Pre night accommodation at the Charles Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel.

DAY 1 – YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS IN MUNICH

Arrivals day in Munich, where you will be met and transferred to the Charles Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel, for a two night stay in Munich. A Leading Hotel of the World, the Charles is centrally, yet quietly, located between the Karlsplatz and Königsplatz at the Old Botanical Garden within easy walking distance to many of the city’s key attractions.

Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner in the elegant surroundings of this luxury hotel.

DAY 2 – MUNICH

Electrified by the indescribable buzz of yuletide cheer, Christmas in Munich is truly magic. One of the most famous of all the city’s Christmas markets is located on Marienplatz in the heart of the city. This centuries-old market, which had its beginnings in the 1600s, is a fresh mix of old and new – keeping to older Bavarian traditions, with mouth-watering Brätwurst and freshly roasted chestnuts, presented alongside decadent sweet treats and intriguing electric creations. Watching over, a majestically illuminated Christmas tree casts a charismatic glow over the bustling square – perfectly adding to the festive feel.

Begin with a guided walking tour of this celebrated market before guests may choose to explore BMW World, a haven for automotive enthusiasts featuring BMW cars and immersive exhibition spaces dedicated to the world of motoring and company history. The day ends in Paulaner am Nockherberg, a legendary Bavarian beer hall and brewery renowned for its authentic hospitality. Here, a selection of Paulaner’s finest brews is complemented by traditional Bavarian delicacies, from freshly baked pretzels to hearty bratwurst. For those who prefer to soak in the festive ambiance at their own pace, there will also be an opportunity for leisurely shopping in Munich’s elegant boutiques.

DAY 3 – MUNICH TO SALZBURG

Mid-morning, you will be transferred to Munich railway station to enjoy a drinks reception before boarding the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Marking the beginning of your voyage of a lifetime, a Bavarian inspired-Oompah brass band will perform as the train departs from the station, and your cabin attendants will be there to escort you to your private en-suite cabin.

As the train weaves its way out of Munich, you will take lunch in the Restaurant Car as you enjoy the spectacular Bavarian scenery unfolding before your eyes as you head across the border into Austria for your first stop this afternoon in Salzburg.

Like a picture from the pages of a fairy-tale, Salzburg perfectly captures the charming cosiness of the festive season. The city sits snuggly in the northern foothills of the Alps, set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, cut in half by the curves of the Salzach River. The Christmas markets, Advent concerts and local traditions continue to charm visitors in the magical city of Mozart.

This afternoon, explore the heart of the city, starting at Mirabell Palace. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the baroque 17th century palace is easily one of the most stunning landmarks in the city and made famous in more modern times as a location used in The Sound of Music. A short distance from the palace on Market Square (Marketplatz) you will see the former Mozart Residence, now a museum. From here you will cross the Makartsteg bridge into the Old Town and walk along the Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s most famous street which is renowned for its wrought-iron trade signs and the birthplace of Mozart.

The rest of your evening in Salzburg will be spent at the Salzburger Christkindlmarkt, one of the most beautiful and oldest Christmas markets in the world, which is held on Domplatz and Residenzplatz. Its unique location in the middle of the World Heritage Old Town of Salzburg, the traditional stalls and its long history make the Salzburg Christmas market something very special. The Christkindlmarkt offers incomparable holiday ambiance – bells ring out from onion-domed churches, the scent of fresh pine mingles with the aroma of cinnamon-sprinkled mulled wine in the crisp winter air, and cheerful groups huddle around festive market stalls.

DAY 4 – SALZBURG & VIENNA

After a leisurely breakfast onboard your private train, embark on a visit to the illustrious Fortress Hohensalzburg, one of the most iconic landmarks in Austria and a symbol of Salzburg’s rich medieval history. Perched majestically atop the Festungsberg hill, this formidable fortress has stood for over 900 years, a testament to the city’s power and prestige. Travel in style aboard the funicular, bypassing the traditional stairs, to reach this architectural marvel. During your guided tour, we’ll delve into the fortress’s fascinating past, from its role as a royal residence to its transformation into a military stronghold. You will also have time to explore at your own pace, taking in panoramic views of Salzburg and its surrounding alpine beauty. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely afternoon of free time in the centre of Salzburg, where you can stroll through its baroque streets, indulge in fine shopping, or simply relax in one of the city’s elegant cafés, soaking in the timeless charm of this UNESCO World Heritage destination.

