Begin your journey with a prelude worthy of legends, a seamless passage through Central Europe’s cultural heart, meticulously curated for the discerning traveler. This is more than a pre-cruise; it’s the overture to your grand adventure, blending Vienna’s imperial splendor, Slovenia’s enchanting landscapes, and Ljubljana’s vibrant charm. Savor gourmet cuisine, indulge in wine tastings, and immerse yourself in timeless traditions. Your story culminates in Venice, where your cruise awaits. Elevate your voyage, secure your place and let your journey begin with a flourish worthy of legend.
Please Note: This program begins in Vienna, Austria and concludes in Venice, Italy. Please ensure that flights are booked into Vienna International Airport (VIE).
DAY 1: Vienna’s Grand Welcome
Arrive in Austria’s majestic capital and be whisked away by private transfer to your luxurious hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind or to stroll through Vienna’s stately boulevards, where imperial history and timeless elegance await at every turn.
Evening at leisure for dinner.
Overnight at Intercontinental Vienna or a similar hotel in Vienna.
DAY 2: Vienna’s Imperial Splendor & Timeless Romance
Awaken in the heart of Vienna, where history and grandeur await at every turn. Your day begins with a private guided tour, unveiling the city’s most illustrious treasures, wander the opulent halls of Schönbrunn Palace, once the summer residence of emperors; marvel at the Hofburg, the seat of imperial power; and glide along the Ringstrasse, Vienna’s grand boulevard lined with architectural masterpieces and storied monuments.
As midday approaches, indulge in a gourmet lunch at a renowned Viennese restaurant, where classic Austrian cuisine is reimagined with artistry and flair. Savor each bite as you soak in the ambiance of old-world elegance.
In the afternoon, step into a fairytale as you embark on a horse-drawn carriage ride through Vienna’s historic streets. Let the rhythmic clip-clop of hooves transport you to a bygone era, as you pass majestic squares, hidden courtyards, and vibrant cafés.
The remainder of the day is yours to explore at leisure, perhaps discover a cozy coffee house, browse the boutiques, or simply revel in the city’s enchanting atmosphere.
Evening at leisure for dinner.
Overnight at Intercontinental Vienna or a similar hotel in Vienna.
DAY 3: Through Vineyards and Ancient Towns to Ljubljana’s Enchantment
Awaken to a sumptuous breakfast before bidding farewell to Vienna’s imperial embrace. Your journey unfolds as you travel toward Slovenia, traversing landscapes where rolling hills and storybook villages beckon. Pause midday at a charming countryside inn, where you’ll savor a delectable lunch paired with a curated tasting of regional wines, each sip a tribute to the land’s rich heritage.
Continue onward to either Maribor, Slovenia’s celebrated wine capital, or Ptuj, the nation’s oldest town, where centuries of history come alive in cobbled streets and ancient architecture. Here, you’ll enjoy a brief immersion in local lore and culture.
By late afternoon, arrive in Ljubljana and settle into your centrally located hotel. As evening descends, embark on a guided walking tour through the city’s enchanting streets, sampling local delicacies at select stops. The night culminates with a scenic dinner in the heart of Ljubljana, where vibrant energy and old-world charm blend seamlessly.
Evening at leisure for dinner.
Overnight at Intercontinental Ljubljana or a similar.
DAY 4: Nature’s Bounty & The Grand Finale
Awaken to a final breakfast in Ljubljana, then bid farewell to the city’s enchanting streets. Venture into the Slovenian countryside for an unforgettable truffle hunt, where expert guides lead you through lush forests in search of nature’s hidden treasures. Savor a rustic lunch, pairing the earthy flavors of freshly unearthed truffles with local delicacies, a true celebration of gastronomy and the land.
After this immersive experience, continue your journey to Venice. Arrive at the port in perfect time for cruise check-in by approximately 2:30pm, ready to embark on the next chapter of your adventure.
