Danube Express Luxury Train
The Danube Express is a privately operated luxury train journey travelling through Central and Eastern Europe, created for travellers seeking cultural depth, historic cities and unhurried exploration. Unlike fixed-route European luxury trains, the Danube Express operates a range of seasonal itineraries, linking multiple countries in a single journey while avoiding the need for constant packing and hotel changes. Life onboard is elegant but relaxed, combining private cabins, attentive service and expert-led excursions that reveal both celebrated capitals and lesser-visited cultural centres across the Danube basin and beyond. Journeys are all-inclusive and operate on limited dates each year.
● Jump to Routes & Journeys
● Jump to Cabins & Accommodation
● Jump to Dining & Onboard Life
● Jump to What’s Included
● Jump to Dates & Prices
● Jump to FAQs
Why Travel on the Danube Express?
● Multi-country travel made seamless
Explore several countries without flights, border stress or repeated hotel check-ins.
● Cultural immersion over speed
Itineraries prioritise history, architecture and local traditions rather than rushing between highlights.
● Small, like-minded guest groups
Limited passenger numbers create a refined, sociable atmosphere onboard and during excursions.
● Expert-led guided touring
Knowledgeable local guides provide meaningful context and insight at every destination.
● Understated luxury
Comfort, service and space are prioritised without formality or excess.
● A genuinely social journey
Shared dining and lounge spaces encourage conversation and connection.
Danube Express Routes & Journeys
Each season, the Danube Express operates a selection of carefully curated itineraries across Central Europe, the Balkans and Eastern Europe. While routes vary year to year, every journey is designed around cultural understanding and continuity rather than distance covered.
Central Europe & the Danube Basin
These journeys explore the historic heart of Europe, often linking cities such as Vienna, Budapest, Prague and Bratislava, alongside smaller regional centres. Expect imperial architecture, classical music traditions and layered histories shaped by shifting borders and empires. The pace is measured, allowing time to enjoy museums, old towns and café culture without feeling hurried, particularly in cities such as Vienna and Budapest. This route is particularly well suited to travellers new to luxury rail who want an elegant and accessible introduction to the region.
The Balkans by Private Train
Balkan itineraries offer a deeper and more revealing journey through Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro and neighbouring regions. These routes combine dramatic landscapes with complex cultural histories and strong regional identities. Many guests find these journeys especially rewarding due to the access provided to places rarely visited in comfort and the insight offered by expert local guides who bring the region’s past and present into focus.
Eastern Europe & the Black Sea
Eastern European routes delve into lesser-explored territories, combining historic cities, Orthodox heritage and Black Sea coastal regions. These journeys appeal to well-travelled guests seeking something beyond the familiar, offering thoughtful exploration rather than spectacle. The Danube Express excels here, providing comfort and continuity across regions where independent travel can be logistically demanding.
Travelling by private train is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the cultural heart of the continent. You may also wish to view our wider collection of European luxury train journeys.
Cabins & Accommodation Onboard
Accommodation aboard the Danube Express is designed for comfort, privacy and practicality rather than excessive size, reflecting the historic nature of luxury rail travel.
Sleeping Cabins
Cabins are private and thoughtfully arranged, converting from daytime seating into comfortable sleeping accommodation each evening. All cabins feature ensuite bathroom facilities, with compact but well-designed showers and toilets. Storage is suitable for one medium suitcase per guest, with larger luggage stored separately. Attentive cabin stewards manage daily conversions, housekeeping and evening turndown.
Suite Options
A limited number of larger suites are available on selected departures, offering additional space, seating and enhanced privacy. These are particularly well suited to couples or travellers spending extended time onboard. Availability is limited and early booking is strongly recommended.
