European Winter Escape: Slovenia, Switzerland, Italy & Spain Christmas and New Year's Journey

Day 1: Ljubljana Exploration

Ljubljana, Slovenia on December 13, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Le Petit Café

Start your day with a cozy breakfast featuring Slovenian pastries and artisan coffee in the heart of Ljubljana.
EUR15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Ljubljana Old Town

Discover the charming cobblestone streets, Dragon Bridge, and Ljubljana Castle offering panoramic views of the city.
EUR10 for Castle entry, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Druga Violina

Enjoy traditional Slovenian cuisine in a rustic setting, known for its local ingredients and hearty dishes.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Tivoli Park

Relax in Ljubljana’s largest park with beautiful winter landscapes and art installations, perfect for a peaceful walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Restavracija Strelec

Dine in a castle tower restaurant with exquisite views, enjoying modern Slovenian gastronomy.
EUR50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Lake Bled and Surrounds

Lake Bled, Slovenia on December 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bled Cream Cake Shop

Try the famous Bled cream cake accompanied by freshly brewed coffee to start your day.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Lake Bled Castle

Tour the medieval castle overlooking the lake, exploring museum exhibits and enjoying stunning lake views.
EUR13, 2 hours

12:00PM

Pletna Boat Ride to Bled Island

Take the traditional wooden boat to the island, visit the Church of the Assumption and ring the wishing bell.
EUR15, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Vila Ajda

Savor local delicacies right by the lakefront with a cozy ambiance perfect for winter.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Winter Walk around Lake Bled

Enjoy scenic walks with views of the snow-capped mountains and frozen sections of the lake.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Restavracija 1906 Bled

Experience fine dining with a focus on seasonal Slovenian ingredients and excellent wine pairing.
EUR50, 2 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Switzerland

Lucerne, Switzerland on December 15, 2025

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Light breakfast before the train journey to Switzerland.
Included, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Train to Lucerne

Enjoy scenic rail travel through the Alps from Ljubljana to Lucerne, estimated 6-7 hours with transfers.
CHF80, 7 hours

3:30PM

Check-in and Rest

Settle into your hotel in Lucerne and relax after the journey.
Varies, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening Walk on Chapel Bridge

Stroll the iconic covered wooden bridge, beautifully lit in winter evenings.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Wirtshaus Galliker

Enjoy traditional Swiss dishes like rösti and fondue in this authentic setting.
CHF45, 2 hours
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Day 4: Swiss Alpine Adventure

Interlaken, Switzerland on December 16, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

A hearty Swiss breakfast to prepare for a day of alpine activities.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Interlaken

Scenic 2-hour train ride through the Alps to Interlaken.
CHF40, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Harder Kulm

Take the funicular to Harder Kulm lookout for spectacular views of Interlaken and surrounding peaks.
CHF38 round trip, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant

Dine with panoramic mountain views and Swiss specialties.
CHF40, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Lake Thun Walk

Take a relaxing lakeside walk or explore nearby villages under winter skies.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Taverne

Enjoy a cozy on-site Swiss meal at your hotel or nearby restaurant in Interlaken.
CHF50, 2 hours
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Day 5: Travel to Campania

Naples, Campania, Italy on December 17, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Early morning light breakfast before departure.
Included, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Flight from Zurich to Naples

Direct flight to Naples, the gateway to Campania region, approx 1.5 hours.
EUR100, 2 hours (including transfers)

11:00AM

Check-in Naples Hotel and Rest

Settle in and prepare for your Campania exploration.
Varies, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Da Michele

Famous for authentic Neapolitan pizza, a must-try in Naples.
EUR20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Naples Historic Center

Explore UNESCO sites like Spaccanapoli street, Naples Cathedral, and vibrant markets.
Free, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Palazzo Petrucci

Fine dining with modern twists on traditional Campanian cuisine.
EUR70, 2 hours
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Day 6: Amalfi Coast Wonders

Amalfi Coast, Campania, Italy on December 18, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely Italian breakfast with fresh pastries and espresso.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive or ferry to Amalfi Coast

Travel to picturesque Amalfi Coast villages like Positano and Amalfi for sightseeing.
EUR40 transport, 3 hours total transit and stops

12:00PM

Lunch at La Tagliata

Family-run restaurant in Positano with traditional home-cooked Campanian dishes and beautiful views.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Amalfi Cathedral

Visit the iconic cathedral with its stunning facade and interior treasures.
EUR3, 1 hour

4:00PM

Lemon Groves Walk and Limoncello Tasting

Experience local Amalfi lemon cultivation and sample limoncello, a regional specialty.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Eolo, Amalfi

