Insight Vacations
Christmas Markets of Croatia, Slovenia & Austria - Small Group, Winter
Christmas Markets Of Croatia, Slovenia & Austria – Small Group, Winter
Indulge in a winter escapade across Vienna, Ljubljana and Zagreb on this 8-day Christmastime tour. With attractions handpicked by Local Experts at every stop, this festive trip is packed with winter wonderland magic. In Slovenia, enjoy a lush Ljubljana tasting experience, replete with local delicacies and fine wine. In Croatia, shop the Zagreb Christmas Market-always abuzz with excited chatter. Between the festive market stalls in Bratislava, be sure to breathe in the heady aromas of the sweet, cinnamon-infused drinks and sample the Slovakian Christmas delicacies to your heart’s content.
Dining Summary
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 7 Breakfast (B)
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Bratislava: Join your Local Expert for an exploration of the city center. Enjoy the vistas form the Bratislava Castle then take a walk in the charming Old Town among 19th century palaces and see the Slovak National Theater, Michael’s Gate and the Old Town Hall.
- Bratislava: An avid food lover takes you around the market on a Christmas food tour.
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert’s fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included – you’ll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Make Travel Matter
- Ljubljana: Meet inspiring individuals at Soncek – Cerebral Palsy Association of Slovenia, a social enterprise dedicated to empowering adults with disabilities through meaningful employment and community integration. Learn how their Care and Work Center provides guidance, care, and adapted jobs, allowing members to create handcrafted souvenirs, artwork and other unique items. Your visit directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
Top Rated Highlights
- Zagreb: Your Local Expert guides you through this two-tiered capital. Explore Donji Grad, the Lower Town, and see Ban Josip Jelacic Square and the cathedral.
- Zagreb: Ride the funicular to Gornji Grad, the medieval Upper Town, to view the former Presidential Palace, Stone Gate, St. Mark’s Church and the Lotršcak Tower.
- Postojna Cave: Enter by mini-train into these world-famous cave systems, before walking through an illuminated fairyland of stalactites and stalagmites.
- Ljubljana: Explore this elegant capital with your Local Expert, to see the castle City Hall, Cathedral of St Nicholas and Triple Bridge.
- Graz: See the UNESCO World Heritage listed historic city center on your orientation with your Travel Director.
- Bratislava: Join your Local Expert for an exploration of the city center. Enjoy the vistas form the Bratislava Castle then take a walk in the charming Old Town among 19th century palaces and see the Slovak National Theater, Michael’s Gate and the Old Town Hall.
- Bratislava: An avid food lover takes you around the market on a Christmas food tour.
- Vienna: A guided exploration of Schönbrunn Palace will have all your senses tingling. Stand beneath frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded Rococo frames where Mozart performed as a child prodigy.
- Vienna: Join your Local Expert for a city tour that reveals both the renowned sights and hidden gems of Vienna’s historic core. Travel along the Ring Road to see the Hofburg Imperial Residence, Opera House, Parliament Building and Karlskirche.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight’s luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
| Day 1 |
Zagreb, the vibrant capital of Croatia, is a city where history, culture, and a youthful spirit collide in an unforgettable way. Wander through the cobblestone streets of the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and marvel at its medieval architecture, such as the iconic St. Mark's Church, known for its colorful tiled roof depicting the coat of arms of Zagreb and the Kingdom of Croatia. Just steps away, visitors can explore the Zagreb Cathedral, the tallest building in Croatia, whose twin spires dominate the city skyline. The Cathedral’s impressive Gothic architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit landmark that connects visitors with Zagreb’s deep-rooted past. Beyond its historical allure, Zagreb is a city of lively squares, bustling markets, and charming street cafes. A stroll down Tkalčićeva Street, a pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare lined with quaint bars, cafes, and boutique shops, offers a delightful glimpse into local life. Meanwhile, Dolac Market, known as "the belly of Zagreb," is the city’s central marketplace and a sensory feast for travelers. Here, vendors sell fresh produce, aromatic spices, and traditional Croatian delicacies, providing an authentic taste of the region’s culinary heritage. Nearby, the Museum of Broken Relationships, an award-winning museum, offers a quirky yet poignant look at love and loss through its unique exhibits—an experience unlike any other in Europe. Art and nature blend seamlessly in Zagreb, making it a delightful city for leisurely exploration. The city is renowned for its green spaces, such as Zrinjevac Park, part of the Lenuci Horseshoe—a series of interconnected parks and squares. The Maksimir Park, the oldest public park in Zagreb, offers a lush oasis with its century-old trees, lakes, and Zagreb Zoo. For panoramic views of the city, head to Lotrščak Tower, where a cannon is fired every day at noon, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century. A fun fact about Zagreb: it is home to the shortest funicular in the world, connecting the Upper Town and Lower Town in just 64 seconds! The Zagreb Funicular, a 66-meter-long ride, has been in operation since 1890 and is an endearing part of the city’s heritage. Whether it’s the blend of historical charm and modern flair or the warmth of its people, Zagreb invites travelers to explore its rich tapestry of experiences and enjoy the best of Croatian culture . |
