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Your departure
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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
Itinerary
- 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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.
Common questions about this voyage
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.
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