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Budapest to Zagreb – Christmas Market Magic with Sahily

Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 6, 2025

Cultural Cultural

$2,495 USD

BOOK WITH 25% DEPOSIT

Budapest to Zagreb – Christmas Market Magic with Sahily

Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 6, 2025

$2,495  USD

BOOK WITH 25% DEPOSIT

Embrace the holiday magic on this unforgettable journey through Central Europe with Sahily, where Christmas markets, festive lights, and winter landscapes await. From the enchanting streets of Budapest to the sparkling markets of Zagreb, you’ll experience the heart of the season with twinkling lights, mulled wine, and local treats at every stop.

Explore charming cities and towns adorned with festive decorations, stroll through vibrant markets, and discover unique holiday traditions along the way. From the picturesque lakeside of Bled to the snowy peaks of Medvednica Mountain, each destination offers its own seasonal charm.

This trip with Sahily is all about immersing yourself in the warmth and wonder of winter in Europe, with cozy bars, breathtaking views, and plenty of festive cheer to make your holiday season unforgettable.

Trip Start: Budapest, Hungary - Saturday November 29th 2025

Trip Finish: Zagreb, Croatia - Saturday December 6th 2025

Trip Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Accommodation: Hotels x 7 Nights (Shared & Private Available)

Included Meals: Breakfast Daily, Lunch x 1, Dinner x 1

Group Size: 8-18 Guests

Inclusions

Accommodation: Hotels x 7 Nights (Shared & Private Available)

Included Meals: Breakfast Daily, Lunch x 1, Dinner x 1

Experienced Local Guide

Budapest - Welcome Dinner

Budapest – Christmas Snacks and Mulled Wine Tasting

Budapest – Guided Orientation Walk/Tour

Budapest – Christmas Markets

Train - Budapest to Graz

Graz – Christmas Market Visit

Graz – Schlosberg Castle Visit and Funicular Ride

Train - Ljubljana to Zagreb

Zagreb – Walking Tour of Christmas Markets with Local Guide

Zagreb – Cable Car to Sljeme

Exclusions

Flights

Airport Transfers

Travel Insurance (Required)

Visa/Entry Requirements

Meals Not Mentioned in Inclusions

Personal Expenses incl Tips

Your Host

Sahily Quintana

Hi travel friends! I’m Sahily, a travel nurse and travel enthusiast. Join me for a group trip as we wander through the most beautiful and magical destinations.

Itinerary

Day 1 Welcome to Budapest

Welcome to Budapest, the enchanting heart of Hungary! Your adventure begins as you check into your hotel and prepare for an unforgettable journey through this mesmerizing city. At 6 pm, gather for a welcome meeting to meet your fellow travelers and your tour leader, who will set the tone for the days ahead. If you arrive early, immerse yourself in the city’s allure – stroll through its historic streets, marvel at the architectural splendor of Roman, Gothic, and Turkish influences, or take in the sweeping views from the iconic Fisherman’s Bastion, a fairytale-like lookout perched above the Danube.

As night falls, the city comes alive in a dazzling display of lights. After the welcome meeting, join your group for a delightful welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you’ll savor authentic Hungarian cuisine and raise a glass to the adventure ahead. Indulge in hearty dishes like goulash or chicken paprikash, paired with a glass of Tokaji wine or pálinka, the country’s famous fruit brandy. It’s the perfect introduction to Budapest’s rich culinary heritage and warm hospitality.

After dinner, take a moonlit stroll along the banks of the Danube, where the city’s iconic bridges and landmarks sparkle in their illuminated glory, their reflections shimmering in the river below. For those looking to explore Budapest’s vibrant nightlife, the evening offers a chance to experience its legendary ruin pubs. These eclectic bars, tucked away in abandoned buildings and courtyards, brim with art, character, and an atmosphere that’s quintessentially Hungarian. It’s a magical way to start your adventure in this captivating city.

Included Meals:

  • Welcome Dinner

Accommodation:

  • B&B Hotel Budapest City or similar

Important Notes:

It’s important that you ensure that you are able to arrive at our hotel by 6pm to attend the welcome meeting. More information will be provided to guests once the trip is confirmed.