Danube Express Cabin Comparison
The table below highlights the key differences between Deluxe and Superior Deluxe cabins.
| Feature | Deluxe Cabin | Superior Deluxe Cabin |
|---|---|---|
| Cabin area | 83 sq ft (7.7 sq m) | 93 sq ft (8.6 sq m) |
| Cabins per carriage | 5 | 4 |
| Daytime configuration | Two armchairs and a free-standing chair | Full-length sofa, two additional chairs and table |
| Night-time configuration | Two lower L-shaped twin beds | King-size bed (UK standard) |
| Bed size | Each bed: 6ft 1in × 2ft 7in (185cm × 80cm) | 6ft 2in × 5ft 0in (190cm × 152cm) |
| Bathroom | Private ensuite bathroom with cubicle shower and WC | Private ensuite bathroom with cubicle shower and WC |
| Air conditioning / heating | Remote-controlled air conditioning | Individually controlled air conditioning and heating |
| Lighting | Dimmer switches and individual reading lights | Dimmer switches and individual reading lights |
| Windows | One large picture window (opens partially) | Two large picture windows |
| Wardrobe / storage | Full-length wardrobe | Double wardrobe, personal safe and additional cupboards |
| Wi-Fi / USB | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi and two USB ports |
| Additional amenities | Bathrobes, slippers, hair dryer and luxury toiletries | Bathrobes, slippers, hair dryer and luxury toiletries |
| Drink inclusions | Complimentary drinks in the Bar Lounge Car | Complimentary drinks in the Bar Lounge Car |
| Laundry | Laundry service available (charges apply) | Laundry service available (charges apply) |
Below you can see details and photos of the Deluxe and Superior Deluxe cabins on the Danube Express Luxury Train.
Danube Express | Superior Deluxe Cabins
Superior Deluxe cabins with private en suite facilities offer luxury rail accommodation at its best.
Superior Deluxe Cabins
Each carriage has 12 cabins and offers comfortable daytime seating a 2 person sofa and two single chairs. Two large picture windows in the cabin add light and brightness to the space once of which can be opened. The cabin transforms into a luxury bedroom with a King-size double bed (UK size) every evening.
As standard, all cabins include a large double wardrobe, excellent storage, and lighting with individual reading lights and dimmer switches, in cabin Wi-Fi and USB ports, power sockets and a safe.
This Cabin’s Features
You can expect to find the following in this cabin:
Danube Express | Deluxe Cabins
The Deluxe sleeper carriages have five small, intimate, en-suite cabins that offer every comfort and convenience so you can relax and take in the beautiful scenery.
Deluxe Cabins
Private bathrooms have a shower, toilet, and washbasin with hot water. A heated towel rail, hairdryer, and shaver socket are available. There are a variety of toiletries on offer and a dressing gown. Cabins can be individually controlled by air-conditioning, lighting, and power sockets. Coordinated fabrics go well with wood-panelled walls, brass fittings and co-ordinated fabrics.
Daytime seating is provided by two comfortable armchairs. A free-standing chair allows for greater flexibility. Cupboards and a full-length wardrobe offer ample storage, while the large picture window with full-length mirror and cupboards give the room a spacious feel. For fresh air and perfect photos, a second window can be opened.
Your attendant will convert the living room into two lower beds during dinner. They can also bring you coffee or tea in the morning.
This Cabin’s Features
You can expect to find the following in this cabin:
Dining & Life Onboard
Dining aboard the Danube Express is central to the experience and serves as both a culinary and social focal point. Meals are taken in elegant restaurant cars, with menus inspired by the regions travelled through, alongside classic European dishes. Ingredients are fresh, portions generous and service unhurried. Shared dining encourages conversation, while the lounge and bar cars provide relaxed spaces for reading, conversation or simply watching the European landscape unfold. The overall atmosphere is cultured and sociable rather than formal.
Excursions & Experiences Along the Way
Off-train excursions are an integral part of every Danube Express journey. Guided visits typically include historic city centres, architectural landmarks, museums and cultural performances. Excursions are conducted in small groups, ensuring a comfortable pace and meaningful engagement. Many visits are privately arranged, offering access beyond standard tourist routes. The emphasis is on understanding the cultural context of each destination, rather than simply collecting sights.
What’s Included on a Danube Express Journey
● Luxury accommodation onboard the Danube Express
● All meals on the train
● Expert-led guided excursions throughout the journey
● Onboard tour management and hospitality staff
● Selected transfers and porterage services
● Luggage handling throughout the journey
Danube Express Dates & Prices
Danube Express journeys operate on selected dates each year, with itineraries and pricing varying by route and cabin category. Prices reflect the all-inclusive nature of the experience, combining accommodation, dining, guided excursions and onboard service. As routes differ in character and pace, we recommend speaking with a specialist to identify the most suitable journey, travel dates and cabin option.
