Yuletide Traditions

Celebrate the Season Across Europe’s Most Magical Christmas Markets

9-Day International Trip

Yuletide Traditions

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

Yuletide Traditions

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+ Air-Inclusive Package

$4,997+ Land-Only Package

or call 1-888-426-1993

Trip Details

Price

Air-Inclusive Package (Departing from O’Hare International Airport):

$5,997 per person in a double room
$6,487 per person in a single room

Land-Only Package (Airfare and airport transfers not included):

$4,997 per person in a double room
$5,487 per person in a single room

Note: Guests booking the Land-Only Package are responsible for arranging their own flights and transportation to the host hotel in Zagreb, Croatia. Please plan to arrive by the afternoon of Wednesday, December 4, 2025, in time for the Welcome Dinner.

Trip Length

9-Days, 8-Nights International Trip

(8 Days / 7 Nights for Land-Only guests)

Over the course of 9 magical days and 8 cozy nights, you’ll explore the charm and sparkle of Old Europe’s most beloved Christmas markets. From the festive streets of Zagreb to the twinkling traditions of Vienna, each day is filled with seasonal joy, cultural discovery, and holiday magic.

This thoughtfully paced tour is designed to give you a meaningful connection to local customs, with plenty of time to explore, unwind, and fully immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit.

Note: Land-Only guests should plan to arrive at the host hotel in Zagreb, Croatia by the afternoon of Wednesday, December 4, 2025. Their experience includes 8 days and 7 nights of accommodations and activities, beginning with the Welcome Dinner that evening.

Dates

Wednesday, December 3 – Thursday, December 11, 2025

Mark your calendars for a spectacular winter holiday! This 9-day, 8-night tour captures the festive spirit of Old Europe’s most iconic Christmas markets. Scheduled during the most magical time of year, this exclusive journey invites you to experience the lights, flavors, and traditions that make the season truly special.

Note: Guests booking the Land-Only Package should plan to arrive in Zagreb, Croatia by the afternoon of Wednesday, December 4, in time for the Welcome Dinner.

Meeting Point

Air-Inclusive Guests:
Your Christmas market adventure begins at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, where a Travel Deliciously representative will assist with check-in and ensure a smooth group departure. Round-trip airfare and airport transfers are included in your package, flying into Zagreb and returning from Vienna.

Land-Only Guests:
Guests arranging their own flights should book travel that arrives in Zagreb (ZAG) by the afternoon of Wednesday, December 4, 2025, in time for the Welcome Dinner. The tour concludes in Vienna (VIE) on Thursday, December 11, so your return flight should depart from there. Complete arrival and departure details, including hotel information and local transportation options, will be provided in advance for a seamless independent travel experience.

Ending Point

Air-Inclusive Guests:
Your holiday adventure concludes with a group transfer to Vienna International Airport (VIE) for your return flight to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). All airfare and airport transfers are included in your package, and a Travel Deliciously representative will assist with your departure to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey home.

Land-Only Guests:
For guests with independent travel arrangements, the tour ends on the morning of Thursday, December 11, 2025, in Vienna, Austria. After breakfast and hotel check-out, you are responsible for arranging your own transportation to Vienna International Airport (VIE) or your next destination. Detailed check-out instructions and transfer recommendations will be provided in advance.

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

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.

Optional Add-On: Round-trip airfare and airport transfers from/to O’Hare International Airport are included in the Air-Inclusive Package. These are not included in the Land-Only Package.

Not Included

Airfare & Airport Transfers (for Land-Only Package): Guests booking the Land-Only Package are responsible for arranging their own flights into Zagreb (ZAG) and out of Vienna (VIE), along with their airport transfers.

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 information

Itinerary

View printable itinerary

Day 1 Wednesday, December 3, 2025: Departure Day

Overnight Flight to Croatia (Air-Inclusive Package Only)

Your holiday adventure begins!
Air-Inclusive guests will meet their dedicated Travel Deliciously Tour Coordinator at Chicago O’Hare International Airport for check-in and a warm group send-off. Then, board your overnight flight to Zagreb, Croatia, where your European Christmas market journey awaits.

Land-Only guests will begin their tour on Thursday, December 4 upon arrival at the host hotel in Zagreb. Detailed arrival instructions will be provided to ensure a seamless check-in and festive welcome.

Highlights:

Meet your Tour Coordinator at O’Hare International Airport (Air-Inclusive)
Overnight international flight from Chicago to Zagreb
Independent travel arrangements begin for Land-Only guests

Day 2 Thursday, December 4, 2025: Arrival in Zagreb – The Christmas Capital of Europe

Private Airport Transfer (Air-Inclusive) | Overnight in Zagreb | Welcome Dinner included

Welcome to Croatia and the start of your European Christmas adventure!

Air-Inclusive guests will arrive at Zagreb Airport (ZAG) and be greeted by a private driver for a comfortable group transfer to your hotel in the heart of the city.

Land-Only guests should plan to arrive at the host hotel by mid-afternoon to check in and settle before the evening festivities. Complete arrival details will be shared in advance for a smooth and festive start.

After some time to unwind, gather for an orientation walk through central Zagreb followed by your first visit to the city’s award-winning Christmas Market, filled with sparkling lights, mulled wine, and seasonal delights. In the evening, enjoy a warm Welcome Dinner featuring traditional Croatian cuisine.

Highlights:

Arrival at Zagreb Airport and private group transfer (Air-Inclusive)
Check-in at Sheraton Zagreb 5* (or similar luxury hotel)
Orientation walk through central Zagreb
Visit to Zagreb’s renowned Christmas Market
Enjoy mulled wine, local holiday treats, and festive cheer
Welcome Dinner featuring traditional Croatian cuisine

Day 3 Friday, December 5, 2025: Delving Deeper into Zagreb’s Charm

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

Day 4 Saturday, December 6, 2025: A Day Trip to Ljubljana – Jewel of Slovenia

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

Day 5 Sunday, December 7, 2025: Journey to Austria – Graz and Vienna

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

Day 6 Monday, December 8, 2025: Vienna's Vistas and Vibrant Christmas Markets

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

Day 7 Tuesday, December 9, 2025: Culinary Delights in Bratislava

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

Day 8 Wednesday, December 10, 2025: Viennese Vignettes and Schönbrunn Splendor

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

Day 9 Thursday, December 11, 2025: Fond Farewells and Departure from Vienna

Breakfast included | Private Airport Transfer + Group Flight to Chicago (Air-Inclusive)

Bid farewell to the festive charm of Europe as your magical Christmas market journey comes to a close.

Air-Inclusive guests will enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel in Vienna before a private group transfer to Vienna International Airport (VIE) for the return flight to Chicago O’Hare (ORD). Your flight and transfer are included, ensuring a smooth and easy conclusion to your trip.

Land-Only guests will check out independently and are responsible for arranging their own transportation to Vienna Airport or their next destination. We recommend booking later flights to allow time for a relaxed morning departure.

Highlights: