Golden Eagle Danube Express
Golden Eagle Danube Express
Golden Eagle Danube Express
Golden Eagle Danube Express

Golden Eagle Danube Express Train Tour | Central & Southern Europe

The Golden Eagle Danube Express is a luxurious hotel-on-wheels, allowing you to unpack just once and settle into your well-appointed and comfortable cabin for the voyage of a lifetime. Experience a one-of-a-kind rail journey, which seamlessly blends modern amenities with traditional style, evoking a sense of nostalgia and transporting you back in time. During each journey, enjoy scenic daytime travel and stopovers at fascinating destinations, where local expert guides will offer a sightseeing program and bring the location to life.

Golden Eagle Danube Express: Journey in Style Through Europe

Experience the ultimate in luxury rail travel with the Golden Eagle Danube Express, traversing through the heart of Europe. More than a rail journey, we promise a handcrafted expedition that takes you through the historical and scenic wonders of the Danube region. From the majestic cities along the river to the quaint villages and rolling landscapes, our Golden Eagle Danube Express packages offer a unique window into the soul of Europe.

The Golden Eagle Danube Express: An Exquisite Rail Experience

As you step aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express, you enter a world where luxury and comfort are paramount. This train offers an unmatched travel experience, taking you through the heart of Europe in unparalleled elegance. Experience the essence of luxury train travel in Central and Southern Europe, where every mile is a story, and every view, a masterpiece.

Routes Covered

Our curated Golden Eagle Danube Express packages traverse some of Europe's most celebrated destinations and landscapes:

  • Istanbul to Budapest - Castles of Transylvania: Traverse Eastern Europe and explore the rich history and myths of Transylvania. Discover the architectural wonders and vibrant culture of Istanbul before heading towards the historic charm of Budapest.
  • Budapest Round Trip - New Year in Vienna: Experience the festive splendour of Central Europe and welcome the New Year in the grand city of Vienna. Explore Budapest's heritage before revelling in Vienna's renowned New Year's celebrations.
  • Budapest to Venice - Grand Alpine Express: Journey through the breathtaking Alpine scenery of Austria, Switzerland, Italy, and Slovenia. Witness dramatic mountain landscapes and serene lakes, highlighting the natural beauty of the Alpine region.
  • Venice to Istanbul - Balkan Explorer: Embark on a comprehensive European Grand Tour, visiting nine countries in twelve days. Experience the diverse cultures, historical landmarks, and scenic beauty from Venice's romantic canals to Istanbul's Byzantine and Ottoman splendours.

Unique Features & Experiences Offered

The Golden Eagle Danube Express luxury amenities are as follows:

  • Luxurious Accommodations: Retreat to your private cabin, a blend of classic elegance and modern comfort, offering the perfect respite after a day of exploration.
  • Gourmet Culinary Experiences: Dine on exquisite meals in the elegant restaurant cars, where each dish is an exploration of the local cuisine along your route.
  • Personalised Service: Experience impeccable service, with attentive staff ensuring a memorable and carefree journey.

Highlights of the Golden Eagle Danube Express Rail Journey

Scenic landscapes

  • From Slovenia to Italy: Journey from the verdant valleys of Slovenia, known for their storybook charm, to the grandeur of Venice, Italy, a city famed for its intricate waterways and rich history.
  • Through Diverse Countries: Traverse a variety of countries, each offering unique landscapes—from the Alpine majesty of Austria and Switzerland to the picturesque countryside of Hungary and Romania.
  • City to Countryside: See the contrast between urban splendour in cities like Vienna and Budapest, and the serene beauty of rural landscapes that unfold as you travel across Europe.

Cultural Wonders

  • Historic Cities: Explore iconic cities along the route, including Istanbul's rich Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, Budapest's architectural marvels, and Venice's art-filled nooks.
  • Local Traditions Across Borders: Experience the diverse cultural tapestry of countries like Turkey, Romania, Hungary, Austria, and Italy. Each offers a unique blend of traditions, arts, and historical narratives.
  • Engage with History and Art: Visit historical sites that span centuries, from mediaeval castles to ancient ruins, and immerse in the local arts scene, witnessing firsthand the cultural richness that Europe boasts.

Planning and Booking a Golden Eagle Danube Express Rail Journey

How to Book

Securing your spot on the Golden Eagle Danube Express is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Here's your guide to embark on this unforgettable journey:

  • Explore Your Options: Start by visiting the Entire Travel Group's website. They offer comprehensive details and support, aiding you in making a well-informed choice.
  • Select Your Ideal Journey: We offer a variety of Golden Eagle Danube Express packages, each designed to provide a unique glimpse into the heart of Europe. Peruse the options to discover the journey that best aligns with your travel dreams.
  • Choose Your Cabin: Customise your experience by selecting from a range of cabin classes to match your desire for comfort and luxury. Options vary from elegantly simple to sumptuously opulent, catering to all preferences and budgets.
  • Consult Our Travel Experts: Should you need more information or assistance in planning, our knowledgeable team at Entire Travel Group is ready to help. We will guide you through the booking process, ensuring a seamless experience for your rail journey.

Preparation Tips

To maximise enjoyment on your journey, consider the following tips:

  • Pack Versatile Clothing: As the Golden Eagle Danube Express travels through diverse climates, pack clothes suitable for various weather conditions.
  • Travel Essentials: Remember to bring necessary travel adapters and chargers to stay connected and capture memories.
  • Familiarise with Your Itinerary: Knowing your journey's schedule will help you make the most of each excursion and cultural experience offered.
  • Dietary Preferences: Communicate any dietary needs or preferences in advance to ensure the train staff can accommodate you.