Coastal dining featuring fresh seafood and regional specialties with sea views.
EUR60, 2 hours
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Day 7: Relaxing Campania

Campania, Italy on December 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with Italian coffee and pastries.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Pompeii Archaeological Site

Explore the extensive ruins of the ancient Roman city preserved by volcanic ash.
EUR18, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Caupona Pompeii

Enjoy Roman-inspired dishes near the archaeological site in a themed restaurant.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Mount Vesuvius Visitor Center

Optional hike or visitor center exploration about the volcano’s history and geology.
EUR10, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Osteria Il Gobbetto, Naples

Traditional Neapolitan dining in the city center.
EUR45, 2 hours
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Day 8: Campania Leisure

Campania, Italy on December 20, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast and Market Visit

Start with breakfast followed by a visit to local markets for seasonal and artisanal products.
EUR15, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Royal Palace of Caserta

Tour the grand 18th-century palace with lavish gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
EUR14, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at the Royal Palace Café

Light lunch with views of palace gardens.
EUR20, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax or Spa Time

Enjoy some downtime or book a spa treatment at your hotel to rejuvenate.
Varies, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria da Nennella, Naples

Authentic lively Neapolitan tavern experience with classic flavors.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 9: Campania Christmas Eve

Campania, Italy on December 21, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Relaxed morning with traditional Italian breakfast.
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Nativity Scenes Exhibits

Explore Naples’ famous presepi (nativity scene) workshops and displays, a Christmas tradition.
Free to EUR10, 3 hours

2:00PM

Light Lunch at Gran Caffè Gambrinus

Historic café offering pastries and light meals in festive ambiance.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Christmas Shopping in Via Toledo

Shop for last-minute gifts in the city’s main shopping street decorated for the holidays.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Christmas Eve Dinner at Palazzo Petrucci

Celebrate with a luxurious multi-course meal highlighting Campanian festive specialties. Reservation strongly recommended.
EUR90, 3 hours
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Day 10: Christmas Day Relax

Campania, Italy on December 22, 2025

10:00AM

Christmas Brunch at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxed festive brunch with traditional Italian holiday flavors.
Included or EUR30 depending on hotel, 2 hours

12:30PM

Stroll and Light Sightseeing

Take a gentle walk along the seafront promenade or visit small quiet churches open for Christmas services.
Free, 3 hours

4:00PM

Rest or Hotel Leisure

Relax and enjoy Christmas ambiance at your accommodation.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Casual Dinner at Antica Pizzeria da Michele

Enjoy a simple, comforting pizza dinner to end your Christmas day in Naples.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Campania Cultural Day

Naples and Surrounds, Italy on December 23, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start with a traditional Italian breakfast to energize your day.
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Museo Cappella Sansevero

See the remarkable Baroque sculpture collection including the Veiled Christ masterpiece.
EUR10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tandem Ragu

Famous for Neapolitan ragù dishes with a homely atmosphere.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Castel dell’Ovo

Visit the oldest castle in Naples on the seafront with great views and history.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Il Comandante

Michelin starred fine dining experience with stunning bay views.
EUR100, 2.5 hours
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Day 12: Travel to Puglia

Puglia, Italy on December 24, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for the transfer south.
Included, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Train from Naples to Bari

Travel by train approx 4 hours to Bari, gateway to Puglia region.
EUR40, 4 hours

12:30PM

Check-in and Lunch in Bari

Lunch at a local trattoria featuring fresh seafood and focaccia specialties.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Bari Old Town

Wander narrow streets, visit Basilica of Saint Nicholas, and enjoy winter seaside charm.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Tana del Polpo

Intimate dining with fresh Adriatic seafood specialties.
EUR50, 2 hours
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Day 13: Christmas in Puglia

Puglia, Italy on December 25, 2025

10:00AM

Christmas Brunch at Hotel

Enjoy a festive and indulgent Italian Christmas brunch.
Included or EUR35, 2 hours

12:30PM

Relaxed Day Exploring Towns

Visit nearby towns like Polignano a Mare or Alberobello to admire trulli houses and seaside views.
Transport EUR20, 4 hours

5:00PM

Return and Rest

Enjoy leisure time at hotel or local cafes soaking up Christmas atmosphere.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Osteria Piazzetta Cattedrale, Bari

Traditional Puglian dishes with a cozy ambiance.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 14: Travel to Rimini

Rimini, Italy on December 26, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start early to maximize travel time to Rimini.
Included, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Train Bari to Rimini

Journey north by train about 5 hours with scenic views.
EUR50, 5 hours

1:30PM

Check-in and Lunch

Lunch at a seaside restaurant featuring Romagna cuisine.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Rimini Old Town

