Balkan Explorer Aboard the Golden Eagle

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.





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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
Day 1 – 2Italy'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.
Day 3 – 5Balkan 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.
Learn MoreTravel 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.
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