This journey begins among the mosaics and minarets of Istanbul and culminates on the banks of Budapest’s River Danube, with mythical castles, Carpathian Mountains and cowboy towns along the way.
Surrender to the rhythm of rail travel on board the Golden Eagle Danube Express, a masterclass in mobile luxury with en suite sleeper cars, power showers and king-sized beds. This seven-day itinerary travels through Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary and whisks you through some of Eastern Europe’s most picturesque backwaters and well-preserved old towns. Back on board, a dedicated cabin attendant provides 24/7 service and supper is served in the fine-dining restaurant car.
1 Arrive Istanbul, TurkeyWith one foot in Europe and the other Asia, this vast, vibrant city has been the capital of no less than three great empires. Overlooking the Golden Horn, an evening in the Pera Palace Hotel’s opulent dining room sets the stage for your adventure.
Pera Palace Hotel
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2 Istanbul | A Walk Along The BosphorusSimply walking the Bosphorus’ banks is an immersive history lesson spanning thousands of years. The interiors of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia basilica are so sublime they demand special attention. Early afternoon we join our private train, the Golden Eagle Danube Express, to begin our rail journey through Bulgaria and Romania to Budapest.
Golden Eagle Danube Express
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3 Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria | Tsarevets FortressAfter boarding the Golden Eagle Danube Express and climbing the Shipka Pass, panoramic views give way to red rooftops cascading down to meet the Yantra River in the capital, Veliko Tarnovo. On a walking tour, encounter the imposing Tsarevets Fortress, the cobblestoned medieval old town and local crafts like pottery, textiles and woodwork.
Golden Eagle Danube Express
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4 Sinaia And Brasov, Romania | Through The CarpathiansThe silver ribbon of the rails snakes through the Carpathian Mountains to Sinaia, home to Peles Castle, and on to Brasov. Here, Bran Castle perches atop a 200-foot-high rock. Often associated with Count Dracula, the dramatic setting makes a commanding location for a gala dinner.
Golden Eagle Danube Express
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5 Sighisoara And Sibiu | Transylvanian TalesThis morning, stroll through Sighisoara, a fortified medieval town steeped in gothic myth and Transylvanian tales. On to Sibiu, where there’s intriguing architecture around every corner, from the folkloric Burgher houses and the homes with eyes to the open-air Astra Museum’s traditional thatched buildings.
Golden Eagle Danube Express
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6 Budapest, Hungary | Kecskemet And LajosmizseAfter a pit stop in central Hungary and a stroll around Kecskemét’s, travel to Lajosmizse to watch Hungarian cowboys put their steeds through their paces in the Puszta, the Great Hungarian Plain’s traditional horse show. This evening we will enjoy a farewell dinner, giving you the opportunity to reflect on your journey through this fascinating part of Europe.
Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest
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7 Depart Budapest, HungaryAfter breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey.
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