| Day 2 |
Zagreb, the vibrant capital of Croatia, is a city where history, culture, and a youthful spirit collide in an unforgettable way. Wander through the cobblestone streets of the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and marvel at its medieval architecture, such as the iconic St. Mark's Church, known for its colorful tiled roof depicting the coat of arms of Zagreb and the Kingdom of Croatia. Just steps away, visitors can explore the Zagreb Cathedral, the tallest building in Croatia, whose twin spires dominate the city skyline. The Cathedral’s impressive Gothic architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit landmark that connects visitors with Zagreb’s deep-rooted past. Beyond its historical allure, Zagreb is a city of lively squares, bustling markets, and charming street cafes. A stroll down Tkalčićeva Street, a pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare lined with quaint bars, cafes, and boutique shops, offers a delightful glimpse into local life. Meanwhile, Dolac Market, known as "the belly of Zagreb," is the city’s central marketplace and a sensory feast for travelers. Here, vendors sell fresh produce, aromatic spices, and traditional Croatian delicacies, providing an authentic taste of the region’s culinary heritage. Nearby, the Museum of Broken Relationships, an award-winning museum, offers a quirky yet poignant look at love and loss through its unique exhibits—an experience unlike any other in Europe. Art and nature blend seamlessly in Zagreb, making it a delightful city for leisurely exploration. The city is renowned for its green spaces, such as Zrinjevac Park, part of the Lenuci Horseshoe—a series of interconnected parks and squares. The Maksimir Park, the oldest public park in Zagreb, offers a lush oasis with its century-old trees, lakes, and Zagreb Zoo. For panoramic views of the city, head to Lotrščak Tower, where a cannon is fired every day at noon, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century. A fun fact about Zagreb: it is home to the shortest funicular in the world, connecting the Upper Town and Lower Town in just 64 seconds! The Zagreb Funicular, a 66-meter-long ride, has been in operation since 1890 and is an endearing part of the city’s heritage. Whether it’s the blend of historical charm and modern flair or the warmth of its people, Zagreb invites travelers to explore its rich tapestry of experiences and enjoy the best of Croatian culture . |
| Day 3 |
Zagreb, the vibrant capital of Croatia, is a city where history, culture, and a youthful spirit collide in an unforgettable way. Wander through the cobblestone streets of the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and marvel at its medieval architecture, such as the iconic St. Mark's Church, known for its colorful tiled roof depicting the coat of arms of Zagreb and the Kingdom of Croatia. Just steps away, visitors can explore the Zagreb Cathedral, the tallest building in Croatia, whose twin spires dominate the city skyline. The Cathedral’s impressive Gothic architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit landmark that connects visitors with Zagreb’s deep-rooted past. Beyond its historical allure, Zagreb is a city of lively squares, bustling markets, and charming street cafes. A stroll down Tkalčićeva Street, a pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare lined with quaint bars, cafes, and boutique shops, offers a delightful glimpse into local life. Meanwhile, Dolac Market, known as "the belly of Zagreb," is the city’s central marketplace and a sensory feast for travelers. Here, vendors sell fresh produce, aromatic spices, and traditional Croatian delicacies, providing an authentic taste of the region’s culinary heritage. Nearby, the Museum of Broken Relationships, an award-winning museum, offers a quirky yet poignant look at love and loss through its unique exhibits—an experience unlike any other in Europe. Art and nature blend seamlessly in Zagreb, making it a delightful city for leisurely exploration. The city is renowned for its green spaces, such as Zrinjevac Park, part of the Lenuci Horseshoe—a series of interconnected parks and squares. The Maksimir Park, the oldest public park in Zagreb, offers a lush oasis with its century-old trees, lakes, and Zagreb Zoo. For panoramic views of the city, head to Lotrščak Tower, where a cannon is fired every day at noon, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century. A fun fact about Zagreb: it is home to the shortest funicular in the world, connecting the Upper Town and Lower Town in just 64 seconds! The Zagreb Funicular, a 66-meter-long ride, has been in operation since 1890 and is an endearing part of the city’s heritage. Whether it’s the blend of historical charm and modern flair or the warmth of its people, Zagreb invites travelers to explore its rich tapestry of experiences and enjoy the best of Croatian culture . |
| Day 4 |
