Balkan Explorer - 11 Nights
2026/2027

12 days - 11 nights

2 nights in Venice
1 night Belgrade
6 nights onboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express
2 nights in Istanbul

Day 1 - Venice, Italy

Arrive in Venice, where you will be met and transferred to your centrally located five-star hotel for a two-night stay. Perfectly positioned to explore the city's iconic canals, hidden courtyards and architectural treasures, your hotel provides an indulgent and comfortable introduction to your journey.

This evening, join your fellow travellers for an elegant welcome drinks reception, followed by a specially hosted dinner. It's the perfect opportunity to get acquainted, meet your Tour Manager, and begin your grand adventure in refined style against the enchanting backdrop of Venice.

Day 2 - Venice, Italy

Venice is a city of rare and enduring romance, where shimmering canals, ornate palazzi and centuries of history create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world. Whether it is your first visit or a long-awaited return, its beauty never fails to captivate. Today is designed with Freedom of Choice, allowing you to experience Venice in a way that most appeals to you.

You may opt for a guided walking tour beginning at the iconic Rialto Bridge. From here, wander through a labyrinth of narrow calli and graceful stone bridges, discovering hidden squares and glimpses of everyday Venetian life beyond the main thoroughfares. A short gondola ride offers a quintessential perspective from the water, gliding along quiet canals before lunch at an authentic local restaurant. Afterward, continue to St Mark's Square, the historic and cultural heart of the city, where centuries of art, power and pageantry converge.

Alternatively, set out across the lagoon to explore the celebrated Venetian islands. In Murano, witness a traditional glassblowing demonstration and enjoy time to browse artisan workshops renowned for their craftsmanship. Continue to Burano, a charming cluster of islands famed for its vividly painted fishermen's houses and centuries-old lacemaking tradition. A guided stroll reveals the island's character and heritage, including a visit to a distinguished lacemaker, before returning to Venice to rejoin the group for lunch.

This evening, there is the opportunity to join an optional private visit to St Mark's Basilica — a rare and unforgettable experience. With fewer visitors and a more intimate atmosphere, you can fully appreciate the extraordinary mosaics and sacred splendour of one of Venice's most iconic landmarks.

Day 3 - Trieste, Italy and Postojna, Slovenia

This morning, transfer by private boat from your hotel along the Grand Canal directly to Venice's Santa Lucia station, where your private train, the Golden Eagle Danube Express, awaits. Soon after departure, the train glides across the remarkable three-mile causeway spanning the Venetian Lagoon — a spectacular farewell to the floating city as land and sea merge on the horizon.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch on board as the journey unfolds, before arriving in the elegant Italian port city of Trieste. Here, a short guided tour introduces you to its distinctive blend of Italian, Austro-Hungarian and Slovenian influences. Stroll across the grand Piazza Unità d'Italia — one of Europe's largest sea-facing squares — and soak up the city's refined atmosphere. There is time at leisure to relax in one of Trieste's historic coffee houses, perhaps pausing for a perfectly prepared espresso in surroundings that once inspired writers and intellectuals.

This evening brings an unforgettable highlight: a visit to the awe-inspiring Postojna Caves. Descend into this vast subterranean world aboard a cave train, travelling deep beneath the surface before exploring an extraordinary labyrinth of caverns. Marvel at towering stalactites and sculpted stalagmites, illuminated to dramatic effect, and discover the unique underground ecosystem that makes this natural wonder so remarkable.

Day 4 - Pula and Rijeka, Croatia

Start the day in Pula with a guided exploration of its historic heart, where layers of Roman, Venetian and Austro-Hungarian heritage unfold at every turn. The highlight is the remarkably preserved Roman Arena — one of the largest surviving amphitheatres in the world — where a dramatic gladiator performance vividly evokes the spectacle and spirit of the ancient past.

Leaving the coast, journey inland to the charming Kumparička Estate. Set amid rolling countryside, this family-run farm offers a relaxed and authentic introduction to Istrian gastronomy. Enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring regional specialities, complemented by a tasting that celebrates the rich flavours and traditions of the peninsula.

Later, continue to Rijeka for a guided walk through the city's elegant centre. Stroll along the lively Korzo promenade, the social heart of Rijeka, and admire its grand façades and maritime heritage before returning to the train to resume your journey in comfort.

Day 5 - Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Arrive early this morning in Sarajevo, the compelling capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, where East and West meet in a fascinating fusion of cultures, faiths and histories. Ottoman mosques and slender minarets stand alongside Austro-Hungarian façades, while the ancient Baščaršija bazaar and atmospheric Turkish quarter echo with centuries of tradition. A guided tour reveals not only the city's architectural and cultural richness, but also its recent past. Through thoughtful insight and local perspective, learn about the devastating Balkan War and the siege of Sarajevo — the longest siege of a capital city in modern history — a period that shaped the city's resilient character.

