Tour Cruise & Rail: Paris To Istanbul (2025) (Paris To Istanbul,

Guide

Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager 11 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts

Meals

All meals onboard cruise and train, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients 13 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 13 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

Transport

S.S. Joie de Vivre Golden Eagle Danube Express

Accommodation

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) 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

Others

7 countries: France, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Turkey 4 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

Not included:

Flights

International flights are not included

Insurance

Travel Insurance is not included

Optional

Other activities and services are not included

Others

Other activities and services are not included

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Paris (Embark)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Paris (Embark)

Arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.
Day 2 Day 2: La Roche-Guyon, Vernon, Giverny
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: La Roche-Guyon, Vernon, Giverny

Today is a celebration of northern France’s natural beauty, with an excursion to a splendid château and gardens situated in an equally grand setting, plus a chance to immerse yourself in the very landscapes that inspired Impressionist master Claude Monet. In the morning, choose between a scenic hike or a visit to the hilltop Château de La Roche-Guyon, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers sweeping views over the Seine. Later, explore the beautiful gardens of Monet. You’ll have the opportunity to take in the French countryside on your way there with an invigorating bike ride, or opt to arrive by coach instead.

Excursions to choose - pick 1:
- 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
Day 3 Day 3: Rouen
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Rouen

Walk in the footsteps of greatness in Normandy’s medieval capital, a city with a historic quarter that remains amazingly intact. From the cathedral Monet painted dozens of times to the cross marking the spot where Joan of Arc was martyred, Rouen is a treasure trove for the culturally curious. The roll call of famous people who lived or died in Rouen is long and varied—Richard the Lionheart, Joan of Arc, Gustave Flaubert, and Claude Monet are among them.

Excursions included:
- Nights Out: Private Concert at the Rouen Cathedral

Excursions to choose - pick 1:
- Rouen Walking Tour, the Dukes of Normandy’s Capital
- Camembert Cheese Farm
Day 4 Day 4: Caudebec-En-Caux (Honfleur Or Étretat)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Caudebec-En-Caux (Honfleur Or Étretat)

Caudebec-en-Caux, a lovely little town on the right bank of the Seine Estuary, is your base for one of two very different excursions. You could drive through the beautiful Calvados countryside to Honfleur, a delightful seaside harbor and city of painters, or head to the windy cliffs of Étretat for a game of golf.

Excursions to choose - pick 1:
- Honfleur Walking Tour
- Let’s Go: Golfing in Étretat
Day 5 Day 5: Rouen (Normandy Beaches)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Rouen (Normandy Beaches)

There are moments when we travel that move us on an otherworldly level—experiences that stir a profound emotional connection. The Normandy beaches certainly have that effect. On your full-day outing, you’ll visit Normandy’s beaches, with a choice to venture to either the American, British and Commonwealth, or Canadian beaches. After, partake in a private memorial ceremony for a sentimental remembrance of Operation Overlord.

Excursions to choose - pick 1:
- Normandy Beaches: Highlights of American Sites
- Normandy Beaches: Highlights of British & Commonwealth Sites
- Normandy Beaches: Highlights of Canadian Sites
Day 6 Day 6: Mantes-La-Jolie (Versailles)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Mantes-La-Jolie (Versailles)

How did France’s rulers live over the centuries? Step into the private rooms of the Palace of Versailles, the lavish palace built by the Sun King, to find out.

Excursions included:
- Versailles Palace Secret Apartments
Day 7 Day 7: Paris
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Paris

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the “City of Light” or you’ve been here many times before, there’s something for everyone today in Paris. Enjoy a panoramic overview of the city, or join a local expert for a walk through two much-loved neighborhoods.

Excursions to choose - pick 1:
- Paris City Tour
- Paris Walking Tour of the Latin Quarter
Day 8 Day 8: Paris (Disembark), Transfer To Train (Embark), Champagne
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Paris (Disembark), Transfer To Train (Embark), Champagne

Disembark the S.S. Joie de Vivre and transfer to the Paris Gare de Lyon Station, where the indulgence begins with a champagne drinks reception before stepping aboard the stylish Golden Eagle Danube Express. Settle into life onboard your private train as we journey across the serene French countryside towards our first stop, Champagne. Renowned for producing the world’s finest sparkling wines, Champagne boasts manicured vineyards draped over rolling hills. On an exclusive guided tour of one such vineyard today, you’ll enjoy a tasting of this AOC-protected product.
Day 9 Day 9: Vienna
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Vienna

Traverse the majestic Alps as we weave our way through the breathtaking Austrian countryside towards Vienna. Whether you choose to unwind in the privacy of your cabin—where your dedicated cabin attendant is ready to cater to your every need—or opt for the sophisticated ambiance of the Bar Lounge Car, every moment promises spectacular views and refined relaxation. As twilight descends, we gracefully arrive in the imperial city of Vienna. Indulge in a sumptuous dinner in town and experience the pinnacle of cultural delight with a private classical concert featuring the illustrious Vienna Supreme Orchestra.
Day 10 Day 10: Vienna, Postojna
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Vienna, Postojna

Austria’s stunning capital, steeped in a rich heritage, casts its enchanting spell on visitors. With its elaborate palaces, iconic coffee houses, and a cultural tapestry woven with classical music and captivating opera, Vienna stands as a seductive metropolis that beckons to be explored. Indulge in an exquisite post-lunch affair as you step into a realm of culinary opulence with a confectionary masterclass, presented by our Catering Manager, Krisztian, and the Head Pastry Chef, Rebeka. Tonight, we venture into the enchanting depths of Postojna Caves. Aboard an underground train, we delve into a subterranean world filled with intricate cave formations and inhabited by mysterious creatures. Immerse yourself in the atmospheric ambiance, heightened by the soulful notes of a saxophonist echoing through the cavernous spaces.
Day 11 Day 11: Belgrade
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Belgrade

Uncover the hidden treasures of Belgrade, beginning with an exclusive exploration of Tito’s legendary blue train, a relic of Yugoslavia’s storied past. Indulge your senses with a traditional Serbian feast at a local restaurant, where the flavors are as bold and diverse as the city itself. Next, prepare to savor the essence of Serbian hospitality as we delve into the world of Rakija, Serbia’s beloved elixir. At the city’s oldest brewery, we’ll sample an array of Rakija varieties, all while regaling in captivating tales and anecdotes that breathe life into Belgrade’s spirited history. Before we board the train, join us as we unravel the secrets of Belgrade’s bustling streets, where every corner reveals a new facet of its vibrant culture.
Day 12 Day 12: Sofia
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Sofia

Enjoy a morning of relaxation in the Bar Lounge Car as we head towards Bulgaria. Sofia is one of the oldest cities in Europe, dating back around 7,000 years. You’ll find some magnificent architecture throughout the city, with a mixture of Western and Central European influences. Our adventure begins amidst the captivating ruins of the Roman city of Serdica, where echoes of a bygone era whisper tales of glory and conquest. Wander through the enchanting City Garden, home to the prestigious National Theatre Ivan Vazov, and marvel at the opulent façade of the Presidential Palace and other iconic landmarks that adorn Sofia’s skyline. But the excitement does not end there. Later, join an exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime experience as we descend into the hallowed Crypt of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Here, in this sacred space, we’ll be mesmerized by the melodies of the "Cosmic Voices.” Enchanting and evocative, this private performance by the renowned Vanya Moneva Choir stirred hearts at the opening of the Olympic Games in Tokyo.
Day 13 Day 13: Istanbul (Disembark)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Istanbul (Disembark)

Today, the final destination awaits as we arrive at the end of our European rail odyssey: the fabled city of Istanbul, spanning both Asia and Europe. We’ll transfer to the Four Seasons Sultanahmet for a one-night stay at this centrally located hotel, then the rest of the day is for you to explore this fascinating city at your leisure. This evening, join us for a Farewell Dinner on the atmospheric banks of the Bosphorus.
Day 14 Day 14: Istanbul
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Istanbul

Check out of your hotel. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to the airport in Istanbul for your flight home.

+11

14 days tour

Cruise & Rail: Paris To Istanbul (2025) (Paris To Istanbul,

This tour includes:

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Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Cruise & Rail: Paris To Istanbul (2025) (Paris To Istanbul,

Day 1: Paris (Embark)

Day 2: La Roche-Guyon, Vernon, Giverny

Day 3: Rouen

Day 4: Caudebec-En-Caux (Honfleur Or Étretat)

Day 5: Rouen (Normandy Beaches)

Day 6: Mantes-La-Jolie (Versailles)

Day 7: Paris

Day 8: Paris (Disembark), Transfer To Train (Embark), Champagne

Day 9: Vienna

Day 10: Vienna, Postojna

Day 11: Belgrade

Day 12: Sofia

Day 13: Istanbul (Disembark)

Day 14: Istanbul

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