Compare Christmas Markets of Central Europe - Classic Group, Winter 2022 2023 by Insight Vacations vs 13 Day Como, Switzerland, Austria & Slovenia by Gate 1 Travel

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Trip	Christmas Markets of Central Europe - Classic Group, Winter 2022 2023 by Insight Vacations 5 \| Excellent 11018 Reviews Trip Details Save Trip Reserve	13 Day Como, Switzerland, Austria & Slovenia by Gate 1 Travel 3.5 \| Average 746 Reviews Trip Details Save Trip See Offer

Duration	14 days	13 days
Price From	$ 4,015	$ 3,909
Price Per Day	$ 287	$ 301
Highlights	Choose between two carefully selected activities Bratislava: Join your Local Expert for an exploration of the city centre. 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 Theatre, Michael’s Gate and the Old Town Hall. Bratislava: An avid foodie takes you around the market on a Christmas food tour. Choose between two carefully selected activities Vienna: Listen to the musical masterpiece of Mozart and learn the Viennese Waltz, in an inclusive workshop designed to support the visually impaired community. Unique to Insight Guests, ‘Dancing without Barriers’ takes place in the dark, in a specially designed sensory studio, and will be a unique experience for all your senses. This specifically designed workshop focuses on inclusion and education around the topic of visual impairment. Through their foundation the organisation supports children from disadvantaged family and children with a visual impairment. This experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities. Alternatively, tour Schönbrunn Palace and marvel at its frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded ornaments. Vienna: A private, 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. Choose between two carefully selected activities Innsbruck: Meet your coachman and enjoy a delightful horse-drawn carriage ride, surrounded by the mountains and valleys of Tyrol. Innsbruck: Visit the magical Swarovski Crystal Worlds. This attraction features installations by international artists, designers and architects who have interpreted the crystals in their own ways. : Our Well-Being Directors take a proactive approach to your welfare ensuring all well-being regulations are met (available on tours with 21 or more guests). : 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. : Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19.All Travel Directors, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols. : We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues. : Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day. : Embrace the magic of Christmas time in Europe. Select departures will allow you to have time to explore local markets. Zagreb: Your Local Expert guides you this two-tiered capital. Explore Donji Grad, the Lower Town, and see the Mimara Art Museum in Roosevelt Square, 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 Lotrščak 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 centre on your orientation with your Travel Director. Bratislava: Join your Local Expert for an exploration of the city centre. 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 Theatre, Michael’s Gate and the Old Town Hall. Bratislava: An avid foodie takes you around the market on a Christmas food tour. Vienna: A private, 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: Travel along the Ring Road to see the Hofburg Imperial Residence, Opera House, Parliament Building and Karlskirche. Salzburg: With a Local Expert, see Mozart's family home and the 500-year-old Christmas Market in front of the cathedral. You'll also view the Hohensalzburg fortress and see Residenz Fountain when you spend some time in the Old Town. Innsbruck: Nestled amidst majestic mountains, Innsbruck is a beautiful city offering a unique combination of nature, history, and culture. Stroll the streets of the picturesque Old Town, with your Travel Director, learn about its history and admire the Baroque and Gothic architecture. Innsbruck: Meet your coachman and enjoy a delightful horse-drawn carriage ride, surrounded by the mountains and valleys of Tyrol. Innsbruck: Visit the magical Swarovski Crystal Worlds. This attraction features installations by international artists, designers and architects who have interpreted the crystals in their own ways. Neuschwanstein Castle: Visit the archetypal fairy-tale castle that allegedly inspired many of Walt Disney's castles. Led by a local historian, walk through the magnificent halls, take in the lavish decoration and enjoy spectacular views. Oberammergau: Explore the town and see the theatre where the Passion Play has been performed since 1634 and the next performance will be in 2022. Munich: During your orientation of the city with your Travel Director, see Feldherrnhalle in the Odeonsplatz, the Palace of the Dukes of Wittelsbach, the English Garden, the Hofbräuhaus, St. Peter's Church and the famous Marienplatz. : "One thing I