golden eagle danube express jewels of persia As rail tours go, Jewels of Persia is truly amazing. Travelling from the banks of the Danube to the shores of the Bosphorus and onto the ancient land of Persia, this unique journey takes in destinations that are rarely experienced by the Western visitor, which makes it all the more special. Budapest Kecskemét BOS. & HERZ. ALBANIA HUNGARY SERBIA MACEDONIA ROMANIA GREECE BULGARIA MOLDOVA Sighişoara Braşov Veliko Tarnovo Istanbul UKRAINE Black Sea Cappadocia MAP TURKEY Tatvan RUSSIA GEORGIA Lake Van ARMENIA Van Zanjan Caspian Sea AZERBAIJAN Tehran KAZAKHSTAN TURKMENISTAN Mashhad Mediterranean Sea LEBANON ISRAEL SYRIA IRAQ Isfahan Yazd LIBYA EGYPT JORDAN SAUDI ARABIA Persian Gulf Persepolis Shiraz Tour Route Eastbound Itinerary Istanbul - Cappadocia - Lake Van - Akdamar Island - Van - Zanjan Mashhad - Yazd - Persepolis - Shiraz - Isfahan - Tehran Tour Route Westbound Itinerary Tehran - Mashhad - Yazd - Persepolis - Shiraz - Isfahan - Zanjan - Van Lake Van - Akdamar Island - Cappadocia - Istanbul - Veliko Tarnovo February 11 February 28, 2016 (available for charter only) March 27 April 13, 2016 August 25 September 11, 2016 October 9 October 26, 2016 March 4 March 21, 2016 (available for charter only) May 2 May 19, 2016 September 19 October 6, 2016 November 3 November 20, 2016
tour itinerary (westbound) DAYS 1-3 tehran Upon arrival into Tehran you will be met and transferred dinner, whilst you meet your fellow travellers on this highly anticipated journey. royalty and the legendary Peacock Throne. Also we visit the Golestan Palace with its renovated Versailles-inspired mirrorencrusted Marble Throne Hall used for the coronation of the last Shah. Most of the remaining brick and tile buildings date Following breakfast onboard we stop at Sadat Shaha, for the home of Persepolis, another World Heritage Site. Perhaps Iran s most important archeological site, this ceremonial capital of the Persian Empire dates back to the 6th century. Even now, the ruins are extremely impressive. We also view the Necropolis (Naghshe Rustam). After lunch we continue by bus to Shiraz. Shiraz has many strings to its bow: poetry, literature, wine, Gate, Hafez Tomb and the Vakil Citadel are the highlights of our afternoon tour. Late afternoon on Day 3 we transfer to the main railway station in the city and board the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Settle in to your cabin and later enjoy dinner as the train heads overnight to Mashhad. DAY 4 DAY 5 mashhad An early morning arrival provides us with the whole day to explore the city of Mashhad, which is home to the Imam Reza Holy Shrine, the largest mosque in the world in terms of its dimension, followed by a tour of the Nader Shah Museum. Following lunch in the city, we will visit the Tomb of Ferdowsi, the father of Persian Literature who lived over 1,000 years ago. yazd Yazd is thought to be one of the oldest cities in the world and a centre of Zoroastrianism, a monotheistic faith founded in Iran 3,500 years ago. Our tour takes in the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, Amir Chakhmagh Square and the 14th century Friday Mosque, home to one of Persepolis Ruins DAY 6 DAY 7 persepolis & shiraz Following breakfast onboard we stop at Sadat Shaha, for the home of Persepolis, another World Heritage Site. Perhaps Iran s most important archeological site, this ceremonial capital of the Persian Empire dates back to the 6th century. Even now, the ruins are extremely impressive. We also view the Necropolis (Naghshe Rustam). After lunch we continue by bus to Shiraz. Shiraz has many strings to its bow: poetry, literature, wine, Gate, Hafez Tomb and the Vakil Citadel are the highlights of our afternoon tour. isfahan This enchanting city, which served as Persia s capital from 1598 to 1722, is 2,500 years old and one of the oldest in Iran. As a crossroad of international trade and diplomacy, Isfahan has a rich mix of languages, religions and customs.