Visit the Arch of Augustus, Tiberius Bridge, and historic center in winter calm.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Relax at Hotel

Prepare for New Year's celebrations with some rest.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at La Brasserie

Upscale dining with local and international cuisine to start Rimini stay.
EUR50, 2 hours
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Day 15: Rimini Winter Leisure

Rimini, Italy on December 27, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Bar Flip

Enjoy a local favorite for morning espresso and pastries.
EUR8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Rimini Museums

Explore the Fellini Museum and City Museum to learn more about Rimini’s culture and history.
EUR12, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Guido

Classic Romagna cuisine using seasonal ingredients.
EUR40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Walk the Seafront Promenade

Winter walks along the beach create a peaceful atmosphere with fresh sea air.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Osteria de Borg

Cozy setting with regional dishes and excellent local wines.
EUR45, 2 hours
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Day 16: Rimini Exploration

Rimini, Italy on December 28, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Giotto

Sample fresh pastries and Italian coffee to start your day.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Day Trip to San Marino

Short 45-minute drive to the historic hilltop microstate with medieval fortresses and stunning views.
EUR30 transport and entrance fees, 6 hours

5:30PM

Return and Rest

Relax at the hotel after your day trip.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Clandestino

Innovative cuisine with focus on fresh local ingredients, perfect finale to day.
EUR60, 2 hours
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Day 17: Rimini to Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain on December 29, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Quick breakfast before departure.
Included, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Flight from Bologna Airport (nearest to Rimini) to Barcelona

Morning flight approx 2 hours; travel from Rimini to Bologna needed (1.5 hr by train).
EUR100, 4 hours including transfers

1:00PM

Check-in and Lunch at El Nacional

Experience a unique food hall with diverse traditional Spanish cuisine in elegant setting.
EUR40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Gothic Quarter

Wander historic streets, plazas, and visit the Barcelona Cathedral.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Can Culleretes

One of the oldest restaurants serving traditional Catalan dishes with a historic ambiance.
EUR50, 2 hours
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Day 18: Barcelona Highlights

Barcelona, Spain on December 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Granja Viader

Traditional Catalan dairy-based breakfast spot famous for churros and hot chocolate.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sagrada Familia

Tour Gaudí’s masterpiece basilica, booking tickets in advance advised to avoid queues.
EUR30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Park Güell Exploration

Visit the famous park for panoramic city views and colorful mosaics, timed entry.
EUR12, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at La Paradeta

Seafood market restaurant where you choose fresh fish cooked to order.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

La Rambla Stroll and Market Visit

Experience lively street life and visit La Boqueria market for local delicacies.
Free to browse, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Cinc Sentits

Michelin-starred modern Catalan tasting menu for a special evening.
EUR120, 2.5 hours
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Day 19: Barcelona to Madrid

Madrid, Spain on December 31, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Breakfast to start moving day.
Included, 30 minutes

8:30AM

Train to Madrid

High-speed AVE train from Barcelona to Madrid approx 3 hours.
EUR60, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check-in and Lunch

Lunch near Puerta del Sol featuring traditional Spanish tapas.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Prado Museum

World-class art museum with masterpieces from Velázquez, Goya and more.
EUR20, 3 hours

7:00PM

Early Dinner at Sobrino de Botín

The world’s oldest restaurant serving classic Castilian dishes, perfect before New Year’s Eve.
EUR50, 2 hours

10:00PM

New Year's Eve Celebration at Puerta del Sol

Join the crowd for traditional grapes at midnight and fireworks to welcome the new year.
Free, Until late
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Day 20: Madrid Leisure

Madrid, Spain on January 1, 2026

10:00AM

Late Brunch at Café Murillo

Relaxed post-New Year’s brunch near the Prado.
EUR25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Retiro Park Walk

Gentle stroll through the large central park, enjoying sculptures, lake and winter light.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Royal Palace

Explore the grand interiors and gardens of the Spanish monarchy’s official residence.
EUR13, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Casa Lucio

Enjoy local specialties like huevos rotos in a traditional Madrid setting.
EUR45, 2 hours
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Day 21: Departure Prep

Madrid, Spain on January 2, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast to start your day.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shopping or Last-minute Sightseeing

Spend morning buying souvenirs or visiting any missed spots such as Mercado San Miguel.
Varies, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Enjoy an informal lunch with a wide selection of fresh Spanish tapas and delicacies.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return to hotel and pack

Prepare for late evening flight.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Light Dinner at Hotel or nearby café

Keep it light and easy before your flight.
EUR20, 1 hour

9:30PM

Transfer to Madrid Airport

Travel to airport for your overnight flight back to Adelaide.
EUR30, 1 hour
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