ISTANBUL TO PARIS BY TRAIN & RIVER

October 11, 2026 – Welcome to Istanbul, a city where East and West meet in a dazzling blend of history, culture, and style. Settle into the elegant Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, ideally situated steps from the city’s most iconic landmarks.

This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a festive welcome reception and dinner. Against the backdrop of ancient domes and minarets, raise a glass to the beginning of an unforgettable journey from Istanbul to Paris.

October 12, 2025 – Awake in the heart of Istanbul and enjoy breakfast at your hotel before beginning the next chapter of your journey. If time allows, take in a final glimpse of the city’s treasures—the soaring Hagia Sophia, the bustling Grand Bazaar, or the graceful minarets that define the skyline.

Soon, you’ll transfer to Istanbul Halkalı Station, where a champagne reception welcomes you aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Step into the elegance of your private train, settle into your cabin, and toast to the start of an extraordinary rail odyssey across seven countries on the way to Paris.

October 13, 2026 – Welcome to Sofia, one of Europe’s oldest capitals, with a history stretching back more than 7,000 years. The city wears its layers of past with pride—Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, Orthodox cathedrals, and grand boulevards shaped by Western and Central European influences.

Begin your exploration among the ancient remains of Serdica, where fragments of Roman life still whisper of empires long gone. Stroll through the charming City Garden, admire the stately National Theatre Ivan Vazov, and take in the elegance of Sofia’s Presidential Palace and other architectural jewels that line the city streets.

This evening, prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime experience inside the Crypt of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. In this hushed and sacred space, you’ll be immersed in the hauntingly beautiful voices of the Vanya Moneva Choir, known worldwide for their performance at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Their ethereal harmonies—often called the “Cosmic Voices”—will linger in your memory long after the final note fades.

October 14, 2026 – Step into Belgrade, the spirited Serbian capital where East and West have intertwined for centuries. Your discovery begins with a rare, behind-the-scenes visit to Tito’s legendary Blue Train, the private presidential carriage that once carried dignitaries and heads of state across Yugoslavia.

From there, indulge in a hearty traditional Serbian feast at a local restaurant, where bold flavors and rustic recipes showcase the country’s culinary soul. Then raise a glass of rakija, Serbia’s beloved fruit brandy, during a spirited tasting at the city’s oldest brewery—complete with stories and traditions that bring this fiery elixir to life.

Before returning to the Golden Eagle Danube Express, stroll through Belgrade’s lively streets. From grand boulevards to tucked-away courtyards, every corner reveals another layer of the city’s vibrant culture and complex history.

October 16, 2026 – Vienna, Austria’s stunning capital, casts an irresistible spell with its grand palaces, iconic coffee houses, and a cultural tapestry rich in classical music and captivating opera. The city’s charm invites you to wander, savor, and soak in its historic elegance.

As the day unfolds, traverse the majestic Alps, gliding through the breathtaking Austrian countryside aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Whether you choose to relax in the privacy of your cabin—attended to by your dedicated cabin steward—or enjoy the sophisticated ambiance of the Bar Lounge Car, every moment offers spectacular vistas and refined relaxation.

Tonight, celebrate in style with a special 8-course Gala Dinner onboard, an evening of culinary artistry and elegance to remember.

October 17, 2026 Champagne, renowned for producing the world’s finest sparkling wines, welcomes you with rolling hills blanketed in manicured vineyards. Enjoy an exclusive guided tour of one such vineyard, where you’ll savor tastings of this celebrated AOC-protected treasure, immersing yourself in the region’s storied winemaking traditions.

This evening, a Farewell Dinner onboard marks the close of your extraordinary European rail odyssey. Upon arrival in Paris, disembark and transfer to the InterContinental Paris – Le Grand for a one-night stay, where the magic of the City of Light awaits.

Call Michelle Andersen at 941-951-1801 at extension 103 now to reserve your space on this unique journey today! You may also e-mail michelle@admiraltravel.com

For most accurate rates & cabin availability, please call our office.

• A $250 per person Admiral Travel booking fee will apply (VIPLane members complimentary).
• All payments non-refundable. We highly recommend trip insurance and are happy to assist. Please inquire with your travel advisor.

INCLUSIONS

Dining

• All meals onboard cruise and train, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
• 14 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 14 dinners
• Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions
• 8-Course Gala Dinner
• Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners
• Unlimited beverages onboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water

Excursions

• 11 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
• State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
• Use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks

Golden Eagle Danube Express & Accommodations

• 7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom onboard the majestic S.S. Joie de Vivre
• 5 nights in a luxury cabin onboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express private train
• 1 night in Istanbul at the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet (or similar)
• 1 night in Paris at the Intercontinental Hotel Paris – Le Grand (or similar)
• Well-appointed en-suite sleeping cabins and suites on the train with remote-controlled air-conditioning and heating, individual bathrobes and slippers, wardrobes, large viewing windows, and day seating that converts into comfortable beds
• Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites on the cruise with handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, high thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets, European duvets, and a menu of pillow options
• Free Wi-Fi

Experiences

• Travel through 7 countries: Turkey, Bulgaria, Serbia, Slovenia, Austria, Switzerland, and France
• Visits to 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
• Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) included during the cruise/tour
• Captivating onboard local entertainment
• Cultural enrichment

PLEASE NOTE:

• All payments made to or on behalf of Admiral Travel are non-refundable unless stated otherwise
• Admiral Travel reserve the right to adjust the duration of their participation should any schedule conflicts arise.
• Minimum numbers must be met in order for the ATI Hosts to host the journey. If minimum numbers are not met , our local partner will serve as the host for the duration of the journey.
• Trips are offered well in advance to give ample time for your future planning.
• Special global relationships that the Hiltons have formed over the years will allow you privileged access opportunities.
• Tours, activities and special events subject to change.
• Travel with like-minded individuals on these exclusive departures.