Following lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant, the afternoon presents two contrasting yet equally meaningful experiences. You may choose to ascend Mount Trebevič by cable car, once a venue during the 1984 Winter Olympics, where sweeping panoramic views stretch across the city and into the surrounding mountains.

Alternatively, visit the Tunnel of Hope, a deeply moving site that stands as a testament to Sarajevo's endurance during the siege of the 1990s. Walking through this preserved lifeline beneath the airport runway offers a powerful and reflective insight into the strength and determination of the city's people — a poignant counterbalance to the beauty and vibrancy seen above ground.

Day 6 - Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

We continue to the historic city of Mostar, a captivating crossroads where civilisations, cultures and faiths have converged for centuries. Once a flourishing centre of the Ottoman Empire, the city is defined by its elegant stone arch bridge — Stari Most — which spans the emerald waters of the Neretva River, symbolically uniting the Christian and Muslim quarters. Destroyed during the conflict of the 1990s, the bridge was painstakingly reconstructed and reopened in 2004, and today stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, reconciliation and shared heritage.

A guided walking tour reveals the charm and layered history of the old town. Visit a traditional Turkish house and a local mosque to gain insight into Ottoman architecture and daily life, before wandering through the atmospheric bazaar streets, alive with colour, craftsmanship and the scent of freshly brewed coffee. There is time to browse for handmade copperware, textiles and other local treasures.

Lunch is served at a restaurant overlooking the iconic bridge, offering memorable views of this UNESCO-listed setting. Later, follow the winding course of the Neretva River to the ancient fortified town of Počitelj, dramatically perched on the hillside. With its stone towers, stepped lanes and commanding views, this beautifully preserved Ottoman settlement provides a striking and evocative conclusion to the day's exploration.

Day 7 - Belgrade, Serbia

Situated at the dramatic meeting point of the Sava and Danube rivers, Belgrade — Serbia's capital — ranks among Europe's oldest and most intriguing cities. Forged through centuries of conquest and upheaval, it is a place defined by contrast. Communist-era architecture stands beside soaring Orthodox churches; ancient Celtic fortifications overlook modern boulevards; and reminders of the Balkan conflicts coexist with a vibrant, forward-looking energy. It is precisely this layered, resilient character that makes Belgrade so compelling.

Here, we disembark the train for an overnight stay at the historic Hotel Bristol, an elegant landmark that reflects the city's early 20th-century grandeur. Your exploration begins with a guided tour of the Old Town, culminating at the imposing Kalemegdan Fortress. From its ramparts, take in sweeping panoramic views across the dramatic confluence of the Sava and Danube — a strategic vantage point that has defined Belgrade's history for millennia.

Following the tour, enjoy a curated tasting of local Serbian wines, paired with regional specialities that highlight the country's increasingly respected wine scene. Later, visit the magnificent Church of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Its monumental scale, radiant mosaics and serene atmosphere offer a powerful insight into Serbia's spiritual heritage and enduring national identity.

Day 8 - Belgrade, Serbia

Today, delve into Tito's Belgrade and explore the life and enduring legacy of one of the most influential figures of 20th-century Yugoslavia. Visit the museum complex dedicated to Josip Broz Tito, including his former residence and the House of Flowers mausoleum, where insight is offered into both the man and the era he shaped. On arrival, you will be welcomed in traditional Serbian fashion with bread and salt — a gesture symbolising hospitality and respect.

Your visit is enriched by a spirited Serbian folk-dance performance, vividly showcasing the rhythms, costume and cultural traditions of the region, and adding colour and context to the city's modern history.

Afterwards, rejoin the train as it continues southeast towards Sofia. Relax on board as the landscapes of southern Serbia unfold beyond the window, gradually giving way to the rolling scenery of Bulgaria as the journey continues.

Day 9 - Sofia and Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Today's discoveries begin in Sofia, Bulgaria's lively capital, beautifully framed by the slopes of Mount Vitosha. First settled by the Thracian tribe of the Serdi, the city reveals a remarkable tapestry of ancient civilisations and contemporary life. During a guided morning tour, uncover remnants of the Roman city walls, step inside the early Christian Church of St George, admire the gleaming golden domes of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and view the historic Bashi Mosque — a testament to Sofia's diverse cultural heritage.

After the tour, you may return to the train for lunch as the journey continues towards Plovdiv. Alternatively, opt for a visit to a nearby winery, where a light lunch is accompanied by a tasting of regional wines and an engaging Bulgarian folk performance, before travelling onward by coach to rejoin the train in Plovdiv.

On arrival in Plovdiv — Bulgaria's second-largest city and often referred to as the "City of Seven Hills" — explore one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited settlements, home to hundreds of archaeological treasures. In the early evening, a guided tour introduces the impressive Roman Forum and remarkably preserved Amphitheatre, still used for performances today. Wander through the enchanting Old Town, where cobbled lanes, colourful 19th-century houses, medieval fortifications and Ottoman-era baths reflect the city's richly layered past and enduring charm.

Day 10 - Istanbul, Turkey

Arrive in Istanbul — the legendary city that bridges Europe and Asia — where your luggage is seamlessly transferred to the five-star Four Seasons Hotel, superbly located at the heart of the historic peninsula. As the grand finale of your journey, Istanbul delivers a fitting crescendo: a place where empires have risen and fallen, and where Byzantine, Ottoman and modern influences intertwine in spectacular fashion.

Begin with a leisurely walk through the atmospheric streets of the Old City, absorbing the sounds of daily life and the layered history that reveals itself at every turn. Enter the vibrant Spice Market, a centuries-old bazaar alive with colour and fragrance. During a guided visit, discover stalls overflowing with saffron, dried fruits and Turkish delights, before enjoying a traditional Turkish lunch in a historic building dating back to 1772.

This afternoon, board a private cruise along the iconic Bosphorus. From the water, Istanbul's skyline unfolds in dramatic perspective — domes and minarets rising above ornate waterfront palaces and wooden Ottoman mansions — offering a unique vantage point on the meeting of two continents.

Later, check in at your hotel and enjoy time at leisure. You may wish to visit the nearby Blue Mosque, explore the Hagia Sophia, or simply wander the surrounding historic streets, soaking up the city's unmistakable energy.

As evening falls, descend into the cool, vaulted depths of one of Istanbul's ancient underground cisterns — the Basilica Cistern being the most renowned. Amid softly lit columns and mirrored reflections, experience the haunting beauty of this subterranean marvel before concluding the day with dinner — a memorable and evocative finale to your extraordinary journey.

Day 11 - Istanbul, Turkey

This morning offers a final Freedom of Choice experience, allowing you to shape your last explorations of Istanbul according to your interests.

You may choose to visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, once the opulent residence of the Ottoman sultans. Wander through its grand courtyards, explore the secluded Harem, and admire the extraordinary treasures housed within the Imperial Treasury — each space revealing the power, ceremony and intrigue of a vast empire.

Alternatively, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, navigate its labyrinth of lanes lined with jewellers, carpet merchants and artisan workshops. For a truly unique perspective, enjoy the rare opportunity to walk across the Bazaar's rooftop — famously featured in a James Bond film — and take in sweeping views across the historic city.

After lunch, visit one of Istanbul's most extraordinary monuments: the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia. Commissioned in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, it was once the greatest cathedral in Christendom before becoming an imperial mosque following the Ottoman conquest. Today, it stands as one of the world's most remarkable sacred spaces, its vast dome, intricate mosaics and soaring interior embodying the layered history and architectural genius of the city.

This evening, gather for a Farewell Dinner at the hotel — an elegant and intimate occasion to reflect on the remarkable experiences shared across Europe and the Balkans, and to celebrate the conclusion of an unforgettable journey.

Day 12 - Istanbul, Turkey

After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your onward journey home.

Should you wish to prolong your time in this extraordinary city, an extended stay in Istanbul can be arranged. With additional days at leisure, you may delve deeper into its layered history, explore hidden neighbourhoods beyond the main sights, or simply savour the city's vibrant atmosphere at your own pace — a fitting way to conclude your grand European adventure.

Departure 2026 :

Departure 2027 :

Deposit - 25% of tour cost

Tour includes :

Accommodation

• • 2 nights Five-star pre tour hotel accommodation in Venice
• • 1 hotel night in Belgrade
• • 6 nights on board the Golden Eagle Danube Express
• • 2 nights Five-star post tour hotel accommodation in Istanbul

Service

• • Cabin attendant service including evening turndown
• • Experienced Tour Management team
• • Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board
• • Arrival and departure transfers
• • All gratuities – on and off the train
• • Luggage porterage throughout the journey

Dining

• • Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients
• • Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants
• • Inclusive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from Standard Bar list
• • 11 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 11 Dinners

Excursions

• • Glide through Venice's iconic canals on a classic gondola ride, experiencing the romance and timeless beauty of the floating city from the water.
• • Venture into the extraordinary Postojna Caves, exploring a vast underground world of dramatic limestone chambers, sculpted formations and subterranean wonders.
• • Uncover Sarajevo's moving and complex past on a guided tour that reveals the city's resilience, cultural richness and enduring spirit.
• • Visit the remarkably preserved Roman Amphitheatre in Plovdiv, one of the finest surviving examples of its kind in the world.
• • Step inside Istanbul's magnificent Sultan Ahmet Mosque — the Blue Mosque — and admire its soaring domes, intricate tilework and serene grandeur.

Please note : the Golden Eagle Danube Express route is subject to change without prior warning due to last minute railway engineering works or similar. Itinerary and timings shown are for guidance only. Confirmed timings will be supplied with your travel documents. Most hotels are on request and cannot be processed until a deposit is received. All arrangements are subject to availability.

It is advised not to book your flights until 3 months prior to departure, in order to ensure that the departure is confirmed.