Voyages of a Lifetime by Private Train TM Lake Van of great historical monuments, and its Life-Giving River, the Zayandeh-Rood, which has given the city its beauty. Isfahan is packed with some of Iran s best sights and today we spend a whole day in the city, visiting the Chehel Sotoon Palace and the Following a traditional Iranian lunch we move on to Naghshe Shah and Sheikh Lutfullah Mosques can be found. Here, the time is yours to enjoy the huge square and pick up a bargain at DAY 8 zanjan arrival in Zanjan, with its 13th century mausoleum of Oljeitu, the DAY 9 van, lake van & akdamar island In the early hours of the morning we cross the border from Iran into Turkey to Van where we will navigate the old streets of the town and marvel at the beautiful silver and hanging kilims (woven carpets) made from natural dyes. Today as the train cars are uncoupled for a six-hour crossing by ferry from Van to Tatvan, you may choose to observe the intricate mechanical manoeuvres and accompany the train by ferry or drive along the southern coast of the lake to Van, stopping en-route at Church of the Holy Cross, a 10th-century Armenian cathedral whose walls are adorned with elaborate bas-relief carvings of mostly biblical scenes. DAYS 10-11 cappadocia Cappadocia is an area of Central Anatolia best known for its fairy chimney volcanic rock formations and unique landscape honeycombed with networks of ancient underground settlements. We arrive in the afternoon and visit the Göreme Open Air Museum, a complex of cave churches, chapels and monasteries carved out of the mountain rock by Orthodox monks between 900 and 1200. The beautiful frescos inside are an outstanding example of Byzantine art. You can enhance the Cappadocia experience and stay overnight (optional and at extra charge) in a unique cave hotel located in the ancient village of Urgup, which features cave houses dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries before taking a sunrise balloon morning. We return to the train after lunch as we continue our journey across Turkey towards Istanbul.
DAYS 12-13 istanbul This fabled city that spans Asia and Europe deserves an extended stay so over the next few days we will see how old meets new; east meets west when you visit Istanbul s must-see historic sites. One of the most famous monuments in both the Turkish and Islamic worlds, the Sultan Ahmet Mosque (the Blue Mosque) is a superb creation in the classical Ottoman style and features six towering minarets and 260 windows illuminating its vast main chamber, which is decorated with more than 20,000 Iznik tiles. Now a museum, Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century by in the Christian world. After the Ottoman conquest, it was museums in the world. Take a moment to linger here to admire The largest and oldest palace in the world and primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans from 1465 to 1853, Topkapi is the crown jewel of the Ottoman Empire. With its treasury and exotic buildings overlooking the Golden Horn, your visit to Topkapi promises to be a truly fascinating experience. We also visit the Grand Bazaar which is one of the world s largest covered markets, with 58 streets and over 4,000 shops. In operation since the 14th century the bazaar is especially known for its jewellery, leather, pottery, spices and carpets. hotel as the train re-positions from Derince by train ferry for the next stage of the journey. Late afternoon on Day 13 after the conclusion of our city tour, we leave Istanbul and travel by bus to Tetkirdag to re-board the Danube Express and continue our journey towards the Bulgaria. Engineering work in connection with the Bosphorus Tunnel project (on both sides of the Bosphorus) will involve the train stopping short of Istanbul in both directions. The journey into and out of Istanbul will be by road and the train will be sent across the Bosphorus by ferry. DAY 14 DAY 15 veliko tarnovo BULGARIA Today we climb over the Shipka Pass and travel onwards to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria s ancient capital. Nestled in perched, one above the other, on the steep banks of the Yantra River and there is free time here to wander through the ancient city. Relax in the Lounge Car before dinner is served as our train continues through the scenic landscape as we head across the Romanian border. braşov & sighişoara ROMANIA Overnight the train twists and turns as it climbs over the Carpathian Mountains and threads its way through the dramatic landscape with crystal clear mountain streams. This morning as Dracula s Castle, this beautiful 14th century building is situated amongst stunning mountain scenery.
Voyages of a Lifetime by Private Train TM Bran Castle, for a walking tour of the town s main highlights. A World Heritage site rumoured to be the birthplace of Dracula, it is Burgher houses and ornate churches line its cobbled streets. Dinner is served as our train continues onto Hungary and across the Great Hungarian Plain. DAY 16 kecskemét & budapest HUNGARY Market Hall with its endless variety of delicious foods and wines or head to one of the city s famous thermal baths for a rejuvenating dip. Central Europe. After breakfast the following morning you will be transferred to the airport for onward departures. of Hungary before the train heads to Lajosmizse for a spectacular destination, Budapest, the romantic and historic Hungarian we will stay in the Four Seasons Gresham Palace for two nights. DAYS 17-18 budapest HUNGARY Szechenyi Thermal Bath, Budapest Budapest is two cities separated by the 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 city tour includes the Royal Palace, St Mathias Church and a panoramic view of the city from Gellert Hill. We will also see the Citadel, the Opera House, St. Stephen s Cathedral, Heroes Square and City Park. Enjoy some free time to stroll along the banks of the Danube, visit the historic Great
golden eagle luxury trains Golden Eagle Danube Express Onboard Staff Golden Eagle Danube Express rail cruising Rail cruising is a fantastic way to absorb the rich culture and cinematic landscape of the country. The programmes we offer are carefully designed to balance generous amounts of relaxation, while voyaging across the vast landscapes with sightseeing that opens a window into the soul and spirit of the places and communities we visit. no matter where you choose to explore.
