Grand Alpine Express: Golden Eagle Danube Express

Arrival
Today you will be met and transferred 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, where you can meet your fellow travellers on this highly-anticipated journey.

Budapest City Tour 
After breakfast you enjoy a guided walking tour around the main Budapest attractions.

Budapest is an alliance of two cities separated by the River Danube. The old city of Buda and the imposing Royal Palace, dominates the city with stunning views across the Danube to the commercial heart of Pest. Our panoramic city tour includes the Castle District, St. Mathias Church and Fishermen’s Bastion. We will also see the Parliament, Opera House, St Stephen’s Cathedral, Heroes Square and the City Park.

The rest of the day is at leisure where you can stroll along the banks of the Danube or head to one of the city’s famous thermal baths for a rejuvenating dip. Alternatively, you can relax at the hotel and indulge in the hotel’s luxurious spa with infinity-edge pool or make use of the state-of-the-art fitness centre.

Departure & Train Embarkation 

This morning enjoy a drinks reception at Budapest Nyugati station before boarding the Golden Eagle Danube Express for our morning departure. Settle in to your cabin and later enjoy lunch as the train heads to Vienna. 

From the classic capital cities of Budapest and Vienna, you venture deep into the Austrian Tyrol before heading across the valleys of the Swiss Alps and onwards through the Italian Lake District before heading into the lesser-known but equally beautiful country of Slovenia and its jewel in the crown, Lake Bled. Traverse some of the most scenic railway lines in the world as the Golden Eagle Danube Express weaves its way through tunnels, across viaducts and over mountain passes. Journeys end will be in the stunning maritime city of Venice, an outstanding mix of Gothic and Renaissance palaces perched on the edge of the Italian coast. A perfect end to a memorable journey of alpine discovery. 

Relax in private en-suite cabins, thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and luxury throughout your journey. Savor freshly prepared meals crafted from the finest local ingredients, complemented by a generous selection of international wines. 

Enjoy authentic dining experiences both onboard and in select local establishments. Benefit from 24-hour cabin attendant service, an experienced tour management team, and the presence of a UK-registered doctor with onboard medical facilities. 

This unparalleled expedition offers a harmonious blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and luxurious comfort, inviting you to explore the cradle of civilization in an entirely new light.

Arrival to Vienna
The stunning capital city of Austria enthrals visitors with its rich heritage. A seductive metropolis of elaborate palaces, renowned coffee houses, classical music and enchanting opera. Today’s programme will include a horse-drawn carriage ride through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, the famous Schönbrunn Palace, or free time to explore yourself.

This evening, you will enjoy a private concert featuring the Vienna Supreme Orchestra.

Welcome to Austria 

Today promises to be a highlight of your journey. Departing from Vienna in the morning, you'll traverse central Austria and venture into the Alps, witnessing breathtaking scenery along the way. Keep your camera ready as you ascend the Semmering Pass, notable for its 16 viaducts and 15 tunnels. Your route will take you through the renowned skiing village of Kitzbühel, leading to Jenbach. 

After lunch, you'll embark on a scenic drive to the picturesque Lake Achensee, where a serene cruise awaits you. Following this, a short bus ride will bring you to Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol. 

Nestled in the Alps, Innsbruck is celebrated for its blend of Imperial and modern architecture. The Nordkette funicular, featuring stations designed by architect Zaha Hadid, transports you from the city center up to 2,256 meters, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Alpine landscape. This itinerary offers a rich blend of natural beauty and architectural marvels, ensuring a memorable experience.

Welcome to  Switzerland 

Another fantastic morning on board the Golden Eagle Danube Express to simply sit back, relax and watch the scenery of the Vorarlberg unfold in front of your eyes as we pass through St. Anton before crossing through Liechtenstein and then into Switzerland where we run along the whole of the Lake of Zürich before arriving in the city itself.

The city of Zürich, a global centre for banking and finance, lies at the north end of Lake Zürich in northern Switzerland. The picturesque lanes of the central Altstadt (Old Town), on either side of the Limmat River, reflect its pre-medieval history. Waterfront promenades like the Limmatquai follow the river toward the 17th-century Rathaus (Town Hall). Whilst in the city we will enjoy a traditional Swiss fondue tasting.

Welcome to Italy

Today offers a journey rich in scenic beauty and cultural experiences. Departing from Zürich, you'll travel along the picturesque shores of Lakes Zug and Lucerne, ascending through the scenic St. Gotthard Pass. After passing through the historic St. Gotthard Tunnel, you'll descend towards Lugano and continue into Italy, arriving at the stunning Lake Como.

