At the crossroads of East and West and with a history forged over the centuries and influenced by so many, the Balkans has always had an allure for the genuine traveller. There is a wealth of fascinating cultural sites and natural world marvels to discover and with the Golden Eagle Danube Express as our luxury ‘hotel on wheels’ we will journey from the enchanting city of Venice and meander through the captivating Balkan region to Istanbul, the jewel of the Byzantium Empire. Evocative of the refinement and sumptuous elegance of a bygone era, our journey by train captures the vintage charm of the golden era of travel and whilst moving between our destinations we will witness some of the most beautiful scenery Europe has to offer with mountains that sweep down to lakes covered in rich vegetation.
Golden Eagle Danube Express
We are delighted to be working with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains in offering a selection of cabins aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express which was specially built to cater for the demands of today’s most discerning traveller, accommodating a maximum of 62 guests. Carefully designed with comfort and enjoyment in mind, the Golden Eagle Danube Express provides the ideal base for a series of spectacular private rail journeys through Europe, combining iconic cities with stunning countryside. On board, the spacious and comfortable cabins, the high-quality dining and the attention to detail of the staff combine to create what is effectively a rolling luxury hotel.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Venice, Italy.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive and transfer to a centrally located five-star hotel for our two night stay. This evening enjoy a welcome reception and dinner.
Day 2 Venice.
Venice is a truly captivating and romantic city. You may choose to join a guided walking tour beginning at the iconic Rialto Bridge. Stroll through Venice’s winding streets and across its many bridges, uncovering the city’s hidden corners and everyday life. The walk is followed by a short gondola ride, before enjoying lunch at an authentic Venetian restaurant. After lunch, the tour continues to the magnificent St Mark’s Square, the historic and cultural heart of the city. Alternatively, embark on an excursion to the famous Venetian islands. Visit Murano for a traditional glassblowing demonstration and time to browse local workshops, before continuing to Burano, a charming group of small islands renowned for their brightly coloured houses and centuries-old lacemaking tradition. Enjoy a guided walk through the island and a visit to a celebrated lacemaker, before rejoining the group back in Venice for lunch. This evening, there is an optional private visit to St Mark’s Basilica, offering a rare and unforgettable opportunity to experience one of Venice’s most extraordinary landmarks in a more intimate setting.
Day 3 Venice to Trieste and Postojna, Slovenia.
This morning we transfer from the hotel, by boat, directly to Santa Lucia station on the Grand Canal. Here our private train, the Golden Eagle Danube Express, is ready to receive us. Mid-morning our private train will thread its way out of Santa Lucia station onto the 3-mile causeway over the Venice Lagoon. After lunch onboard the train, we make a brief stop in the Italian port city of Trieste for a short guided tour. Explore the expansive Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of Europe’s largest sea-facing squares, and enjoy time at leisure to perhaps savour an espresso in one of the city’s celebrated historic coffee houses. This evening, we experience the truly jaw-dropping Postojna Caves. Travel deep underground aboard a cave train before exploring a remarkable network of vast chambers, dramatic stalactite and stalagmite formations, and the mysterious subterranean wildlife that inhabits this extraordinary natural wonder.
Day 4 Pula & Rijeka, Croatia.
Begin the morning with a guided tour of Pula, exploring its historic centre and the impressive Roman Arena, where a spectacular gladiator performance brings the city’s ancient past vividly to life. Continue inland to the Kumparička Estate for a visit and leisurely lunch, enjoying a tasting of authentic Istrian flavours in a beautiful rural setting. In the afternoon, travel to Rijeka for a guided walk through the city centre, including time along the lively Korzo promenade, before rejoining the train to continue your journey.
Day 5 Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina.
An early morning arrival into the Bosnian capital of Sarajevo which is an intriguing blend of Eastern and Western culture; it has mosques and minarets, an ancient bazaar and an atmospheric old Turkish quarter. Discover the city’s poignant history through a truly absorbing tour detailing the horrors of the Balkan War. Sarajevo suffered from the longest siege of a capital city in the history of modern warfare. Following lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon offers two carefully selection options. You may ascend by cable car to Mount Trebević, once a 1984 Olympic venue, where breathtaking panoramic views unfold across the city and surrounding mountains. Alternatively, visit the Tunnel of Hope, a profoundly moving site that tells the story of Sarajevo’s endurance and spirit during the siege of the 1990s, offering a powerful and reflective counterpoint to the city’s beauty above ground.
Day 6 Mostar.
We continue to the historic city of Mostar, a true crossroads of civilisations, cultures, and faiths. Once one of the most important cities of the Ottoman Empire, Mostar is renowned for its striking stone arch bridge, gracefully spanning the Neretva River and symbolically linking the Christian and Muslim quarters of the town. Destroyed during the conflict of the 1990s, the bridge was meticulously rebuilt and reopened in the summer of 2004, standing today as a powerful emblem of reconciliation and continuity. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the old town, including a visit to a traditional Turkish House and a local mosque, offering insight into Ottoman life and architecture. Wander through the narrow bazaar streets, rich with character and colour, where you may browse for traditional handicrafts and local souvenirs. Lunch is enjoyed at a restaurant overlooking the iconic bridge, before following the emerald waters of the Neretva River to the ancient Ottoman fortified town of Počitelj, dramatically set against the hillside and steeped in history.
