Cruise & Rail: Istanbul to Paris (2025) (Istanbul to Paris, 2025)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary 15-day journey through Europe, where history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine. Begin in the vibrant city of Istanbul, where you'll be welcomed with warm hospitality and luxurious accommodations. Board the elegant Golden Eagle Danube Express and traverse the continent, exploring ancient cities like Sofia and Belgrade, each with its own unique charm and stories. Discover the enchanting Postojna Caves and the cultural richness of Vienna. Savor the exquisite flavors of Champagne and cruise the Seine, experiencing the allure of Paris and the historic treasures of Normandy. From the opulent Palace of Versailles to the picturesque landscapes that inspired Monet, this tour offers a captivating blend of experiences. With carefully curated excursions, luxurious accommodations, and unforgettable moments, this multi-day tour promises an adventure of a lifetime, leaving you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for Europe's diverse heritage.
Included
All meals onboard cruise and train, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
14 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 14 dinners
Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions
8-Course Gala Dinner
Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners
Unlimited beverages onboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water
S.S. Joie de Vivre
Golden Eagle Danube Express
7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom onboard the majestic
S.S. Joie de Vivre
5 nights in a luxury cabin onboard the
Golden Eagle Danube Express
private train
1 night in Istanbul at the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet (or similar)
1 night in Paris at the Intercontinental Hotel Paris - Le Grand (or similar)
Well-appointed en-suite sleeping cabins and suites on the train have remote-controlled air-conditioning and heating, individual bathrobes and slippers, wardrobes, large viewing windows, and day seating that converts into comfortable beds for the evening
Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites on the cruise have handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, high thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and European duvets, and a menu of pillow options
Free Wi-Fi
hotel: 7 night(s); S.S Joie de Vivre: Grand Suite ,Suite ,Deluxe Suite
Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
11 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
7 countries: Turkey, Bulgaria, Serbia, Slovenia, Austria, Switzerland, and France
3 UNESCO World Heritage sites
Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
Group Transfers are included on arrival and departure days (please see terms and conditions for transfer guidelines)
Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour
Captivating onboard local entertainment
Cultural enrichment
Excursions included:
- Nights Out: Private Concert at the Rouen Cathedral
- Versailles Palace Secret Apartments
Additional excursions to choose from:
- Château de La Roche-Guyon
- Let's Go: Hike on the Crests Trail
- Monet’s Gardens at Giverny
- Let's Go: Bike Ride from Vernon to Giverny
- Rouen Walking Tour, the Dukes of Normandy’s Capital
- Camembert Cheese Farm
- Honfleur Walking Tour
- Let's Go: Golfing in Étretat
- Normandy Beaches: Highlights of American Sites
- Normandy Beaches: Highlights of British & Commonwealth Sites
- Normandy Beaches: Highlights of Canadian Sites
- Paris City Tour
- Paris Walking Tour of the Latin Quarter
Map
Attractions
Istanbul Aquarium
Taittinger
Château Gaillard
Palace of Versailles
Postojna Cave
The Old Palace
Golden Horn
Évreux Cathedral
Biotropica, animal gardens
Stade de France
Mihrimah Sultan MosqueDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Istanbul
- Istanbul - Arrival day
- More
- Mihrimah Sultan Mosque
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Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, you'll be warmly welcomed by a representative and transferred to the luxurious Four Seasons Sultanahmet (or similar) for a relaxing one-night stay. Settle in and enjoy the vibrant city atmosphere.
Day 2 – Day 2: Istanbul to Europe
- Istanbul
- More
- Istanbul Aquarium
- Golden Horn
- More
After a delightful breakfast, you'll be transferred to Istanbul Halkalı Station. Here, the journey begins with a champagne reception before boarding the elegant Golden Eagle Danube Express. Settle into your private cabin as the train embarks on a remarkable journey across Europe.
