We are delighted that our associates at Golden Eagle Luxury Trains have provided us with an allocation of cabins for this journey through the fabled lands of ‘Other Europe’. This fascinating itinerary weaves through the cultural heart of Central Europe, revealing a rich tapestry of architectural masterpieces that encompass Medieval splendour, Baroque elegance, and Gothic grandeur of some of Europe’s most captivating cities. The journey begins amid the majesty of Budapest before boarding the Golden Eagle Danube Express private train for a luxurious passage across Hungary, Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic and Austria. Each stop reveals a new dimension of the region’s history and culture, from the Medieval charm of Krakow to the resilience of Warsaw and Gdansk and the vibrant cities of Berlin and Prague. As the train glides over the Semmering Pass towards Vienna, the scenery gives way to the refined elegance of the former Imperial capital. This rewarding journey blends poignant history, architectural beauty and world-class musical heritage into an unforgettable European experience.
Golden Eagle Danube Express
We are delighted to have joined forces with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains, the world’s leading operator of luxury ‘rail cruises’, to bring you some spectacular private rail journeys through Europe aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Travelling by private train is a unique way to absorb the rich culture and cinematic landscape of a country and Golden Eagle Luxury Trains design their itineraries carefully to combine iconic cities with stunning scenery ensuring there is a good balance of both relaxation and exploration.
The Golden Eagle Danube Express is a luxurious hotel-on-wheels and whilst on board you can enjoy a ‘room with a view’ that constantly changes. Carefully designed with comfort and enjoyment in mind, the Golden Eagle Danube Express accommodates a maximum of just 62 guests and whilst on board you can be assured of first-class service, welcoming and well-appointed cabins, fine dining, a convivial atmosphere and elegant surroundings. With decades of experience, the attentive staff members on board are dedicated to ensuring every moment of your journey is enjoyable. From the skilled bar car and restaurant car staff, each team member is meticulously trained to cater to your every need. When you embark on a journey with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains, your experience is elevated by the presence of a dedicated cabin attendant and these consummate professionals are committed to your comfort and well-being, ensuring that your time on board is an exceptional experience.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Budapest, Hungary.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace for a two night stay. Enjoy a welcome reception dinner in the elegant surrounds of this Art Nouveau landmark, with its panoramic views across the River Danube.
Day 2 Budapest.
Budapest is actually two cities separated by the Danube. The old city of Buda and the imposing Royal Palace dominate the city with stunning views across the Danube to the commercial heart of Pest. This morning’s panoramic city tour by coach includes the Castle District, St Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion. We will also visit the Parliament with an audio-guided tour and have a private tour of the Opera House with drinks reception. After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, stroll along the banks of the Danube or perhaps head to one of the city’s famous thermal baths for a rejuvenating dip.
Day 3 Budapest.
This morning is at leisure before joining your private train, the Golden Eagle Danube Express, for an afternoon departure from Budapest. Enjoy a drinks reception in the impressive Royal Waiting Room at Budapest Nyugati station before boarding your private train. A private brass band will perform as the train departs from the station, and the uniformed train staff will be there to escort you to your private en-suite cabin. Settle in to your well-appointed accommodation and later enjoy a welcome dinner on board as the train makes its way towards Poland.
Day 4 Krakow, Poland.
Once a royal capital with an extraordinary history, and now a lively university town with fashionable bars and restaurants, Krakow is a fascinating city with beautiful monuments and an exuberant atmosphere. This morning the train will make a scheduled stop at Oswiecim, the station for Auschwitz-Birkenau where we will visit the location of the former concentration camp and museum. Declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, we embark upon a deeply moving guided tour which stands as a stark reminder of the horrors that took place here. Today, Auschwitz-Birkenau is preserved as a museum allowing visitors to reflect on the atrocities of the Holocaust and learn of the camp’s history. From here we will continue by coach into the centre of stunning Krakow, where we will enjoy lunch in the Old Town. Alternatively for those not wishing to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau, there will be a guided walking tour of Krakow Old Town which will include Wawel Royal Castle and the Jewish Quarter. Please note: Due to ticket availability, please advise at the time of booking if you wish to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau.
Day 5 Warsaw.
