Paris to Istanbul

Day 1  Paris, France          
On arrivals day in Paris, you will be met and transferred to a centrally located five-star hotel for a one-night stay. Enjoy a welcome reception dinner with your fellow guests.

Day 2  Paris to Champagne        
Our extraordinary rail odyssey commences from Paris. Guests will be transferred this morning to Paris Gare de Lyon Station, where the indulgence begins with a champagne drinks reception before stepping aboard the stylish Golden Eagle Danube Express. Settle into life onboard your private train as we journey across the serene French countryside towards our first stop – Champagne.
Renowned for producing the world’s finest sparkling wines, Champagne’s lusciously manicured vineyards, draped over rolling hills, present a captivating tapestry of green and gold. Beyond the effervescent nectar that bears its name, the region boasts historic cathedrals and regal architecture, narrating tales of medieval grandeur.  Our adventures through this land will reveal a symphony of flavours, history, and elegance, making Champagne an unparalleled destination for the senses.

Day 3  Champagne to Vienna, Austria      
Embark on a splendid afternoon journey through the breathtaking Austrian countryside, traversing the majestic Alps as we make our way into Switzerland. Whether you choose to unwind in the privacy of your cabin, where your dedicated cabin attendant is ready to cater to your every need or opt for the sophisticated ambiance of the Bar Lounge Car, revelling in the enchanting melodies of our resident pianists and savouring the exquisite array of cocktails meticulously crafted by our world-class bar staff – every moment promises an indulgent fusion of spectacular views and refined relaxation.
As twilight descends, we gracefully arrive in the imperial city of Vienna, where the evening unfolds into a crescendo of sophistication. Indulge in a sumptuous dinner and afterwards, experience the pinnacle of cultural delight with a private classical concert featuring the illustrious Vienna Supreme Orchestra. Tonight, revel in the harmonious convergence of exquisite cuisine and timeless melodies, creating an evening that transcends the ordinary and stands as a testament to the art of refined travel.

Day 4  Vienna to Postojna, Slovenia      
Today, enjoy a relaxed morning onboard taking in the beautiful scenery from your cabin or with a hot drink in the Bar Lounge Car. Indulge in an exquisite post-lunch affair as you step into a realm of culinary opulence with an exclusive confectionary masterclass, curated and presented by our esteemed Catering Manager and Head Pastry Chef.
Tonight experience refined exploration as we venture into the enchanting depths of Postojna Caves. Aboard an underground train, we delve into a subterranean world of magnificence, wandering through a network of grand halls adorned with a myriad of intricate cave formations and inhabited by mysterious creatures.

Day 5  Postojna to Belgrade, Serbia      
Today, our adventure immerses us in the hidden treasures of Belgrade, beginning with an exclusive exploration of Tito’s legendary blue train, a relic of Yugoslavia’s storied past. Indulge your senses with a sumptuous traditional Serbian feast, tantalizing your taste buds with flavours as bold and diverse as the city itself. Prepare to savour the essence of Serbian hospitality as we delve into the world of Rakija, Serbia’s beloved elixir. We’ll sample an array of Rakija varieties, all while regaling in captivating tales and anecdotes that breathe life into Belgrade’s spirited history.

Day 6  Belgrade to Sofia, Bulgaria      
Enjoy a morning of relaxation in the Bar Lounge Car as we head towards Bulgaria. Soak up the ambiance of sophistication as the dulcet tones of our resident pianist serenade you, creating a symphony of relaxation. Savour the luxury of time as you recline, watching the world gracefully unfold outside your window. Sofia is one of the oldest cities in Europe dating back around 7,000 years and sits at the foot of Mount. Vitosha, offering a stunning backdrop to our explorations. The city has some magnificent architecture throughout the city, with a mixture of Western and Central European influences, especially many of the Orthodox churches. Our adventure begins amidst the captivating ruins of the Roman city of Serdica, where echoes of a bygone era whisper tales of glory and conquest. Wander through the enchanting City Garden, home to the prestigious National Theatre Ivan Vazov, and marvel at the opulent façade of the Presidential Palace and other iconic landmarks that adorn Sofia’s skyline.

Day 7  Sofia to Istanbul, Turkey        
Today, the final destination awaits, as we arrive at the end of our European rail odyssey into the fabled city of Istanbul, spanning both Asia and Europe. The rest of the day is for you to explore this fascinating city at your leisure before we enjoy a splendid Farewell Dinner on the atmospheric banks of the Bosphorus.

Day 8  Istanbul        
This morning, after an overnight stay at our centrally located five-star hotel, we enjoy our final breakfast on the tour.