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Golden Eagle Danube Express: Castles of Transylvania
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Sultan Ahmet Mosque
Veliko Tarnovo
Peles Castle, Romania
Kecskemét Theatre
Hagia Sophia
Bran Castle, Romania
Sighisoara, Romania
Golden Eagle Danube Express
Golden Eagle Danube Express Superior Deluxe Cabin
Danube Express Restaurant Car
Romania & more

Golden Eagle Danube Express: Castles of Transylvania (Tour code: 12629)

Starts and Ends
Istanbul to
Budapest
Travel Periods
20 Oct 2024 - 02 Nov 2025
Experience
Travel Style
Rail Journeys
Absorb the vibrant cultures, ancient architecture, and spectacular scenery of Transylvania on this exclusive rail cruise.

Highlights

Enjoy a private dinner inside the castle walls of 14th century Bran Castle

Tour Istanbul's magnificent Sultan Ahmet Mosque (the Blue Mosque)

Delve into the history surrounding Romania's most infamous figure, Vlad the Impaler

Explore the UNESCO-honoured medieval citadel and colourful streets of Sighisoara

See a traditional Hungarian 'Puszta' equestrian show

Admire the medieval and Baroque splendour of ancient Budapest

7 days
From
AUD 18,782
per person, twin share
Travelling with kids? Read more 
All services are subject to availability.

Overview

Delve into the history surrounding Romania’s most infamous historical figure, Vlad the Impaler – or as he is more commonly known, Count Dracula – on this 7-day rail cruise of Transylvania. Enjoy a walking tour of the beautifully preserved town of Sighisoara where he was born, discover Sibiu’s Evangelic Cathedral where Vlad’s son was buried after his assassination, and, visit the impressive Bran Castle - the setting made famous by Bram Stoker’s novel as the residence of the vampire count.

Absorb the vibrant cultures, ancient castles and spectacular scenery of Transylvania on this exclusive rail cruise aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express.

Inclusions

Private en-suite accommodation on the Golden Eagle Danube Express train, Deluxe Cabin
Five-star pre and post tour accommodation
Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants
Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients
6 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 6 Dinners
Inclusive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from Standard Bar list
Arrival and departure transfers
Expertly guided off-train excursions
Cabin attendant service including evening turndown
Experienced Tour Management team
Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board
All gratuities
Luggage porterage throughout the journey

Day 1 Istanbul, Turkey

Arrive in Istanbul where you will be met and transferred to the iconic five-star Pera Palace Hotel, overlooking the magnificent view of the Golden Horn.

This evening enjoy a welcome reception dinner, giving you the opportunity to meet your fellow travellers.

Why not extend your stay in Istanbul to explore more of the city at your leisure? Please contact us for hotel options, touring programmes, and rates.

Dinner
Istanbul, Turkey
Pera Palace Istanbul

Day 2 Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is the fabled city that spans Asia and Europe. Today see how old meets new, east meets west when we visit a selection of Istanbul’s must-see historic sites.

One of the most famous monuments in both the Turkish and Islamic worlds, the Sultan Ahmet Mosque (the Blue Mosque) is a superb creation in the classical Ottoman style and features six towering minarets and 260 windows illuminating its vast main chamber, which is decorated with more than 20,000 Iznik tiles.

Now a museum, Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century by the Emperor Justinian and was one of the largest basilicas in the Christian world. After the Ottoman conquest, it was converted to a mosque and is today one of the most magnificent Grand Mosques in the world. Take a moment to linger here to admire the fine Byzantine architecture.

The largest and oldest palace in the world and primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans from 1465 to 1853, Topkapi is the crown jewel of the Ottoman Empire. With its treasury and exotic buildings overlooking the Golden Horn, your visit to Topkapi promises to be a truly fascinating experience.

Late afternoon we join the private train, the Golden Eagle Danube Express, to begin the rail journey through Bulgaria and Romania to Budapest.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Istanbul, Turkey
The Blue Mosque

Day 3 Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

This morning enjoy the views from the private train as it climbs over the Shipka Pass and arrive at the first stop Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s ancient capital. Nestled in a magnificent mountain setting, the stone houses seem perched one above the other on the steep banks of the Yantra River. A tour includes the superbly preserved medieval Tsarevets Hill and Castle and there is free time to wander through the narrow alleyways of the ancient city.

This evening relax in the Bar Lounge Car before dinner is served as the train continues through the scenic landscape as we head across the Romanian border.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
Tsarevets Hill

Day 4 Sinaia & Brasov, Romania

Overnight the train twists and turns as it climbs over the Carpathian Mountains and threads its way through the dramatic landscape with crystal clear mountain streams.

