London to Istanbul
Meet your Tour Manger at London Heathrow for the 1025 British Airways flight to Istanbul arriving late afternoon. Transfer for three nights in the Marmara Pera Hotel (4-star), in the historic Pera district, close to the Golden Horn.
Istanbul
Encounter Istanbul’s unique blend of east and west on today’s tour that includes the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Underground Cistern. This afternoon, wander the arched lanes of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets.
Istanbul
With the city on your doorstep, today you are free to experience the strong contrasts and colourful views of Istanbul. Board a ferry and cross to Asia for a different perspective or enjoy the fragrance of the exotic east on a visit to the Egyptian Spice Market.
Istanbul
After a morning at leisure, this afternoon you visit the Topkapi Palace. Later, cruise on the Bosphorus and enjoy fine views of both sides of the city before transferring to the station.
Danube Express journey begins You first encounter the Danube Express late afternoon at Istanbul Sirkeci station where your sleeping car attendant shows you to your private compartment. Settle in on board and dine as you head into the sunset, en route to Bulgaria.
Kazanlak & Veliko Turnovo
Morning arrival in Kazanlak, a centre of rose oil production in the Valley of the Roses. Visit the Thracian tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site, whose vaulted brickwork and splendid murals date back to the 4th Century BC. Enjoy lunch during the climb over the Shipka mountain pass, gaining height on the journey to Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Turnovo. Nestled in a picturesque mountain setting, the stone houses seem perched, one above the other, on the steep bank of the Yantra River. Visit one of the seven ancient monasteries and the superbly preserved medieval Tsarevets Hill and Castle. Relax before dinner as the train heads for Romania, crossing the Danube via the Friendship Bridge, the last bridge as this great river wends its way to the Black Sea.
Brasov & Sighisoara
As dawn breaks, the track twists and turns through the valley towards Brasov. Dense forests, crystal clear mountain streams and spectacular waterfalls cascade past your window as the train threads its way through this dramatic landscape. Here, visit 14th century Bran Castle (known as Dracula’s Castle), set amongst stunning mountain scenery. Lunch is served on the journey to Sighisoara, rumoured to be the birthplace of Dracula. After a walking tour of this medieval city, enjoy a drink before dinner as the Danube Express continues on towards Hungary.
Eger & Budapest
The day begins in the beautiful spa town of Eger, site of the northernmost Turkish minaret. On a walking tour, wander along winding cobbled streets past historic baroque buildings to the imposing castle with its panoramic views across the town to the basilica and beyond.
Climb aboard for lunch as the Danube Express sets off across Hungary’s Northern Plain towards Budapest Nyugati station, arriving late afternoon.
Danube Express Journey ends Transfer for three nights at the centrally located Hotel Astoria (4-star), a few minutes’ walk from the Danube.
Budapest
Today’s tour takes in both sides of the city, Buda and Pest. Pass City Park and stop in Heroes Square to learn more of Hungary’s history and culture before continuing to the Cathedral and Parliament building. Cross to Buda for exceptional views from Gellert Hill and Fisherman’s Bastion then visit St Matthias Church. This afternoon, there is an excursion on the Children’s Railway through Buda’s wooded hills.
Danube Bend
With dramatic views across the Danube, a full-day excursion to this picturesque area contrasts with the city. Visit three towns, each with their own unique character and see Hungary’s largest Basilica in Esztergom, the medieval fortress high on a hill in Visegrd where lunch is provided and, finally, charming Szentendre.
Budapest
A free day brings the opportunity to explore. Visit a museum or walk in City Park. Cross to Margaret Island or just relax in one of the many street cafes.
Budapest to London
Transfer to Budapest airport for the 1235 British Airways flight to London Heathrow arriving
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