Day 3 – Day 3: Sofia
- Sofia
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- Earth and People National Museum
- Ivan Vazov" National Theater
- Централен парк
- Knyazheska Garden
- House with the Strawberries
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Explore Sofia, one of Europe's oldest cities, where history and architecture blend seamlessly. Discover the ancient ruins of Serdica, stroll through the City Garden, and admire the National Theatre Ivan Vazov. Later, experience a unique performance by the Vanya Moneva Choir in the crypt of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
Day 4 – Day 4: Belgrade
- Belgrade
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- Old Sava Bridge
- The Old Palace
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Uncover Belgrade's hidden gems, starting with Tito's legendary Blue Train. Savor a traditional Serbian meal and explore the world of Rakija at the city's oldest brewery. Before departing, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Belgrade's bustling streets.
Day 5 – Day 5: Postojna to Vienna
- Postojna
- Vienna
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- Postojna Cave
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Embark on a subterranean adventure in the Postojna Caves, where an underground train takes you through stunning formations. Later, indulge in a confectionary masterclass onboard before arriving in Vienna for a sumptuous dinner and a private classical concert.
Day 6 – Day 6: Vienna
- Vienna
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Immerse yourself in Vienna's rich heritage, exploring its grand palaces and iconic coffee houses. Traverse the Austrian Alps, enjoying breathtaking views from the comfort of your cabin or the sophisticated Bar Lounge Car.
Day 7 – Day 7: Champagne
- Paris
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- Taittinger
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Discover the world-renowned Champagne region, where you'll tour a prestigious vineyard and savor the exquisite flavors of this sparkling wine. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the rolling hills and manicured vineyards.
Day 8 – Day 8: Paris
- Paris
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- Stade de France
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Check out from your hotel and embark on the S.S. Joie de Vivre for a captivating cruise along the Seine. Experience the charm of Paris from the water as you begin this enchanting journey.
Day 9 – Day 9: Vernon
- La Roche-Guyon
- Vernon
- Giverny
- More
- Château Gaillard
- Biotropica, animal gardens
- More
Explore the stunning landscapes of northern France with a visit to the Château de La Roche-Guyon or Monet's Gardens. Choose between a scenic hike or a bike ride to immerse yourself in the beauty that inspired Impressionist art.
Day 10 – Day 10: Rouen
- Rouen
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- Évreux Cathedral
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Step into history in Rouen, Normandy's medieval capital. Visit the cathedral Monet famously painted and explore the historic quarter. Enjoy a private concert at the Rouen Cathedral, adding a touch of elegance to your day.
Day 11 – Day 11: Caudebec-en-Caux
- Honfleur
- More
- Église Saint-Michel
- Labyrinthe de Honfleur
- More
Choose your adventure from Caudebec-en-Caux: a picturesque walk through Honfleur or a golfing experience at the stunning Étretat Cliffs. Both options offer a unique glimpse into the beauty of the Normandy region.
Day 12 – Day 12: Normandy
Day 12: Normandy
- Tour Vauban de Tatihou
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Experience the profound history of Normandy's beaches, choosing to visit American, British and Commonwealth, or Canadian sites. Participate in a private memorial ceremony, honoring the legacy of Operation Overlord.
Day 13 – Day 13: Versailles
- Versailles
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- Palace of Versailles
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Step into the opulent world of French royalty at the Palace of Versailles. Explore the secret apartments and discover how France's rulers lived through the ages, surrounded by grandeur and history.
Day 14 – Day 14: Paris
- Paris
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Explore the enchanting city of Paris, whether it's your first visit or a return trip. Choose between a panoramic city tour or a guided walk through the charming Latin Quarter, soaking in the vibrant culture and history.
Day 15 – Day 15: Departure from Paris
- Paris - Departure day
- More
Conclude your extraordinary journey as you disembark the ship. If your package includes a departure transfer, you'll be taken to Charles de Gaulle Airport for your flight home, carrying memories of an unforgettable adventure.
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