Istanbul to Krakow - Overland Trip

Itineraries

Arrival day.

We have a guided walking tour of the old part of this amazing city including sites such as Aya Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Unique in that it straddles Europe and Asia it is very much a cultural and ethnic melting pot which makes for a spellbinding experience Overnight train to Bucharest. (B)

Arrive in Bucharest and transfer to the hotel.

This morning we explore Bucharest on foot. Here we have the opportunity to stroll tree lined boulevards and discover the fantastic architecture on offer, such as the extravagant Palace of Parliament and the city’s many monasteries and orthodox churches. This afternoon we take the train to Tulcea, gateway to the Danube Delta. (B)

Today we take a cruise on the Danube Delta, a World Heritage Site and renowned for its fantastic scenery and superb wildlife. Later we drive back to Bucharest and take the overnight train to Suceava. (B)

We have a full day excursion to visit the various monasteries and painted churches that are found in this region. Later we take the train to Cluj Napoca.

This one time capital of Transylvania is now a major university town, which gives the town a laid back ambience in which to admire its fantastic Baroque architecture. We have time to explore the various sites such as St Michael’s church, dating back to the 14th century, and the National History Museum of Transylvania. In the evening we take the train to Sighisoara. (B)

We wander the cobbled streets of this perfectly preserved medieval town, one of the most important towns in Transylvania during the Roman Empire, before moving on to Brasov. (B)

A full day in Brasov, a very popular destination with a magnificent central square, which is awash with cosmopolitan outdoor cafes and baroque facades. (B)

We hike through picturesque scenery and villages to Bran Castle and visit this well preserved building, also known as Dracula’s Castle. Later we travel to Sinaia. (B)

Spend time discovering this picturesque town, which is considered to be one of the most beautiful mountain resorts in Romania. We then take an overnight train to Budapest. (B)

In the morning we have a guided orientation tour. The rest of the day is free to explore this beautiful city which offers such an endless succession of wonderful views - the old city of Buda, crowned by Castle Hill and the stunning Matthius Church, and the new city of Pest with the unmistakable claret spires and dome of the parliament building. (B)

After breakfast we take a train to Eger. The rest of the day is free to explore the beautiful villages and vineyards of the region or the city of Eger itself, with its wonderful baroque architecture. (B)

We take a train to Slovakia’s breathtaking High Tatras Mountains. The rest of the time is free to take hikes in the spectacular surrounding scenery, or perhaps take a trip to see nearby Spis Castle or rural Zdiar on the Polish border. (B)

We take the train to Brno. Afternoon to explore the old town centre, the Capuchin Monastery mummies or open air market. (B)

Travel by train to Cesky Krumlov, possibly the most beautiful town in the Czech Republic. We have plenty of time to explore the beautiful palace or old town centre, hike in the surrounding hills or raft on the river. In the evening of Day 18 we take a train to Prague. (B)

We have two days in this beautiful city. Walk along the Charles Bridge with its selection of buskers and street artists, relax in a pavement cafe or climb a church spire for wonderful views over the terracotta rooftops of the city. On Day 20 we take an overnight train to Krakow. (B)

Arrive in Krakow where the rest of the day is free to explore. Perhaps take a trip to the Wieliczka salt mine or alternatively make a poignant visit to Auschwitz. Day 22, KRAKOW - Tour ends. (B)

Tour ends. (B)