Arrive this morning in the Polish capital of Warsaw where you will be able to appreciate the extraordinary transformation of a place once almost destroyed by war. When you cross the Vistula River and look at the Old Town from a distance, you are struck by how unusual the panorama of the city is. Skyscrapers rise above the red roofs of the Old Town and historical buildings blend in harmoniously with modern architecture. Our guided tour takes us on a journey through the Old Town and along the Royal Route before heading into the area of the former Warsaw Ghetto. The Old Town boasts a nostalgic charm with its colourful townhouses and the exceptional atmosphere of its narrow streets. Here we will visit the award winning Polin Museum of the History of Polish Jews, which showcases the 1,000 year history of the Polish Jews and the contribution of their community to Polish life. This afternoon enjoy a delightful private Chopin piano recital at the Fryderyk Concert Hall.
Day 6 Malbork & Gdansk.
This morning we visit Malbork whose castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the seat of the Teutonic State from 1280. Teutonic Knights originally built a fortified monastery here, later known as the Upper Castle. In the 13th century a huge brick fortress was completed and stands overlooking the River Nogat. The museum houses valuable collections of artistic amber wares, old weapons, and military equipment. We return to the train for lunch and continue our journey through Poland towards Gdansk. The coastal region of Poland has an important place in Polish consciousness as a key location at the start of World War II in September 1939. This is also where the famous Solidarity independent trade union movement started in 1980 for the protection of worker’s rights, which later became the symbol of resistance against the government and where the fall of Communism in Central Europe began. We spend the afternoon exploring the waterfront shipbuilding city of Gdansk. Our visit will include a tour of the remarkable European Solidarity Centre in Gdansk, which presents the 20th century history of the political changes leading to the collapse of communism and the Soviet Union. We will also visit Dlugi Targ (Long Market), one of the most beautiful streets of old Gdansk.
Day 7 Berlin, Germany.
Whilst enjoying breakfast on board, we will arrive in Berlin for a full day’s programme with a number of options to choose from. After years of division, Berlin has risen once again to become one of Europe’s most vibrant capital cities, with superb museums, fine churches, wide boulevards, and a thriving cultural life. Today we will see the highlights of both East and West Berlin including the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag, the famous Renaissance style building that once again houses Germany’s parliament. Today you may choose to take the opportunity to drive a VEB Trabant, your very own authentic East German vehicle and a unique hands-on experience, across the once-divided city of Berlin. Travel through the middle and the former eastern part of the city along the Karl-Marx-Allee and East Side Gallery, over Oberbaumbridge and through the Kreuzberg quarter. Alternatively, you may wish to explore Berlin’s rich cultural heritage at leisure. Discover the renowned Checkpoint Charlie Museum, a powerful testament to the city’s divided past, or immerse yourself in history and art at Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses five world-renowned museums within an extraordinary architectural ensemble. Following lunch, enjoy further free time to embrace the vibrant atmosphere of this captivating city, perhaps enjoying a leisurely stroll or browse the luxurious boutiques along the iconic Kurfurstendamm.
Day 8 Dresden & Prague, Czech Republic.
This morning we arrive in the city of Dresden, located in the region of Saxony. Following its destruction in World War II and stagnation behind the Iron Curtain, Dresden has now been restored to its former enchanting glory, with Baroque architecture, Rococo palaces and an amazing array of Renaissance art. As part of our morning city tour, we delve into the 700-year history of the iconic Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady), a symbol of Dresden’s remarkable rebirth. This architectural masterpiece stands as a testament to resilience, its stunning Baroque design meticulously restored to its former glory. Our journey through Dresden’s rich heritage continues with a visit to the magnificent Dresden Castle, an extraordinary landmark steeped in history and grandeur. We return to the train for a late lunch as we head to the Czech Republic for a late afternoon arrival in Prague. Prague is one of the most beautifully preserved cities in Europe. It spans the Vltava River and is dominated by the 9th century Prague Castle, a stunning sight that can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. Early evening, we will visit the stunning Art Nouveau Municipal House.
Day 9 Prague.
Today we join a vintage tram to travel through the city to the Prague Castle area and the Gothic St Vitus Cathedral. The castle and its surrounding architectural gems occupy a hillside overlooking the city and river. Following lunch there will be the opportunity for some time at leisure in the Old Town district, before returning to the train.
Day 10 Salzburg, Austria.
Today we explore Salzburg, starting at Mirabell Palace located in the heart of the city. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Baroque 17th century palace is easily one of the most stunning landmarks in the city and made famous as a location used in The Sound of Music. A short distance from the palace on Market Square (Marketplatz) we will see the former Mozart Residence, now a museum. From here we will cross the Makartsteg bridge into the Old Town and walk along the Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s most famous street which is renowned for its wrought-iron trade signs and the birthplace of Mozart. For more than 400 years Hellbrunn Palace has enchanted its visitors with its ‘trick’ fountains. The idyllic location in the south of Salzburg served as a summer retreat for the Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg. Its Baroque exterior conceals an exuberant interior made for entertaining, though the real draws are the whimsical trick fountains (Wasserspiele) in the gardens, which spew water from unexpected places.