A special highlight this afternoon onboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express as you traverse the Semmering Pass en-route to Vienna, a stunning feat of engineering with spectacular alpine views to be enjoyed with afternoon tea being served from the warmth of the Bar Lounge Car.

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

DAY 5 – VIENNA

A beautiful city to explore at any time of the year, but wintertime in Vienna is an extra special experience. Exquisitely illuminated with hanging lights of the Christmas markets, Vienna’s squares are brimming with culinary treats, handmade gifts, and quaint ornaments. You will explore this beautiful city, with a panoramic tour of the grand boulevard encircling Vienna’s historic quarters. From here you will enjoy a traditional ‘Fiaker’ (horse-drawn carriage) ride through the charming city streets, before sampling the traditional Pirker gingerbread in front of magnificent St Stephen’s.

Hofburg Palace has been the heart of power in Vienna since 1279, so naturally it is rich with history that can’t be experienced anywhere else. Once the Habsburg’s winter residence, this massive palace complex now serves as the workplace and home of the President of Austria. During your visit you’ll meet a choir who will provide a short concert of traditional Viennese Christmas folk songs.

After lunch, continue to the Schönbrunn Palace, with a tour included. The palace also provides the perfect backdrop for the Christmas Market and is perhaps the most classically stylish of all the Vienna markets. The exclusive assortment of booths includes traditional handicrafts, pretty Christmas decorations and toys. Sweet, spicy, and hearty temptations are waiting on every corner and enchant the huge square in front of the palace with enticing aromas.

DAY 6 – VIENNA TO BUDAPEST

This morning you will visit the Museum of Fine Arts which is the largest art museum in Austria and located right in the heart of the city. Opened to the public in 1891, the main part of the museum’s collection is made up of artworks acquired by the Habsburg dynasty. You will also enjoy a trip to the Christmas market situated on Maria-Theresien Platz.

You return to the train for lunch as you wind through whimsical wintery landscapes of Hungary, before arriving at our final stop of Budapest. You stay for two nights at the Four Seasons Gresham Palace.

DAY 7 – BUDAPEST

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. Your panoramic city tour includes the Castle District, St. Mathias Church and Fishermen’s Bastion. You will also see the Parliament, Opera House, St Stephen’s Cathedral, Heroes Square and the City Park.

Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Make sure to take the opportunity to stroll through the many Christmas Markets scattered around the city. You may want to visit the historic Great Market Hall with its endless variety of delicious foods and wines or warm up and head to one of the city’s famous thermal baths for a rejuvenating Christmas dip.

This evening, enjoy a Farewell Dinner and reflect on the memories made from this wonderful winter escapade across Central Europe.

DAY 8 – BUDAPEST

Following breakfast in the hotel you will be transferred to the airport for onward departures.

Post night accommodation at Four Seasons Gresham Palace

The Golden Eagle Danube Express is your luxurious hotel-on-wheels. Travel in comfort and style through Europe on one of our spectacular private rail journeys, combining iconic cities with stunning countryside.

Unpack just the once and settle into your well-appointed and comfortable cabin as you begin this voyage of a lifetime. Your cabin attendant will be on hand to look after all of your needs.

They pride ourselves in offering the very best experience on their journeys, and in addition to your luxury sleeping cabins they offer a first class Bar Lounge Car and Restaurant Cars.

Superior Deluxe Cabins:

The Superior Deluxe Class cabins, with private en-suite facilities, offer the ultimate in European rail accommodation in terms of space, facilities and comfort.

With 12 cabins per departure, 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 is openable to add to the bright and airy feel of the interior. Each evening the cabin is transformed into a luxurious bedroom with a 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.

Deluxe Class:

Travel in some of the finest rail accommodation available in Europe. Each deluxe sleeper carriage has just five spacious yet intimate en-suite cabins 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.

Co-ordinated fabrics complement wood-panelled walls and brass fittings. 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.

The 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.

It is here that your 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 such as language lessons and engaging talks by expert lecturers on local history and culture. 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.

The Restaurant Car:

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.

For lunch and dinner you will enjoy fine food, great wines and attentive service in the welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant car.

Meals onboard are a relaxed affair as the restaurant cars can accommodate all guests in a single sitting.

Throughout the journey there is an informal dress code, so you can enjoy the culinary experiences in convivial and relaxed surroundings and with an open-seating policy you can dine wherever, and with whomever, you please.