Day 7 Belgrade, Serbia.
Nestled at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, Belgrade, capital of Serbia, is one of oldest and most fascinating cities in Europe. With its turbulent past it became also a city of contrasts from Communist-era buildings to Orthodox churches, from old Celtic fortresses to the ruins as a result of the Balkans wars. Here, we disembark the train for an overnight stay at the historic Hotel Bristol, an elegant landmark reflecting the city’s grand past. Beginning with a guided tour of the Old Town and the commanding Kalemegdan Fortress, where sweeping panoramic views unfold at the dramatic confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Following the tour, enjoy a curated wine tasting featuring local Serbian wines, accompanied by regional snacks that showcase the country’s emerging wine culture. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Church of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, renowned for its vast scale, luminous interiors, and spiritual significance.
Day 8 Belgrade.
Today we explore Tito’s Belgrade, gaining insight into the life and legacy of one of the most influential figures in Yugoslav history. Visit Tito’s museum complex, including his former residence and the museum itself, where you will be welcomed with the traditional Serbian offering of bread and salt. The visit is complemented by a lively Serbian folk-dance performance, bringing local culture and tradition vividly to life and offering a memorable perspective on Belgrade’s 20th-century heritage. Following the visit, we rejoin the train and continue our journey southeast towards Sofia, crossing the scenic landscapes of Serbia as we make our way into Bulgaria.
Day 9 Sofia & Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Today’s exploration begins in Sofia, Bulgaria’s vibrant capital, set at the foot of Mount Vitosha. Originally settled by the Thracian tribe of the Serdi, the city is a fascinating blend of ancient and modern influences. On our morning tour, we will see sections of the Roman city walls, admire the early Christian Church of St George, marvel at the golden-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and visit the historic Turkish Bashi Mosque.
Following the morning tour, you may choose to rejoin the train for lunch as we continue our journey to Plovdiv, or take a short drive to a local winery for a light lunch accompanied by wine tasting and a lively Bulgarian folk performance, before travelling onwards by bus to Plovdiv. Arriving in Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second-largest city, known as ‘The City of Seven Hills,’ we discover one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements, home to over 200 known archaeological sites. In the early evening, enjoy a guided tour of the Roman Forum and Amphitheatre, then wander through the charming Old Town with its cobbled streets, medieval walls, and Ottoman-era baths, soaking in the city’s layered history and timeless charm.
Day 10 Istanbul, Turkey.
We arrive in Istanbul—the legendary city that straddles two continents—where your luggage is transferred directly to the luxurious five-star Four Seasons Hotel, perfectly positioned to enjoy the city’s vibrant energy and historic grandeur. As the final stop on our journey, Istanbul provides a captivating finale, where East meets West and ancient heritage blends effortlessly with contemporary life.
Begin with a gentle walk through the historic streets, absorbing the sounds, colours, and rhythm of the city, before entering the atmospheric Spice Market. Enjoy a guided visit through this centuries-old bazaar, taking in the rich aromas and vivid displays of spices and delicacies, whetting the appetite for a traditional Turkish lunch in a historic building dating back to 1772. After lunch, embark on a scenic cruise along the legendary Bosphorus, where Istanbul’s dramatic skyline unfolds in a sweeping panorama of domes, minarets, and waterfront palaces, offering a unique perspective on the meeting point of Europe and Asia. Later, check in at the hotel and enjoy time at leisure to explore the ancient heart of the city, perhaps visiting the nearby Blue Mosque or strolling through the surrounding historic streets. This evening, descend into the atmospheric depths of Istanbul’s ancient cisterns. Visit one of these remarkable underground structures—the Basilica Cistern being the most famous—before enjoying dinner, concluding the day with a truly memorable and evocative experience.
Day 11 Istanbul, Turkey.
This morning begins with Freedom of Choice options, allowing you to tailor your final explorations of Istanbul. You may choose to visit the opulent Topkapi Palace, former residence of the Ottoman sultans, exploring its magnificent courtyards, harem, and treasury, each revealing centuries of imperial history. Alternatively, enjoy a guided tour of the Grand Bazaar, including the exhilarating opportunity to follow in James Bond’s footsteps with a walk along the rooftop of this vast and historic marketplace. After lunch, we visit one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia. Built in the 6th century under Emperor Justinian, it was once among the grandest basilicas of the Christian world. Following the Ottoman conquest, it was transformed into a mosque, and today it stands as one of the most magnificent Grand Mosques in the world—a powerful and enduring symbol of Istanbul’s layered history and architectural brilliance. This evening, conclude your journey with a Farewell Dinner at the hotel, an elegant and intimate celebration of the remarkable experiences shared across Europe and the Balkans, and a fitting finale to an unforgettable journey.
Day 12 Istanbul to London.
