Skip to main content
Proudly Australian owned & operated Speak to one of our experienced consultants 1300 414 198 · 7 days a week
Rail journey · Bunnik Tours · 9 nights

Central European Christmas Markets Escape

  • Guided walking tours led by English-speaking local tour director and guides
  • Stay 9 nights in 4 to 5-star hotels throughout the journey
  • Breakfasts, lunches and dinners included, plus a Croatian Christmas lunch
From
$5,995 pp twin share
$7,445 pp solo share
9 nights
When & how much

Departure & Pricing

Your departure

Departs Fri 4 Dec 2026 Vienna
Returns Sun 13 Dec 2026 Zagreb
Duration 9 nights
From pp twin share $5,995
From pp solo share $7,445

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Departs Fri 4 Dec 2026 Returns Sun 13 Dec 2026
Duration9 nights
OperatorBunnik Tours
StyleRail journey
HighlightA festive small group tour through Austria, Slovenia and Croatia visiting Christmas markets, castles, lakes and coastal towns
Discover iconic Christmas markets across Austria, Slovenia & Croatia, each with its own festive charm. Experience magical winter cities from Vienna to Zagreb, glowing with lights, music, and tradition. Enjoy a seamless…

Step into a winter wonderland on this festive small group tour through Austria, Slovenia and Croatia. Wander through Vienna’s stunning squares, snack on sweet pastries in Ljubljana and take in the breathtaking views of Lake Bled. From Split’s ancient ruins to Plitvice’s icy lakes, it’s all Christmas cheer—and of course, plenty of mulled wine!

Destinations

Vienna, Austria ► Maribor, Slovenia ► Ljubljana, Slovenia ► Lake Bled, Slovenia ► Postojna, Slovenia ► Opatija, Croatia ► Zadar, Croatia ► Split, Croatia ► Plitvice Lakes, Zagreb ► Zagreb, Croatia

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Begin in Vienna

    Welcome to Vienna, the elegant Austrian capital that blends imperial grandeur with modern vibrancy. Known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage shaped by centuries of royalty and artistry, and as the home of legendary composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss, Vienna is ranked among the world's most liveable cities. Arrive by 5:00 pm for an orientation walk and welcome dinner with your tour director and fellow travellers.
  2. 2

    Vienna

    Embark on a guided walking tour through Vienna's magnificent Baroque architecture, visiting St Stephen's Cathedral, the Romanesque and Gothic mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese. Enjoy free time at Schwedenplatz for snacks and coffee, then experience your first Christmas market at Schönbrunn Palace Grounds with handcrafted goods and mulled wine. Ride the iconic Wiener Riesenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel) for breathtaking panoramic views, and visit another charming Christmas market to take in the enchanting sights, decorations, and festive atmosphere.
  3. 3

    Vienna - Maribor - Ljubljana

    Cross the border into Slovenia, a small enchanted country packed with charming cities and stunning architecture. Begin with a walking tour through Maribor's historic heart, then visit the Old Vine House (Hiša Stare Trte), home to the world's oldest fruit-bearing vine thriving for over 450 years, where you'll sample local wines and produce. Continue to Ljubljana, Slovenia's idyllic capital known for its elegant buildings, tree-lined boulevards, and friendly locals. Explore a festive Christmas market in the evening with bright decorations, bustling stalls, and mulled wine, followed by free time for dinner.
  4. 4

    Ljubljana - Lake Bled - Ljubljana

    Explore Ljubljana with a walking tour taking in the Central Market where locals sell fresh produce and artisanal goods, then ride the funicular from Krek Square to Ljubljana Castle for sweeping views of the city's colourful rooftops and surrounding hills. Journey to the serene Lake Bled, surrounded by snow-covered forests and the iconic Bled Island with its picturesque church. Visit a Slovenian chocolate shop to sip drinks from a chocolate glass, taste raw cacao beans, and watch a chocolatier demonstration. Take a leisurely walk around Lake Bled and visit Bled Castle perched on a cliff with panoramic views. Explore local Christmas markets brimming with festive treats and crafts. Return to Ljubljana for an evening at leisure to further explore the Christmas markets or find a cosy restaurant for dinner.
  5. 5

    Ljubljana - Postojna - Opatija

    Bid farewell to Ljubljana and head to Postojna to explore the remarkable Postojna Cave, a vast underground wonder nearly 12 million years old. Take a train ride through its impressive chambers and galleries, marvelling at intricate calcite formations. Cross the border into Croatia and arrive in Opatija, a picturesque coastal town once frequented by the Austro-Hungarian elite, now a perfect blend of history and beauty with elegant villas, serene parks, and charming churches. Enjoy an early evening walking tour of this quaint seaside town while taking in the local festive atmosphere. (Note: This is a particularly challenging day with extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.)
  6. 6

    Opatija - Zadar - Split

    Depart Opatija and journey along Croatia's stunning Adriatic coast with breathtaking views of the sea, snow-dusted hills of the Istrian Peninsula, and picturesque islands. Pass through charming coastal villages with majestic mountain ranges providing striking contrast to the coastal beauty. Stop in Zadar, a city where ancient Roman ruins, medieval churches, and vibrant modern attractions coexist, with free time for lunch and a guided sightseeing tour to uncover the city's rich history. Continue to Split, Croatia's second-largest coastal city, lively with a dynamic cultural scene, beautiful beaches, and the impressive Diocletian's Palace—a sprawling Roman fortress now home to bustling markets, cafes, and narrow stone streets. Arrive in Split this evening with time to get acquainted with the city.
  7. 7

