Celebrate the Season
Across Europe’s Most Magical Christmas Markets
9-Day International Trip
Celebrate the Season
Journey through four enchanting countries—Croatia, Slovenia, Slovakia, and Austria—on a festive 9-day, 8-night culinary vacation through the heart of Old Europe to discover Old Europe's Finest Christmas Markets. From Zagreb’s award-winning market to Vienna’s grand holiday displays, each stop sparkles with twinkling lights, timeless traditions, and the cozy charm of seasonal cheer, offering unforgettable moments of food, music, markets, and memories.
Trip Highlights
- Zagreb, Croatia: Begin your adventure with a festive welcome dinner. Explore Zagreb’s award-winning Christmas market, famous for its glowing lights, live music, and artisanal holiday treats.
- Ljubljana, Slovenia: Journey to Slovenia’s storybook capital for a guided tour through its historic Old Town. Stroll past festive lights and iconic architecture before browsing Ljubljana’s lively Christmas markets. Enjoy time to explore, shop, and savor local specialties at your own pace.
- Vienna, Austria: Discover the imperial beauty of Vienna through guided city walks, grand palaces, and festive Christmas markets. Savor a traditional apple strudel, explore Schönbrunn Palace, and enjoy classic Viennese flavors—from cozy cafés to a celebratory schnitzel dinner.
- Bratislava, Slovakia: Take in sweeping views from Bratislava Castle before diving into a hands-on cooking class inspired by Slovak and Austrian cuisine. Then, explore the charming Old Town and soak up the festive spirit at Bratislava’s lively Christmas markets.
- Culinary Experiences: Participate in interactive cooking demonstrations, indulge in tastings of local sweets, and warm up with seasonal sips of mulled wine throughout the journey.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage with local artisans, learn about regional holiday traditions, and enjoy guided tours that delve into the rich history and culture of each destination.
You can view the full itinerary by clicking the detailed Itinerary tab above.
9-Day International Trip
Celebrate the Season
Celebrate the season through four enchanting countries—Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, and Slovakia—on a festive 9-day, 8-night culinary vacation discover Old Europe's Most Magical Christmas Markets. Enjoy cooking demos, guided food tours, and exclusive holiday experiences. A magical journey filled with lights, flavors, and traditions awaits you!
December 3rd to 11th, 2025
$5,997 Double
$6,487 Single
or call 1-888-426-1993
Trip Details
Price
Double: $5,997
Single: $6,487
Embark on an enchanting 9-day, 8-night culinary vacation through the festive heart of Old Europe, where every detail is meticulously taken care of. Our all-inclusive tour is priced at $5,997 per person for double occupancy, allowing you to share this magical experience with a loved one or fellow traveler. For those who prefer the comfort and privacy of their own space, a single occupancy option is available for $6,487.
This price includes everything you need for a magical and seamless holiday experience—4-star accommodations, guided tours through Europe’s most iconic Christmas markets, local transportation, daily meals, gratuities, and a comprehensive array of festive activities. All you have to do is enjoy the magic of Christmas and immerse yourself in the timeless traditions and joyful celebrations of Old Europe’s finest markets.
Trip Length
9-Days, 8-Nights International Trip
Over the course of 9-days and 8-nights, you will experience the charm and magic of Old Europe’s most beloved Christmas markets. From the sparkling lights of Zagreb to the historic markets of Vienna, each day is filled with joy, discovery, and seasonal wonder. This perfectly paced tour is designed to give you a deep appreciation of local traditions while ensuring ample time to explore, relax, and soak in the festive atmosphere. Get ready to celebrate the holiday season like never before!
Dates
December 3rd to December 11th, 2025
Mark your calendars for a spectacular winter holiday from December 3rd to December 11th on a 9-day, 8-night tour that captures the festive spirit of Old Europe's finest Christmas markets. This exclusive tour is scheduled during one of the most magical times of the year, offering you the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the joyous atmosphere and timeless traditions that only these markets can offer. Reserve your spot now and prepare to experience the ultimate holiday season filled with lights, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Meeting Point
The trip cost includes airfare departing from O'Hare International Airport. Looking to begin your adventure elsewhere? Please let us know and we're happy to provide pricing excluding airfare from the price and happy to assist you in making alternative travel plans, if desired.
Ending Point
The tour will conclude at O'Hare International Airport where you’ll be guided to the appropriate check-in area for your return flight home. If you’ve made alternative travel arrangements, we will provide detailed instructions to ensure a seamless conclusion to your trip.
Group Size
Intimate groups of 10 to 24 travelers for a personalized and festive experience.
