Hungary to launch second 'Orient Express' — a $900,000 journey

▲ Hungary unveils Europe’s second Orient Express — the 'Golden Eagle Danube' train. (Photo / fromDanube Express Facebook page)

Travel Center / Comprehensive report

The classic European 'Orient Express' route is no longer limited to London–Venice alone. Hungary’s national railway company recently announced the launch of a five-star luxury train traveling between Hungary and Iran, making the dream of riding an Orient Express come true for many rail enthusiasts.Click here for the original link

Marcella Beke, marketing manager of Hungarian State Railways, told AFP: “With Iran recently opening up to the West, we believe this is the perfect opportunity to launch this service.”

According to foreign media reports, the understatedly luxurious 'Golden Eagle Danube' train consists of 13 wooden carriages dating back to the 1950s, accommodating up to 70 passengers. Travelers can enjoy five-star treatment on board — including unlimited free drinks — though only non-alcoholic beer and beverages are available once in Iran.

%剂谐的冢?幼呃取⒉统档轿苑看ΥΧ纪嘎吨?廖饶诹驳牡偷魃莼?（图／取自Danube Express Facebook page)

The inaugural journey of the Golden Eagle Danube train will begin on October 15, departing from Budapest. The route traverses Romania, Bulgaria, and Turkey, then passes through Iran’s iconic ancient cities — the Islamic holy city of Shiraz and the former capital of the Persian Empire, Persepolis — before arriving in Tehran, the Iranian capital, concluding a two-week trip.

Though pricey, with individual tickets ranging from €10,000 to €23,000 (approximately NT$394,000 to NT$905,000), the journey has already sold out, with the majority of bookings coming from British and Australian travelers. Rail fans need not worry, as Marcella Beke noted that five more similar journeys will be offered in 2015.