Check out this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 8 to 19 May 2026 • 2 to 13 October 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Deluxe Class | £17995 | |
| Superior Deluxe Class | £22995 | |
| Deluxe Class for sole occupancy | £26495 | |
| Superior Deluxe Class for sole occupancy | £36995 | |
Tour Reference Code: LABALKANE
PRICE INCLUDES: Scheduled air travel • Two nights accommodation at Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal in Venice (or similar) • Six nights aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express Train • Overnight at the Bristol Belgrade (or similar) • Two nights accommodation at the Four Seasons Sultanahmet in Istanbul (or similar) • 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 • Hotel Porterage • All Gratuities • Transfers • 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 refer to the “Booking Conditions For This Tour” tab and contact us if you require 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 be working with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains in offering a selection of cabins aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express which was specially built to cater for the demands of today’s most discerning traveller, accommodating a maximum of 62 guests. Carefully designed with comfort and enjoyment in mind, the Golden Eagle Danube Express provides the ideal base for a series of spectacular private rail journeys through Europe, combining iconic cities with stunning countryside. On board, the spacious and comfortable cabins, the high-quality dining and the attention to detail of the staff combine to create what is effectively a rolling luxury hotel.
Booking Conditions For This Tour
Golden Eagle Danube Express - Addendum to Booking Conditions (Click to Download)
Before you confirm your booking for the Golden Eagle Danube Express, please be aware that all bookings for this holiday are subject to non-standard booking conditions. You should still complete Noble Caledonia’s standard booking form and should read through our standard booking conditions. Please note, though, that section 6(a) of Noble Caledonia’s standard booking conditions will be altered for the purposes of your booking for this holiday and that the following alternate version of 6(a) shall apply instead of the standard one:
6(a) You or any member of your party may cancel your holiday at any time before departure. Notification should be made in writing or via the telephone or made on your behalf by your travel agent. Notification of cancellation will be effective when it is received by us at our offices. Since we incur costs in cancelling your holiday, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown below (although please note the exceptions outlined in Part 6(c) below):
| Period before the day of departure within which cancellation notification is received by us | Amount of cancellation fee as % of total holiday price payable* |
| 90 days or more | 10%*† |
| 70 to 89 days | 40%* |
| 61 to 69 days | 60%* |
| 60 days or fewer | 100%* |
* Plus any additional amendment charges or cancellation charges for upgraded and/or connecting travel arrangements or other additional extras (see part 3(d) of these Booking Conditions).
† In the event that you cancel your holiday and in the event that notification of said cancellation is received by us 90 days or more before the commencement of your holiday, please note that (i) if the value of the payment that you made to us as a deposit for your holiday booking was less than 10% of your total holiday price, you may have to pay a further top-up amount to Noble Caledonia such that, following our receipt of said top-up payment, the total amount then paid by you as a cancellation fee equates to 10% of your total holiday price, and that (ii) if we have asked you for a deposit payment of more than 10% of your total holiday price, in accordance with section 3(a) of these Booking Conditions, that higher amount will be the value of your cancellation fee. The cancellation charges set out above have been calculated as a genuine pre-estimate of the losses we would incur in the event you cancel your holiday within the stipulated time period, taking into account the charges we will incur from our suppliers (some of which may be up to 100%) and our expected cost savings and income from alternative deployment of the travel services that comprise your holiday package. We will deduct your cancellation charges from the monies that you have already paid to us and will reimburse any remaining monies within 14 days of our receipt of your cancellation notification. Where your cancellation charges exceed the value of the monies that you have already paid to us, we will contact you for the payment of the remainder, which shall be due within 14 days of our receipt of your cancellation notification. Note: If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges and other costs that you may incur as a result of your cancellation from your insurer. You should contact your insurer for information about this at the earliest opportunity and you should double-check your terms of cover and double-check and conditions relating to time bars on claims.
Please also note that we require a 10% deposit for all bookings for this holiday and that, if you are a Commodore Club member, your usual 5% deposit benefit will not be available on this occasion.
Aside from the above exceptions, all other terms of Noble Caledonia’s standard booking conditions are unchanged.
When confirming your booking, we will ask you to acknowledge your receipt of this addendum to our standard booking conditions and confirm your acceptance of the above
Also of Interest
Balkan Delights
Explore Croatia’s beautiful coast & islands aboard the Queen Eleganza combined with a two night stay in Lake Bled
Itinerary at a glance
- Dubrovnik / Korcula / Opuzen / Mostar / Brac / Split / Sibenik / Krka National Park / Zadar / Rab / Opatija / Lake Bled
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 / Trieste / Lake Bled / Ljubljana / Postojna / Venice
Scenic Wonders of Slovenia
A seven night escorted tour of the music, lakes & landscapes of Slovenia including Lake Bled
Itinerary at a glance
- Ljubljana / Bled / Radovljica / Lipica / Stanjel / Rinka Waterfall / Mozirski Gaj / Logarska Valley
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
From the Alps to the Adriatic
A seven night stay in Slovenia including a two night stay in Lake Bled
Itinerary at a glance
- Lake Bled / Ljubljana / Piran / Groznjan / Rovinj / Trieste / Portoroz
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000