really love about showing guests Eastern Europe is the rich history and culture of places that have previously been impossible to visit due to political situations." : "Munich is the capital of beer, so taking guests into the famous Hofbräuhaus, at any time of year, gives them a small idea of what it’s like to attend Oktoberfest." : "Guests are always amazed and intrigued by the vast amount of beautifully decorated sweet treats on offer in Germany during the festive period." Zagreb: Join your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant with the opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers over a pleasant evening with wine. Vienna: Savour a traditional meal of Austrian specialties with wine. Salzburg: At the Christmas Market, meet a local stallholder and taste the delicious gingerbread with a fragrant cup of Glühwein. Innsbruck: Savour a traditional meal accompanied by local Tyrolean music and entertainment. Munich: Join your newfound friends for a festive Celebration Dinner with wine and good cheer! Dining Summary: 6 Dinner with Wine (DW), and 12 Breakfast (B) Ljubljana: The magic of Christmas comes to life as you meet Urban Modic, the esteemed artist who designs Ljubljana's Christmas lights. Learn what it takes to light up the city and enthral the crowds. Salzburg: Visit the house where Mozart was born in 1756. Enjoy a pianoforte demonstration and examine letters, memorabilia, and musical instruments of the great composer, plus a fascinating collection of portraits. Bratislava: Choose to join a Local Expert to see the main sights of the city. Alternatively, an avid foodie takes you around the market on a Christmas food tour. Vienna: Listen to the musical masterpiece of Mozart and learn the Viennese Waltz, in an inclusive workshop designed to support the visually impaired community. Unique to Insight Guests, ‘Dancing without Barriers’ takes place in the dark, in a specially designed sensory studio, and will be a unique experience for all your senses. This specifically designed workshop focuses on inclusion and education around the topic of visual impairment. Through their foundation the organisation supports children from disadvantaged family and children with a visual impairment. This experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities. Alternatively, tour Schönbrunn Palace and marvel at its frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded ornaments.	A scenic cruise on spectacular Lake Como takes you to the exquisite village of Bellagio Travel via the scenic Vorarlberg Mountains and Austria's Tyrolean Alps to pristine Innsbruck Tour Salzburg, celebrated as Mozart's birthplace and setting of The Sound of Music In Vienna, visit the impressive Schonbrunn Palace, summer residence of the Habsburg emperors Discover the medieval Old Town of Granz and learn about its history Embark on a city tour of Ljubljana, capital of Slovenia, and admire its beautiful architecture Visit Bled Castle, an imposing medieval fortress, perched atop a steep cliff above the picturesque lake †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Trip Style	Group tour	Group tour
Lodging Level	Premium	Premium
Physical Level	2- Easy	3- Moderate
Travel Themes	Cultural 50 plus Education / Learning	Cultural 50 plus
Countries Visited	Austria Croatia Germany	Italy Austria Switzerland
Cities and Attractions	Bratislava Innsbruck Ljubljana Munich Salzburg Vienna Zagreb	Alps Eagle's Nest Innsbruck Lake Como Ljubljana Lucerne Salzburg Vienna
Flights & Transport	Airfare included	Ground transport included
Activities	Culture Historic sightseeing	N/A
Meals Included	N/A	N/A
Description	Add some one-of-a-kind gems to your gift list at the Christmas markets in Vienna, Munich and Ljubljana. This 13-day Christmas shopping extravaganza takes in the 500-year-old Salzburg Christmas Market, Mozart’s family home and a mouthwatering array of Viennese desserts. Visit Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, reputed to have been the inspiration for a certain spin off at Disneyworld, and dine out in Vienna with lashings of Austrian specialties filling the table at a Restaurant Dinner. In Ljubljana, follow your Travel Director on an eye-opening tour of the Slovenian capital before tasting some truly scrumptious, Slovenian Christmas delicacies. From Zagreb take a funicular to the idyllic town of Gornji Grad and board a cave train in Postojna to explore a stunning underground world.	2 Como, 2 Lucerne, 1 Innsbruck, 2 Salzburg, 2 Vienna, 2 Ljubljana

Itinerary: Christmas Markets of Central Europe - Classic Group, Winter 2022 2023

Day 1: Welcome to Zagreb

Transfers to your hotel depart from Zagreb airport at 11:30 and 14:00. Relax and settle in or perhaps head for the nearby King Tomislav Square and try ice skating. At 17:30, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner with the opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers over a pleasant evening with wine.

Sheraton Zagreb Hotel.