This morning arrive in Sinaia for a tour of Peles Castle. The castle is a masterpiece of German new-Renaissance architecture, considered by many one of the most stunning castles in Europe. Commissioned by King Carol I in 1873 and completed in 1883, the castle served as the summer residence of the royal family until 1947. Its 160 rooms are adorned with the finest examples of European art, Murano crystal chandeliers, German stained-glass windows and Cordoba leather-covered walls.

Returning to the train for lunch we continue onto Brasov in the afternoon for a visit to Bran Castle. Surrounded by an aura of mystery and legend and perched high atop a 200-foot-high rock, the 14th century castle owes its fame to its imposing towers and turrets as well as to the myth created around Bram Stocker's Dracula. Following a tour of the castle and its surroundings enjoy a gala dinner tonight inside the castle walls.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sinaia & Brasov, Romania
Bran Castle, Romania

Day 5 Sighisoara & Sibiu, Romania

Arrive into Sighisoara after breakfast and experience a walking tour of the town’s main highlights. A World Heritage site rumoured to be the birthplace of Dracula, it is one of the best-preserved fortified medieval towns in Europe. Burgher houses and ornate churches line its cobbled streets.

Return to the train for lunch as we continue onto Sibiu, known specifically for its Germanic architecture in the Old Town due to the legacy of 12th-century Saxon settlers. Around the city today can be seen the remains of medieval walls and towers, including the 13th-century Council Tower which connects the two main squares. 

Tonight, enjoy a Farewell Dinner on board the train and travel across the Great Hungarian Plain.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sighisoara & Sibiu, Romania
Sighisoara + Sibiu

Day 6 Kecskemet & Lajosmizse, Hungary

This morning explore Kecskemét, a fascinating city at the geographical centre of Hungary before the train heads to Lajosmizse for a spectacular ‘Puszta’ horse show.

Arrive late afternoon at the romantic and historic Hungarian capital, Budapest, located on the banks of the magnificent Danube. Enjoy a one-night stay in the five-star Four Seasons Gresham Palace hotel (or similar), a unique art nouveau landmark which combines historical elegance with ultra-modern comforts.

This evening enjoy a farewell reception dinner at a local restaurant, giving you the opportunity to reflect on your journey through this fascinating part of Europe.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Kecskemet & Lajosmizse, Hungary
Puszta Horse Show

Day 7 Budapest, Hungary

Enjoy your final breakfast on tour - and bid farewell to fellow travellers as your tour ends today. 

Breakfast

Accommodation

Four Seasons Gresham Palace

Budapest
In the centre of Budapest, our art nouveau royal Hotel captures the glitz and glamour of the city's Golden Age. Enjoy the recognisable wrought-iron peacock gates as you enter, walk through the Lobby's over two million mosaic tiles that are lit up by its eye-catching chandelier, and let inspiration to wash over you. The magnificent Buda skyline and views of the Danube are visible outside. Spend the day sightseeing, rejuvenate in our spa that draws on the city's wellness tradition, and then sip a creative drink in our recently launched lobby bar MÚZSA.

Golden Eagle Danube Express

Upgrade available

LIFE ABOARD THE GOLDEN EAGLE DANUBE EXPRESS

The Golden Eagle Danube Express is your luxurious hotel-on-wheels. Unpack just the once and settle into your well-appointed and comfortable cabin as you begin this voyage of a lifetime. Your cabin attendant will be on hand to look after all your needs.

In addition to our luxury sleeping cabins, we offer a first class Bar Lounge Car and Restaurant Cars.

DELUXE CABIN

Travel in some of the finest rail accommodation available in Europe.

Private bathrooms feature a shower with constant hot water, washbasin and toilet. There is a heated towel rail, shaver socket and hairdryer. A range of toiletries and a dressing gown are provided. Cabins have individually controlled air-conditioning, lighting with dimmer switches, individual reading lights, power sockets and a safe.

Co-ordinated fabrics complement wood-panelled walls and brass fittings. Two comfortable armchairs provide daytime seating, and a free-standing chair adds flexibility. Cupboards and a full-length wardrobe provide ample storage whilst the large picture window and full-length mirror enhance the spacious feel. A second window will open for fresh air and for that perfect photo opportunity.

During dinner each evening the living room is converted into two comfortable lower beds by your attendant who is also on hand to bring you early morning tea or coffee.

Deluxe Cabin (Day)
Deluxe Cabin (Night)

Room Upgrades

Superior Deluxe Cabin

Superior Deluxe cabins, with private en-suite facilities, offer the ultimate in European rail accommodation in terms of space, facilities, and comfort.

With 12 cabins per departure, each cabin offers comfortable daytime seating with a full-length sofa and two additional chairs. The large cabin also benefits from two full-size picture windows, one of which is openable to add to the bright and airy feel of the interior.

Each evening the cabin is transformed into a luxurious bedroom with a UK-standard King Size bed. All cabins have, as standard, a large double wardrobe with excellent storage space, individually controlled air-conditioning, lighting with dimmer switches, individual reading lights, in cabin Wi-Fi and USB ports, power sockets and a safe.

