A four day train journey from Budapest, Hungary on the mighty Danube to Istanbul on the shores of the Bosphorus, encountering the stunning scenery and ancient archetecture of Transylvania, the legendary land of Count Dracula, and rural Bulgaria along the way. Includes sightseeing programs and all meals while aboard the train. We suggest you stay in Budapest at least one night prior to the rail trip and one night in Istanbul after. Ask for details of hotel and tours available in these cities.
Day 1: Budapest and Kecskemet
Mid-morning departure from Budapest Nyugati station after a champagne reception in the Royal Waiting Room. Settle in on board the Danube Express. See a Putzsa horse show in Lajosmizse and, after lunch, there is free time in Kecskemét. Dine as the journey to Transylvania continues.
Day 2: Sighisoara and Brassov
Arrive in Sighisoara for a walking tour. Return to the Danube Express for lunch on the way to Brasov where there is a visit to Bran Castle (known to many as Dracula’s Castle). Back on board, the train twists and turns through the dramatic landscape of the Carpathian Mountains. Dinner is served as the Danube Express heads for Bulgaria.
Day 3: Veliko Turnovo and Kazaniak
Arrive after breakfast in Veliko Turnovo, Bulgaria's ancient capital. A tour includes medieval Tsarevets Castle and free time to wander through this ancient city. Lunch during the climb over the Shipka mountain pass before arrival in Kazanlak, capital of the Valley of the Roses. A tour here includes the Shipka Memorial Church and a Thracian tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site, whose vaulted brickwork and splendid murals date back to the 4th Century BC. Relax in the lounge car before dinner, served as the Danube Express continues through the scenic landscape, reaching the Turkish border late in the evening.
Day 4: Istanbul
Morning arrival at Sirkeci station in Istanbul, the world's only metropolis spanning two continents. Istanbul, steeped in history, is an exciting, vibrant and colourful city where East meets West. Not to be missed are Topkapi Palace, The Blue Mosque, The Basilica of St Sophie and the Grand Bazaar. A cruise on the Bosphorus provides a different aspect of this beautiful city and a short ferry ride takes you across the river to Asia. Soak up the atmosphere of the city on Taksim Square.
**This program is also available as a 9-day escorted holiday from London including: airfare London to Budapest and Istanbul to London; five nights hotel accommodation including breakfast and dinner - 3 nights in Budapest, 2 nights in Istanbul; sightseeing program, transfers and porterage in Budapest and Istanbul. Please ask for details and prices.
