Best of the Mediterranean

Ciao, Italy

Famed for its centuries-old treasures, timeless natural scenery and superior food and wine scene, Italy is high on many travellers’ bucket lists and for good reason.

Begin your voyage through Italy in none other than Milan: a pioneering metropolis in the country’s northern Lombardy Region where money, creativity and fashion take the lead. Holding its own in all things art, Milan also boasts an eminent literary heritage and vivacious music scene for visitors to indulge in. Pay homage to the works of Italy’s best at the Triennale, the country’s foremost institution for design and contemporary culture.

Journey on to Lake Como for another must-see Italian gem and the most ‘James Bond’ of destinations. Neoclassical villas with newfound opulence and Ferraris weaving through ancient lakeside villages set the tone for this enchanting city, backdropped by the unparalleled snow-capped Alps. Find a local café tucked within a secret alleyway and while away a quiet morning with a classic Italian cappuccino.

Acquaint yourself with new levels of grandeur in Venice, where the splendours of centuries-old architecture are reflected along the city’s signature S-shaped waterways. No visit to this floating jewel is complete without hopping on a gondola, where you’ll be rowed along the Grand Canal and under the city’s most iconic bridges, such as the Rialto and the Bridge of Sighs. If you have a spare afternoon, hop on over to the island of Murano, best known for its colourful homes and spectacular glass art.

Pass through the rolling hills and terraced vineyards of Tuscany as you make your way towards Florence. Birthplace of the Renaissance, this enchanting city, home to architectural gems such as the unmistakable Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio, is a must-see for any art or history enthusiast. From here, you can take the short drive to Pisa and snap that quintessential photo with the city’s famous leaning tower.

Live la dolce vita with a visit to Rome. The Eternal City endures with endless adventures, where you choose to recall the glory days of Ancient Rome at the Colosseum and Pantheon, explore the Vatican Museum’s extraordinary collection of tapestries or twirl forks full of pasta in a hidden trattoria. Be sure to toss a coin into the baroque Trevi Fountain to assure your return to this intoxicating city.

Complete your Italian discovery in the Southern city of Naples, renowned for its historic centre and divine culinary scene. Gateway to some of Italy’s most alluring destinations, choose to explore the ruins of the lost city of Pompeii or dive into the azure waters of Capri and the Amalfi Coast. As one of Italy’s epicurean heavyweights, indulging in a classic margherita pizza or roll of freshly baked cannoli is a must.

Captivating Croatia

Find beaches dripping in sun, walled Medieval cities and luscious lakes in vibrant shades of green and blue in idyllic Croatia, where the shores are calling your name.

Be inspired by the limestone streets, terracotta rooftops and rocky beaches of Dubrovnik, the jewel in Croatia’s crown. Walk the iconic walls that have protected the city for centuries and admire shimmering vistas of the Adriatic whichever way you turn. Later, relish in a thrilling cable car ride to the top of Mount Srd, where you can view the fortified Old Town from above.

Journey onwards to Split, where you’ll discover a seamless blend of old and new. Discover historic artefacts, such as Diocletian’s Palace and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, both built for the 4th-century Roman emperor, nestled among a plethora of modern restaurants, bars, and shops. Take a walk along the palm tree-lined promenade until you reach the azure waters of Bacvice Beach, a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike.

Next, set sail for Zadar, one of the Dalmatian Coast’s best-kept secrets. The standout attraction of this intriguing city is the Sea Organ, a world-first where crashing waves create whistling melodies through a series of underwater pipes and perforated stone chairs. And don’t miss the chance to sample Croatian specialties, like black squid ink risotto and sweet Maraschino cherry liqueur.

If the opportunity arises, head away from the coast to explore Croatia’s truly breathtaking national parks. The glorious Plitvice Lakes National Park is easily Croatia’s top natural attraction – here, 16 interconnecting crystalline lakes spill into each other via a series of waterfalls and cascades. Wooden boardwalks criss-cross the lakes to create a fairy tale-worthy scene just waiting to be discovered.