From Ljubljana to Lake Bled

Our second new Christmas tour for 2024 takes us to the little known country of Slovenia and its atmospheric capital, Ljubljana, one of the best cities in Europe to see Art Nouveau architecture as well as a charming old town that is almost entirely pedestrianised, making it a joy to explore on foot from our very central base. As well as free time to explore Ljubljana, this tour also includes excursions to Lake Bled, Predjama Castle, a train ride through Postojna caves, and a guided walking tour around Radovljica, plus a boat cruise in the city combine for a festive tour to linger long in the memory.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Fly from London Heathrow to Ljubljana.
On arrival, transfer to the city centre for check in at the hotel. Evening welcome drink and dinner. 

Day 2 Ljubljana guided walking tour and visit to Castle.
This morning we will enjoy a guided walking tour (the best way to see the city) of Slovenia’s charming capital. Highlights include Dragon Bridge, Preseren Square, flanked by lovely classical, Baroque and Art Nouveau Buildings, Piecnik designed Market and 18th century cathedral. We also visit the 900 year old castle with ride up in the funicular with the rest of the afternoon and evening at leisure.

Day 3 Lake Bled and Castle.
A wonderfully scenic day as we head into the Julian Alps to visit Lake Bled and its castle. We’ll start with a visit to medieval Bled Castle, perched atop a cliff 130 metres above Lake Bled with wonderful views. Next we explore Bled’s tiny one-acre island with its 17th century church dedicated to the Assumption of Mary, accessible by a traditional wooden boat, known as a Pletna. Ring the legendary wishing bell then return to the shore for lunch at a local restaurant near the lake. In the afternoon drive back to Ljubljana with a stop in Radovljica, a picturesque medieval town with a moat and views of the Karavanke Alps and the Julian Alps, where we will enjoy a guided walking tour to show us the main sights.  It is often referred to as Sweet Radovljica (Radol'ca), thanks to its tradition of beekeeping and honey. Enjoy a chocolate tasting then return to Ljubljana. 

Day 4: Ptuj 
Morning visit to Ptuj and entrance and guided tour of Ptuj Castle, a striking medieval fortress rebuilt in the mid-12th century on the site of an earlier
fortification overlooking the Drava River. Visit of the Old Town then drive to a local family run vineyard for a included lunch with paired wine tasting and
tasting of local pumpkin oil.

Day 5: Predjama Castle and Postojna Caves 
A full day out of the city takes us to the spectacular cave 24km long formations at Postojna, explored on an underground railway. Above ground, the castle at Predjama has been perched in the middle of a 123-metre high cliff for more than 800 years. Built into the cliffside, the castle has a series of secret tunnels and was home to the rebellious knight Erazem in the middle ages, who withstood the imperial army’s siege of the castle for over a year.  Our day will also include a guided tour of a Lipica Stud Farm including the stables, grounds and the museum.  

Day 6: Piran and the Secovlje Salt Pans
Morning visit to Piran with guided walking tour including Tartini Square, the Church of St George, parts of the old city walls and the local alleys. Afternoon guided visit of the Secovlje Salt Pans. Early evening return to the hotel.

Day 7: Ljubljana at leisure
Full day free at leisure in this beautiful city. Take a boat trip along the city’s eponymous river to see the sights from a different angle. 

Day 8: Departure
Free time before transfer from the hotel to the airport for return flight to London Heathrow.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 35 passengers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as moderate due to the time spent on foot during walking tours, and standing for viewing at attractions. Please visit the mobility page on our website for further information, or call our team prior to booking.

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Heathrow to Ljubljana
• Seven nights bed and breakfast at the four star UHotel Ljubljana, based on shared occupancy of twin/double room
• Welcome drink 
• One dinner
• Three lunches
• Transfers, tours and entrance fees as detailed  
• Tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Double for sole use supplement - £448
• Holiday insurance 
• Meals other than those stated 
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc 
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

UHotel, Ljubljana
This traditional four-star hotel is merged with the Grand Union Hotel which dates back to 1905, located in the heart of the city and constructed in Secession style, which has been welcoming distinguished guests including the British Queen for more than a century.  The hotel boasts an indoor swimming pool, wellness centre, historic café, restaurant and atmospheric Art Nouveau bar as well very comfortable bedrooms with all modern amenities including TV, telephone, air-conditioning, minibar, safe and hairdryer.

Hotel Website