Welcome to Tirana, the storied capital of Albania. Here, you can wander streets lined with fascinating architecture from the Ottoman, Fascist and Soviet eras. For the full-low down on Albanian history, don’t miss the National History Museum, which covers prehistoric times through communist rule and the anti-communist uprising of the 1990s.

Welcome to Kotor, a hidden Balkan gem. Tucked into the spectacular bay and surrounded by a wall of brooding mountains, the atmosphere of Kotor is unbeatable. Wander the maze that is Old Town, kayak along the bay and sample local wine and fresh seafood at one of the countless seaside restaurants.

Welcome to Dubrovnik, the pearl of the Adriatic. Famous for its distinctive terracotta rooftops, gleaming limestone streets and medieval architecture, no trip to Croatia is complete without a visit to Dubrovnik. Walk along the city walls, take a cable car to Mount Srd for impeccable views or kayak to the turquoise waters of Lokrum Island.

Welcome to Hvar! This picturesque island located off Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is known for its clear blue water, hip beach clubs and delicious cuisine. Admire the stunning limestone buildings of Hvar Town, go wine tasting in Stari Grad and hike to Hvar Fortress for sweeping views over the island.

Visit Ancona’s well-signposted Roman remains along the way, which will take you to the pink-and-white Duomo. Ancona’s large, three-storey Museo Archeologico in the old quarter is a fair place to while away an hour or two, its wacky molded ceilings vaulting over a collection of finds ranging from red- and black-figure Greek craters to a stunning Celtic gold crown. To the south of Ancona, some 32 km up the Esino valley from Jesi, with its white cliffs, blanched pebble beaches, thick protected forests, and easy-going resorts.

Welcome to the picturesque port town of Koper. The region is bolstered by Venetian Gothic architecture including palaces and castles, boasting unbelievable views of the coastline.

Welcome to Venice, the floating city. Perhaps one of the world’s most famous destinations, a visit to Venice will leave you awestruck. Wind down the Grand Canal on a gondola, explore the sights of St Mark’s Square, including St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s palace, and hop over to Murano for a glass blowing demonstration. Dreamy Venice is a stop you’ll never forget.

Welcome to Split! This atmospheric city is stunningly located between coastal mountains and the glistening turquoise waters of the Adriatic. Discover UNESCO site Diocletian’s Palace, amble down the postcard-perfect Riva Promenade and explore the cobblestoned maze of Old Town. Once you’re done exploring, get into the spirit of Fjaka, the Dalmatian art of doing nothing, as you relax at one of the dozens of bars, cafes and restaurants lining the city’s walls.

Croatia’s sixth-largest island—once known as Melaina Korkyra (Black Korkyra) because its vast oak forests reminded Greek settlers of Corfu—is covered in pine trees, olive groves and vineyards.

Korčula Old Town is the island’s treasured highlight and a UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate. Its stone architecture and historic ambiance reflect almost four centuries of Venetian rule, with towered gates, lion statues, magnificent palazzos and elaborate stonework peppering the charming streets. Venturing out of the Old Town, you will encounter historic villages, picturesque bays, waterfront promenades and welcoming locals.

Welcome to Corfu, the most popular of Greece’s Ionian Islands. Famed for its green scenery, stunning sandy beaches and Venetian inspired architecture, there are endless things to do on this picturesque island. Wander the ancient streets of Old Town, admire St Spyridon Church, go beach hopping, or simply sit back and sample some delightful Greek wine.

This quaint little seaside town on the Ionian Sea is the gateway to Ancient Olympia, where Greek mythology was born and the first Olympiad was held. You may still be able to hear the distant echoes of the ancient Greeks cheering as you tour the ruins of one of the most important and exciting sanctuaries of antiquity.

Welcome to Santorini! This postcard-perfect island is possibly Greece’s most iconic island, famed for its steep cliffs, blue-roofed houses, and breathtaking sunsets. Hike from Fira to Oia, explore the red and black sanded beaches and visit the Santorini volcano. After a day of exploring, you’ll want to enjoy a glass of wine as the sun sets over this mesmerising island.

Welcome to Athens, the birthplace of democracy. This vibrant city is steeped in history, which you can discover for yourself at the Acropolis and National Archaeological Museum. Afterwards, take a stroll through Plaka, a neighbourhood teeming with cobblestoned streets, sidewalk cafes and tiny local stores.

Welcome to Kusadasi! This scenic seaside town is your gateway to Ephesus, one of the best preserved ancient Greco-Roman ruins in the world. When you’ve finished soaking in the history, spend some time relaxing on the beach, sampling some Turkish cuisine or treating yourself to a spot of shopping.

Welcome to Istanbul, the cultural capital of Turkey and the meeting place of East and West. This vibrant city is filled with iconic sites, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Galata Tower. Shop for ceramics, lamps and rugs at the Grand Bazaar and be sure to sample some sweet Turkish delight.