Day 1 - Valletta

Valletta, Malta: Malta's capital, the compact city of Valletta, captivates with its ornate palaces and museums safeguarded by honey-coloured limestone fortifications. The narrow streets are lined with houses featuring overhanging wooden balconies, which historically offered housebound women an indoor view of street life. The main entrance to Valletta is through the City Gate, the endpoint for all bus routes, which leads to Triq Repubblika, the main shopping street of the grid-pattern city. Nearby, Triq Mercante is equally inviting for a leisurely stroll. Explore these streets that gracefully descend toward the water; some are even stepped. Valletta's convenient size makes it perfect to discover on foot. City's redevelopment includes a modern Parliament Building and an open-air performance venue, adding new charm to its historical essence. Don't forget to visit the tourist information office on Merchant Street for maps and brochures before you embark on your journey along Republic Street.

Day 2 - Taormina

Taormina, Italy: The medieval town of Taormina, perched on the cliffs, remains a captivating sight despite the crowds. The breathtaking view of the sea and Mount Etna, set against a blue sky and white volcanic smoke, offers a panorama that feels almost perfect. Taormina has inspired writers since its foundation in the 6th century BC. While its boutique-filled streets might feel overwhelming, the hiking trails surrounding Taormina weave through the stunning hills, offering timeless experiences. A visit to the beautiful Castelmola, reachable by foot or car, is highly recommended.

Day 3 - Otranto

Otranto, Italy: Situated in the heel of Italy's boot, Otranto epitomises the beauty of Puglia with its scenery. Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, those who wander under its alluring weather can even glimpse Albania on a clear day. Like much of Italy, Otranto is steeped in a diverse history. Initially a Greek and Roman port, the town saw Byzantine, Norman, and Spanish occupations, followed by an Ottoman conquest. The remaining forts stand as commemorative histories, while the cathedral retains the relics of martyrs who valiantly resisted conversion during the Ottoman takeover.

Day 4 - Tivat

Tivat, Montenegro: Tivat presents a diverse blend of modernity and tradition, making it an appealing destination. Once primarily a naval base, the town has evolved with luxurious amenities while maintaining its coastal charm. Marvel at the stunning Port Montenegro, where superyachts line the marina, and explore the rich Montenegrin culture in its delightful cafes and local eateries.

Day 5 - Hvar Island

Hvar Island, Croatia: Hvar Island proudly claims the title of the "sunniest island in the Adriatic," promising visitors an average of 2,724 annual sunshine hours. Its captivating landscapes offer more than just weather, with rich historical sites and leisurely activities. The island guarantees a unique experience, offering a money-back guarantee in the rare event of consecutive snowy days.

Day 6 - Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, Croatia: The first sight of Dubrovnik is something extraordinary, as this fortified city commands a stunning coastal location southeast of Split. With its massive stone ramparts encircling a harbour of orange-tiled roofs, copper domes, and graceful bell towers, it feels like a living postcard. Imagining the city during its prime centuries ago, without suburbs or highways, gives an awe-inspiring sense of history. Originally formed by the merging of the Roman city Epidaurum and the Slav settlement Dubrovnik, this city experienced a remarkable era as a sophisticated republic. Despite the devastation of the 1667 earthquake, the city was rebuilt. Dubrovnik thrived as a UNESCO World Heritage site after restoration from the damages during the war for independence, solidifying its place as a treasured world heritage.

Day 7 - Trogir

Trogir, Croatia: Known for its mix of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture, the historic town of Trogir is a tapestry of cultural influences spread across a small island. With its narrow alleyways and charming waterfront, Trogir exudes a timeless Mediterranean feel, perfect for a day of exploration.

Day 8 - Rab Island

Rab Island, Croatia: Rab Island is a sanctuary of natural beauty, known for its stunning coastlines and lush landscapes. The charm of Rab goes beyond pristine beaches; its medieval Old Town, filled with stone towers and churches, invites exploration and discovery, making it a wonderful conclusion to your expedition holiday before heading towards the iconic city of Venice.

Day 9 - Venice

Venice, Italy: Venice is a truly unique city, more enchanting in reality than in its depictions on screen and in print. Navigating through water canals that replace conventional streets, Venice shines in its historical allure as an opulent European and Oriental trade center. Getting lost in its labyrinthine alleys is part of the authentic experience, ultimately leading to the bustling Piazza San Marco. There, both visitors and locals gather to enjoy coffee and the vibrant atmosphere.