Express to the Orient: Paris to Istanbul
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 15-day multi-country tour that takes you through the heart of Europe, from the romantic streets of Paris to the vibrant cityscape of Istanbul. This carefully curated journey offers a blend of cultural exploration, historical discovery, and culinary delights. Traverse iconic cities like Strasbourg, Munich, Vienna, and Budapest, each offering its unique charm and attractions. Experience the rich history of Belgrade and Nis in Serbia, and immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of Sofia and Plovdiv in Bulgaria. Conclude your adventure in the bustling metropolis of Istanbul, where East meets West. With comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and ample free time to explore at your own pace, this tour promises an unforgettable experience filled with diverse landscapes, rich traditions, and cherished memories.
Included
13 breakfasts, 1 lunch
TRAIN TRAVEL:
The primary form of transportation on this trip are scheduled local and intercity trains that travel on the railway tracks that were once used by the historical Orient Express in the late 19th Century. We use standard, economy and/or 2nd class local carriages, depending on availability. Cabins on the Overnight Train from Plovdiv to Istanbul are quad-share bunk-style. Please see the daily itinerary for more details. Please also note that minor delays of trains can be common.
Train , Overnight train , Private transport
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION:
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
CHECK-IN TIME:
Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION:
If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
FACILITIES:
Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges.
Hotel (13 nights), Overnight train (1 night)
hotel: 13 night(s), sleeper-train: 1 night(s);
All Intrepid group trips in Europe are accompanied by one of our local European group leaders. ’Local’ in this context means a leader who is European or lives in Europe. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders. Your leader takes care of logistics, will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
At Intrepid we also aim to support local guides in the individual cities or locations we travel to. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend an optional local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
Strasbourg - Tarte Flambee
Salzburg - Hohensalzburg Fortress Visit & Funicular
Vienna - Kaffee and Kuchen Experience
Budapest - Castle Visit & Funicular Ride
Novi Sad - Traditional Serbian Lunch at a Salas Property
Belgrade - Fortress Visit
Map
Attractions
New Town Hall
Deutsches Museum
Nebet Tepe
Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Miniatürk
Jardin des plantes
Tuileries Garden
Jardin d'Acclimatation
Nikola Tesla Museum
Louvre Museum
Buda Castle
Mediana
Saint Sava Temple
Hagia Irene
Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel
Alter Hof
Eiffel Tower
Hungarian Parliament Building
Kalemegdan
Esztergom Castle Museum of the Hungarian National Museum
Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg
Petite France
Schönbrunn Palace
Fortress Hohensalzburg
Albertina
Prater
Palais du Rhin
St. Stephen's CathedralDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Paris
- Paris - Arrival day
- More
- Jardin des plantes
- Tuileries Garden
- Jardin d'Acclimatation
- Louvre Museum
- Eiffel Tower
- More
Welcome to the enchanting city of Paris, where your journey begins with a warm reception in the evening. Before the official start, immerse yourself in the city's rich culture by visiting the iconic Louvre Museum or ascending the Eiffel Tower for breathtaking views. Enjoy a leisurely picnic in one of Paris's beautiful gardens. In the evening, meet your fellow travelers and trip leader, and perhaps indulge in a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing the romantic allure of Paris firsthand.
Day 2 – Day 2: Strasbourg
- Paris
- Strasbourg
- More
- Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg
- Palais du Rhin
- More
Bid farewell to Paris and embark on a high-speed train journey to Strasbourg, a city that beautifully blends French and German influences. Upon arrival, join your leader for an orientation walk and savor a traditional tarte flambée. Spend your afternoon exploring at your own pace, perhaps visiting the majestic Cathedral of Notre Dame or the museums housed in the Palais de Rohan. As the day winds down, seek out a cozy spot for dinner, guided by your leader's recommendations.
Day 3 – Day 3: Munich
- Munich
- Strasbourg
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- Petite France
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Continue your exploration of Strasbourg in the morning, perhaps wandering through the charming 16th-century district of La Petite France. As midday approaches, prepare for your train journey across the German border to Munich. Upon arrival in the Bavarian capital, embark on a walking tour led by your guide, discovering the city's highlights. The evening is yours to enjoy as you wish, whether relaxing at your hotel or seeking out a local beer garden for a traditional stein.
Day 4 – Day 4: Munich
- Munich
- More
- New Town Hall
- Deutsches Museum
- Alter Hof
- More
Enjoy a full day to explore Munich at your leisure. Visit the historic Old Town, where you can admire the Altes Rathaus and the neo-Gothic Neues Rathaus. Time your visit to witness the Glockenspiel clock's animated reenactments. Alternatively, delve into the fascinating exhibits at the Transport Museum. Your guide will be available to offer dining recommendations for lunch and dinner, ensuring you experience the best of Munich's culinary scene.
Day 5 – Day 5: Salzburg and Vienna
- Salzburg
- Vienna
- Munich
- More
- Fortress Hohensalzburg
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Rise early for a scenic train ride to Salzburg, where you'll enjoy a guided walk and perhaps indulge in a traditional breakfast treat. Ascend to the Fortress Hohensalzburg via funicular for panoramic views of the city. After lunch, continue your journey to Vienna, Austria's vibrant capital. Check into your accommodation and enjoy a free evening to explore the city's rich cultural offerings at your own pace.
