Experience the Magic of Central Europe's Christmas Markets on board the Golden Eagle Danube Express.

DAY ONE - BUDAPEST

Welcome to Budapest!

On your arrival day, you will be greeted and escorted to the beautiful Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace (or similar).

In the evening, head down to the restaurant for an elegant welcome reception dinner at this magnificent art nouveau landmark. Mingle with your fellow travellers before retiring to your room for the night.

DAY TWO - BUDAPEST

Budapest is a union of two cities, separated by the Danube. From the magnificent old city of Buda, to the commercial heart of Pest; today’s city tour includes a visit to the Royal Palace, St. Mathias Church and a panoramic view of the city from Gellert Hill. You will also explore the Citadel, the Opera House, St Stephen’s Cathedral, Heroes Square, and the City Park.

After the tour, you will have the rest of the day to enjoy at your leisure. Take some time to stroll through the many Christmas markets dotted around the city. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the historic Great Market Hall, where you can indulge in endless varieties of delectable foods and wines. If you need to warm up, head to one of the city’s famous thermal baths for a reviving Christmas dip.

DAY THREE - VIENNA

Today's the day you board the unforgettable Golden Eagle Danube Express.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Nyugati Station's Royal Waiting Room for a drinks reception as you wait for the magnificent train to arrive. As you make your way to board, a private brass band will perform, and the smartly dressed staff will show you to your private en-suite cabin. As you settle into your plush cabin, marvel at the enchanting wintery landscapes gliding by from your window.

After a sumptuous lunch on board, it's time to disembark in Vienna for a panoramic tour of the stunning grand boulevard surrounding Vienna's historic quarters. Later, we'll take a delightful 'Fiaker' (horse-drawn carriage) ride through the quaint city streets, followed by sampling traditional Pirker gingerbread in front of the magnificent St. Stephen's. We'll then head back to the train, where you'll indulge in a delicious dinner made with locally sourced ingredients and delicacies.

DAY FOUR - VIENNA

Vienna is a beautiful city that offers a unique experience all year round, but it's especially magical during the wintertime. When the Christmas markets open, the city comes alive with glittering lights, and the squares are filled with local food, handmade gifts, and quaint ornaments. Your day begins with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, located at the heart of the city. Established in 1891, this is Austria's largest art museum, with an impressive collection of artworks acquired by the Habsburg dynasty. You'll also visit the Christmas markets situated on Maria-Theresien Platz, where you will have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Viennese Christmas folk songs performed by a choir.

Next, it's time to head to Hofburg Palace, the former principal imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty. This impressive palace complex was once the winter residence of the Habsburgs and is now the workplace and home of the President of Austria. With its rich history, Hofburg Palace is a must-visit when in Vienna.

After lunch, continue your tour with a visit to the Schönbrunn Palace, which is also home to a Christmas market. This palace is perhaps the most classically stylish of all the Vienna markets and offers a wide array of traditional hand-made crafts, pretty Christmas decorations, and toys. You will have the opportunity to indulge in sweet, spicy, and hearty treats while enjoying the enticing aromas. The palace also provides the perfect backdrop for some Christmas shopping, and you'll have time to explore the booths before heading back to the train for dinner.

DAY FIVE - SALZBURG

Salzburg is a picturesque city straight out of a fairy tale. Nestled in the northern foothills of the Alps, it boasts stunning views of snow-capped peaks and is divided by the curves of the Salzach River. Every year, visitors flock to immerse themselves in the Christmas markets, Advent concerts, and local traditions that make this city so enchanting.

In the afternoon, you will pay a visit to Mirabell Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most magnificent landmarks in the city. This 17th-century baroque palace was also featured in The Sound of Music. A short walk from the palace is Market Square (Marketplatz), where we will see the former Mozart Residence, now a museum. Continuing through the Makartsteg bridge into the Old Town, we will stroll along Getreidegasse, Salzburg's most famous street, famous for its wrought-iron trade signs and narrow lanes.

The highlight of today's itinerary will be a visit to the Salzburger Christkindlmarkt, one of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in the world. Located in the middle of the Old Town of Salzburg, the traditional stalls and rich history of the market make it a truly unique experience. The Christkindlmarkt offers an incomparable festive ambience – the bells of onion-domed churches ring out, 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 SIX - SALZBURG & MUNICH

Day 6 begins with a leisurely breakfast onboard the train, followed by a visit to the DomQuartier – a unique cultural gem situated in the heart of Salzburg. Over 400 years ago, the city underwent a remarkable transformation under the guidance of the powerful prince archbishops. Today, the Residenz and Cathedral area, along with the Benedictine monastery of St. Peter, can be experienced as a continuous tour, offering a glimpse into the city's incredible history. The terrace above the Cathedral Arches provides breathtaking views of the Salzburg historic district and the surrounding mountains. The perfect way to end your time in Salzburg.

After lunch on the train, you head across the border into Germany, where the magic of Christmas in Munich awaits. The unmistakable buzz of festive cheer fills the air as you make your way to one of the most famous markets in the whole city. This centuries-old market, which dates back to the 1600s, is a delightful mix of traditional and modern. Mouth-watering Brätwurst and freshly roasted chestnuts are presented alongside decadent sweet treats and warm beverages.

As you wander through the market, a majestically illuminated Christmas tree casts a stunning glow over the bustling square. Get ready to be swept away by the enchanting atmosphere of Munich during this special time of year!

DAY SEVEN - MUNICH

Day 7 begins as you make your way to the uniquely beautiful Haidhausen district. Over the years, this place has transformed from a working-class area into a beloved residential neighbourhood. As you stroll leisurely through its narrow, shop-lined streets and verdant courtyards, you'll feel as if you've stepped in time. Haidhausen is famous for its beer culture, so take this opportunity to explore the area's many historic inns, which have been thoughtfully restored and date back to the 18th and 19th centuries.

After the tour, it's time to head to a traditional Bavarian inn for a chance to sample different types of beer and enjoy some legendary Bavarian White Sausage with Pretzel. In the evening, gather for a Farewell Dinner to reminisce about the memories you've made on this wonderful winter escapade across Central Europe.

DAY EIGHT - MUNICH

After a peaceful night's sleep in the hotel, enjoy a delicious breakfast before you are transferred to the airport for onward departures

You can find information about cabin types here.

Please note that the prices listed below are based on two people sharing. If you are a solo traveller, please get in touch to request the single-passenger price.