Winter in Croatia & Slovenia
Duration: 10 days
Highlights: Celebrate the season crafting silver jewelry in cozy Ljubljana, marvel at Postojna Cave’s enchanting subterranean Nativity scene, and savor Radovljica’s traditional gingerbread —winter highlights of your journey through Croatia and Slovenia.
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Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Zagreb
Upon arrival at Zagreb airport, meet your Guardian Angel and driver and privately transfer to your hotel in the comfort of your private luxury vehicle. The emainder of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
Meal Plan: B
Day 2 - Zagreb
Discover the best of northern Croatia with a full-day journey that blends the vibrant energy of Zagreb with the charm of nearby Samobor. Begin with a private guided tour through Zagreb, Croatia’s lively capital, set between the Sava River and Mount Medvednica. Explore the medieval streets of Gornji Grad (Upper Town), home to the Gothic cathedral and Parliament, then stroll through Donji Grad (Lower Town), where 19th- century architecture, lively squares, and café-lined streets bring the city to life. Highlights include Ban Jelačić Square, Tkalčićeva Street, and Zagreb’s rich café culture. After lunch at leisure, head to the picturesque town of Samobor, nestled in forested hills just outside the city. With its cobblestone streets, pastel facades, and artisan spirit, Samobor offers a peaceful contrast to the capital. Enjoy a leisurely walk through its charming center, taste the famous kremsnita custard slice, and sample local salami paired with Bermet, the town’s unique herbal red wine.
Overnight: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
Meal Plan: B
Day 3 - Zagreb
Discover Varazdin, a city often referred to as Little Vienna for its refined Baroque architecture and aristocratic past. Once the capital of Croatia and home to nobles, artisans, and artists, Varazdin flourished in the 18th century and still retains the elegance of its golden age. Accompanied by your private guide, explore the heart of the Old Town, where cobblestone streets, pastel façades, and centuries-old buildings reveal a rich cultural legacy. Visit the Baroque fortress that now houses the town museum, admire the 500-year-old City Hall—among the oldest in Europe—and stroll through the cemetery, known as one of the most beautiful in Europe for its landscaped design and artistic tombs. Pause to enjoy lunch (payable locally) during your day of discovery, then continue exploring this cultural capital of northern Croatia, where history, art, and charm meet at every corner.
Overnight: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
Meal Plan: B
Day 4 - Zagreb - Ljubljana
Head north into Slovenia today, with a stop in Maribor, a charming city nestled among rolling hills and vineyards. Upon arrival, meet your local guide for a walking tour of the historic old town, where cobbled streets, baroque facades, and quiet courtyards reveal the city's Habsburg roots and rich local traditions. Stroll along the Drava River, discover lively squares and hidden corners, and take in the atmosphere of a city shaped by trade, culture, and winemaking. After the tour, enjoy lunch at leisure at a local restaurant, where the cuisine of the Štajerska region reflects the flavors of the land and season. In the afternoon, descend into one of Europe’s largest classical wine cellars, stretching over two kilometers beneath the city. Explore its vaulted tunnels, lined with ancient barrels, and learn about Maribor’s centuries-old winemaking heritage. Conclude your visit with a tasting of select local wines before continuing onward to Ljubljana.
Overnight: Grand Hotel Union
Meal Plan: B
Day 5 - Ljubljana
Settle into a cozy studio in Ljubljana and join your host for a relaxed, hands-on introduction to traditional silversmithing. Start with a brief brainstorming session, exploring beginner-friendly design ideas and adding your own creative touches. Guided by an expert, get to know the tools and materials before diving into the process of crafting your own silver jewelry. Learn techniques like sawing, filing, sanding, hammering, firing, and polishing, with step-by-step demonstrations and personalized guidance along the way. As your skills grow with each stage, you'll shape a unique piece that reflects your personal style. By the end, you’ll take home a one-of-a-kind silver creation—a meaningful, handmade souvenir of your time in Ljubljana. After lunch at leisure step into the festive heart of Ljubljana on a half-day walking tour through its enchanting Christmas markets. Wander along the Ljubljanica River, where stalls brim with handcrafted gifts, traditional sweets, and twinkling decorations that transform the city into a winter wonderland. Stroll through the historic old town, where cobbled streets and festive lights create a magical backdrop. Pause at the lively Kongresni trg and Prešeren Square markets, soaking in the warm atmosphere filled with the scents of mulled wine and freshly baked potica. Watch artisans at work and discover unique Slovenian crafts perfect for holiday gifts.
