Yuletide Traditions

Welcome to the winter wonderland of Zagreb, Croatia! Your enchanting Christmas adventure begins the moment you touch down at Zagreb Airport, where you’ll be warmly greeted by our local English-speaking guide. Prepare for a seamless transfer as you are whisked away to the heart of Zagreb’s festive cheer.

Check into the luxurious Sheraton Zagreb 5* or a similar elite accommodation, where comfort meets elegance, providing the perfect home away from home. Take some time to refresh and unwind before embarking on an invigorating orientation walk. Feel the city’s pulse as your guide introduces you to the charming streets that echo with festive joy.

As dusk falls, immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of Europe’s Best Christmas Market. Zagreb, crowned as the queen of Christmas markets, invites you to explore its vibrant stalls, twinkling lights, and joyous carols. Sip on warm mulled wine as you stroll through the market, soaking up the rich aromas of gingerbread and roasted chestnuts.

The evening culminates in a welcome dinner, where you’ll savor traditional Croatian delicacies in a cozy, festive setting. Raise a toast to the splendid holiday journey ahead, filled with new friends, unforgettable experiences, and the spirit of Christmas.

Rise and shine to a delightful breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for a day full of exploration and enchantment in Zagreb. Meet your knowledgeable English-speaking guide and set off on a captivating walking tour that unveils the layered history and vibrant culture of both the Upper and Lower Towns.

Your journey begins in the bustling heart of the city. Marvel at the iconic St. Mark’s Church, its roof a mosaic of medieval coats of arms, providing a spectacular splash of color against the Zagreb sky. Stroll through the majestic avenues leading to the Zagreb Cathedral, a towering symbol of Gothic grandeur. The lively Ban Jelačić Square, a hub of activity, invites you to join locals in their daily rituals of shopping and leisurely café-hopping.

Venture off the beaten path to discover Zagreb’s hidden gems. Wander through the lively Dolac Market, a feast for the senses with its vibrant stalls brimming with fresh produce and local crafts. Meander down Tkalčićeva Street, where chic bistros and boutiques offer a modern contrast to the historic facades. Explore the picturesque courtyards and narrow alleys of the Upper Town, each turn revealing stories of the past and present.

Midday, enjoy a sumptuous 2-course lunch at Vinodol or a similar renowned restaurant, where the flavors of Croatian cuisine come to life in every bite.

Post-lunch, dive back into the festive spirit at Zagreb’s Christmas markets. Savor a specially included dessert tasting and warm yourself with a traditional hot alcoholic beverage, celebrating the local specialties of the market. The twinkling lights and cheerful decorations add to the day’s magic, creating a perfect holiday atmosphere.

Conclude your day with free time to explore Zagreb on your own. Perhaps revisit a favorite market stall, find the perfect souvenir, or simply enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the city’s many inviting restaurants. As night falls, return to your hotel for a restful night’s sleep, dreaming of the next day’s adventures.

After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, prepare for a day of exploration and enchantment. You’ll meet your English-speaking guide and embark on a scenic 2-hour drive to Ljubljana, the picturesque capital of Slovenia. This journey through rolling landscapes sets the stage for an unforgettable excursion.

Upon arrival, dive into the heart of Ljubljana with a guided walking tour of the old town. Ljubljana, a city that beautifully melds its rich history with a youthful vibrance, offers an array of architectural and cultural treasures. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with medieval and modernist marvels, including works by the famed Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik.

As the festive atmosphere intensifies, explore the vibrant Ljubljana Christmas markets. Nestled in the city center, these markets offer a treasure trove of holiday crafts, local delicacies, and warm beverages. Enjoy some free time to indulge in the festive fare, perhaps choosing a local specialty for lunch amidst the cheerful bustle of the market.

In the late afternoon, around 3:30 PM, you’ll depart Ljubljana and return to Zagreb, your heart full of the day’s magical experiences.

Back in Zagreb, a special farewell dinner awaits. Savor a sumptuous 3-course meal at a premier local restaurant, celebrating the culinary highlights of your journey. This festive dinner not only marks the culmination of your day but also provides a moment to reflect on the memories created.

After dinner, a comfortable transfer will take you back to your hotel. The evening is yours to relax or take one last stroll through Zagreb’s beautifully lit streets, soaking in the Yuletide spirit.

Awake in Zagreb to the aroma of breakfast being prepared, offering the perfect start to an exciting day. After enjoying your meal, it’s time to check out from your hotel. You’ll meet your Slovak-English speaking guide and driver who will escort you on your next adventure to Austria, beginning with the enchanting city of Graz.

The journey to Graz is as picturesque as the destination itself, with landscapes that transition from Croatian hills to Austrian elegance. Upon arrival in Graz, immerse yourself in the architectural beauty and historical depth of the old town through a guided walking tour. Explore the quaint streets lined with Renaissance and Baroque buildings that tell tales of centuries past.

