Geographic Expeditions

Balkan Explorer Aboard the Golden Eagle

Pocitelj, an ancient city in the south of Bosnia and Herzegovina near Mostar

Explore the Balkans by Luxury Train

This one-of-a-kind rail journey follows a ribbon of tracks through Southern Europe, from Venice to Istanbul via the lesser-explored Balkan countries of Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Bulgaria. Along the route, the region’s compelling cultures come into focus: iconic sites yield to quieter spaces, legendary stone bridges fade to reveal Roman walls and Ottoman baths, and regional dishes share the traditions and flavors passed down from generations. Traveling aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express, your movement between the six countries will feel seamless, as experts handle the logistics and bring the region beautifully to life.

St. Mark’s Basilica, Venice, Italy
Ancient amphitheater in Pula, Croatia
Stari most bridge and old town in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Restaurant car on Danube Express, Golden Eagle Luxury Trains
Kalemegdan fortress in Belgrade, Serbia

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What to Expect

This journey is operated by Golden Eagle Luxury Trains, award-winning specialists in luxury rail experiences and our premier rail collaborator. You’ll join a broader group of travelers, with Golden Eagle overseeing the trip. Throughout the journey, revel in rare access visits, thoughtful guiding, and unparalleled accommodations, including Istanbul’s Four Seasons Sultanahmet.

Trip Highlights

Experience Venice as an insider, uncovering hidden corners amid iconic sites, including St. Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge

Visit the renowned stone arch bridge that links the Christian and Muslim quarters of Mostar

Behold Belgrade’s Fortress, scenically set at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers

Cruise the Bosphorus between Europe and Asia, taking in Istanbul’s skyline of domes, minarets, and waterfront palaces


Upcoming Departures

  • May 8 – May 19, 2026
  • August 28 – September 8, 2026
  • October 2 – October 13, 2026
  • May 7 – May 18, 2027
  • September 10 – September 21, 2027
  • October 19 – October 30, 2027

Trip Pricing

  • Group Trip: From $24,700

    Based on double occupancy

Inclusions

All handpicked accommodations, ground transportation, and airport transfers

All guided sightseeing, events, and experiences

Top-tier expedition leader and lecturers

Most meals

All gratuities

Emergency evacuation services and secondary medical expense insurance

Dedicated support from GeoEx’s travel experts and in-house air reservations team

Your Route Through the Balkans

Journey at a Glance

  1. Venice, Italy
    Day 1 – 2

    Italy's Adriatic Riches

    Arrive in Venice and explore at your own pace, walking from the Rialto to St. Mark’s Square or visiting the colorful islands of Murano and Burano. Enjoy a private, after-hours visit to St. Mark’s Basilica.

  2. View of the historic centre of Sarajevo at sunset
    Day 3 – 5

    Balkan Arrival

    Board your luxury train and journey north to admire the Piazza Unitá d'Italia in Trieste. Discover Slovenia's natural wonders, including the Postojna Caves. Continue to Pula before traveling onward to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Why Book with GeoEx

Luxury rail journeys demand expertise. Every border crossed, timetable met, and transfer arranged shapes how the journey unfolds. With GeoEx, that care begins long before you step aboard. Our team supports you with required visas, thoughtfully planned international flights, and a 24-hour global safety net that remains in place throughout the trip. Settle into your rail journey with confidence, knowing every detail is expertly managed.


Safety Net

All GeoEx travelers are covered by 24/7 emergency medical assistance, evacuation, and advisory services.

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Travel Support

We guide you through the travel visa process to ensure smooth travels and can coordinate your international flights at no additional cost.

No Hidden Fees

We never charge credit card fees. When you book with GeoEx, transparency is part of the relationship, from the first conversation through the journey home.

Ready for adventure?

Let's bring the trip you've been dreaming of to life.

A tour boat sails along the calm waters of Boka Kotorska Bay, passing the picturesque coastal village of Prčanj, Montenegro