Below are the rail tours we offer that use the Danube Express Luxury Train. Just click on any tour to open a PDF containing all you need to know about the trip including a detailed itinerary, dates and prices. Prices are indicative and subject to availability at the time of booking. If your travel dates are flexible, you may also wish to explore our broader range of European luxury rail tours, which include alternative routes, seasonal departures and privately guided journeys across the continent.
Note: The published prices for these tours are in Euros. However, we can quote and accept payment in GB Pounds, US Dollars, Singaporean Dollars, Australian Dollars, Canadian Dollars and more. Contact us for a confirmed quote in your preferred currency.
● Due to limited cabin availability, early booking is strongly recommended for Danube Express journeys ●
Balkan Explorer Venice to Istanbul
DEBE | 11 Nights | Venice ● Trieste ● Postojna ● Pula ● Rijeka ● Sarajevo ● Mostar ● Belgrade ● Sofia ● Plovdiv ● Istanbul
Departure dates. Register with us to be the first to know 2028 dates.
● 8th May to 19th May 2026
● 28th August to 8th September 2026
● 2nd to 13th October 2026
● 7th May to 18th May 2027
● 10th September to 21st September 2027
● 19th October to 30th October 2027
2026 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 21,100 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 31,400
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 27,100 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 45,400
2027 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 23,600 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 35,400
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 30,700 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 51,200
Click here to learn about the cabins.
Castles of Transylvania
DECT | 6 Nights | Istanbul ● Veliko Tarnovo ● Sinaia ● Brasov ● Sighisoara ● Sibiu ● Kecskemet ● Lajosmizse ● Budapest
Departure dates. Register with us to be the first to know 2028 dates.
● 29th May to 4th June 2026
● 23rd September to 29th September 2026
● 23rd October to 29th October 2026
● 28th May to 3rd June 2027
● 12th October to 18th October 2027
● 28th October to 3rd November 2027
2026 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 11,800 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 17,600
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 15,200 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 25,300
2027 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 13,300 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 19,900
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 17,200 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 28,600
Click here to learn about the cabins.
Grand Alpine Express
DEGAE | 10 Nights | Budapest ● Vienna ● Lake Achen ● Innsbruck ● Zürich ● L. Como ● Milan ● Verona ● Trieste ● L. Bled ● Ljubljana ● Venice
Departure dates. Register with us to be the first to know 2028 dates.
●● 1st May to 11th May 2026
● 5th June to 15th June 2026
● 30th April to 10th May 2027
● 22nd August to 1st September 2027
2026 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 19,700 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 29,400
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 25,200 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 42,100
2027 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 21,600 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 32,300
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 27,700 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 46,300
Click here to learn about the cabins.
Paris to Istanbul
DEPI | 7 Nights | France ● Switzerland ● Austria ● Slovenia ● Serbia ● Bulgaria ● Turkey
Departure dates. Register with us to be the first to know 2027 dates.
● 23rd May to 30th May 2026
● 12th to 19th September 2026
● 22nd May to 29th May 2027
● 6th October to 13th October 2027
2026 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 16,900 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 23,300
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | GEuro 21,300 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 28,500
2027 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 19,900 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 29,850
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 25,200 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 42,100
Click here to learn about the cabins.
Istanbul to Paris
DEPI | 7 Nights | Turkey ● Bulgaria ● Serbia ● Slovenia ● Austria ● Switzerland ● France
Departure dates. Register with us to be the first to know 2027 dates.
● 17th May to 24th May 2026
● 6th September to 13th September 2026
● 11th October to 18th October 2026
● 16th May to 23rd May 2027
2026 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 16,900 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 23,300
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 21,300 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 28,500
2027 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 19,900 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 29,850
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 25,200 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 42,100
Click here to learn about the cabins.
Eastern Europe Discovery
DEEED | 11 Nights | Budapest ● Krakow ● Warsaw ● Malbork ● Gdansk ● Berlin ● Dresden ● Prague ● Salzburg ● Vienna
Departure dates. Register with us to be the first to know 2028 dates – note no dates in 2026.
