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a view of the city of istanbul, with colourful buildings and a spire

Turkey by train

Flight-free made easy

All transport and accommodation included

Journeys you’ll love

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Istanbul by train

  • Turkey by train

    Budapest, Veliko Tarnovo , Cluj-Napoca, Vienna, Istanbul, Bucharest , Brasov

    Our most ambitious flight-free adventure to date. Stop off through five countries with five sleeper trains on to reach Europe’s dividing line with Asia.

  • One-way to Turkey

    Budapest, Veliko Tarnovo , Sofia, Istanbul, Brasov, Bucharest

    A more leisurely, slow travel rendition of the Guardian’s Route of the Month, taking you to the very edge of Europe, Istanbul.

Considering Turkey, flight-free?

Plan ahead

Due to the unique intricacies of a rail holiday to Turkey, these trips require a minimum booking notice of two months to ensure the best experience. Talk to us before you book.

No easy feat

For those looking to reach Istanbul overland, even the most experienced of travellers should be aware: this journey is no easy feat. Railway journeys across Eastern Europe are often far less comfortable than in the West, with trains frequently subject to delay and often without air conditioning (We suggest avoiding the hottest summer months).

Late-night checks

You’ll also be crossing non-Schengen European borders, with late-night passport checks that require alighting the train. As always, we are on hand with WhatsApp disruption support and advice every step of the way. Up for the challenge? We suggest contacting us before booking.

More FAQs

As seen in the Times

Overland to Istanbul

This twenty two day odyssey to reach the meeting point of Europe and Asia, as featured in The Times, is a fast and intensive adventure featuring five sleeper trains. It’s available from June to September.

See 22 day trip