At Lake Como, a private boat cruise awaits, offering serene views of the lake's dramatic cliffs and high mountains. You'll visit the charming lakeside town of Bellagio, renowned for its beautifully maintained public gardens and historic villas. Here, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a scenic lunch and explore local shops for unique souvenirs. The region's unique topography, with towns nestled beneath high roads along the western coast, has made it a favored destination for many celebrities.

Arrival in Trieste
This morning, after traveling along the southern shore of Lake Garda, you'll arrive in Verona, renowned as the setting of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet." Here, you'll embark on an informative walking tour of the city's notable landmarks, including the first-century Roman Amphitheatre located in Piazza Bra. This impressive arena, built in the first half of the 1st century A.D., stands as a testament to Verona's rich historical heritage. 

Following lunch on board, your journey continues to Trieste, a charming Italian port city. Upon arrival, you'll partake in a brief tour, featuring a visit to the imposing Miramare Castle. This 19th-century castle, once the residence of Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg and his wife Carlotta, offers a glimpse into regal history and architecture.

Additionally, you'll explore the expansive Piazza Unità d'Italia, Italy's largest square overlooking the sea. Flanked by City Hall, government offices, and the Lloyd Triestino Building, the square serves as both a picturesque gathering place and the civic center.   

Alternatively, you may choose to visit the renowned 13th-century Cathedral of San Giusto, situated atop a hill that was once the heart of the city's medieval quarter. This cathedral, the most important Catholic building in Trieste, is celebrated for its splendid Byzantine-style architecture adorned with precious mosaics.  

Welcome to Slovenia

This morning, rise early as your train departs from Trieste, ascending into Slovenia and traversing the Julian Alps to reach Lake Bled. This picturesque alpine lake, nestled in northwestern Slovenia, is renowned for its charming island, historic church, and imposing castle.

Following this, continue your journey to Ljubljana while enjoying lunch on board. Upon arrival, you'll discover a delightful blend of ancient architecture and vibrant culture. Your afternoon tour includes visits to Prešeren Square, the Triple Bridge, and the Dragon Bridge.

Prešeren Square serves as the heart of Ljubljana's Old Town, bustling with life and surrounded by notable landmarks. The Triple Bridge, an architectural masterpiece, connects the historical and modern parts of the city. The Dragon Bridge, adorned with iconic dragon statues, stands as a symbol of Ljubljana's rich heritage.

Arrival in Venice 

This morning, as your train remains stationed in Postojna, you'll embark on a private tour of the renowned Postojna Cave. This extensive cave system, spanning over 24 kilometers, offers a unique underground experience. The tour includes a ride on the cave's electric train, followed by a guided walk through its impressive chambers, showcasing breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the cave's natural wonders.

After the cave visit, your journey continues south towards Mestre. Here, the train veers onto the three-mile causeway that stretches across the Venice Lagoon, leading you to Venice's Santa Lucia station, situated directly on the Grand Canal. You'll arrive in Venice after lunch, ready to explore the city's rich history and culture.

Upon arrival, you'll bid farewell to the train crew and transfer to the San Clemente Palace Kempinski for a two-night stay. This five-star luxury resort is uniquely located on its own private island, offering a serene retreat just minutes away from Piazza San Marco via a complimentary boat service. The historic property, dating back 900 years, features a 12th-century chapel, expansive gardens, and stately courtyards, providing a tranquil setting with impressive views of the Venice Lagoon.

During your stay, you can enjoy the resort's amenities, including three gourmet restaurants, three bars, a spa, and elegantly decorated rooms. The hotel's private shuttle service ensures easy access to Venice's main attractions, allowing you to experience the city's charm while retreating to your peaceful island sanctuary.

Venice Sightseeing 

Meet your private guide in the lobby and enjoy a wonderful walking city tour of all the must-see places.

During the tour you visit St. Mark's Basilica, where you can see the astonishing Pala D'Oro altar as well as the Treasury with numerous exhibits surviving from Venice's notorious raid on Constantinople back in 1204. Next you go up to Loggia dei Cavalli to enjoy the best panoramic views of St. Mark's Square. Next on your list is the tour of the Doges Palace that includes crossing the Bridge of Sighs, visiting the old prisons and lushly decorated chambers of the Palace.

Your tour will finish in the city center. 

A trip to Venice would not be complete without a gondola ride along Venice’s famous canals (we include a 30-minute gondola in the programme). 

In the evening, a farewell reception dinner is planned, providing an opportunity to reflect on your journey through this beautifully scenic part of Europe.

Departure 

On the final morning following breakfast in the hotel you will be transferred to the airport for onward departures. There is also an option to extend your stay in Venice for additional nights to explore more of this fascinating city.