Dinner with Wine

Day 2: Zagreb Sightseeing Relaxed Start

Join your Local Expert to explore the two-tiered capital of Croatia. Drive through the squares of the Lower Town, Donji Grad, designed to give a sense of grandeur. See the Mimara Art Museum in Roosevelt Square and continue to Ban Josip Jelacic Square en route to the cathedral. Board the city's funicular to the medieval Upper Town, Gornji Grad. It's a network of little streets, stretching between the Kaptol and Gradec hills. View the former Presidential Palace, Stone Gate, St. Mark's Church and the Lotrščak Tower. The afternoon is at leisure. Discover the city’s Christmas markets or perhaps take an Optional Experience to the Zagorje region to learn about the local traditions and visit the house of Marshall Tito?

Sheraton Zagreb Hotel.

Breakfast

Day 3: The Postojna Caves and Ljubljana

Leave the Croatian capital and head to neighbouring Slovenia and visit the world-famous Postojna Caves. Step aboard the cave train and descend into a subterranean world of stunning stalactites, stalagmites, columns and curtains. Marvel at the five-metre tall Brilliant, the cave's most beautiful stalagmite. Later, arrive to charming Ljubljana and tonight enjoy a dinner of Slovenian specialities with wine.

Hotel Lev Ljubljana.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 4: Ljubljana Sightseeing Relaxed Start

Your Local Expert will reveal the Baroque elegance of the Slovenian capital. The medieval castle stands as an ancient guardian, the City Hall and Cathedral of St. Nicholas testify to its historical importance, while the Triple Bridge spans the river adorned with cafes and restaurants. Spend time at the Christmas markets, rich with the heady aromas of sweet treats and drinks.Meet Urban Modic, the local artist who designs Ljubljana's Christmas lights, for an insight into the city's famous decorations. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure.

Hotel Lev Ljubljana.

Breakfast

Day 5: The Slovakian Capital of Bratislava

Today’s journey takes you through Austria. In Graz see the Castle Hill and Town Hall in the well-preserved, UNESCO World Heritage listed historic city centre on your orientation. Walk among colourful buildings, take a stroll along River Mur and explore the festive market stalls. Travel past the Foot of the Alps as you make your way towards Bratislava. Spend your night in the charming Slovakian capital and take a walk in the Old Town to sample the delicious offerings of the Christmas markets.

Crowne Plaza Bratislava.

Breakfast

Day 6: Bratislava Sightseeing and Vienna

Bratislava might be one of the smaller capitals in Europe but it has a long and rich history influenced by various cultures and nations. Explore Bratislava with Insight Choice. Choose to join a Local Expert to see the main sights of the city. 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 Theatre, Michael’s Gate and the Old Town Hall. Alternatively, an avid foodie takes you around the market on a Christmas food tour. Enjoy time at leisure and maybe try some of the Slovakian dishes for lunch before travelling to nearby imperial Vienna.

Hilton Vienna Park.

Breakfast

Day 7: Vienna Sightseeing

Explore Vienna with Insight Choice. Tour Schönbrunn Palace and marvel at its frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded ornaments. Alternatively, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during an inclusive workshop and take to the floor in a Viennese Waltz dance workshop designed to support the visually impaired community. Then ready your camera for a dazzling drive around the famous Ring Road. This grand boulevard, built along the lines of the old city walls, showcases many of the capital’s architectural masterpieces, including the Opera House, magnificent Hofburg Imperial Residence, Austrian Parliament Building and the Neo Gothic Town Hall. The afternoon is at yours to explore the historic core of the city and the offerings of the many Christmas markets. Tonight, savour a meal of Austrian specialities at a local restaurant.

Hilton Vienna Park.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 8: To Enchanting Salzburg Relaxed Start

Journey through the rich farmlands of eastern Austria towards the lakes and mountains of the Salzkammergut and the enchanting city of Salzburg.

ARCOTEL Castellani, Salzburg.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 9: The City of Mozart Relaxed Start

Come December, the spires and domes of Salzburg’s old town are often draped in snow. Walk with your Local Expert to see Mozart’s family home on the Getreidegasse, beautifully decorated at this time of year. Visit Mozart's birthplace to learn more about his life, and sit down to a musical demonstration on his original pianoforte. Then head on to the rosy hues of the 500-year-old Christmas Market in front of the cathedral. Culinary delicacies, candied fruits, hot mulled wine and the lovingly decorated stalls invite visitors to stop and browse. Here your Travel Director will introduce you to a market stallholder to enjoy sampling a Viennese winter dessert, complemented perfectly with a traditional fragrant glass of Glühwein.

