Aurelian Odyssey (Paris to Cappadocia)

DAY ONE - PARIS

Upon arrival in Paris, you will be met and transferred by the ground handling team to your five-star hotel, where you will spend one night. Here, an elegant welcome dinner will be served. This is the perfect opportunity to meet your fellow travellers.

DAY TWO - CHAMPAGNE

This remarkable rail journey begins in Paris with a champagne reception as you wait for the Golden Eagle Danube Express to arrive. Next, step on board the train and settle into your private accommodation. Take this time to relax in your own personal haven and watch as the Paris cityscape transforms into the idyllic French countryside.

Soon, you will arrive in Champagne, a region celebrated worldwide for its exceptional sparkling wines and striking landscapes. As well as this, Champagne also boasts gorgeous cathedrals, châteauxs and centuries of fascinating medieval history. Exploring this celebrated corner of France is a feast for the senses.

DAY THREE - VIENNA

Today, set off on an elegant afternoon journey through the stunning Austrian countryside, crossing the awe-inspiring Alps as the train continues into Switzerland. Spend the afternoon exactly as you wish — relaxing in the comfort and privacy of your cabin, or soaking up the atmosphere of the Bar Lounge Car. Here, live piano music provides the perfect soundtrack as you admire the ever-changing scenery and enjoy expertly crafted cocktails prepared by the train’s bar team.

As evening falls, the Golden Eagle arrives in the grand imperial city of Vienna, where a night of refinement awaits. Enjoy a gourmet dinner before attending an exclusive private classical performance by the renowned Vienna Supreme Orchestra.

DAY FOUR - POSTONJA (SLOVENIA)

Enjoy a leisurely morning onboard, taking in the passing scenery from the comfort of your cabin or with a freshly prepared hot drink in the Bar Lounge Car. After lunch, enjoy an exclusive confectionery masterclass, expertly curated and hosted by the train’s Catering Manager and Head Pastry Chef.

This evening presents a truly memorable exploration as you journey into the remarkable Postojna Caves. Travelling aboard an underground train, discover a spectacular subterranean world of vast chambers and fascinating wildlife.

DAY FIVE - BELGRADE (SERBIA)

Today’s experiences unveil the hidden highlights of Belgrade, beginning with an exclusive visit to Tito’s iconic Blue Train — a fascinating symbol of Yugoslavia’s complex history. The journey continues with a traditional Serbian lunch.

Embrace the warmth of Serbian hospitality with a guided tasting of Rakija, the country’s much-loved national spirit. Sample a selection of varieties while listening to engaging stories and anecdotes that bring Belgrade’s vibrant past and character vividly to life. Before rejoining the train, enjoy time at leisure to explore Belgrade’s lively streets.

This evening, return onboard for an exceptional culinary highlight — an elegant Gala Dinner prepared by the train’s celebrated Head Chefs. Each thoughtfully designed course reflects the flavours and influences of the regions explored, using locally inspired ingredients to create a refined gastronomic journey that perfectly complements the day’s discoveries.

DAY SIX - SOFIA (BULGARIA)

Spend a tranquil morning in the Bar Lounge Car as the train journeys onwards to Bulgaria. Arriving in Sofia, one of Europe’s oldest cities, you’ll find yourself at the foot of Mount Vitosha, which provides a striking natural backdrop to the city. Your exploration begins at the atmospheric ruins of the ancient Roman city of Serdica, before continuing through the City Garden, home to the National Theatre Ivan Vazov, and past the grand Presidential Palace.

The day reaches an extraordinary crescendo with an exclusive private experience beneath the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Descend into the crypt to enjoy a mesmerising performance of Cosmic Voices by the acclaimed Vanya Moneva Choir — a powerful and deeply moving vocal work that captivated audiences at the opening of the Tokyo Olympic Games.

DAY SEVEN - ISTANBUL

Arrive in the illustrious city of Istanbul, which spans both Europe and Asia. Once you have checked into the Four Seasons Hotel for your one-night stay, the day is yours to explore the city at your own pace. Later, return to the hotel for a delicious meal with the other guests.

DAY EIGHT - ISTANBUL

Today’s exploration begins at Hippodrome Square, once the vibrant social centre of Byzantium. From here, visit the iconic Blue Mosque, an architectural masterpiece distinguished by its six minarets and beautifully decorated with more than 20,000 hand-painted blue tiles. The journey continues to the magnificent Hagia Sophia, which once served as a cathedral, a mosque and now a museum.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, wander through the Spice Market, where the air is filled with the aromas of exotic spices.

This afternoon, you will be transferred to the Golden Eagle Danube Express, where your elegant cabin awaits. Settle in and enjoy a relaxed afternoon and evening onboard as the train continues its onward journey.

DAY NINE - IZMIR & EPHESUS

This morning, wake in the lively port city of Izmir, a historic crossroads shaped by Greek, Roman and Ottoman influences. Your exploration begins with a visit to the Agora, an exceptionally well-preserved Roman marketplace that offers a fascinating glimpse into daily life in the ancient world.

The journey then continues to the legendary city of Ephesus. Stroll along its marble streets, passing monumental temples, vast amphitheatres and the iconic Library of Celsus.

Following this visit, return to the Golden Eagle Danube Express and settle back into the comfort of your cabin as the journey continues towards its next remarkable destination.

DAY TEN - DENIZLI – HIERAPOLIS & LAODICEA

Arrive in Denizli for a full day dedicated to the extraordinary ruins of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built above natural hot springs, this remarkable Greco-Roman city was once a renowned centre of healing and spirituality. 

The day continues with a visit to Laodicea, an influential ancient city known for its wealth and textile production.

DAY ELEVEN - ANKARA

Awake in Ankara, a dynamic city that blends modern life with deep historical roots. During your visit, explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations

Continue to the Mausoleum of Atatürk, an impressive hilltop monument dedicated to the founder of modern Turkey and a powerful symbol of the nation’s identity. After lunch at the elegant Divan Çukurhan — a beautifully restored historic inn — return to the train and continue your journey in comfort.

DAY TWELVE - CAPPADOCIA

Enjoy your final breakfast onboard before arriving in Kayseri and transferring to the extraordinary region of Cappadocia. Shaped by millennia of volcanic activity and erosion, its otherworldly landscapes are defined by dramatic rock formations and vast cave networks. Your exploration begins at the Özkonak Underground City, a remarkable subterranean complex that once provided refuge for entire communities.

After lunch at the charming Bizim Ev Restaurant, continue to the enchanting Pasabag and Devrent Valleys, where iconic fairy chimneys and surreal scenery create a truly dreamlike atmosphere. As the day draws to a close, unwind at your luxury hotel and prepare for an unforgettable evening in this magical destination.

DAY THIRTEEN - CAPPADOCIA

Begin the day with an optional hot-air balloon ride (small supplement applies). As dawn breaks, drift above Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes, watching sunlight illuminate its fairy-tale valleys. Alternatively, admire the spectacle from the ground, perfect for capturing stunning photographs.

Continue your journey with a visit to the Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its rock-cut churches and ancient frescoes. Explore the scenic Pigeon Valley and the charming towns of Uchisar and Ortahisar before concluding the day with a sumptuous farewell dinner at the elegant Maara Konak.

DAY FOURTEEN - CAPPADOCIA

Enjoy your final breakfast of the trip before being transferred to the airport. If you wish to extend your stay, you can contact us