Stage one
Getting to Orșova
The journey from Timișoara to Orșova is straightforward, though the train takes a scenic but slow route through the mountains. The train departs from Timișoara Nord and runs several times a day; the trip lasts around three hours. By car, the drive via the DN6 is faster, about two hours, and gives you flexibility to stop at viewpoints along the way. Buses also run but are less frequent and often crowded. Whichever mode you choose, aim to arrive in Orșova by early afternoon to make the most of your first day.
08:00
Depart Timișoara Nord by train
Catch the morning train towards Bucharest and get off at Orșova. The route winds through the Banat mountains, passing small stations and tunnels.
40 lei
10:30
Arrive Orșova
The train station is a short walk from the town centre and the Danube embankment. Drop your bags at your accommodation if you can check in early.
Free
11:00
Walk the Danube promenade
Stretch your legs along the riverfront, where you can see the wide Danube and the hills of Serbia on the opposite bank. There are a few cafés for a coffee.
Free
13:00
Lunch at a local restaurant
Try the grilled carp or a fish soup at one of the modest restaurants near the port. Expect hearty portions and low prices.
30 lei
15:00
Book a boat trip for the next day
Visit the small ticket offices near the port to reserve a place on a boat through the gorges. The large ferry is cheaper but less intimate; small boats offer better views and stop at more places.
Free
18:00
Sunset by the Danube
The sun sets behind the Serbian hills, casting a warm light over the river. Find a bench near the water and watch the fishermen.
Free
Stage two
The Danube Gorges by boat
The boat trip through the Danube Gorges is the highlight of any visit to Orșova. The gorges, known locally as the Iron Gates, are a dramatic series of narrow valleys where the river cuts through the Carpathian mountains. Most trips last between two and four hours, depending on the operator and how many stops are made. You will see sheer rock faces, ancient forests, and perhaps spot some wildlife. The water is deep and calm, so the ride is smooth even for those prone to seasickness.
09:00
Board the boat at Orșova port
The large ferry leaves promptly at 9am; smaller boats may have flexible times. Bring a jacket as it can be chilly on the water.
50 lei
10:00
Pass the Great Kazan gorge
This is the narrowest and most spectacular part of the route, where the river squeezes between towering cliffs. The boat slows for photographs.
Free
11:00
See the rock sculpture of Decebalus
On the Romanian side, a massive stone carving of the Dacian king Decebalus faces the river. It is the tallest rock sculpture in Europe.
Free
11:30
Stop at the Mraconia Monastery
Some boats pause briefly at this small monastery nestled in the trees. You can admire it from the water; going ashore depends on the captain.
Free
12:30
Return to Orșova
The boat turns back, giving you a second look at the gorges from the opposite direction. Keep an eye out for eagles and goats on the cliffs.
Free
Stage three
Viewpoints and Ada Kaleh
After the boat trip, explore the viewpoints on land and learn about the lost island of Ada Kaleh. The island was submerged in 1970 when the Iron Gates dam was built, but its memory lives on. You can visit the remains of the old fortress at Șimian Island, which was moved from Ada Kaleh. The views from the hills above Orșova offer a different perspective on the gorges. This stage is best done by car or taxi, as the viewpoints are spread out along the DN6.
14:00
Drive to the Ciucaru Mare viewpoint
A short drive south of Orșova, this spot gives a panoramic view of the Danube and the Serbian shore. There is a small parking area and a few souvenir stalls.
Free
15:00
Visit Șimian Island
Take a small ferry from the Orșova port to Șimian Island, where the Ada Kaleh mosque and fortress remains have been relocated. The island is quiet and has a museum.
20 lei
16:30
Explore the Ada Kaleh remains
The island holds the reconstructed mosque, a lighthouse, and some walls from the old island. Panels explain the history of the Turkish island that was lost to the dam.
Free
18:00
Dinner in Orșova
Return to town for a meal. Try the local specialty, pike perch with polenta, at a restaurant near the port.
40 lei
Stage four
Accommodation and practicalities
Orșova has a range of accommodation, from basic guesthouses to small hotels. Most are within walking distance of the port and train station. During summer, book ahead as the town fills up with tourists. Prices are generally lower than in Timișoara. If you prefer a quieter stay, consider the nearby village of Eșelnița, which has several pensions overlooking the Danube. Camping is also possible along the river, but facilities are limited.
09:00
Check out of your accommodation
Most places have a checkout time of 11am, but you can leave your luggage if you have a later departure.
Free
10:00
Visit the local market
The market near the centre sells fresh fruit, vegetables, and homemade cheese. It is a good place to buy snacks for the journey.
Free
11:00
Explore Eșelnița
A short drive or bus ride north of Orșova, this village has a quiet beach and several pensions. It is a good alternative base for exploring the gorges.
Free
13:00
Lunch in Eșelnița
Stop at a pension that serves food; many offer grilled fish and salads on their terraces with river views.
35 lei
Stage five
Return to Timișoara
The return journey is a good time to reflect on the gorges and plan your next visit. If you are driving, you can take a different route back, perhaps via the Cazanele Dunării (Danube Cauldrons) for more dramatic scenery. The train back to Timișoara runs in the afternoon and evening. Buses are also available but less comfortable. Allow extra time in case of delays, especially on Sundays when services are less frequent.
15:00
Depart Orșova by train
The afternoon train to Timișoara takes about three hours. Buy your ticket at the station or online in advance.
40 lei
16:00
Optional stop at Băile Herculane
If you have time and are driving, detour to this historic spa town. You can walk through the old centre and see the Roman baths.
Free
18:30
Arrive Timișoara Nord
From the station, take a tram or taxi to your accommodation. Trams run frequently until late.
3 lei
What three days cost, per person
Return train ticket Timișoara-Orșova
80 lei
Boat trip through the gorges
50 lei
Ferry to Șimian Island
20 lei
Lunch and dinner per day
70 lei
Accommodation per night (double room)
150 lei
Local transport (taxis, trams)
20 lei
Two people sharing a €55 double, eating where locals eat, one theatre ticket each. September 2026.