Day 2 Exploring Budapest

Kick off your day with a fun and festive orientation walk led by your tour leader, wrapping up at the dazzling Budapest Christmas Fair in Vorosmarty Square. This isn’t just any market – it’s the city’s oldest and most enchanting, often crowned as one of the world’s best. Picture charming wooden stalls brimming with handcrafted treasures, the air filled with the sweet scent of chimney cakes, the hearty aroma of goulash, and the spice of mulled wine. Treat yourself to a food tasting, sip on a warming glass of mulled magic, and soak up the holiday vibes that make this market pure Christmas perfection.

The rest of the day is yours to explore and indulge! Wander through smaller, equally delightful markets, like those at Fashion Street, St. Stephen’s Basilica, or Erzsébet Square, each offering their own unique charm and festive goodies. Feeling adventurous? Glide across the ice at City Park’s skating rink, nestled beside the storybook-like Vajdahunyad Castle.

As evening falls, wind down in true Budapest style with a relaxing soak in one of the city’s famous thermal baths – a toasty antidote to the winter chill. If you’re still in the holiday spirit (and why wouldn’t you be?), seek out live festive music at one of the city’s cozy venues to keep the magic alive well into the night.

Included Activities:

  • Budapest – Christmas Snacks and Mulled Wine Tasting
  • Budapest – Guided Orientation Walk/Tour
  • Budapest – Christmas Market

Included Meals:

  • Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • B&B Hotel Budapest City or similar

Day 3 Journey to Graz

Hop aboard a scenic train ride to Graz, Austria’s second-largest city and a true holiday wonderland packed with festive charm and fourteen Christmas markets. Once you arrive, dive straight into the magic at Hauptplatz square, where twinkling lights, a majestic Christmas tree, a cheery carousel, and stalls bursting with Austrian crafts and treats create the ultimate yuletide vibe.

For a dose of history and adventure, hop on the funicular to Schlossberg Castle, perched high above the city and hosting its very own unique Christmas markets within its ancient walls. Ready for the descent? You’ve got options: take a leisurely stroll, explore a WWII-era tunnel, or—if you’re feeling bold—zip down the world’s tallest indoor slide! This 64-meter-high, 170-meter-long twisty thrill ride is not just a way down—it’s a story to tell.

As night falls, the town hall transforms into a magical advent calendar, its walls alive with festive projections. With the evening still young, you’ll have free time to explore Graz’s other Christmas markets, each just a short stroll away. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine, nibbling on roasted chestnuts, or picking up handcrafted gifts, you’ll find yourself wrapped in Graz’s cozy holiday glow.

Included Activities:

  • Train – Budapest to Graz
  • Graz – Christmas Market Visit
  • Graz – Schlosberg Castle Visit and Funicular Ride

Included Meals:

  • Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • B&B Hotel Graz Hbf or similar

 

Day 4 Journey to Ljubljana

All aboard for a 3.5-hour train ride to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s postcard-perfect capital! Nestled among serene lakes and majestic mountains, this city turns into a winter wonderland straight out of a fairy tale, with snowy rooftops and frost-kissed trees adding to its cozy charm.

Once you arrive, your leader will guide you on a delightful tour of the town, leading you to the lively Christmas market that lines the sparkling Ljubljanica River. Think twinkling lights, festive stalls brimming with handmade treasures, and the irresistible aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. It’s pure holiday magic at every turn.

As night falls, the fun doesn’t stop! Head over to Metelkova Mesto, Ljubljana’s buzzing cultural and artistic hub, where quirky bars, live music, and funky street art create a vibe like no other. Whether you’re sipping a local brew or dancing under the stars, this is the perfect way to wrap up your day in Slovenia’s coolest little capital.

Included Activities:

  • Train – Graz to Ljubljana
  • Ljubljana – Christmas Markets

Included Meals:

  • Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Emonec or similar

Day 5 Day Trip to Lake Bled

Hop on a quick one-hour bus ride to the breathtaking lakeside gem of Bled, a destination so stunning it feels like it leapt right out of a storybook. Tucked into the heart of alpine paradise, Bled boasts an 11th-century castle perched dramatically on a cliff, a serene lake shimmering like glass, and a tiny island crowned with a picture-perfect church. It’s basically magic come to life.

If the weather’s on your side, there’s plenty to explore! Wander up to Bled Castle for jaw-dropping views, enjoy a peaceful 6-kilometer (4-mile) stroll around the lake with your leader, or get your heart pumping with a hike to the Ojstrica viewpoint, where the panoramas will absolutely steal your breath. Every angle of this place is a postcard moment waiting to happen.

