Turkey by train
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Disruption replanning, journey guide and in-trip chat
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Land and sea journeys with locally-owned stays
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.
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