This culinary vacation is thoughtfully designed for an exclusive group of just 10 to 24 guests, ensuring a highly personalized and immersive holiday adventure. This intimate setting allows for enhanced experiences, including exclusive access to hidden gems, meaningful cultural interactions, and a relaxed pace to fully enjoy the festive ambiance. Join us for a magical journey where the intimacy of the group adds to the warmth and joy of the season.
Included
Airfare: Round-trip airfare to Zagreb, Croatia, and return from Vienna, Austria, to the US.
Accommodation: 7 nights of accommodation in carefully selected 4-star hotels:
- Zagreb: 3 nights
- Vienna: 4 nights
Welcome Dinner: Begin your journey with a festive welcome dinner and onsite orientation in Zagreb.
Meals: Enjoy 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 4 dinners as outlined in the itinerary, including special culinary experiences and local holiday delicacies.
Activities:
- Entrance fees to all Christmas markets visited on the itinerary.
- Cooking demonstrations with local chefs.
- Guided food tours showcasing traditional holiday treats.
- Cultural site visits and unique holiday-themed activities.
Transportation: Private motorcoach transportation between destinations for the duration of the tour.
Local Guide: Fully escorted tour with an experienced English-speaking guide and trip representative to ensure a seamless and immersive experience.
Gratuities: All gratuities for meals, the tour guide, escort, and driver.
Taxes and Service Charges: All applicable taxes and service charges included.
Not Included
Airport Parking & Transfers: Parking fees at the airport and transfers to/from the airport from your home.
Meals & Beverages: We include most meals during the tour. However, there may be occasions when lunch or dinner is not provided, allowing you the opportunity to explore local restaurants and enjoy regional cuisine on your own.
Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as laundry, phone or data charges, and shopping at Christmas markets.
Passport & Visa Fees: Passport fees or visa-related expenses. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the tour ends. No visa's are required for 2025 travel.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included but is highly recommended. We can provide assistance in selecting the right policy if needed.
Additional Notes
Physical Activity: Some excursions involve walking on uneven surfaces, cobblestone streets, and within large market areas. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended for your safety and comfort during these activities.
Weather Considerations: December in Old Europe brings chilly winter weather with average temperatures ranging from 30°F to 40°F (-1°C to 4°C). While the markets are enchanting in the cold, layering is key to staying warm. A warm coat, gloves, scarf, and hat are essential, as well as waterproof footwear for possible snow or rain.
What to Wear & Pack: Pack warm layers, including a winter coat, sweaters, thermal base layers, and comfortable walking shoes suitable for colder weather and uneven surfaces. Don’t forget essentials like gloves, a scarf, and a hat to keep warm while exploring outdoor markets. A compact umbrella or waterproof jacket may also be useful for unexpected weather.
Time Zone: The tour spans multiple countries in Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1. In December, these countries observe standard time, meaning they are 7 hours ahead of U.S. Central Standard Time (CST). Adjust your schedule accordingly for communications or activities.
Voltage: Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, and Slovakia use a 230V electrical system with a frequency of 50Hz. The standard power plugs are Type C and Type F, which have two round prongs. If your devices use a different plug type or are not compatible with 230V, bring a plug adapter and voltage converter for proper use.
Currency: Each country on the tour uses the Euro (€) except Croatia, which uses the Croatian Kuna (HRK). Credit cards are widely accepted in all locations, but we recommend carrying some local currency for smaller purchases at the markets or street vendors.
Dietary Restrictions: Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance so we can make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the tour.
Travel Documents & Visas: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the tour concludes. Starting in 2025, U.S. citizens will need to obtain an ETIAS authorization to travel to Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Slovakia, and other Schengen Area countries. This is a straightforward online application process, and approval is usually granted quickly. Please apply well in advance of your departure.
Terms and Conditions: Please read our trip terms and conditions.
See itinerary for more informationItinerary
Group Flight from Chicago to Zagreb
Your holiday adventure begins! Meet your Tour Coordinator at Chicago O’Hare International Airport for check-in and a smooth start to your journey. Board your overnight flight to Croatia and get ready for a festive European escape filled with holiday charm and cultural delights.
Highlights:
- Meet your Tour Coordinator at O’Hare International Airport
- Overnight international flight from Chicago to Zagreb, Croatia
Private Airport Transfer | Overnight in Zagreb | Welcome Dinner included
Touch down in Croatia and step into the holiday magic of Zagreb! After a warm airport welcome, settle into your elegant hotel and take your first festive steps through Europe’s Best Christmas Market.