After the tour, enjoy some free time to explore Graz’s vibrant Christmas market. Nestled in the heart of the city, the market offers a plethora of festive goods and treats. Take this opportunity to savor some local Austrian cuisine for lunch, perhaps indulging in traditional delights like sausages, pretzels, and warm Glühwein.

Post-lunch, continue your journey to Vienna, the city of music and festive dreams. Upon arrival, check into your elegant 4-star accommodation.

The evening brings a warm welcome to Vienna with a sumptuous 3-course dinner at your hotel. This meal provides not just nourishment, but a taste of Austria’s renowned culinary heritage. Enjoy the flavors and the company of your fellow travelers as you anticipate the adventures that await in Vienna.

After dinner, you may choose to unwind in the luxurious surroundings of your hotel or take a brief evening stroll through the nearby streets, soaking in the atmosphere of Vienna at night. Return to your room for a restful night, dreaming of the wonders that tomorrow may hold in one of Europe’s most illustrious capitals.

Your first morning in Vienna begins with a delightful breakfast at your hotel, setting the stage for a day immersed in the historic and cultural grandeur of Austria’s capital. After breakfast, you’ll meet your guide and embark on a comprehensive walking tour of Vienna, exploring the city’s architectural masterpieces and quaint, hidden alleys.

Your tour will guide you through some of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks, starting with the majestic Albertina museum and the grand Hofburg Palace, the former imperial residence. Wander along the upscale shopping streets of Kohlmarkt and Graben, where old-world charm meets modern luxury. The highlight is surely St. Stephen’s Cathedral, with its imposing Gothic structure and intricate tile roof.

Amidst the sightseeing, take a moment to experience a beloved Viennese tradition—a cup of Wiener Melange in a local café. This typical Viennese coffee will provide a delightful break before you continue exploring the smaller, medieval parts of the city, including the area around Mozart’s house.

For lunch, gather with your fellow travelers at a selected Viennese restaurant where you’ll enjoy a delicious 2-course meal, offering a taste of local Austrian cuisine.

Post-lunch, dive into the festive spirit with a tour of Vienna’s renowned Christmas markets. Known for their magical ambiance and extensive array of handcrafted gifts, seasonal goodies, and warm beverages, these markets are a highlight of any visit to Vienna. Indulge in a dessert tasting and sip a cup of hot punch or glühwein included in your tour, perfectly capturing the essence of the holiday season.

With your afternoon of structured activities complete, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Continue exploring the city’s many sights, do some shopping, or perhaps visit a museum or gallery. Dinner is on your own tonight, giving you the freedom to choose from Vienna’s excellent array of restaurants.

As night falls, return to your hotel for another night in the comfort of your Vienna base, filled with the day’s memories of sightseeing and festive delights.

Wake up to another beautiful morning in Vienna and enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Today’s adventure begins with an early start at 8:00 AM as you meet your guide and board the bus for a short journey to Slovakia’s charming capital, Bratislava.

Upon arrival in Bratislava, kick off your exploration with a panoramic bus tour that includes a visit to the iconic Bratislava Castle. Perched on a hill overlooking the Danube, the castle offers stunning views of the city and a glimpse into Slovakia’s regal history.

At 10:30 AM, you’ll dive into a unique culinary experience at a local cooking school. Here, you will engage in a hands-on cooking class where you’ll prepare a modern 3-course menu inspired by Slovak and Austrian cuisines. Under the guidance of professional chefs, you’ll work in teams to create delicious dishes that you will later enjoy as a meal. The cooking class also includes unlimited consumption of soft drinks, coffee, tea, beer, and a selection of Slovak and foreign wines, along with snacks, making for a truly indulgent experience.

After delighting in the fruits of your culinary labor, transfer to Bratislava’s Old Town for an orientation walking tour. Stroll through the quaint streets and vibrant squares, soaking up the city’s rich history and culture.

Following the walking tour, enjoy some free time to explore Bratislava’s Christmas markets. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, perhaps picking up some unique gifts or treating yourself to traditional Slovak holiday treats.

Around 5:00 PM, depart Bratislava and return to Vienna. The evening is yours to enjoy independently, whether you choose to dine at one of Vienna’s renowned restaurants, explore a Christmas Market or simply relax at your hotel.

n the final morning of your Yuletide journey, savor a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, reminiscing about the wonderful memories and new friendships formed over the past week. Each bite is a sweet reminder of the festive flavors and experiences you’ve enjoyed across some of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets.

After breakfast, meet your guide one last time for your transfer to Vienna Airport. This moment is bittersweet as you say goodbye to the magical cities that have hosted you and the charming festive markets that have filled your days with joy and your bags with treasures.

As you head to the airport, take a moment to reflect on the rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavors that have woven their way into your holiday spirit. The journey may be concluding, but the stories of this Christmas adventure will adorn your conversations and memories for many years to come.