Day 1 - Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, Croatia: Nothing can prepare you for your first sight of Dubrovnik. Positioned majestically 216 km southeast of Split, this coastal city boasts some of the world's most stunning fortifications. With its great stone ramparts and fortress towers enclosing a charming harbour, Dubrovnik's view is unforgettable. The terracotta rooftops, copper domes, and graceful bell towers invite you to imagine the city’s medieval past when it stood alone as a gleaming stone city by the sea. Founded in the 7th century as refuge from northern invaders, Dubrovnik once flourished as a powerful independent republic. Despite an earthquake in 1667, which altered much of its Gothic and Renaissance architecture to Baroque, the city’s robust walls endured. Once a popular destination in Yugoslavia, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, Dubrovnik has been carefully restored after the siege during the war for independence, preserving its treasured and timeless beauty.

Day 1 - Mljet Island

Mljet Island, Croatia: This tranquil Adriatic island is renowned for its unspoilt nature and picturesque scenery. Tucked away in Croatia's southern seas, Mljet offers verdant forests, serene saltwater lakes, and charming villages that beckon exploration. As one of the less frequented islands, it provides an idyllic retreat for those seeking serene landscapes and quiet coastal walks.

Day 2 - Korčula

Korčula, Croatia: Off Croatia’s southern coast lies Korčula, hailed as the largest and most exquisite of the Adriatic islands. With its sun-drenched landscapes and lush Mediterranean greenery, it mirrors a modern-day Eden. Korčula's charming medieval town retains its heritage with splendid architecture and a rich history of seafaring and artistry. Founded by the Greeks, the island's strategic maritime location has drawn settlers and travellers for centuries, including the legendary Marco Polo, said to have been born here. While winding through its medieval avenues or witnessing traditional performances like the Moreska dance, visitors find themselves captivated by Korčula's timeless allure.

Day 3 - Komiza

Komiza, Croatia: This authentic fishing village on the island of Vis is famed for its rustic charm and maritime heritage. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches, Komiza offers a delightful mix of cultural history and natural beauty. Its laid-back atmosphere and fresh seafood turn it into a hidden gem for discerning travellers exploring the Dalmatian archipelago.

Day 3 - Vis Island

Vis Island, Croatia: Vis, known as one of Croatia's most unspoilt islands, captivates with its serene coastal vistas and olive-clad hills. Once a strategic naval base, it now lures adventurers with its vineyards, historic sites, and awe-inspiring coves perfect for diving and sailing.

Day 4 - Kotor

Kotor, Montenegro: Nestled within the deepest folds of Kotor Bay, Europe’s southernmost fjord, the diminutive town of Kotor is a compelling blend of history and splendour. Known for its medieval charms, this UNESCO World Heritage Site remains steeped in authenticity, with winding streets enclosed by centuries-old defensive walls. Once a pivotal economic and cultural hub, Kotor's myriad influences from Venetian to French rule have left indelible marks on its character. Beyond its fortifications lies the pristine marina Porto Montenegro, along with neighbouring villages offering breathtaking bay vistas.

Day 5 - Parga

Parga, Greece: Adorned with colourful houses and nestled between lush hills and the Ionian Sea, Parga welcomes visitors with its scenic beauty and storied past. Known for its idyllic beaches and vibrant culture, Parga is a haven for those seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion in a quintessentially Greek setting.

Day 6 - Parga

Parga, Greece: A return visit to Parga allows for more in-depth exploration, whether it's wandering through olive groves, viewing the historic castle, or experiencing local delights at its bustling tavernas overlooking the sea.

Day 7 - Fiskárdo

Fiskárdo, Greece: This picturesque village on Kefalonia's northern tip exudes charm with its pastel buildings and sophisticated harbour. Known for its cultural heritage and natural allure, Fiskárdo entices visitors with its upscale dining and aquatic adventures in crystal-clear waters.

Day 8 - Gallipoli

Gallipoli, Italy: Named Kalè polis by ancient Greeks, Gallipoli's old town rises from the Ionian Sea, crowned with rich history and artistic treasures. Connected by a 17th-century bridge to modern Gallipoli, the old quarter offers a maze of quaint streets and a wealth of cultural heritage, like the grand Basilica of Sant’Agata. Gallipoli's enduring charm lies not just in its storied past or architectural wonders, but also in its striking natural surroundings.

Day 9 - Taormina

Taormina, Italy: Despite its popularity with tourists, Taormina retains an undeniable allure, perched dramatically on its cliffside with stunning views of the sea and Mt. Etna. Renowned literary figures have long extolled its beauty, and today, visitors find joy wandering its bustling streets or hiking the scenic trails to Castelmola, where ancient allure meets modern charm.

Day 10 - Valletta

Valletta, Malta: The minute capital of Malta, Valletta enchants with its architecturally rich streets framed by towering limestone fortresses. Its narrow lanes, bejewelled with ornate palaces and overhanging balconies, evoke a bygone era while vibrant marketplaces throng with life. Compact and easily navigable, Valletta invites visitors to explore its historical tapestry on foot, uncovering the layered stories of this UNESCO World Heritage city.