Superior Deluxe Cabin

Prices are dynamic based on travel dates. Please proceed to Book Now or Contact Us for details.

Additional information

  • The bar lounge: Unwind in comfortable surroundings and watch the world go by as you get to know your fellow passengers and begin long-lasting friendships. It is here that your Tour Manager will also organise a programme of activities. Passengers will receive printed daily itineraries throughout the tour detailing train arrival and departure timings, latest weather forecasts for the next destination and information on the following day’s excursions and activities.
  • The Bar Lounge Car and Restaurant Cars will host an entertaining and enlightening range of activities such as language lessons and engaging talks by expert lecturers on local history and culture. In the evening enjoy the sounds of the resident pianist playing in the Bar Lounge Car. Every night the bar stays open until the last person leaves.
  • The restaurant car: Enjoy the delights of an on-train breakfast each morning - a wide selection of fruit, cereals, orange juice and cold plates are available from the bountiful buffet.
  • For lunch and dinner, you will enjoy fine food, great wines and attentive service in the welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant car. On offer are culinary experiences that reflect the very essence of the countries the train travels through, as well as international cuisine. Vegetarian and other dietary options are also available.
  • Meals onboard are a relaxed affair as the restaurant cars can accommodate all guests in a single sitting. Throughout the journey there is an informal dress code, so you can enjoy your culinary experiences in convivial and relaxed surroundings and with an open-seating policy you can dine wherever, and with whomever, you please.

Departure dates:

  • 20 Oct 2024 - 26 Oct 2024
  • 30 May 2025 - 05 Jun 2025
  • 02 Nov 2025 - 08 Nov 2025

Excluded

  • International airfares and taxes
  • Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
  • Visa expenses, processing, and issuance fees
  • Meals other than as specified in our holiday package
  • Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.),
  • Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package

FAQs

What is included in the price?

All private train and hotel accommodation as per the itinerary; all meals starting with dinner on the first day and ending with breakfast on the last day of the tour (on some tours this may differ slightly, please refer to the specific itinerary); a generous allowance of wine, beer, soft drinks and tea and coffee with all lunches and dinners both on and off the train (except where stated otherwise); all arrival and departure transfers; guided off-train sightseeing excursions; the services of experienced tour leaders; complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water 24 hours a day, all gratuities and the services of an on board doctor.

What happens when I arrive at the airport / train station?

At the point of arrival, you will be met by one of our representatives who will be waiting with a Golden Eagle Danube Express Luxury Trains sign. If arriving by air, this will be after immigration, once you have collected all your luggage and cleared customs. Our representative will then assist you to your transfer vehicle to the hotel.

What is the average age of the passengers?

Although there are no age restrictions on tours – most travellers are aged 55+. The average age is 65 years. Tours may not be suitable for young children.

Does the train have Wi-Fi?

On the Golden Eagle Danube Express there is Wi-Fi available on board, powered by a 4G sim. Coverage is limited and will usually be available as we pass through larger cities/towns. However, on all tours – guests are provided with internet access in a local hotel or restaurant at least every other day.

Can you cater to special dietary preferences?

Most dietary requirements can be catered for. Please advise us of your requirements at the time of booking.

What is the dress code on the train?

During the day, the dress code on the Golden Eagle Danube Express is casual both on and off the train. In the evening guests are suggested to dress smart casual.

For winter tours on the Golden Eagle Danube Express, we recommend Ski-type jackets and trousers and thermal underwear. Train staff can provide hats, gloves and warm boots (so long as passengers have advised the rail staff of their shoe size). The train itself is always well heated and normal indoor clothing can be worn.

Since every tour requires some walking, it is recommend that passengers pack some comfortable walking shoes. A rubber sole is recommended to avoid possible slipping.

Can I smoke onboard?

The Golden Eagle and the Golden Eagle Danube Express are non-smoking trains, however there is a designated area at the back of each train where people are permitted to smoke.

Is there a recommended time of arrival on the first day?

We recommend arriving between 11.00 and 16.00, in time for the Welcome Dinner, which is normally held between 19.00-20.00. Check in at most our hotels is between 2.00-3.00pm and early check-in is dependent on hotel availability (charges may apply).

Are there luggage restrictions?

There is limited space inside the cabin for luggage storage. Soft-topped luggage is easier to store. Luggage cannot be stored under the beds. There is a dedicated luggage storage area at the end of each carriage. We recommend passengers unpack and store their empty luggage in this area. Cabin attendants will assist guests with this.

Luxury toiletries, including shower cream, shampoo and conditioner are provided in each cabin. A hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers and towels are also provided.

Will I need travel insurance?

As with all holidays and trips abroad, we strongly recommend that you have travel insurance. Please consult with our agents at time of booking and we can assist you with this.

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