Elevate your journey beyond the sea with an exclusive passage through Central Europe’s cultural and culinary treasures. Begin in Slovenia’s Karst countryside with a private truffle hunt and rustic gourmet lunch, then wander Ljubljana’s charming old town before retreating to the InterContinental. Continue through wine-rich valleys and medieval gems en-route to Vienna, where imperial grandeur awaits, curated city tours, visit to Schönbrunn Palace, and a horse-drawn carriage ride through regal boulevards.
Please Note: This program begins in Trieste, Italy and concludes in Vienna, Austria. Please ensure that flights are booked out of Vienna International Airport (VIE).
DAY 1: Disembarkation in Trieste | Truffle Hunt & Ljubljana Discovery
Step ashore and journey into Slovenia’s enchanting Karst countryside, where a private truffle hunt with local experts unveils one of nature’s rarest treasures. Savor a rustic gourmet lunch paired with regional flavours before continuing to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s storybook capital. Check in at your Hotel and enjoy a moment of serenity. Later, join your guide for an intimate walking tour through the old town’s cobbled streets, concluding with a delightful dinner in the heart of the city.
Overnight at InterContinental Ljubljana or similar.
DAY 2: Ljubljana to Vienna | Wine & History En Route
After a leisurely breakfast and check-out, embark on a scenic journey through Slovenia’s rolling hills toward Austria. Along the way, pause in Ptuj or Maribor, two of Slovenia’s oldest towns, where medieval streets and centuries-old wine traditions create an atmosphere of timeless charm. Stroll through historic squares, admire Gothic and Baroque architecture, and immerse yourself in the cultural heritage that defines these storied towns.
Indulge in a traditional Slovenian lunch at a countryside inn, savoring authentic flavors paired with local vintages. Continue through picturesque valleys and vineyard-clad hills before crossing into Austria. By late afternoon, arrive in Vienna and check into the prestigious InterContinental Vienna, a sanctuary of elegance in the heart of the imperial city. The evening is yours to relax or explore Vienna’s grand boulevards and legendary coffee houses at leisure.
Overnight at InterContinental Vienna or similar.
DAY 3: Imperial Vienna | City Tour, Palace & Carriage Ride
Begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast before setting out on a guided exploration of Vienna’s imperial grandeur. Stroll along the Ringstrasse, Vienna’s majestic boulevard, where architectural masterpieces such as the State Opera and Parliament stand as monuments to a glorious past. Visit the Hofburg Palace, once the seat of the Habsburg dynasty, and step inside the opulent Schönbrunn Palace for an exclusive tour of its gilded halls and manicured gardens.
Savor a classic Viennese lunch in a traditional restaurant, where culinary artistry meets timeless elegance. In the afternoon, experience the romance of a horse-drawn carriage ride through Vienna’s regal avenues, a moment that feels like stepping into history. The remainder of the day invites you to wander at leisure, perhaps indulging in Vienna’s famed coffee culture or exploring its vibrant art scene.
Overnight at InterContinental Vienna or similar.
DAY 4: Farewell Vienna | Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before bidding farewell to Vienna. Transfers are arranged for your onward journey, ensuring a seamless and stress-free conclusion to this unforgettable post-cruise experience. Depart with cherished memories of a journey that blended cultural discovery, culinary indulgence, and imperial elegance into a masterpiece of travel.
Land Program Step by Step
The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. Program times are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Itineraries with the up-to-date details will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
DAY 1:
Please note: Timings may vary depending on actual flight times
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
09:00am Disembark at Trieste Terminal Passeggeri and clear customs
10:00am Meet and greet, then transfer to Slovenia’s Karst region
11:00am Wine & Truffle Experience – guided truffle hunt and tasting
01:00pm Enjoy a rustic gourmet lunch paired with regional wines
04:00pm Arrive in Ljubljana and Hotel check in
06:00pm Guided walking tour of Ljubljana’s old town followed by dinner in the city center
Overnight InterContinental Ljubljana or similar
DAY 2:
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
Breakfast at your hotel
09:00am Depart for Austria with a cultural stop in Ptuj or Maribor, Slovenia’s oldest towns
01:00pm Traditional Slovenian lunch at a countryside inn
03:00pm Continue the scenic drive to Vienna
06:00pm Check in at InterContinental Vienna, evening at leisure, dinner on own
Overnight InterContinental Vienna or similar
DAY 3:
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
Breakfast at your hotel
09:00am Guided city tour of Vienna including Ringstrasse, Hofburg Palace, and Schönbrunn Palace
01:00pm Lunch in a traditional Viennese restaurant
03:00pm Horse-drawn carriage ride through Vienna’s regal boulevards
04:00pm Free time to explore Vienna at your own pace, dinner on own
Overnight InterContinental Vienna or similar
DAY 4:
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
Breakfast at your hotel and check out
Transfer to Vienna Airport for your onward journey
General Information
Electricity: 220 volts. We recommend bringing a universal travel adapter if you plan to use personal electronic devices.