ARCOTEL Castellani, Salzburg.

Breakfast

Day 10: A Scenic Drive to Innsbruck Relaxed Start

A lovely drive brings you to the Inn Valley and the mountain-ringed Tyrolean capital of Innsbruck. Explore Innsbruck with Insight Choice, perhaps join a horse & carriage ride or visit the magical world of Swarovski Crystal. In the evening, enjoy a traditional meal accompanied by local Tyrolean entertainment and music.

AC Hotel Innsbruck.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 11: Neuschwanstein and Oberammergau

Travel to the fairy-tale castle of Neuschwanstein, perched on a spectacular Alpine mountainside. With a Local Expert, visit the exuberantly decorated apartments, including the Throne Room, before continuing into the beautiful scenery of the German Alps to visit Oberammergau, home of the Passion Play since 1634. See the immense theatre and admire the colourful painted chalets before driving on to the Bavarian capital of Munich. Please note: Neuschwanstein Castle visits require a good level of mobility due to the number of stairs in the building and uphill, on-foot access to the castle during winter. Those who do not wish to ascend to the castle can enjoy a coffee and cake, while admiring the beautiful castle vista.

Munich Marriott Hotel.

Breakfast

Day 12: Munich Relaxed Start

Enjoy an orientation of the city which concludes in Marienplatz beside the soaring Town Hall, famous for its Glockenspiel. Beneath the gigantic Christmas tree, Munich’s traditional Christmas Market is an entrancing festival of light and music. In the evening, join your travelling companions at a local restaurant for a festive Celebration Dinner with wine and good cheer!

Munich Marriott Hotel.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 13: Auf Wiedersehen Munich!

Your departure transfer arrives at Munich Airport at 07:00 and 09:00.

Breakfast

Itinerary: 13 Day Como, Switzerland, Austria & Slovenia

DAY 1, Saturday - Depart for Italy
Depart for Italy

DAY 2, Sunday - Arrive in Milan, Transfer to Como
Welcome to Italy! Arrive in Milan and transfer to your hotel in the town of Como, with views over the exquisite Lake Como. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 6 PM, followed by a light dinner. We recommend that you select flights which arrive no later than 4 PM
Overnight: Como
Meals: Dinner