golden eagle luxury trains Budapest Istanbul Isfahan exploring remote lands in style and comfort A TYPICAL DAY ONBOARD YOUR PRIVATE TRAIN Each rail cruise is a hand-picked collection of fascinating places, and each day brings a new opportunity for discovery another chance to explore your world in a personal and meaningful way. On a typical day the Golden Eagle Danube Express will travel through the night, as you sleep in your private cabin. Disembarking after breakfast the following morning you will be whisked away by coach or on foot to explore, for example, the sights and sounds of Cappadocia, Isfahan or Mashhad and at the end of the day return to the sanctuary of your hotel-onwheels, greeted by your cabin attendants. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks in the Bar Lounge Car as we set off again to our next destination. Then settle down with your travelling companions in the Restaurant Car for a meal of local specialities and There is no need to hurry, the Restaurant Cars accommodate all the guests in a single sitting so linger over coffee and night-cap and listen to the resident pianist. Some days will be spent partly onboard the train providing an opportunity for guests to watch the landscape unfold. The Golden Eagle Danube Express offers different onboard activities so you might spend the time attending talks on the local history and culture, trying your hand at bridge, tasting wines, improving your photographic skills or simply soaking up the atmosphere in the Bar Lounge Car. unique itineraries Our rail cruise itineraries are planned and operated exclusively by us and we never lose sight of the little things that really matter to you so that you can experience our Voyages of a Lifetime in a relaxed and informal manner. Our itineraries are designed to turn dreams of a lifetime into priceless memories and take in some of the most culturally diverse destinations the world has to offer. With these countries changing so rapidly, it remains an immensely exciting time to visit, not to mention that it also offers some of the most remarkable and iconic rail journeys in the world.
golden eagle luxury trains what s included in the tour price As far as possible our tours are all-inclusive with no hidden extras. What follows are all those elements which are included in the tour price. The only extra items you may need to budget for include personal insurance and laundry. EXPERIENCED TOUR MANAGERS Our experienced Tour Managers are selected for their travel knowledge, and their linguistic and organisational abilities allowing you to relax and enjoy your rail cruise. We receive exceptional passenger comments about our Tour Managers and their aim is to ensure you enjoy every minute of your holiday. ONBOARD SERVICE You can expect service which is attentive, friendly and unintrusive. Your car attendants provide housekeeping and bedding turndown services to assist you and to ensure you are comfortable in your cabin. Complimentary tea, coffee and bottled drinking water are served to you in your cabin. ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE AIRPORT TRANSFERS Arrival and departure transfers are included. HOTEL AND ONBOARD ACCOMMODATION Although you will spend much of your time sightseeing or relaxing a welcome retreat at the end of a rewarding day. All hotels are of BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY ending with breakfast on the last day. All departures feature one or two uniquely designed Restaurant Cars where you can enjoy the excellent waiter-served food and wine. Several times during the tour we will also sample authentic local cuisine with wine and a selection of drinks off the train, which is also included in the tour price. DRINKS A generous drinks allowance, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, is included with lunch and dinner on and off the train. Drinks are also included in the Bar Lounge Car from the standard bar list. No alcoholic drinks will be served on or off the train in Iran but a range of non-alcoholic beers and soft drinks will be available. GUIDED OFF-TRAIN EXCURSIONS The history and culture of the places we visit on our rail cruises will come alive through our expert local guides. All our tours include a wide-ranging sightseeing schedule to make the most of the time you have off the train and bring you closer to the culture, people and history of your destinations. We believe it is the special little touches that help create magical memories. PERSONAL HEADSETS On all the off train excursions, to enhance your enjoyment and insights into the places you visit, you will be provided with a lightweight personal headset on which to listen to your tour guide as you take in the sights. The range of the headset means that you do not need to worry about missing any of the guide s commentary on your excursion, even if you prefer to wander away from the group. ONBOARD DOCTOR AND MEDICAL FACILITIES To give you peace of mind our tours are accompanied by a doctor who travels with us for the entire journey; so you can rest assured that medical assistance is always available. On call 24 hours a day, the doctor is on hand to give primary care as required. In almost every case, the doctor will be English-speaking and be PORTERAGE As you only have to unpack once your luggage and belongings will stay with you on the train throughout the journey but, wherever necessary, porterage is included between the hotels and stations. ALL GRATUITIES You will not have to worry about tipping on or off the train on your rail journey as all gratuities are included in the tour price.
