Scenic Gems of Croatia with the Bay of Kotor

Nestled on Italy’s sun-kissed Adriatic coast, Brindisi is a destination where history, beauty and relaxed southern charm combine perfectly. Once an important gateway of the Roman Empire, Brindisi still wears its heritage proudly, which you be be able to see as you wander along the elegant waterfront promenade, where, at the end of the famous Via Appia, you’ll find the striking Roman Columns, a powerful reminder of the city’s ancient past. Step into the old town and you’ll discover narrow streets, hidden piazzas and welcoming trattorias serving up authentic Apulian flavours like fresh seafood, handmade pasta and local wines best enjoyed in the style of la dolce vita. Beyond the city, Brindisi is your gateway to the wonders of Puglia with its whitewashed towns and olive groves stretching as far as the eye can see.

Nestled on Italy’s sun-kissed Adriatic coast, Brindisi is a destination where history, beauty and relaxed southern charm combine perfectly. Once an important gateway of the Roman Empire, Brindisi still wears its heritage proudly, which you be be able to see as you wander along the elegant waterfront promenade, where, at the end of the famous Via Appia, you’ll find the striking Roman Columns, a powerful reminder of the city’s ancient past. Step into the old town and you’ll discover narrow streets, hidden piazzas and welcoming trattorias serving up authentic Apulian flavours like fresh seafood, handmade pasta and local wines best enjoyed in the style of la dolce vita. Beyond the city, Brindisi is your gateway to the wonders of Puglia with its whitewashed towns and olive groves stretching as far as the eye can see.

The striking city of Split is well-known for its beaches and waterfront area, but just a short walk away is the old town, protected by the UNESCO-listed walls of Diocletian’s Palace. Best explored on foot, wander through the cobbled streets, alleyways, and courtyards as you admire the perfectly preserved Roman architecture of St. Dominus Cathedral and Narodni Trg, the People’s Square. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a taste of Dalmatian life and culinary traditions, sampling local fish and shellfish, accompanied by locally produced wine, or experience village life in the Croatian mountains by listening to a local musician playing the fiddle, showcasing traditional songs from the region. You’ll also be ideally placed to witness the impressive Krka waterfalls, including Skradinski Buk, the last of seven magnificent waterfalls cascading into the river below.

Known as the ‘town of a hundred suns’ and the oldest town in Slovenia, Koper has unforgettable sea views, extensive vineyards and olive groves. After the Second World War, Koper became part of Yugoslavia, but then regained independence in 1991, and officially became part of Slovenia. The spectacular Lake Bled, nominated as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is close by and is considered one of the most picturesque spots in the country.

As your ship sails along the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, you’ll have the chance to admire the craggy mountains that surround the rugged coastlines, sprinkled with picturesque waterside villages. You will also be perfectly placed out on the decks of your ship to witness the architectural landmarks of the Saint George Benedictine Monastery at the water's edge and the twin islands of St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks, both of which are religious pilgrimage sites.

As your ship sails along the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, you’ll have the chance to admire the craggy mountains that surround the rugged coastlines, sprinkled with picturesque waterside villages. You will also be perfectly placed out on the decks of your ship to witness the architectural landmarks of the Saint George Benedictine Monastery at the water's edge and the twin islands of St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks, both of which are religious pilgrimage sites.

Located on the beautiful Bay of Kotor, the town of the same name is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Adriatic. Framed by steep mountain peaks and rocky shorelines, you will be able to see the spectacular Orjen Mountains to the west and Lovćen Mountains to the east. You can easily explore the Old Town on foot at this time of year and admire its beautifully crisscrossed streets and squares lined with centuries-old buildings, like the Romanesque Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. During your explorations, there will be opportunities to discover Lovcen National Park, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that thrive in the Mediterranean climate, or visit Lustica Bay Village, where you can wander through an olive tree plantation, learn about the production of olive oil, and enjoy a taste alongside other local delicacies like goat’s cheese and prosciutto.

Located on the beautiful Bay of Kotor, the town of the same name is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Adriatic. Framed by steep mountain peaks and rocky shorelines, you will be able to see the spectacular Orjen Mountains to the west and Lovćen Mountains to the east. You can easily explore the Old Town on foot at this time of year and admire its beautifully crisscrossed streets and squares lined with centuries-old buildings, like the Romanesque Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. During your explorations, there will be opportunities to discover Lovcen National Park, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that thrive in the Mediterranean climate, or visit Lustica Bay Village, where you can wander through an olive tree plantation, learn about the production of olive oil, and enjoy a taste alongside other local delicacies like goat’s cheese and prosciutto.

As you arrive in Dubrovnik, known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, the medieval walls of this deeply historic city are bathed in the autumn sun, protecting Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance monuments and an array of impressive architecture, including the 14^th-century Dominican House, home to rare books and manuscripts. Best explored on foot, the old town has a number of tiny, cobbled streets, hidden squares, and staircases begging for exploration, while the cable car to Srdj Hill offers beautiful views of the city and surrounding area. Meanwhile, the nearby island of Lokrum offers opportunities to explore the monastery and botanical garden, or venture further afield to Konavle Valley to discover how Croatians live here, enjoy local brandy and figs, or experience typical Dalmatian music and songs.

This beautiful Greek island may have a chequered past, but its interesting history, natural beauty and glorious climate make it a hugely popular tourist destination in Europe. With a history dating back to ancient times, Kerkira - also known more commonly as Corfu - has a diverse cultural heritage, and was ruled by various powers over the centuries; Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, French, and British influences are seen within the wide avenues, narrow flagstone alleys, open squares, ancient churches and fortresses. The island was also the setting for Shakespeare's 'The Tempest'. Aside from seemingly endless stretches of fine beaches and azure blue waters,Corfu's main attraction is the historic Old Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for its diverse mix of Renaissance, Baroque and Classical architecture. The 15^th century Old Fortress, New Fortress and Church of St. Spyridon are must-visit sites, while Spianáda, the largest square in the Balkans, is awash with French architecture from the 19th century.