DAY 3, Monday - Cross Lake Como to the Village of Bellagio
Today, embark on a scenic morning cruise on the lake to the charming village of Bellagio, "The Pearl" of Lake Como. Nestled amidst cypress groves, its earthy-colored buildings climb up from the lakeside promenade. Wander along the narrow streets and alleyways, lined with craft shops, boutiques and cafés. Or, visit some of the gorgeous gardens with manicured lawns and fountains at Villa Melzi or Villa Serbelloni. Sail back to Como with time to experience the delights of this lakeside town with its spectacular mountain views
Overnight: Como
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Tuesday - Lake Lugano, St. Gotthard Tunnel, Lucerne's Old City
Travel this morning to Lugano in southern Switzerland's Italian-speaking Ticino region, on the northern shore of glacial Lake Lugano. Its Swiss-Mediterranean mix of cultures is similar to Italy's northern Lombardy region and reflected in its architecture. The palm trees give way to Alpine peaks and glaciers as you continue heading north traversing through the St. Gotthard Tunnel built under the Swiss Alps. On arrival in Lucerne, get acquainted with the lakeside Swiss city, on your walking tour to the sentimental Lion Monument, the 14th century Chapel Bridge and the cobbled streets of the well-preserved medieval Altstadt (Old Town). Tonight, dinner is at a local restaurant
Overnight: Lucerne
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 5, Wednesday - Full Day in Lucerne
The day is yours to independently discover Lucerne, in the heart of central Switzerland. Wander through the lively streets, and along the picturesque lakeshore, or shop for chocolates, and famous Swiss watches. Perhaps, join the optional tour to the summit of Mt. Pilatus. Ascend the world's steepest cogwheel railway that winds up through lush meadows and mountain streams to nearly 7,000 feet. After time to admire the splendid panoramic views, descend by aerial cableway. Afternoon is at leisure to discover some of Lucerne's fine shops and cafes
Optional: Mount Pilatus Tour
Overnight: Lucerne
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6, Thursday - Liechtenstein en Route to Innsbruck
Today on your way to Innsbruck, view the tiny storybook Principality of Liechtenstein and its capital Vaduz, a proud remnant of feudal Europe, sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria. Brief stop in Vaduz with free time. Afterward, continue to Innsbruck, capital of the Austrian Alps and check into the hotel. On your city tour this afternoon, stop at the Golden Roof, in the heart of historic Innsbruck and St. James Cathedral, a spectacular example of Baroque architecture. View the grand Imperial Palace, and famous Olympic ski jump. Tonight, dinner is at the hotel
Overnight: Innsbruck
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 7, Friday - Salzburg City Tour
Head to the city of Salzburg, nestled in the foothills of the Alps, surrounded by graceful domes. This Baroque jewel is celebrated as the birthplace of Mozart and well-known as the setting of the movie, The Sound of Music. A guided walking tour takes you to the house where Mozart was born as well as to the city's charming squares and Mirabell gardens. The remainder of the day is free, or join the optional excursion into the surrounding countryside to the ruins of Obersalzberg, once a mountain retreat for senior Nazi SS officers. Then, ascend to Hitler's notorious "Eagle's Nest" hideaway*
*The Eagle's Nest Tour and Austrian Alps & Sound of Music Tour operate simultaneously. Passengers may opt to participate in only one of these tours
Optional: Eagle's Nest Tour (PM)
Optional: Austrian Alps & Sound of Music Tour (PM)
Overnight: Salzburg
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8, Saturday - Full Day in Salzburg
Spend the day at leisure in beautiful Salzburg to further explore the city. Perhaps, head to Hohensalzburg Fortress located on top of the Festungsberg Hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area, or shop for souvenirs in famous Getreidegasse. Tonight, dinner is at a local restaurant
Overnight: Salzburg
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 9, Sunday - Travel to Imperial Vienna
Today, travel to Vienna, the magnificent Austrian capital and former center of the Habsburg Empire. This sparkling city on the Danube has captivated travelers for years with its elegant shops, world-class museums, beautiful parks and gardens. Arrive in Vienna in the afternoon and check into your hotel. Tonight, savor dinner at a unique Viennese Tavern
Overnight: Vienna
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 10, Monday - Explore Vienna
Begin today's tour at the impressive Schonbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg emperors. Visit the opulent Baroque apartments and stroll through the manicured gardens. Continue with a drive along Ringstrasse, Vienna's main boulevard. View the Empress Maria Theresa Monument, Votive Church, City Hall, Parliament, Hofburg Palace and the State Opera House. Balance of the day is at leisure. Tonight, experience a not to be missed optional Classical Viennese Concert performance of the masterpieces of Mozart and Strauss
Optional: Mozart and Strauss Concert (PM)
Overnight: Vienna
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 11, Tuesday - Graz, Ljubljana City Tour
Depart Vienna this morning, and travel south towards Ljubljana. Along the way, visit the city of Graz, capital of Styria. During your walk through the Old Town, view Hauptplatz Square, Opera House, Clock Tower and Graz Cathedral. Afterward, spend some free time before crossing into Slovenia this afternoon. Arrive in Ljubljana and embark on a city tour. View its open-air market, the Baroque Venetian inspired City Hall, Robba Fountain, the Triple Bridge, which connects the old and new cities and the Parliament. Later, check into your hotel
Overnight: Ljubljana
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 12, Wednesday - Visit Bled Island & Bled Castle
Begin the day with a drive to the resort town of Bled. Head to the lake to board a pletna, a traditional rowing boat for a visit to Bled Island and its church, home to a wonderful art collection. Later, explore the imposing 11th century Bled Castle, perched on a steep cliff high above the lake, creating a dramatic backdrop to the city. Stroll through the castle grounds and visit the museum to get an insight into the history of the castle and the surrounding area. In the afternoon, return to Ljubljana. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Slovenian dinner and bid farewell to your Tour Manager
Overnight: Ljubljana
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 13, Thursday - Depart Slovenia
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast

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