Maree & Meridian
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Maree & Meridian

Castles of Transylvania

  • Istanbul - Budapest
  • 06 Nights / 07 Days

Program Overview

Castles of Transylvania is a 7-day Transylvania train journey from Istanbul to Budapest aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express, through Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary. The route crosses Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary, through medieval towns, royal castles and legendary landscapes, from Veliko Tarnovo’s historic fortress to Transylvania’s iconic castles, fortified cities and UNESCO-listed heritage sites, with every excursion guided and included.

Few rail journeys through Eastern Europe capture this much history, folklore and culture on one itinerary.

Program Routing

Istanbul – Veliko Tarnovo – Sinaia (Peles Castle) – Brasov (Bran Castle) – Sighisoara – Sibiu – Kecskemet – Lajosmizse – Budapest

Duration

6 Nights / 7 Days

Next departure

28th May to 3rd Jun, 2027

Explore More dates

Starting from

USD [Price] per passenger Based on twin-sharing

For reservation

+91 97119 92059

Book this itinerary

The Awesomeness of the Itinerary

Journey through the heart of Eastern Europe aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express, where every destination reveals centuries of history, royal heritage, medieval legends, and timeless traditions. Travel from Istanbul through Veliko Tarnovo, Sinaia, Brașov, Sighișoara, Sibiu, Kecskemét, Lajosmizse, and Budapest, discovering ancient fortresses, grand castles, charming old towns, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the way.
Explore the historic capital of Veliko Tarnovo, the royal elegance of Peleș Castle, the legends surrounding Bran Castle, the medieval streets of Sighișoara, the Saxon heritage of Sibiu, and the vibrant cultural treasures of Hungary. Experience guided castle visits, heritage walks, local encounters, and carefully curated discoveries that bring the stories of Transylvania and Eastern Europe to life.
Between destinations, the Golden Eagle Danube Express offers its own refined experience. Relax in beautifully appointed cabins, enjoy gourmet dining, unwind in the lounge, and watch the changing landscapes of the Balkans and Carpathians unfold from the comfort of your private rail sanctuary.

Bear in mind

Some excursions involve walking through cobbled streets, castle grounds, historic centres, and uneven heritage sites; comfortable footwear is essential.
Weather conditions across the Balkans and Central Europe can vary, particularly during outdoor excursions. Layered clothing and suitable walking attire are recommended.
Visits to castles, churches, and historic landmarks may involve stairs, restricted areas, or local customs that should be respected.
Railway operations, local conditions, or unforeseen events may affect routing and timings; your Marée & Meridian journey curator will keep you informed of any changes.

Program at a Glance

Day 1: Istanbul – Welcome & Embarkation

Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to your five-star hotel. This evening, gather for a Welcome Dinner before the journey begins.

Day 2: Istanbul – Where East Meets West

Explore Istanbul’s historic old quarters on a guided walking tour, followed by a choice between the magnificent Blue Mosque or Hagia Sophia. In the afternoon, board the Golden Eagle Danube Express and begin your journey towards Bulgaria and Romania.

Day 3: Veliko Tarnovo – Bulgaria’s Ancient Capital

Travel over the scenic Shipka Pass to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s historic capital. Explore the medieval Tsarevets Hill and Castle, then wander through the atmospheric lanes of the ancient city before returning to the train.

Day 4: Sinaia & Brasov – Castles of the Carpathians

Arrive in Sinaia and visit the magnificent Peleș Castle, former summer residence of Romania’s royal family. Continue to Brasov for a visit to legendary Bran Castle, followed by a private gala dinner within the castle walls.

Day 5: Sighisoara & Sibiu – Medieval Transylvania

Explore the UNESCO-listed medieval citadel of Sighisoara, renowned as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Continue to Sibiu, discovering its beautifully preserved Old Town and distinctive Saxon architectural heritage.

Day 6: Kecskemét & Lajosmizse – Hungarian Traditions

Discover Kecskemét, located at the geographical centre of Hungary, before continuing to Lajosmizse for a spectacular traditional Puszta equestrian show. Arrive in Budapest and settle into your five-star hotel, followed by a Farewell Dinner.

Day 7: Budapest – Journey Conclusion

Enjoy breakfast at your Budapest hotel before concluding your journey through Transylvania.

Your Journey Includes

Overall

  • A 6-night luxury rail journey through Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express, travelling from Istanbul to Budapest.
  • Expert-led excursions covering medieval towns, royal castles, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and historic landmarks.
  • A seamless blend of cultural discovery, refined rail travel and personalised onboard hospitality.

Accommodations

  • Elegantly appointed cabins aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express with en-suite facilities and attentive service throughout the journey.
  • Luxury hotel accommodation in Istanbul and Budapest, providing a refined stay before and after the rail journey.
  • Comfortable onboard spaces including the lounge and dining areas for relaxation and socialising between excursions.

Entertainment

  • Exclusive cultural experiences showcasing the traditions, history and heritage of Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary.
  • Guided explorations through medieval cities, historic castles, fortified citadels and UNESCO-listed heritage sites.
  • Curated local encounters, storytelling and cultural experiences bringing the legends and traditions of Transylvania to life.

Experiences

  • Explore Veliko Tarnovo’s historic Tsarevets Fortress, once the medieval capital of Bulgaria.
  • Visit the magnificent Peleș Castle in Sinaia and legendary Bran Castle in the Carpathian Mountains.
  • Discover the UNESCO-listed medieval citadel of Sighișoara and the beautifully preserved historic centre of Sibiu.
  • Experience Kecskemét and the traditional Puszta equestrian culture at Lajosmizse before concluding the journey in Budapest.

Culinary

  • Breakfasts, lunches and dinners included throughout the journey, with refined dining aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express.
  • Carefully curated meals complemented by the culinary traditions of the destinations along the route.
  • Welcome and Farewell Dinners providing memorable moments at the beginning and conclusion of the journey.

Your Journey Excludes

  • International or domestic flights, unless specifically mentioned as part of the journey arrangements.
  • Government taxes, travel insurance, visa charges, and personal expenses incurred during the journey.
  • Laundry services, alcoholic beverages, premium refreshments, and additional onboard services unless included within the selected package.
  • Arrival and departure transfers, pre- or post-journey accommodation, and any extensions beyond the scheduled itinerary.
  • Optional experiences, professional photography or videography services, and any activities or excursions not specified in the itinerary.
Maree & Meridian

Itinerary Curated in Partnership with Golden Eagle. Photo Credits: Golden Eagle.

Ready to Experience This Journey?

Book your place on Castles of Transylvania and discover a remarkable rail journey through Eastern Europe, bringing together legendary castles, medieval towns, royal heritage, and unforgettable landscapes.
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Our Next Departure Dates

  • 28th May to 3rd Jun, 2027
  • 12th Oct to 18th Oct, 2027
  • 28th Oct to 3rd Nov, 2027