Begin your journey on the Golden Eagle Danube Express and immerse yourself in an experience that combines the romance of rail travel with the unmatched beauty and culture of Europe.

Life on board

Cabins: 

Travel in some of the finest rail accommodation available in Europe. 

Each Deluxe Sleeper Cabin features a spacious yet intimate ensuite - offering every convenience and comfort so you may sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery as it rolls by. Private bathrooms feature a shower with constant hot water, washbasin and toilet. There is a heated towel rail, shaver socket and hairdryer. A range of toiletries and a dressing gown are provided. Cabins have individually controlled air-conditioning, lighting with dimmer switches, individual reading lights, power sockets and a safe. 

Two comfortable armchairs provide daytime seating, and a free-standing chair adds flexibility. Cupboards and a full-length wardrobe provide ample storage whilst the large picture window and full-length mirror enhance the spacious feel. A second window will open for fresh air and for that perfect photo opportunity. 

During dinner each evening the living room is converted into two comfortable lower beds by your attendant who is also on hand to bring you early morning tea or coffee.

Superior Deluxe Cabins, with private ensuite facilities, offer the ultimate in European rail accommodation in terms of space, facilities and comfort. Each cabin offers comfortable daytime seating with a full-length sofa and two additional chairs. The large cabin also benefits from two full-size picture windows, one of which can open to add to the bright and airy feel of the interior. 

Each evening the cabin is transformed into a luxurious bedroom with a UK-standard King Size bed. All cabins have, as standard, a large double wardrobe with excellent storage space, individually controlled air-conditioning, lighting with dimmer switches, individual reading lights, in cabin Wi-Fi and USB ports, power sockets and a safe. 

Dining: 

The Golden Eagle Danube Express restaurant cars are a delightful venue in which to enjoy meals skillfully prepared by the Executive Chef and onboard restaurant team, using the very best in ingredients, locally sourced wherever possible.

Enjoy the delights of an on-train breakfast each morning - a wide selection of fruit, cereals, orange juice and cold plates are available from the buffet. Alternatively enjoy a cooked breakfast brought to your table by waiting staff, all complemented by steaming hot tea and coffee. 

For lunch and dinner, you will enjoy fine food, great wines and attentive service in the welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant car. Onboard, the culinary experience reflects the very essence of the countries the train travels through (vegetarian and other dietary options are also available). All meals at lunch and dinner are complemented by an excellent choice of wines from around the world, along with bottled water, beer and soft drinks. 

Meals onboard are a relaxed affair and the restaurant cars can accommodate all guests in a single sitting. Throughout the journey there is an informal dress code and an open-seating policy which means you can dine wherever, and with whomever, you please.

Golden Eagle Danube Express FAQs

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What is included in the price?

All private train and hotel accommodation as per the itinerary; all meals starting with dinner on the first day and ending with breakfast on the last day of the tour (on some tours this may differ slightly, please refer to the specific itinerary); a generous allowance of wine, beer, soft drinks and tea and coffee with all lunches and dinners both on and off the train (except where stated otherwise); all arrival and departure transfers; guided off-train sightseeing excursions; the services of experienced tour leaders; complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water 24 hours a day, all gratuities and the services of an on board doctor.

What is the average age of the passengers?

Although there are no age restrictions on tours – most travellers are aged 55+. The average age is 65 years. Tours may not be suitable for young children.

What happens when I arrive at the airport / train station?

At the point of arrival, you will be met by one of our representatives who will be waiting with a Golden Eagle Danube Express Luxury Trains sign. If arriving by air, this will be after immigration, once you have collected all your luggage and cleared customs. Our representative will then assist you to your transfer vehicle to the hotel.

Does the train have Wi-Fi?

On the Golden Eagle Danube Express there is Wi-Fi available on board, powered by a 4G sim. Coverage is limited and will usually be available as we pass through larger cities/towns. However, on all tours – guests are provided with internet access in a local hotel or restaurant at least every other day.

Can you cater to special dietary preferences?

Most dietary requirements can be catered for. Please advise us of your requirements at the time of booking.

Can I smoke onboard?

The Golden Eagle and the Golden Eagle Danube Express are non-smoking trains, however there is a designated area at the back of each train where people are permitted to smoke.

What is the dress code on the train?

During the day, the dress code on the Golden Eagle Danube Express is casual both on and off the train. In the evening guests are suggested to dress smart casual.

For winter tours on the Golden Eagle Danube Express, we recommend Ski-type jackets and trousers and thermal underwear. Train staff can provide hats, gloves and warm boots (so long as passengers have advised the rail staff of their shoe size). The train itself is always well heated and normal indoor clothing can be worn.

Since every tour requires some walking, it is recommend that passengers pack some comfortable walking shoes. A rubber sole is recommended to avoid possible slipping.

Is there a recommended time of arrival on the first day?

We recommend arriving between 11.00 and 16.00, in time for the Welcome Dinner, which is normally held between 19.00-20.00. Check in at most our hotels is between 2.00-3.00pm and early check-in is dependent on hotel availability (charges may apply).

Are there luggage restrictions?

There is limited space inside the cabin for luggage storage. Soft-topped luggage is easier to store. Luggage cannot be stored under the beds. There is a dedicated luggage storage area at the end of each carriage. We recommend passengers unpack and store their empty luggage in this area. Cabin attendants will assist guests with this.

Luxury toiletries, including shower cream, shampoo and conditioner are provided in each cabin. A hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers and towels are also provided.

Will I need travel insurance?

As with all holidays and trips abroad, we strongly recommend that you have travel insurance. Please consult with our agents at time of booking and we can assist you with this.

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