    Split

    Witness the influence of the Roman Empire as you tour Split. Visit Diocletian's Palace, one of the world's most impressive Roman monuments and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage-listed site built by Emperor Diocletian in 305 AD as a residence, fortified town, and military fortress that now makes up Split's Old Town. Explore the palace's remarkable cellars to uncover hidden stories of centuries past. Pass by Jupiter's Temple, marvel at the grand Peristyle courtyard, and stand in awe of the majestic St. Domnius Cathedral. After the tour, enjoy free time to explore Split at leisure before a special experience: travel to Stella Croatica, an ethno village celebrating Dalmatian culture, tradition, and nature, for a delicious three-course lunch of traditional Christmas dishes. Spend the rest of the day at leisure wandering through charming narrow streets lined with local shops and cafes, or relax along the stunning waterfront soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
  8. 8

    Split - Plitvice Lakes - Zagreb

    Leave the coastal beauty of Split behind and journey through Croatia's captivating countryside towards the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. During winter months, freezing temperatures transform the lakes into a magical winter wonderland with cascading waterfalls frozen into ice formations. Depending on the weather, enjoy a peaceful walk through the lakes taking in the serene and frosty beauty, then sit down for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Continue your journey to Zagreb, Croatia's vibrant capital city nestled between the slopes of the Medvednica Mountains and the northern bank of the Sava River. Zagreb offers a unique blend of medieval charm and modern elegance with cobblestone streets, beautiful parks, and historic architecture. Arrive in Zagreb in the evening with the remainder of the day free to explore the surroundings.
  9. 9

    Zagreb

    Explore Zagreb on foot with a guided tour including views of iconic landmarks. Visit the famous St. Mark's church, known for its striking colourful roof representing the medieval coats of arms of Croatia, Zagreb, and Dalmatia. Pass by St. Catherine's church, a stunning example of Baroque architecture, and the impressive Zagreb Cathedral with its twin Gothic spires standing out against the city skyline. See the Parliament and Government Palace, key buildings in Croatia's political landscape offering insight into the country's history and governance. Discover the craft of Croatian gingerbread making and decorate your own heart-shaped gingerbread in the centre of Zagreb—a tradition inscribed in 2010 on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Enjoy free time to explore more of Zagreb, including the city's charming Christmas markets. This evening, meet back up with your group for a farewell dinner together.
  10. 10

    Finish Zagreb

    Your tour concludes after breakfast this morning. Bid farewell to your new friends and to the charming wonders of Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia.
What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

Sightseeing

  • Walking tour of Vienna, including St Stephen's Cathedral
  • Visit Schönbrunn Palace Grounds to explore their Christmas market
  • Enjoy views of Vienna on the Wiener Riesenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel)
  • Wander through the Vienna Christmas Markets
  • Maribor Walking Tour
  • Enjoy tastings at the Old Vine House, Hisa Stare Trte
  • Visit the Ljubljana Christmas Market and enjoy some mulled wine
  • Walking tour of Ljubljana and funicular ride up to the castle
  • Visit a Slovenian chocolate shop and enjoy a local tasting
  • Be amazed by the beauty of Bled Castle
  • Explore Bled Christmas Market
  • Marvel at the Postojna Cave
  • Explore the local Christmas markets in the small seaside town of Opatija
  • Zadar guided sightseeing
  • Walking tour of Split, including entry to Diocletian's Palace
  • Enjoy a Croatian Christmas Lunch at the Stella Croatica Village
  • Walk along the boardwalks in Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Free time to explore the Christmas Markets of Zagreb
  • Zagreb guided sightseeing
  • Enjoy a Gingerbread Heart decorating workshop


Touring

  • All touring is conducted in air-conditioned vehicles
  • Take the funicular to the Ljubljana Castle
  • Train through Postojna Cave

Meals

  • 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
  • Meal highlights: Klis, visit the village of Stella Croatica and enjoy a 3-course lunch of traditional Croatian Christmas dishes

Tour Guides

  • English-speaking locally based tour director
  • English-speaking locally based guides

Porterage

  • Porterage included where available

Not included

  • Travel insurance
  • Airfares ex Australia
Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

Accommodation

  • 9 nights in 4–5-star hotels

Properties include:

  • Raddison RED, Vienna
  • Occidental, Ljubljana
  • Amadria Park Hotel Agava, Opatija
  • Heritage Hotel Fermai MGallery, Split
  • Le Premier Boutique Hotel, Zagreb

Hotels listed are an indication and are subject to change without notice.

Double for Single Use: Please note the single supplement you pay on our tours entitles you to sole use of a room. A double for single use room is larger than a traditional single room offered in Europe. Often these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.

From the operator

Common questions about this voyage


Ready to lock in?

Book this rail journey

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

Enquire about this rail journey
Travel at 60 Social Getaways

Travel further when you're not travelling alone

Our Social Getaways are small-group holidays designed especially for over-60s Australians who want the freedom of a great trip without the work of planning every detail. A Travel at 60 host travels with the group, the operator handles the logistics, and you get to focus on the bit that matters — the people, the places, and the stories you'll bring home.

Open to solo travellers too. Many of our travellers book on their own and find their feet quickly in a friendly group of like-minded Australians. Reduced single-supplement options are available on most departures — ask one of our consultants and we'll talk you through what's offered on this trip.

  • A friendly Travel at 60 host — an Australian face on the ground, looking out for the group from day one.
  • Curated local guides & boutique suppliers — the same operators we'd book for our own families.
  • Real itineraries, not whirlwind tours — comfortable transfers, breathing room, and the “off the beaten track” stops the big bus tours skip.

Want to talk it through? Call 1300 414 198 7 days a week, Queensland time, and one of our consultants will walk you through it.

— The team at Travel at 60

A Travel at 60 host with travellers on a Social Getaway
From (twin) $5,995 pp
From (solo) $7,445 pp
Enquire