One could say that Slovenia is Europe’s microcosm. Its landscape meets the Adriatic coast, soars into the Alps, descends into karst caverns, and extends onto vine-covered plains. It is a young country, technically only 33 years old, yet has centuries of history from Rome to Yugoslavia. Through it all, Slovenes have preserved their culture under a multitude of empires and overlords, while absorbing artistic and culinary influences from Italy, Austria, and the Balkans.

Our journey touches on all aspects of Slovenia’s regions, history, architecture, and natural beauty. Ljubljana’s compact city center encompasses a Gothic and Baroque Old Town, wonderfully preserved Secessionist New Town, and the funky artists’ collective of Metelkova. On the Adriatic coast you will stroll through the Gothic architecture of its Venetian past. The incomparable Lake Bled is a gateway to the Julian Alps and neighboring medieval villages. A charming riverside anchors Maribor, Slovenia’s second city, and capital of its largest wine growing region. We have plenty of opportunities to taste the excellent wine along with many specialties including truffles, cured meats, seafood, honey, and salt.

Hungary shares Slovenia’s historical complexity. Across its 1,000-year history, it has endured multiple invasions, conquered neighboring lands, been subjugated under empires, and lost two-thirds of its territory. The cultural cauldron mixed the ruling Magyars with influences of Ottomans, Austrians, Germans, and Slavs. Crossing the border into Hungary, we explore the north shore of Lake Balaton, Central Europe’s largest lake and a region known for its thermal waters, spas, and wine. In Keszthely, you will visit the 18th-century palace of the Festetics family, who once owned the town. The Tihany peninsula, jutting into the lake, is a defunct volcanic crater covered with lavender farms.

We end the trip in the twin cities of Budapest, exploring the Baroque splendor of the Buda castle district, the extensive Art Nouveau architecture of Pest, and its magnificent Gothic Revival Parliament. You will discover the best of Hungary’s excellent wines at a private tasting, have time to indulge in its café culture, and try one of the many Michelin-recommended restaurants.

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