Day 6 – Day 6: Vienna
- Vienna
- More
- Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Albertina
- Prater
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- More
Begin your day in Vienna with a guided orientation walk, taking in the city's architectural marvels such as St Stephens Cathedral and the Graben. Enjoy a traditional Viennese coffee and cake at a local café. Spend your afternoon exploring Vienna's cultural treasures, from the art-filled Albertina to the opulent Schoenbrunn Palace. For a unique experience, take a ride on the historic Prater Ferris Wheel. Your guide will be available to help tailor your day to your interests.
Day 7 – Day 7: Budapest
- Budapest
- Vienna
- More
- Hungarian Parliament Building
- Esztergom Castle Museum of the Hungarian National Museum
- More
Travel east to Budapest, the 'Pearl of the Danube,' where grand architecture and historical charm await. After a brief orientation walk, enjoy a free afternoon to explore the city. Consider a leisurely cruise along the Danube for stunning views of the Parliament Building and Castle District. In the evening, venture into the Jewish Quarter for a memorable dinner and perhaps a nightcap at one of the area's vibrant bars.
Day 8 – Day 8: Budapest
- Budapest
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- Buda Castle
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Begin your day with a visit to the historic Buda Castle, where you'll delve into the city's rich past. Enjoy a funicular ride up the castle hill for panoramic views. The afternoon is yours to explore Budapest further, whether by bicycle or on foot, sampling local delicacies along the way. Your guide will be available to help you plan the perfect day, ensuring you make the most of your time in this captivating city.
Day 9 – Day 9: Novi Sad and Belgrade
- Novi Sad
- Belgrade
- Budapest
- More
- St Nicholas Cathedral
- More
Depart Budapest for a scenic drive to Novi Sad, Serbia's charming second-largest city. En route, enjoy a traditional Serbian lunch at a Salas property. Upon arrival, explore Novi Sad's unique blend of Serbian and Austro-Hungarian architecture with your guide. In the afternoon, board a train to Belgrade, where you'll have the evening free to relax or explore the vibrant Serbian capital.
Day 10 – Day 10: Belgrade
- Belgrade
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- Nikola Tesla Museum
- Saint Sava Temple
- Kalemegdan
- More
Discover the vibrant city of Belgrade with a guided orientation walk, visiting the historic Kalemegdan Park and Fortress. In the afternoon, explore at your leisure, perhaps visiting the impressive Hram Svetog Save or the Nikola Tesla Museum. As night falls, experience Belgrade's legendary nightlife along the Danube and Sava rivers, where floating bars and restaurants offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening.
Day 11 – Day 11: Nis
- Niš
- More
- Mediana
- More
Embark on a scenic train journey to Nis, one of Europe's oldest cities. Upon arrival, stretch your legs with a guided walk and then enjoy a free afternoon to explore. History enthusiasts may wish to visit Mediana, the remnants of a grand palace once home to Constantine the Great. Spend the evening soaking in the rich history and culture of this ancient city.
Day 12 – Day 12: Sofia and Plovdiv
- Sofia
- Plovdiv
- More
- National Art Gallery
- Ivan Vazov" National Theater
- Regional History Museum Pernik
- More
Travel to Sofia, Bulgaria's vibrant capital, where you'll explore the city with your guide, using the metro and trams to navigate. Spend your afternoon visiting Sofia's cultural landmarks, such as the National History Museum and National Archaeological Museum. Later, board a train to Plovdiv, a city rich in history and culture. In the evening, savor local cuisine, renowned for its grilled meats and vegetables, as you prepare for the next leg of your journey.
Day 13 – Day 13: Plovdiv to Istanbul
- Plovdiv
- Istanbul
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- Nebet Tepe
- Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
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Explore Plovdiv's historical treasures with a guided walk, visiting the ancient Roman theatre and the site of the former hilltop fortress of Nebet Tepe. Enjoy a free afternoon to relax and prepare for your overnight train journey to Istanbul. As you depart Plovdiv, anticipate the cultural fusion and vibrant atmosphere awaiting you in Turkey's largest city.
Day 14 – Day 14: Istanbul
- Istanbul
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- Sultan Ahmed Mosque
- Miniatürk
- Hagia Irene
- More
Arrive in Istanbul early in the morning and embark on a guided exploration of the Old City. Discover the city's historical gems, including the stunning Blue Mosque, the ancient Hippodrome, and the historic Million. The afternoon is yours to delve deeper into Istanbul's rich cultural tapestry, with your guide available to offer recommendations for dining and further exploration.
Day 15 – Day 15: Departure from Istanbul
- Istanbul - Departure day
- More
As your incredible journey comes to a close, take a moment to reflect on the diverse cultures and landscapes you've experienced. If you wish to extend your stay in Istanbul, additional accommodation can be arranged. Otherwise, bid farewell to your fellow travelers and the captivating city of Istanbul, taking with you memories of an unforgettable adventure.
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