Golden Eagle Danube Express: Istanbul & beyond

There’s something undeniably romantic about luxury rail travel. The slow rhythm of the train, the ever-changing landscapes and the sense of stepping back into a more elegant era. So when I was invited to experience a Golden Eagle train journey, I couldn’t wait to see what makes these itineraries so special. Our trip was a condensed version of their celebrated Castles of Transylvania route, which usually spans seven days from Istanbul to Budapest. Instead, we had just three days to immerse ourselves in the magic of the Danube Express – a whirlwind of culture, fine dining and unforgettable scenery.

Rediscovering Istanbul: The city on two continents

Our journey began in Istanbul, the legendary city that straddles Europe and Asia. Having visited twice before many years ago, I was eager to see how it had changed. It didn’t disappoint. Flying with British Airways from Heathrow, we enjoyed a smooth service before being transferred to our hotel in the heart of the city. The drive from Istanbul’s new airport is longer these days, but the reward was worth it: a stay at The Levni Hotel & Spa, a comfortable and convenient base near the iconic Galata Bridge and Sultanahmet district. From here, the city’s mosques, gardens and vibrant streets were all within walking distance. That evening, we found a charming local restaurant serving authentic Turkish cuisine.

Views of the Bosphorus

Exploring Istanbul’s luxury side

The next morning began with panoramic views from our hotel’s rooftop terrace before visiting some of Istanbul’s finest luxury hotels along the Bosphorus. We started with the Shangri-La Bosphorus, a five-star haven in the Besiktas district, offering Ottoman-inspired glamour and spectacular water views.

Then it was on to the Çırağan Palace Kempinski (my personal favourite) with its year-round heated outdoor pool and palatial setting overlooking the Bosphorus.

Çırağan Palace Kempinski

Lastly, we had the chance to explore the Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus, set back from the water but boasting a rooftop restaurant with breathtaking city views, where we enjoyed a hosted lunch.

Views from the Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus

After lunch, I was lucky enough to join a private rooftop tour of the Grand Bazaar – not for the faint-hearted, but an unforgettable way to see this historic labyrinth from above. We ended the day with a sunset Bosphorus cruise, soaking up Istanbul’s skyline from the water, before dining beneath the Galata Bridge, watching fishermen cast their lines.

Iconic sights and a memorable farewell

Our final morning in Istanbul included a visit to the Blue Mosque, one of Turkey’s most majestic Ottoman landmarks. A quick spa session back at the hotel was the perfect prelude to our meeting point at the Four Seasons Hotel, where Golden Eagle hosted a rooftop welcome party. Canapés in the autumn sunshine, views of Sultanahmet’s mosques, and the haunting call to prayer created an unforgettable atmosphere.

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

Life onboard the Danube Express

From the Four Seasons, our luggage was whisked to our cabins while we were transferred to the station, greeted by a band and Golden Eagle staff lined up on the platform – a truly grand departure. Our Deluxe twin cabin was surprisingly spacious, with two beds and a private en-suite shower. That evening was the Black & Gold Gala Dinner, an eight-course feast that set the tone for the journey ahead.

After a restful night (border crossings include) we woke to autumnal views of Bulgaria and a leisurely breakfast. Days onboard were filled with fine dining, insightful presentations on Golden Eagle’s itineraries (including new routes along the Silk Road and China for 2026), and even a confectionery masterclass with the onboard chef.

Dining, Golden Eagle Danube Express

Highlights along the way

Throughout the journey, two experiences really stood out for me. Firstly the dinner at Bran Castle – the legendary fortress that inspired Dracula, dramatically lit against the night sky, steeped in history and folklore. Then the Hungarian horse show on the Puszta – a thrilling display of horsemanship on the Great Hungarian Plain, followed by a horse-and-cart transfer back to the train.

Hungarian horse show

A grand finale in Budapest

Our journey ended in Budapest, greeted once again by a band on the platform. Reality hit as we struggled to find a taxi on Hungarian National Day in pouring rain, but relief came in the shape of the elegant Kozmo Hotel Suites & Spa, where spacious rooms and a serene spa awaited. The next day, under clear skies, we strolled along the Danube, admiring the parliament building and the city’s architectural treasures, a perfect conclusion to an unforgettable journey.

Kozmo Hotel Suites & Spa

Why choose Golden Eagle luxury trains?

For those seeking a unique way to explore Europe in style, Golden Eagle offers an experience like no other: luxury rail travel, exceptional service and immersive cultural encounters. Whether it’s Istanbul’s vibrant streets, Transylvania’s castles, or Budapest’s grandeur, this is slow travel at its finest.