Istanbul to Budapest
Castles of Transylvania
Luxury train tour to the castles of Transylvania onboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express
ISTANBUL – VELIKO TARNOVO – SINAIA (PELES CASTLE) – BRASOV (BRAN CASTLE) – SIGHISOARA – SIBIU – KECSKEMET – LAJOSMIZSE – BUDAPEST
Absorb the vibrant cultures, ancient castles and spectacular scenery of Transylvania on this luxury train journey aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express.
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.
Dates & Prices
All prices are per person and published in Euros (€).
We also accept payment in both US Dollars ($) and Pound Sterling (£). Please note we use a fixed exchange rate that is reviewed quarterly – contact us to receive a confirmed price in your preferred currency.
2026
| EUR (€) | Deluxe Class | Superior Deluxe Class | ||
| Twin (€) | Single (€) | Twin (€) | Single (€) | |
| May 29 – Jun 04 | 11,800 | 17,600 | 15,200 | 25,300 |
| Sep 23 – Sep 29 | 11,800 | 17,600 | 15,200 | 25,300 |
| Oct 23 – Oct 29 | 11,800 | 17,600 | 15,200 | 25,300 |
| Deposit | 25% | 25% | ||
2027
| EUR (€) | Deluxe Class | Superior Deluxe Class | ||
| Twin (€) | Single (€) | Twin (€) | Single (€) | |
| May 28 – Jun 03 | 13,300 | 19,900 | 17,200 | 28,600 |
| Oct 12 – Oct 18 | 13,300 | 19,900 | 17,200 | 28,600 |
| Oct 28 – Nov 03 | 13,300 | 19,900 | 17,200 | 28,600 |
| Deposit | 25% | 25% | ||
Itinerary for our Castles of Transylvania luxury train tour
DAY 1 Istanbul
Arrive into Istanbul where you will be met and transferred to a five-star hotel.
This evening we will enjoy a Welcome Dinner, giving you the opportunity to meet your fellow travelers.
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.
DAY 2 Istanbul
Istanbul is the fabled city that spans Asia and Europe. Today we see how old meets new, east meets west when we enjoy a walking tour through the old central quarters of Istanbul, followed by the choice of visiting one of Istanbul’s two magnificent mosques.
Freedom of Choice Option 1: 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.
Freedom of Choice Option 2: 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 few moments to linger here to admire the fine Byzantine mosaics.
Early afternoon we join our private train, the Golden Eagle Danube Express, to begin our rail journey through Bulgaria and Romania to Budapest.
DAY 3 Veliko Tarnovo
This morning we enjoy the views from our private train as we climb over the Shipka Pass and arrive at our 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 our train continues through the scenic landscape as we 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 we 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 our private 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 Stoker’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 we 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.
We 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, we enjoy a Farewell Dinner on board our private train as we travel across the Great Hungarian Plain.
DAY 6 Kecskemet & Lajosmizse
This morning we get 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.
We then arrive late afternoon at the romantic and historic Hungarian capital, Budapest, located on the banks of the magnificent Danube, where we 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 we will enjoy a farewell dinner, 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, we enjoy our final breakfast on the tour.
Why not extend your stay in Budapest to explore the Hungarian capital at your leisure? Please contact us for hotel options and rates.
WHY NOT START IN CAPPADOCIA?
Make the most of your time in Türkiye with an exclusive pre-tour extension from Istanbul to Cappadocia, travelling by private train through some of the country’s most remarkable historic regions.
Journey via Istanbul – Izmir – Ephesus – Denizli (Hierapolis & Laodicea) – Ankara – Cappadocia, discovering classical ruins, ancient cities, and dramatic landscapes along the way, before arriving in the truly unforgettable terrain of Cappadocia.
A return flight from Cappadocia to Istanbul is included, seamlessly connecting you with the start of your Castles of Transylvania journey.
Don’t visit Istanbul without seeing Cappadocia the right way — this unmissable extension completes the experience.
Tour Inclusions
Accommodation
- Five-star pre and post tour accommodation
- Private en-suite accommodation on the Golden Eagle Danube Express train
Service
- 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
Dining
- Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients
- Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants
- Inclusive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- 6 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 6 Dinners
Excursions
- Expertly guided off-train excursions as detailed in the itinerary
- Freedom of Choice touring options
Tour Highlights
- Tour Istanbul’s magnificent historical sites
- Delve into the history surrounding Romania’s most infamous figure, Vlad the Impaler
- Explore the UNESCO-honoured medieval citadel and colourful streets of Sighisoara
- Enjoy a private dinner inside the castle walls of 14th century Bran Castle
- See a traditional Hungarian ‘Puszta’ equestrian show
- Admire the medieval and Baroque splendour of ancient Budapest
GOLDEN EAGLE DANUBE EXPRESS
Step aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express, your private vantage point for this trans-European odyssey. Unwind in your beautifully appointed cabin and let the gentle rhythm of the train carry you into one of travel’s most extraordinary stories
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Castles of Transylvania Brochure
To download the Castles of Transylvania brochure, please fill in your details below.
