postojna Caves in Slovenia
On a breathtaking stop in central Europe, Slovenia’s Postojna Caves will be uncovered on a dedicated expedition. Guests will take a private train ride through this vast limestone network, leading to a spellbinding saxophone performance under its spires, where live music fills the hollow chambers of this subterranean wonder.
Explore architectural wonders in Belgrade and Sofia
As the train rolls into Belgrade, guests will step inside Tito’s Blue Train, a relic of Yugoslavia’s past, before savouring a traditional Serbian feast of regional specialties and rakija at one of the city’s oldest breweries. In Sofia, guests will visit the ancient ruins of Serdica, followed by an intimate performance by the acclaimed Cosmic Voices from Bulgaria inside the crypt of the Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
Dine on the banks of the Bosphorus in Istanbul
The adventure culminates in Istanbul, a city where East meets West in a dazzling fusion of cultures. Guests can explore the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia or browse the vibrant Grand Bazaar. The trip culminates in a spectacular farewell dinner on the banks of the Bosphorus, where the illuminated skyline provides a breathtaking end to this fairytale journey.
Master the art of desserts
Golden Eagle’s dining is world-class and an exclusive onboard dessert masterclass with head pastry chef Rebekah Kruba gives you the skills to bring its sweet indulgences to life at home. From intricate chocolate work to delicate French patisserie, this session is a rare chance to go behind the scenes of luxury confectionary.
Enjoy the ultimate all-inclusive comfort on board
Private ensuite cabins, personal cabin attendants, all-inclusive fine dining and seamless transfers put this journey at the pinnacle of its class. Guests can choose a Deluxe cabin or upgrade to a Superior Deluxe suite with a king-sized bed and extra-spacious interiors that invite relaxation at every turn. Each cabin features a personal attendant offering 24-hour service, from morning tea delivered to your suite to evening turndown complete with artisanal chocolates.
Dining is an event in itself, with menus crafted by an expert culinary team – think slow-roasted lamb inspired by Serbian cuisine and delicate pastries. Also included are world-class cocktails in the Bar Lounge Car, accompanied by resident pianists.
Savour an eight-course gala dinner
To mark the voyage, an elaborate eight-course gala dinner is served onboard, presented by Head Chef Ramon Batta. Each course is a carefully curated tribute to the culinary heritage of the regions on the journey’s itinerary.
