Danube Express - Castles of Transylvania | North Travel

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Danube Express - Castles of Transylvania

with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains

USD $11,195

 

Tour Description

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 from Turkey through Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary.

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.

The Train: The Golden Eagle Dunube 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 of your needs. 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.

Superior Deluxe Cabin: 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.

Deluxe Cabin: These spacious yet intimate en-suite cabins offer every convenience and comfort so you may sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery as it rolls by. 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. 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.

 
 

HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS

Luxury Train Journey: Experience the elegance and comfort of the Golden Eagle Danube Express, one of Europe’s most luxurious trains. Relax in well-appointed cabins with en-suite facilities, and enjoy gourmet dining, attentive service, and first-class amenities throughout the journey.

Budapest, Hungary: Begin your adventure in the stunning city of Budapest, often referred to as the "Paris of the East." Explore iconic landmarks such as the Chain Bridge, Buda Castle, and the grand Parliament Building, all set along the banks of the picturesque Danube River.

Sighișoara, Romania: Visit Sighișoara, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (inspiration for the Dracula legend) and one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns. Stroll through its colorful streets, explore the historic Clock Tower, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Transylvania.

 

  • Day 1 : Istanbul


    Arrive into Istanbul where you will be met and transferred to the iconic five-star Four Seasons Sultanahmet hotel for a one-night stay. A century-old neoclassical home located in the tranquil sanctuary of the Old City and steps away from the top historic attractions of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, this boutique hotel offers a calming space filled with charm and sophistication.

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

    Day 2 : Istanbul


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

    Day 3 : Veliko Tarnovo


    This morning enjoy the views from your private train as we climb 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 you head across the Romanian border.

    Day 4 : Sinaia & Brasov


    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.

    Returing to your private train for lunch 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 we will enjoy a gala dinner tonight inside the castle walls.

    Day 5 : Sighisoara & Sibiu


    This morning arrive after breakfast into Sighisoara for 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 and 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 your private train as we travel across the Great Hungarian Plain.

    Day 6 : Kecskemet & Lajosmizse


    This morning you will have the opportunity to explore Kecskemét, a fascinating city at the geographical centre of Hungary before the train heads to Lajosmizse for a spectacular ‘Puszta’ horse show. Then arrive late afternoon at the romantic and historic Hungarian capital, Budapest, located on the banks of the magnificent Danube, where you will 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.

    Day 7 : Budapest


    This morning, after an overnight stay at the Four Seasons Gresham Palace, enjoy your final breakfast of the tour.

  • Included

    • Five-star pre and post tour accommodation
    • Private en-suite accommodation on the Golden Eagle Danube Express train
    • Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients
    • Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants
    • All drinks (tea, coffee, soft drinks, beers, wines and spirits)
    • 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners
    • Expertly guided off-train excursions as per itinerary
    • Freedom of Choice touring options
    • Cabin attendant service including evening turndown
    • Experienced Tour Management team
    • Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board
    • Arrival and departure transfers
    • All gratuities – on and off the train
    • Luggage porterage throughout the journey

  • Booking and Payments

    • Deposit: A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total tour cost is required to confirm your booking.

    • Final Payment: The balance must be paid in full 90 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your booking.

    Cancellations and Refunds

    • Cancellation by Client:

    • More than 90 days before departure: Loss of deposit.

    • 30-90 days before departure: 65% of the total tour cost.

    • Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total tour cost.

    • Cancellation by Company: We reserve the right to cancel the tour due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, a full refund will be provided.

    • Changes to Itinerary

    • Flexibility Required: Weather and road conditions may necessitate changes to the planned route and itinerary. Flexibility is essential.

    • Substitutions: We reserve the right to substitute accommodations and services of similar standard when necessary.

    Travel Insurance

    • Mandatory: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, personal injury, and emergency evacuation is mandatory for all participants.

    • Proof Required: Proof of insurance must be provided before the tour begins.

    Health and Safety

    • Fitness Level: A reasonable level of fitness is required for participation in the activities outlined in the tour itinerary.

    • Medical Conditions: Participants must disclose any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of booking.

    Liability

    • Responsibility: The company will not be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage to personal property that occurs during the tour.

    • Third-Party Services: The company is not responsible for the actions or omissions of third-party providers, such as airlines or accommodation services.

    Visas and Documentation

    • Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date.

    • Visas: Obtaining necessary visas and travel documents is the responsibility of the participant.

    Conduct

    • Respect for Culture: Participants are expected to respect local customs and cultures.

    • Behavior: Disruptive or harmful behavior may result in the participant being asked to leave the tour, with no refund provided.

    Complaints

    • Immediate Reporting: Any complaints should be reported immediately to the tour leader to allow for a timely resolution.

    • Post-Tour Complaints: Complaints must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the tour's conclusion.

    By booking this tour, you agree to adhere to these terms and conditions.

 

Travellers photos