Grand European Train Tour

Start your grand european rail journey in the heart of London. As you leave the bustling city behind, the train glides through the picturesque landscapes of rural England and the rolling hills of France. This first leg of your journey culminates in the historic city of Munich, setting the stage for a cultural feast.

Today you will wake up in Munich, a city famed for its blend of modern dynamism and traditional Bavarian culture. Start your day at the Marienplatz, observing the Glockenspiel chime in the New Town Hall. Wander through the sprawling English Garden and visit the grand Nymphenburg Palace. As the sun sets, enjoy a stein of local beer at a lively beer garden.

Today’s journey takes you to Budapest, Hungary’s enchanting capital. The train ride offers a scenic transition from Germany, with views of Austria’s pastoral landscapes before entering the Hungarian plains. Prepare for an evening stroll along the Danube with stunning views of the illuminated Parliament and Chain Bridge.

Explore the architectural wonders and thermal spas of Budapest. Visit the historic Buda Castle, perched high above the city, and then cross the Danube to tour the gothic Parliament Building. Conclude your day by relaxing in the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest spa complexes in Europe to recharge your batteries for the upcoming exploration. Tonight, you’ll hop on an overnight train to Bucharest.

You will arrive in Bucharest in the later morning so enjoy the comfort onboard the sleeper train. Upon arrival, you will witness the grandeur of the Palace of Parliament, one of the largest buildings in the world, and spend the afternoon strolling through the vibrant street life of the Old Town. A city of contrasts, Bucharest is a true gem featuring everything from Belle Époque buildings to the tranquil Cismigiu Gardens. Discover the city’s bohemian charm, sample Romanian delicacies, and enjoy an evening at one of Bucharest’s renowned cultural performances.

In the early morning, you will hop on a train across the Bulgarian border to Ruse, where you will change trains and head straight to Sofia. The trains are relatively simple, providing only limited amenities. We highly advise bringing your own refreshments and essential toiletries for the journey. You will arrive in Sofia in the evening and settle into your accommodation for an overnight stay.

Well-rested, you are in for a day of exploration of Sofia’s rich history that spans Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and Soviet eras. Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an icon of Bulgarian heritage, explore the ancient ruins of Serdica and the bustling Vitosha Boulevard. From foodies to history lovers, Sofia has something for everyone. After dinner, head back to the train station and board a sleeper train bound for Istanbul.

You’ll arrive in Istanbul in the morning, which will give you plenty of time to explore this historic city. Visits to the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia and the majestic Blue Mosque are definitely worth the journey. As you lose yourself in the vibrant alleys in the Grand Bazaar and feel the city’s heartbeat, you will understand why it served as a focal point for several ancient empires. 

You’ll get to spend another day in Istanbul to fully embrace the city’s diverse heritage and vibrant culture. You will begin your morning with a visit to the Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring lush gardens and impressive artefacts. Explore the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground marvel, and indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine for a remarkable lunch. In the afternoon, venture into the bustling Spice Bazaar to sample exotic spices and Turkish delights. End your day with a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, witnessing the stunning skyline of Istanbul as the sun sets over the city.

Your remarkable journey concludes today in Istanbul. Reflect on the rich tapestry of cultures and landscapes experienced across this epic train tour. Check out from your accommodation and proceed to the airport, carrying memories of a lifetime across Europe to Asia, ready for your onward journey or return home.