Let your legendary voyage begin. Bon voyage!
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. You will then receive a final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review the letter and your final itinerary carefully for further 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. Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space may be released.
Meet and Greet & Transfer Information
• Final cruise documents will be sent via email 21 days prior to departure. These documents will include the local ground operator’s contact number on page 1, which can be used if you’re unable to locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Please note that the representative may be assisting other guests and might not be immediately visible when you exit Customs, and the baggage claim area.
• Upon arrival, look for a representative holding a sign with the cruise line’s logo, and possibly your name. If you’re uncertain or unable to locate them, airport staff can assist by directing you to the designated meeting point for cruise transfers or by paging the representative.
• Meet and greeting services and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of the land program, or for those who have booked pre-cruise accommodations through the cruise line. These arrangements are based on flight details provided at least 14 days prior to sailing.
• Guests arriving independently or before the official start date of the land program will not have transfers included. If we have not received your flight information, or if your flight details change and the Destination Services Land Team has not been informed, a transfer cannot be guaranteed. In such cases, guests will need to arrange and cover their own transportation to the land program hotel.
• For any flight updates or changes, please contact our Reservations Department as soon as possible prior to departure to ensure smooth coordination and timely assistance.
DAY 1:
Please note: Timings may vary depending on actual flight times
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
Arrive at Vienna Airport and proceed through Customs. Be greeted by your personal host and enjoy a seamless private transfer to your luxurious hotel, where imperial elegance awaits
3:00pm Check-in at InterContinental Vienna or similar hotel. Settle in and let Vienna’s grandeur welcome you
The remainder of the day is yours to relax or stroll through the city’s stately boulevards, where history whispers from every corner
Meals are on your own today
Overnight at InterContinental Vienna or similar hotel
DAY 2:
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
Breakfast at your hotel. Awaken to the flavors of Vienna and prepare for a day of discovery
9:00am Depart for a guided city tour, unveiling Vienna’s most illustrious treasures: the opulent Schönbrunn Palace, the storied Hofburg, the grand Ringstrasse, Parliament, and the iconic Opera House
1:00pm Indulge in an authentic gourmet lunch at a renowned Viennese restaurant, where classic Austrian cuisine is elevated to an art form
3:30pm Experience the romance of Vienna with a special afternoon carriage ride, gliding through historic streets in timeless style
8:00pm The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure, discover hidden gems, elegant cafés, or simply revel in the city’s enchanting atmosphere. Dinner on your own
Overnight at InterContinental Vienna or similar hotel
DAY 3:
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
Breakfast at your hotel. Savor your final morning in Vienna’s embrace
9:00am Check-out & departure from Vienna.
9:30am Drive towards Slovenia (approx. 4 hours with comfort stop). Traverse rolling hills and storybook villages
1:00pm Enjoy a Slovenian lunch with wine tasting at a countryside estate or traditional gostilna near Maribor, celebrating the region’s rich heritage
2:30pm Visit Ptuj or Maribor for a guided stroll through the town center, historical highlights and local lore
4:00pm Drive to Ljubljana, the enchanting capital
5:00pm Check in at your centrally located hotel and enjoy free time
6:00pm Embark on a city walk and dinner at Ljubljana Castle. Ascend by cable car for a panoramic dinner featuring local cuisine, surrounded by breathtaking views
Overnight at InterContinental Ljubljana or similar hotel.
DAY 4:
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
Breakfast at your hotel. Relish your final morning in Ljubljana
8:00am Hotel check-out and transfer to the ship. Journey into the truffle-rich region of Slovenia
10:00am Embark on an exhilarating truffle hunt with a local expert and truffle dog, followed by a rustic lunch that celebrates the bounty of the land
2:30pm Final transfer to Venice Port, arriving in perfect time for cruise check-in. Let your legendary voyage begin
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 or similar
•1 night at the InterContinental Ljubljana 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. Mid cruise overland 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, accommodations, 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.