Expected Weather: Daytime temperatures in Vienna and Ljubljana typically range from a pleasant 70–80°F (21–27°C) in spring and summer, with crisp autumn lows of 50–60°F (10–16°C). Occasional summer rain showers may grace both regions, adding to their charm.
What to Bring: Dress is generally casual, but when visiting churches, please ensure your knees and shoulders are covered. We suggest packing comfortable walking shoes, a hat, weather-appropriate attire, sunglasses, and sunscreen, so you can explore in style and comfort.
Currency: EUR. The Euro is the local currency, and most major credit cards are widely accepted. However, it is advisable to carry some local currency for small purchases, gratuities, and access to public restrooms.
Luggage: Please ensure your belongings are clearly labeled and packed appropriately for ease of handling throughout the journey. Please ensure your checked bag does not exceed the airline’s weight and size restrictions.
Please note: specific requirements when transporting wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or other assistive devices. We recommend checking directly with the Cruise Line prior to departure to ensure compliance with their policies.
Documents and Visa Requirements:
A valid passport with six months remaining until the expiration date is required for entry. U.S. citizens currently do not require a visa, however, this is always subject to change. Please contact your local embassy or consulate for the latest requirements and application procedures.
Vaccination & Health Regulations:
Guests are responsible for confirming up-to-date vaccination requirements directly with their local embassy or health authority. Please note that visa and vaccination costs are not included in the price of this program.
Hotel Address & Contacts:
InterContinental Vienna
Johannesgasse 28, 1030 Vienna, Austria
Phone: +43 1 711220
InterContinental Ljubljana
Slovenska cesta 59, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Phone: +386 59 128 000
Please Note: In the event of unforeseen circumstances, an alternative hotel may be arranged. Any substitute accommodation will match the original in both rating and quality. You will be informed of any changes prior to your departure. If no such notification is provided, your stay will proceed at the hotel specified in this program.
Program Includes:
•2 nights at the InterContinental Vienna (Classic Room) or similar
•1 night at the InterContinental Ljubljana (Classic Room) or similar
•Touring and entrance fees as per the itinerary, ensuring seamless access to every highlight
•Transfers throughout, for effortless travel and comfort
•Meals as per itinerary
Program Excludes:
•Meals or services not expressly mentioned above
•Gratuities to drivers and guides
•Hotel incidentals, including mini bar and room service
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independently), are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.
Hints & Restrictions:
•Excursions may involve walking over uneven terrain, cobblestones, and extended periods on foot—comfortable footwear is essential.
•Many sites, especially in historic districts and older landmarks, may not have elevator access, guests should expect stairs and occasional inclines.
•Guests with mobility concerns should consult with their travel advisor, as some activities may include moderate physical exertion and limited opportunities for rest.
Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. This program is not recommended for guests who require the use of a wheelchair or mobility scooters. Guests with mobility concerns are advised to carefully assess their personal physical capabilities and stamina. Participants must be able to independently board and disembark from transportation, including motor coaches, and should be accompanied by an able-bodied companion if assistance is needed. Guests who choose to use independent transportation or wheelchair services provided by third-party companies may do so at their own risk and responsibility. We encourage guests to contact the cruise line in advance to discuss any specific mobility-related questions or concerns before booking this program. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
Booking, Pricing & Cancelation:
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. No refunds or partial refunds will be issued for any unused portion of the program. This includes, but is not limited to, missed transfers, accommodation, guided tours, meals, or activities. All venues, hotel stays, tour guides, and logistical services are secured and pre-paid well in advance to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.
