An Austro-Hungarian Christmas

Itinerary

Day 1 Vienna

Our tour will begin in magical Vienna, where well visit St Stephens Cathedral and explore the historic town centres most iconic landmarks. Along the way, well stop off at an authentic Viennese coffee house where well learn about the importance of cafs in Viennese history. After enjoying a freshly brewed coffee (complete with traditional liqueur and delicious slice of Sachertorte), our tour will continue with a visit to the impressive City Hall where the Vienna Christmas Dream Market awaits us. Well spend some time strolling the sparkling stalls before moving on to a nearby restaurant for dinner. And then? Well round off the day at the elegant Kursalon, where well be treated to a classical concert featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart.
Accommodation: TBC

Day 2 Vienna – Piber – Graz

After breakfast, our first stop of the day will be Piber where weve an appointment to keep at the Lipizzaner Stud, the home of Europes oldest purebred horses. While were here, well learn about blacksmithing and visit the carriage museum and well also have the chance to see the foals with their mothers. Then: its onwards to a nearby dairy, where well gain a fascinating insight into the cheesemaking process (and sample some local cheese, ham and wines while were at it). This afternoon, well set a course for Graz which will be bustling with Christmas markets and lit up with decorations at this special time of year.
Accommodation: TBC

Day 3 Graz – Lake Bled – Ljubljana

Farewell, Austria! Today our journey will continue into Slovenia as we set our sights on the awe-inspiring Lake Bled. When we get there, a unique experience awaits us at the castle: a visit to the famous Beehouse, which celebrates the Carniolan bee. After enjoying a honey tasting session, well move on to Ljubljana where well wrap up warm for an enchanting walking tour of the illuminated streets. Treat yourself to a cup of mulled wine and a honey cookie as we learn the story behind the citys Christmas decorations which are the brainchild of renowned painter Zmago Modic.
Accommodation: TBC

Day 4 Ljubljana – Postojna Cave – Ljubljana

After breakfast, well board the mini-coach and make tracks to a true natural wonder: the breathtaking Postojna Cave. While were here, well be lucky enough to take a ride on the underground train, taking a closer look at the cave systems towering rock formations, sparkling rivers and vast subterranean halls as we go. The afternoon will see us back in Ljubljana, where well have the opportunity to try our hands at a Slovenian recipe or two at an included cookery class. The best part? Well be able to eat our creations afterwards! Appetites satisfied, the evening will be yours to spend as you please.
Accommodation: TBC

Day 5 Ljubljana – Novo Mesto – Zagreb

On todays agenda: a stop at Novo Mesto, a city situated on a picturesque bend of the Krka River. After enjoying a traditional Slovenian snack in the historic centre, well move on to Zagreb where well tuck into a two-course lunch before embarking on a city tour. Then: one of the best Christmas markets in Europe is calling! Expect colourful displays, festive food and drink, concerts, choirs and much more. Its no wonder this bustling Advent attraction draws visitors from all over the world!
Accommodation: TBC

Day 6 Zagreb – Heviz

Today well shake off the chill of winter with a visit to the biggest thermal lake in Europe: Hvz, where well have the chance to take a dip in the warm waters. With beautiful water lilies peppering the lakes surface and humid air rising all around us this truly is an unforgettable experience, especially during the winter. Back on dry land, the afternoon will see us exploring the areas Christmas market. Expect lots of hearty foods including sausages, pickles, peppers and lngos.
Accommodation: TBC

Day 7 Heviz – Budapest

Theres nowhere more festive at Christmas time than Budapest making it the perfect place to round off our trip. Our last hurrah? A cruise along the Danube, with a buffet-style lunch. Then: time to say goodbye.