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Treat yourself and your loved ones this Christmas to a 5* luxury city break in Zagreb and enjoy Europe’s best Christmas markets (voted 3 years running). This 4-day itinerary takes in the best of Zagreb with a sprinkle of festive cheer AND includes a day trip to the UNESCO heritage site of Plitvice Lakes National Park, a natural winter wonderland at this time of year. You’ll stay a the iconic Esplanade Hotel, opened in 1925 for the discerning tastes of passengers of the Orient Express and benefit from private transfers and guides during your stay.

Your Itinerary

Zagreb Ice Park

Day 1 - Enjoy the best Christmas Markets in Europe

Our driver will meet you at Zagreb airport and deliver you to the Iconic Esplanade hotel in the heart of Croatia’s capital city, and at the most wonderful time of the year! The hotel was designed for travellers on the Orient Express so you can expect Art Deco glamour and sophistication. You have arrived as the city is awash with merriment. Enjoy your first day exploring the best Zagreb locations decked out in twinkling lights, huge Christmas trees and ice rinks. There is a romantic photo opportunity on every corner and plenty of activities to keep the little ones and us big kids entertained.

St Marks Church, Zagreb

Day 2 - Get to know Zagreb Personally

After breakfast your guide will meet you at the hotel to take you on a private tour of the city. Zagreb reveals itself to you slowly, you’ll learn about the city’s past as two rival hilltop settlements and what life is like in the capital today. Your guide will lead you on a wander through the fairytale old town, especially pretty at this time of year. You’ll finish up a few hours later feeling you know Zagreb personally and with plenty of ideas for your afternoon ahead. We recommend rounding off your walk by sampling the warming local dish ‘Strukli’, a gooey dough and cheese bake. Best eaten outside under a blanket, accompanied by a glass of delicious Croatian wine.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Day 3 - Walking in a winter wonderland

Its a bright and early start today for a full day exploring the natural wonder that is Plitvice National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a chain of 16 crystal clear terraced lakes joined by waterfalls. In winter it is the perfect natural winter wonderland. From here, enjoy lunch in a local setting, returning to Zagreb at approx 6 pm for your final evening of festive entertainment, or a romantic night in at your hotel after a magical day.

Christmas in Zagreb

Day 4 - Last Christmas I gave you my heart

Your time is your own this morning to hit the markets or visit one of the city’s many museums. Don’t forget to take home a Zagreb gingerbread heart, a traditional souvenir with a romantic story – be sure to ask the locals for the tale. Our driver will meet you at the hotel to take you to the airport in time for your homeward bound flight. Wishing you the merriest of journeys.

What's included?

Included:
  • Prices start from £720 per person
  • Accommodation on a B&B basis at the 5* Esplanade Zagreb
  • Private transfers with English speaking driver
  • Private guided Zagreb city tour
  • Private excursion to Plitvice National Park
  • All entrance fees included in the itinerary
  • All trips are ATOL protected or ABTA bonded to ensure you are fully covered
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Your adventure starts here!

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