Why choose Golden Eagle Luxury Trains for your journey to Castles of Transylvania?
- Immersive experiences: Every excursion is designed to bring you closer to the history and legend of Transylvania – from the storybook elegance of Peles Castle to the dramatic atmosphere of Bran Castle – offering truly memorable, insider-style access to the region.
- Remarkable destinations: This is a journey through some of Romania’s most compelling landscapes and heritage sites, experienced in a unique way onboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Immerse yourself in the distinctive mountain scenery, medieval castles, and historic towns that make this region so breathtaking.
- Premium onboard comfort: Your private en-suite cabin is your luxurious base as you travel through the region, with a dedicated cabin attendant on hand at all times to ensure a relaxed and comfortable experience.
- Exceptional service: From expertly guided visits to attentive, thoughtful hospitality on board, every detail is handled with care. Simply relax and enjoy the journey – we’ll take care of the rest.
SIMILAR JOURNEYS YOU MIGHT LIKE
If you’re interested in the Castles of Transylvania, a few of our other itineraries follow similar routes and include some of the same cities and cultural highlights.
Our Venice to Istanbul train shares a strong Eastern European backbone with the Castles of Transylvania itinerary, passing through regions such as Budapest and Romania en route to Istanbul. Guests on this journey experience a similar blend of grand cities, atmospheric landscapes, and immersive cultural excursions, with the added appeal of travelling through the Balkans in luxury rail comfort.
Our Paris to Istanbul train also travels through key Central and Eastern European destinations such as Vienna, Budapest, and Bucharest – bringing guests close to the same historic areas featured in the Castles of Transylvania route. While broader in scope, it offers a similar mix of cultural discovery, iconic cities, and scenic rail travel.
Our Paris to Cappadocia itinerary echoes the Transylvania journey through its Central European section, with shared passages through cities like Vienna and Budapest before continuing deeper into Eastern Europe and on towards Turkey. It’s ideal for travellers who enjoy the cultural richness and historic architecture of the region, but want a longer, more expansive exploration beyond Romania.
YOUR LUXURY TRAIN JOURNEY THROUGH TRANSYLVANIA AWAITS
Enquire today to reserve your place on the Castles of Transylvania tour and experience the beauty and history of this spectacular region in comfort and style.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Which castles are included in the itinerary?
The Castles of Transylvania luxury train tour includes visits to some of the most iconic castles in Transylvania. Highlights include the stunning Peles Castle, known for its fairytale architecture, the superbly preserved medieval Tsarevets Hill and Castle, and the legendary Bran Castle, famously linked to Count Dracula.
Do I get private or exclusive access to any of the castles?
Yes – this luxury train tour to the castles of Transylvania includes exclusive experiences not available to the general public. A standout highlight is a private evening at Bran Castle, where guests enjoy a special dinner within the castle grounds. This offers a rare opportunity to experience this iconic landmark after hours, away from the daytime crowds.
When is the best time of year to visit the castles of Transylvania?
May to June and September to October are both great times to visit the castles of Transylvania, but each offers a distinctly different experience. In May and June, the region is at its most vibrant, with rolling hills in full bloom and mild, pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring iconic landmarks such as Peles Castle and Bran Castle. With fewer crowds than the peak summer season, it’s a wonderful and picturesque time to travel.
September and October offer an equally spectacular, yet more atmospheric experience. As autumn sets in, the forests and mountains surrounding the castles turn rich shades of gold and crimson, creating a dramatic backdrop that enhances the region’s Gothic charm. Visiting at this time of year also coincides with the build-up to Halloween – a season closely linked to the tale of Count Dracula – adding an extra layer of intrigue to your journey.
What is the pace of the Castles of Transylvania journey?
The Castles of Transylvania journey is relaxed yet immersive, offering the perfect balance between exploration and downtime. Days are thoughtfully structured to ensure you get the most out of every location, while still having plenty of time to unwind onboard the luxurious Golden Eagle Danube Express.
How physically demanding is the Castles of Transylvania tour?
The itinerary of the Castles of Transylvania tour is not physically strenuous, making it suitable for most travellers with a moderate level of mobility. The excursions to highlights such as Peles Castle and Bran Castle typically involve walking on uneven surfaces and steps, but guests are encouraged to take this at their own pace. Comfort and ease is a top priority throughout the journey, with the train providing a relaxing base between visits and all logistics taken care of by our onboard team.
For a full list of FAQs about our trains, journeys, and itineraries, please visit our FAQs page.
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