Day 11 Vienna.
This morning we leave Salzburg on a majestic morning’s journey over the breathtaking Semmering Pass before our lunchtime arrival into Vienna. The stunning capital city of Austria enthrals visitors with its rich heritage. It is a seductive metropolis of elaborate palaces, renowned coffee houses, classical music and enchanting opera. This afternoon’s programme will include a private concert featuring the Vienna Supreme Orchestra and a visit to the famous Schonbrunn Palace. This evening, we retire to the Ritz-Carlton (or similar), just moments from the heart of the city. Later join your fellow guests for a farewell dinner, a perfect end to an extraordinary journey.
Day 12 Vienna to London.
Check out of the hotel this morning and transfer to the airport for the scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
| 7 to 18 June 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Deluxe Class | £19995 | |
| Superior Deluxe Class | £25295 | |
| Deluxe Class for sole occupancy | £29495 | |
| Superior Deluxe Class for sole occupancy | £41995 | |
Tour Reference Code: LAGE070627
PRICE INCLUDES: Scheduled return air travel • Two nights hotel accommodation in Budapest • Eight nights aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express Train • Overnight accommodation in Vienna • All meals • All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from standard bar list whilst on board the Golden Eagle Danube Express • Wine, beer and soft drinks with included lunches and dinners off the train • Excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Hotel Porterage • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Important Information: Please note that all bookings (including those made by Commodore Club members) are subject to a 10% deposit, except where the booking is made within 90 days of departure, in which case full payment will be required at the time of booking. Please also note that nonstandard cancellation fees terms apply to bookings for this holiday. Please contact us for further information.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
Golden Eagle Danube Express
We are delighted to have joined forces with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains, the world’s leading operator of luxury ‘rail cruises’, to bring you some spectacular private rail journeys through Europe aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Travelling by private train is a unique way to absorb the rich culture and cinematic landscape of a country and Golden Eagle Luxury Trains design their itineraries carefully to combine iconic cities with stunning scenery ensuring there is a good balance of both relaxation and exploration.
The Golden Eagle Danube Express is a luxurious hotel-on-wheels and whilst on board you can enjoy a ‘room with a view’ that constantly changes. Carefully designed with comfort and enjoyment in mind, the Golden Eagle Danube Express accommodates a maximum of just 62 guests and whilst on board you can be assured of first-class service, welcoming and well-appointed cabins, fine dining, a convivial atmosphere and elegant surroundings. With decades of experience, the attentive staff members on board are dedicated to ensuring every moment of your journey is enjoyable. From the skilled bar car and restaurant car staff, each team member is meticulously trained to cater to your every need. When you embark on a journey with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains, your experience is elevated by the presence of a dedicated cabin attendant and these consummate professionals are committed to your comfort and well-being, ensuring that your time on board is an exceptional experience.
Also of Interest
Grand Alpine Express
From Budapest to Venice aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express
Itinerary at a glance
- Budapest / Vienna / Semmering Pass / Lake Achen / Innsbruck / Zurich / St Gotthard Pass / Lake Como / Verona / Lake Bled / Ljubljana / Postojna / Venice
Balkan Explorer
From Venice to Istanbul aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express
Itinerary at a glance
- Venice / Trieste / Postojna / Pula / Rijeka / Sarajevo / Mostar / Belgrade / Sofia / Plovdiv / Istanbul
From Paris to Istanbul
An iconic rail journey across the continent aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express
Itinerary at a glance
- Paris / Champagne / Vienna / Postojna / Belgrade / Sofia / Istanbul
Castles & Culture in the Heart of Europe
A unique escorted tour discovering the castles & landscapes of Slovakia & Poland
Itinerary at a glance
- Bratislava / Cerveny Kamen Castle / Small Carpathian Wine Region / Banska Stiavnica / Galicia Nueva / Salas & High Tatras / Levoca / Spis Castle / Pieniny / Krakow
Castles of Transylvania
A journey from Istanbul to Budapepst aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express
Itinerary at a glance
- Istanbul / Veliko Tarnovo / Sinaia / Brasov / Sighisoara / Sibiu / Kecskemet / Lajosmizse / Budapest
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000