Ljubljana, Slovenia's charming capital, offers a delightful blend of historical allure and modern vibrancy. Nestled along the Ljubljanica River, this picturesque city invites visitors to explore its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. At the heart of Ljubljana is the iconic Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hilltop with stunning panoramic views of the city. This medieval fortress, dating back to the 11th century, houses several museums and hosts various cultural events. For more details, visit the Ljubljana Castle website. The city's center is renowned for its striking Art Nouveau architecture and charming bridges, including the famous Triple Bridge designed by architect Jože Plečnik. The lively atmosphere of Prešeren Square, named after Slovenia's greatest poet, is perfect for people-watching and soaking in the local ambiance. Adjacent to the square, you'll find the bustling Central Market, where local produce and artisanal goods are on offer. For a deeper dive into the architectural marvels of Ljubljana, check out Visit Ljubljana Ljubljana's cultural offerings extend beyond architecture. The city's numerous museums, including the National Gallery and the Museum of Modern Art, showcase Slovenia's rich artistic heritage. Additionally, the Tivoli Park, Ljubljana's largest green space, provides a serene escape with its lush landscapes and scenic walking trails. The park's official page offers more insights into this beautiful retreat. Fun Fact: Ljubljana was named the European Green Capital in 2016, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The city’s charming blend of green spaces and pedestrian-friendly streets makes it an excellent destination for those looking to explore in a relaxed and environmentally-conscious setting. |
| Day 5 |
Ljubljana, Slovenia's charming capital, offers a delightful blend of historical allure and modern vibrancy. Nestled along the Ljubljanica River, this picturesque city invites visitors to explore its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. At the heart of Ljubljana is the iconic Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hilltop with stunning panoramic views of the city. This medieval fortress, dating back to the 11th century, houses several museums and hosts various cultural events. For more details, visit the Ljubljana Castle website. The city's center is renowned for its striking Art Nouveau architecture and charming bridges, including the famous Triple Bridge designed by architect Jože Plečnik. The lively atmosphere of Prešeren Square, named after Slovenia's greatest poet, is perfect for people-watching and soaking in the local ambiance. Adjacent to the square, you'll find the bustling Central Market, where local produce and artisanal goods are on offer. For a deeper dive into the architectural marvels of Ljubljana, check out Visit Ljubljana Ljubljana's cultural offerings extend beyond architecture. The city's numerous museums, including the National Gallery and the Museum of Modern Art, showcase Slovenia's rich artistic heritage. Additionally, the Tivoli Park, Ljubljana's largest green space, provides a serene escape with its lush landscapes and scenic walking trails. The park's official page offers more insights into this beautiful retreat. Fun Fact: Ljubljana was named the European Green Capital in 2016, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The city’s charming blend of green spaces and pedestrian-friendly streets makes it an excellent destination for those looking to explore in a relaxed and environmentally-conscious setting. |
| Day 6 |
This charming little capital town of Slovakia is the perfect destination for those who want a European experience with a quieter and less crowded feel. You could spend hours strolling the cobblestone streets of the Gothic old town, or the beautiful Bratislava Castle, a restored Baroque castle. |
| Day 7 |
Classical music, palaces, exhilarating art... and did we mention the coffee? Vienna, Austria is a city of elevated tastes and a must-see experience for any European traveler.
Set on the Danube River, Vienna's attractions include Schönbrunn Palace, The Hofburg, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the public park Prater, which boasts a giant ferris wheel. This modern capital of Austria can be navigated on foot and via public transportation. Though it endured heavy damage during World War II, the character of Vienna lures visitors in, and stays with them long after they depart. |
| Day 8 |
Classical music, palaces, exhilarating art... and did we mention the coffee? Vienna, Austria is a city of elevated tastes and a must-see experience for any European traveler.
Set on the Danube River, Vienna's attractions include Schönbrunn Palace, The Hofburg, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the public park Prater, which boasts a giant ferris wheel. This modern capital of Austria can be navigated on foot and via public transportation. Though it endured heavy damage during World War II, the character of Vienna lures visitors in, and stays with them long after they depart. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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12/07/26 - 12/14/26 |
Starting At $3,175 |
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Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discounts. Trip prices and discounts are subject to change.
Airfare is additional. Tour prices, dates and itineraries are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply.