golden eagle danube express dining onboard Onboard Cuisine Restaurant Car Onboard Cuisine The Golden Eagle Danube Express restaurant cars are a delightful venue in which to enjoy meals skillfully prepared by our Executive Chef and his onboard restaurant team using the very best in ingredients, locally sourced wherever possible. Depending on the number of guests onboard, one or two of our restaurant cars will be on every departure. Enjoy the delights of an on-train breakfast each morning - a wide selection of fruit, cereals, orange juice and cold plates are available from our bountiful buffet. Alternatively enjoy a cooked breakfast bought to your table by our waiting staff, all complemented by steaming hot tea and coffee. attentive service in the welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant car. We offer a culinary experience that is a mixture of Hungarian as well as international cuisine throughout the journey. Vegetarian and other dietary options are also available. All our meals at lunch and dinner are complemented by an excellent choice of wines from around the world, personally selected by our Company Founder, Tim Littler, along with bottled water, beer and soft drinks. Meals onboard are a relaxed affair as the restaurant cars can accommodate all our guests in a single sitting. Throughout the journey there is an informal dress code, so you can enjoy our culinary experiences in convivial and relaxed surroundings and with our open-seating policy you can dine wherever, and with whomever, you please. No alcoholic drinks will be served on and off the train in Iran.
golden eagle danube express relax in our bar lounge car Bar Lounge Car Bar Lounge Car The social heart of the Golden Eagle Danube Express is the Bar Lounge Car, a great place to relax and settle into the unhurried pace of life on board. Unwind in comfortable surroundings and watch the world go by as you get to know your fellow passengers and begin long-lasting friendships. Perhaps read a novel to while away the time or challenge your friends to a game of cards. It is here that our Tour Manager will also organise a programme of activities. Passengers will receive printed daily itineraries throughout the tour detailing train arrival and departure timings, latest weather forecasts for the next destination and information on the following day s excursions and activities. The Bar Lounge Car and Restaurant Cars will host an entertaining and enlightening range of activities and engaging talks. In the evening enjoy the sounds of the resident pianist playing in the Bar Lounge Car. Every night the bar stays open until the last person leaves.
golden eagle danube express deluxe cabins Deluxe Cabin Ensuite Deluxe Cabin - Day Deluxe Cabin Night 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. Co-ordinated fabrics complement wood-panelled walls and brass 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. Deluxe Cabins 5 x 2-bed cabins per carriage Cabin size (inc. ensuite): 15 6 x 6 4 (474cm x 195cm) Cabin area (inc. ensuite): 99.4 ft 2 (9.24m 2 ) Bed size (each): 6 1 x 2 7½ (185cm x 80cm) Private en-suite bathroom with cubicle shower and WC Individually controlled air-conditioning Two armchairs and a free-standing chair for daytime seating Large picture window opens partially, perfect for photograph opportunities Full length wardrobe and power sockets Day Night
golden eagle danube express heritage cabins Heritage Cabin Day Heritage Carriage Corridor Heritage Cabin Night Each Heritage sleeper carriage has nine sleeping cabins with an upper and lower bed. A shared toilet is available at one end of the carriage and a shared shower at the other end. Each cabin has wood-panelled walls, air-conditioning, power sockets and hanging space. A range of toiletries and a dressing gown are provided. A full length couch provides daytime seating. The large picture window will open for fresh air and for that perfect photo opportunity. During dinner each evening the cabin is converted into two comfortable beds by your attendant who is also on hand to bring early morning tea or coffee. Heritage Cabins 9 x 2-bed cabins per carriage Cabin size: 6 4 x 5 2 (194cm x 158cm) Cabin area: 33 ft 2 (3.06m 2 ) Upper bed size: 5 10 x 2 5 (176cm x 74cm) Lower bed size: 6 1 x 2 5½ (185cm x 75cm) Air-conditioned Shared toilet facility and shower facility available at opposite ends of the carriage Full length couch provides daytime seating Large picture window - opens partially, perfect for photograph opportunities Clothes hanging storage and power sockets cabins may vary