Overnight: Grand Hotel Union
Meal Plan: B
Day 6 - Ljubljana
Venture from Ljubljana into Slovenia’s karst heartland for a day steeped in natural wonder and medieval legend. Begin with a ride on the iconic train deep into Postojna Cave, where vast chambers and surreal rock formations unfold in a spectacular underground world. During the Christmas season, the cave transforms into the world’s largest subterranean live Nativity scene, with biblical tableaux brought to life by performers, music, and magical lighting. Outside the festive period, the cave remains awe-inspiring—its scale, formations, and atmosphere offering a breathtaking glimpse into Slovenia’s geological soul. Next, visit the dramatic Predjama Castle, perched high on a 123-meter cliff and partly built into the rock face. Step into the story of the legendary rebel knight Erazem, exploring hidden passages, stone-carved chambers, and medieval defenses that blend seamlessly with the mountain itself.
Overnight: Grand Hotel Union
Meal Plan: B
Day 7 - Ljubljana - Lake Bled via Radovljica
Depart from Ljubljana for a scenic transfer to Lake Bled, with a charming stop in Radovljica uncovering one of Slovenia’s most beloved traditions. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town, then enter the warm, fragrant world of the Lectar Museum, housed in a historic inn dating back over 250 years. Discover the art of the red lect hearts—hand-decorated honey bread cookies that have long symbolized love and affection in Slovenian culture. Watch artisans at work as they shape and decorate each heart with precision, using skills passed down through generations. Learn about the stories behind these tokens of love, and craft your own small red heart to take home—a sweet and meaningful souvenir of your journey. Engage with local craftsmen, explore the exhibits, and gain insight into how these simple sweets have become powerful cultural symbols. After the experience, continue your journey to your hotel in Lake Bled.
Overnight: Rikli Balance Hotel
Meal Plan: B
Day 8 - Lake Bled
Venture into the serene wilderness of Bohinj Valley, just a short drive from Lake Bled. Based on snow conditions, set off on a guided winter hike or strap on snowshoes to explore snowy trails winding through quiet forests and open alpine meadows. The Julian Alps provide a breathtaking backdrop as you move through this peaceful, untouched landscape. Whether walking on soft trails or snowshoeing across fresh powder, the route offers an authentic connection with nature. Enjoy the crisp mountain air, the muffled sounds of winter, and the gentle rhythm of your pace. Midday, pause for lunch in a traditional mountain hut or local restaurant (payable locally), where you can sample hearty regional dishes in a warm and welcoming setting. Once back at Lake Bled, spend the rest of your day at leisure, making the most of the hotel’s facilities, including the thermal spa.
Overnight: Rikli Balance Hotel
Meal Plan: B
Day 9 - Lake Bled
Step into the charming medieval town of Skofja Loka, one of Slovenia’s best-preserved historic centers, just a short drive from Lake Bled. Stroll through cobbled streets and lively squares with your guide, as centuries of stories come to life between colorful facades, Gothic bridges, and the striking castle that watches over the town. After your walk, delve into local artistic traditions shaped by generations of craftsmen. Depending on your interests, enter a local artisan’s workshop to see skills passed down through time—woodcarving, weaving, or traditional mask-making. If you wish, take part in a hands-on craft workshop, where you can create your own small piece inspired by Slovenian heritage. A visit to Skofja Loka from Lake Bled offers a genuine glimpse into Slovenia’s artistic heritage and everyday traditions, wrapped in the timeless charm of one of its most picturesque towns.
Overnight: Rikli Balance Hotel
Meal Plan: B
Day 10 - Depart Lake Bled - Ljubljana
Today you are privately transferred to Ljubljana airport for your departure flight.
Overnight:
Meal Plan: B