● 7th June to 18th June 2027
2027 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 22,500 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 33,700
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 28,700 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 47,900
Click here to learn about the cabins.
Christmas Markets Of Central Budapest to Munich
DECMWB | 7 Nights | A festive journey Westbound across Europe from Budapest to Munich via Vienna & Salzburg
Departure dates. Register with us to be the first to know 2028 dates.
● 3rd to 10th December 2026
● 3rd to 10th December 2027
2026 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 9,900 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 14,900
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 12,800 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 20,900
2027 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 11,200 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 16,800
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 14,500 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 23,600
Click here to learn about the cabins.
New Year in Vienna
DENYV | 8 Nights | Budapest ● Keszthely ● Graz ● Vienna ● Cesky Krumlov ● Prague ● Kosice ● Budapest
Departure dates. Register with us to be the first to know 2028 dates.
● 28th December 2026 to 5th January 2027
● 28th December 2027 to 5th January 2028
2026 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 14,700 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 21,900
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 18,700 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 31,500
2027 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 16,600 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 24,700
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 21,100 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 35,600
Click here to learn about the cabins.
Turkish Treasures
DETT | 8 Nights | Istanbul ● Izmir ● Ephesus ● Denizli (For Hierapolis & Laodicea) ● Ankara ● Cappadocia
Departure dates. Register with us to be the first to know 2027 dates.
● 17th to 25th September 2026
2026 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 12,600 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 18,900
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 15,900 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 24,100
Click here to learn about the cabins.
Aurelian Odyssey
DEAO | 13 Nights | Paris ● Champagne ● Vienna ● Postojna ● Belgrade ● Sofia ● Istanbul ● Izmir ● Ephesus ● Denizli (For Hierapolis & Laodicea) ● Ankara ● Cappadocia
Guests who book between now and 15 February 2026 will receive a complimentary hot-air balloon flight in Cappadocia, offering a breathtaking perspective over its sculpted valleys and rock formations. Subject to suitable weather conditions with opportunities to fly over a two-day period.
Departure dates. Register with us to be the first to know 2027 dates.
● 12th September to 25th September 2026
2026 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 28,800 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 41,000
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 35,500 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 50,000
Click here to learn about the cabins.
Sicilian Odyssey
DESO | 11 Nights | Venice ● Cremona ● Bologna ● Rimini ● San Marino ● Pompeii ● Alberobello ● Lecce ● Palermo ● Agrigento ● Ragusa ● Syracuse ● Caltagirone ● Catania ● Taormina
Departure dates. Register with us to be the first to know 2028 dates.
● 29th August to 9th September 2027
2027 Prices – Contact us for a quote in your currency.
★ Deluxe | Double | Euro 27,900 per person
★ Deluxe | Single | Euro 46,900
★ Superior Deluxe | Double | Euro 34,900 per person
★ Superior Deluxe | Single | Euro 58,500
Click here to learn about the cabins.
Who Is the Danube Express Best Suited To?
The Danube Express is ideal for culturally curious, well-travelled guests who value depth over speed and comfort over spectacle. It particularly suits couples, solo travellers and small groups who enjoy conversation, history and elegant surroundings. It is less suitable for travellers seeking nightlife, fast-paced sightseeing or highly active itineraries. This is a journey designed for those who appreciate continuity, context and thoughtful exploration.
Practical Information & FAQs
Speak to a Danube Express Specialist
As specialists in luxury rail travel, The Luxury Train Travel Company provides tailored advice on Danube Express journeys, from route selection and cabin choice to pre- and post-journey arrangements. We offer clear guidance, honest recommendations and a personalised planning service to ensure the journey matches your travel style and expectations.
We look forward to hearing from you and are happy to answer any questions you have – just email or call us or use the form below. We’re happy to advise whether this journey is right for you, even if you’re still at the early planning stage.
You can also view our full collection of luxury train journeys worldwide, or speak with a specialist to compare routes and experiences.
enquiry@theluxurytraintravelcompany.com
Tel: +44 (0)20 8191 0620