Highlights:
- Arrival at Zagreb Airport and private group transfer to hotel
- Check-in at Sheraton Zagreb 5* (or similar luxury hotel)
- Orientation walk through central Zagreb
- Visit to Zagreb’s award-winning Christmas Market
- Enjoy mulled wine, local holiday treats, and festive cheer
- Welcome dinner featuring traditional Croatian cuisine
Overnight in Zagreb | Breakfast & Lunch included
Discover the layered beauty of Zagreb through a guided city tour, local market strolls, and a festive afternoon filled with sweet treats and seasonal delights.
Highlights:- Guided walking tour of Zagreb’s Upper and Lower Towns
- Visits to St. Mark’s Church, Zagreb Cathedral & Ban Jelačić Square
- Stroll through Dolac Market and vibrant Tkalčićeva Street
- 2-course lunch at Vinodol or a similar local favorite
- Afternoon visit to Zagreb’s Christmas Markets
- Included dessert tasting and hot alcoholic beverage
- Free time to explore Zagreb’s shops, cafés, and holiday scenes
- Return to hotel for overnight stay
Overnight in Zagreb | Breakfast & Dinner included
Travel to Slovenia’s charming capital for a day of architectural beauty, holiday markets, and festive cheer—then return to Zagreb for a special farewell dinner.
Highlights:- Scenic drive from Zagreb to Ljubljana (approx. 2 hours)
- Guided walking tour of Ljubljana’s old town
- Admire works by famed architect Jože Plečnik and medieval landmarks
- Free time to explore Ljubljana’s Christmas markets and local holiday fare
- Return to Zagreb in the late afternoon
- 3-course dinner at a premier local restaurant
- Private transfer back to your hotel for overnight stay
Overnight in Vienna | Breakfast & Dinner included
Cross the border into Austria with stops in Graz. Explore charming old towns, festive markets, and enjoy a warm Austrian welcome with your first dinner in Vienna.
Highlights:
- Breakfast and hotel check-out in Zagreb
- Scenic transfer from Zagreb to Graz, Austria
- Guided walking tour of Graz’s historic old town
- Free time at Graz Christmas Market with lunch on your own
- Afternoon transfer to Vienna
- Check-in at your 4-star hotel in Vienna
- 3-course welcome dinner at the hotel
Overnight in Vienna | Breakfast & Lunch included
Experience the elegance and festivity of Vienna through a guided city tour, classic coffeehouse culture, and its world-famous Christmas markets.
Highlights:
- Breakfast at your hotel
- Guided walking tour of Vienna’s historic center
- Visits to Albertina, Hofburg Palace, Kohlmarkt, Graben, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral
- Stop for a traditional Wiener Melange coffee in a local café
- 2-course lunch at a Viennese restaurant
- Afternoon tour of Vienna’s Christmas Markets
- Included dessert tasting and cup of hot punch or glühwein
- Free time for shopping, museums, or exploring at your own pace
- Dinner on your own
- Return to hotel for overnight stay
Overnight in Vienna | Breakfast & Lunch included
Cross into Slovakia for a day of castle views, hands-on cooking, and festive cheer in Bratislava’s Old Town and Christmas markets.
Highlights:
- Breakfast at your hotel in Vienna
- Morning transfer to Bratislava (approx. 1 hour)
- Panoramic city tour including Bratislava Castle
- Hands-on cooking class with 3-course lunch
- Walking tour of Bratislava’s Old Town
- Free time to explore Bratislava Christmas Markets
- Late afternoon return to Vienna
- Evening at leisure in Vienna (dinner on your own)
- Overnight stay in Vienna
Overnight in Vienna | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
From market tastings to palace halls, immerse yourself in Vienna’s imperial elegance and holiday warmth.
Highlights:
- Breakfast at your hotel
- Panoramic city bus tour of Vienna’s historic sites (external views only)
- Visit to Naschmarkt with time to explore and lunch on your own
- Apple strudel demonstration and tasting with coffee/tea
- Audio-guided “Imperial Tour” of Schönbrunn Palace (22 rooms)
- Free time at Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market
- Return to hotel to relax
- 3-course dinner at a traditional Viennese restaurant featuring Wiener Schnitzel
- Overnight stay in Vienna
Breakfast included | Private Airport Transfer | Group Flight to Chicago
Bid farewell to the festive charm of Europe as your Christmas journey comes to a close. Enjoy one last breakfast in Vienna before heading home with a heart full of memories and holiday cheer.
Highlights:
- Breakfast at your hotel in Vienna
- Private transfer to Vienna Airport
- Group flight from Vienna (VIE) to Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
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