Before heading back to Ljubljana, treat yourself to a well-deserved coffee or hot chocolate – and don’t you dare leave without savoring a slice of Bled’s legendary cream cake, kremsnita. It’s the kind of dessert dreams are made of, and the perfect sweet ending to your alpine adventure.

Included Activities:

  • Bled – Day Trip to Lake Bled

Included Meals:

  • Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Emonec or similar

Day 6 Journey to Zagreb

All aboard for a 2.5-hour train ride to Zagreb, Croatia’s buzzing capital tucked snugly at the base of Mt. Medvednica. In winter, Zagreb doesn’t just deck the halls—it transforms into a glittering Advent wonderland! Picture streets aglow with fairy lights, grand Christmas trees, nativity scenes, and bustling ice rinks. Add in mulled wine stalls and quirky igloo-shaped bars pouring rakija (Croatia’s fiery local spirit), and you’ve got a holiday vibe that’s pure magic. It’s no wonder this Christmas market is ranked among Europe’s very best!

As evening falls, dive deeper into the festive fun with a walking tour led by a local expert. They’ll guide you through the city’s enchanting holiday hotspots and regale you with fascinating Croatian Christmas traditions. Ever heard of keeping turkeys on balconies before the big feast? Neither had we, but Zagreb’s got a knack for mixing the whimsical with the wonderful! This is one holiday experience you won’t want to miss.

Included Activities:

  • Train – Ljubljana to Zagreb
  • Zagreb – Walking Tour of Christmas Markets with Local Guide

Included Meals:

  • Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Orient or similar

Day 7 Mt Medvednica & Exploring Zagreb

Hop aboard the cable car and glide up to Sljeme, the crowning peak of Medvednica Mountain, where jaw-dropping views of Zagreb await. If snow has been playing hard to get on your trip, fear not – Sljeme usually delivers the full winter wonderland experience with a generous dusting of snow that’s perfect for frosty fun.

Take a magical stroll through the snowy landscape with your tour leader, soaking in the crisp mountain air and storybook scenery. When hunger strikes, warm up with a traditional Croatian feast featuring soul-soothing dishes like hearty soup, rich meat stew, or sarma—those delicious cabbage rolls stuffed with seasoned meat that will have your taste buds singing.

After this alpine escape, head back to Zagreb and savor your final evening in the city’s festive glow. Whether it’s one last stroll through the twinkling markets or a toast to an unforgettable adventure, Zagreb’s magic will stay with you long after the snow melts.

Included Activities:

  • Zagreb – Cable Car to Sljeme

Included Meals:

  • Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Orient or similar

Important Notes:

Today, get ready to indulge in traditional Croatian cuisine! Known for its hearty, meat-focused dishes, Croatian food offers a delicious taste of local flavors. While vegetarian options are available, they may be a bit more limited, so meat lovers are in for a real treat!

 

Day 8 Fond Farewell

After a final breakfast together, it’s time to say goodbye to your unforgettable adventure and the friends you’ve made along the way.

There are no activities planned for today, so you’re free to continue exploring or make your way on to the next part of your journey at your own pace. Farewell, and until next time!

Included Meals:

  • Breakfast

Trip Photos

Important Notes

ARRIVAL:
The meeting point for this trip will be at our hotel in Budapest, with a welcome meeting on day 1 at 6pm. More information on the exact hotel name and location will be provided once the trip is confirmed.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Be sure to check entry requirements based on the passport that you will be travelling with.

TRIP CONFIRMATION:
A trip is listed as PENDING until the minimum guest numbers are reached, at which point the trip becomes CONFIRMED. Guests will be notified when a trip becomes CONFIRMED.

BOOKING FLIGHTS:
We do not recommend booking flights until your trip is CONFIRMED. Once the trip is confirmed, we recommend booking flights as soon as you are able to ensure you get the best rates. Note that this trip starts in Budapest, Hungary and ends in Zagreb, Croatia.

BOOKING T&Cs:
We recommend you familiarise yourself with our Booking Terms & Conditions for more information about our booking, deposit and cancellation policies.

TRAVEL INSURANCE:
Travel insurance is required, and this will need to organised independently. There are a number of travel insurance comparison websites available. We do not recommend organising this until your trip is CONFIRMED. For more information on travel insurance head to https://bestintravelgroup.com/protect-your-adventure-best-in-travels-guide-to-travel-insurance/

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