Grand Adriatic & Aegean

Trieste, located in the northeastern corner of Italy, is a city that beautifully blends Italian, Slavic, and Central European influences, making it one of the most culturally rich destinations in the country. Situated along the Adriatic Sea, the city boasts a stunning waterfront, with the iconic Piazza Unità d'Italia, one of the largest European squares facing the sea, at its heart. Trieste’s historic center is filled with neoclassical and Austrian imperial architecture, such as the Cathedral of San Giusto and the imposing Castello di Miramare, which sits perched above the sea offering breathtaking views. Trieste's café culture is deeply rooted in its history as a major port city and visitors can enjoy a coffee at one of the many charming and historic cafés.

Trieste’s position near the border with Slovenia and Croatia adds to its multicultural vibe, with the city being a melting pot of languages and traditions. For outdoor enthusiasts, Trieste provides plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring natural reserves, such as the Karst Plateau, known for its unique landscapes and caves.

Dubrovnik, often hailed as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is a city where history and stunning natural beauty converge. Enclosed within its ancient city walls, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll find a captivating blend of medieval architecture and vibrant culture. The city's Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, lined with baroque churches, Renaissance buildings, and charming squares. A stroll along the Stradun, Dubrovnik’s main street, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich past and lively present.

A must-see for visitors is the City Walls, which stretch over 2 kilometers and provide panoramic views of the shimmering Adriatic Sea and terracotta rooftops below. Walking the walls is an unforgettable experience, allowing you to marvel at the impressive fortifications and catch glimpses of Dubrovnik’s scenic coastline source. The walls also featured prominently in the popular TV series "Game of Thrones," further boosting Dubrovnik’s allure as a filming location for fans of the show.

Dubrovnik’s natural beauty extends beyond its historic walls. The city is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Banje Beach, located just a short walk from the Old Town, offers stunning views of the city walls and is perfect for a refreshing swim or sunbathing. For a more secluded experience, take a boat trip to the nearby Lokrum Island, a serene retreat with botanical gardens, rocky coves, and a historic monastery.

Fun fact: Dubrovnik's Old Town was used as a stand-in for King’s Landing in "Game of Thrones," making it a popular destination for fans of the series. The city's well-preserved medieval ambiance and striking scenery have earned it accolades as one of the most photogenic locations in the world.

Chania, the jewel of western Crete, is a city where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create a captivating experience. Known for its Venetian harbor, Chania boasts a unique blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences. The harbor's old lighthouse, built in the 16th century by the Venetians, stands as a timeless sentinel over the bustling waterfront, which is lined with colorful buildings, inviting cafes, and vibrant tavernas. A stroll along the cobbled streets of the Old Town reveals charming alleyways filled with traditional shops, historical buildings, and hidden courtyards—a living museum of Chania’s storied past.

The city's rich history is best explored through its various museums and landmarks. The Archaeological Museum of Chania, housed in a former Venetian church, showcases artifacts from Minoan to Roman times, providing a deep dive into the island's ancient civilization. Meanwhile, the Maritime Museum of Crete takes you through the island’s naval history, from the Minoan era to the Battle of Crete during World War II. The Agora, a bustling marketplace built in 1913, offers a sensory delight with its plethora of local produce, cheeses, olive oils, and handmade goods—a perfect spot to immerse yourself in Cretan culture.

Chania is also a gateway to some of Crete's most stunning natural landscapes. The Samaria Gorge, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through towering cliffs, lush forests, and a riverbed that winds for 16 kilometers. For a more relaxing day, head to the famous Balos Lagoon or Elafonissi Beach, where crystal-clear waters and pink-hued sands create a paradise for beach lovers. For wine enthusiasts, the nearby vineyards offer tours and tastings, showcasing Crete's ancient wine-making traditions.

A fun fact about Chania: It is believed that the city sits on the site of the ancient Minoan city of Kydonia, one of the most important centers of Minoan civilization. This connection to the Minoan era adds an extra layer of intrigue to exploring the city's history-laden streets. Whether you’re captivated by history, drawn to its natural beauty, or eager to savor authentic Cretan cuisine, Chania promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Crete.

Lesbos, an enchanting island in the northern Aegean Sea, is a destination that seamlessly blends rich history with natural beauty. Known for its picturesque landscapes, Lesbos is also famous for its ancient sites and vibrant cultural scene. One of its key historical attractions is the ancient city of Mithymna, also known as Molivos, where you can explore the ruins of a Byzantine castle and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding sea and hills. Additionally, the island's archaeological museum in Mytilene houses significant artifacts from ancient Greek and Roman periods, providing insights into Lesbos's storied past.

Lesbos is renowned for its beautiful beaches and natural hot springs. The thermal springs of Eftalou and Therma are celebrated for their therapeutic properties and offer a relaxing retreat. For beach lovers, Skala Eressos and Petra boast crystal-clear waters and scenic settings ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The island's diverse landscape also features lush forests and rolling hills, perfect for hiking and exploring.

A unique aspect of Lesbos is its reputation for ouzo production. The island is the birthplace of this iconic Greek spirit, and visitors can tour local distilleries to learn about the traditional production methods and enjoy tastings. The Ouzo Museum in Plomari provides a fascinating look into the history and craft of ouzo making.

For a fun fact, Lesbos is the birthplace of the ancient Greek poet Sappho, whose poetry was renowned for its passionate and lyrical style. Her work had a significant impact on Western literature and is still celebrated today. Whether you're drawn by the island's natural wonders, historical treasures, or cultural heritage, Lesbos offers a unique and memorable Greek island experience.

Kos, an enchanting island in Greece’s Dodecanese archipelago, is a gem steeped in both history and natural beauty. Known as the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, Kos is home to the ancient Asclepeion, a healing temple where Hippocrates taught his students. Visitors can wander through the well-preserved ruins and enjoy sweeping views over the island and the Aegean Sea. This historical site, dating back to the 3rd century BC, remains one of the most significant landmarks on Kos and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

The town of Kos itself offers a perfect blend of ancient and modern attractions. Stroll through the Kos Archaeological Museum to explore artifacts from the island’s rich history, or visit the Ancient Agora, where ruins of temples, baths, and columns transport you back to antiquity. The medieval Neratzia Castle, built by the Knights of St. John, stands at the entrance to the town’s harbor and offers stunning views of both Kos and the Turkish coast. For a more leisurely experience, enjoy the vibrant cafés, shops, and traditional tavernas that line the cobblestone streets of the old town.

Kos is also a haven for beach lovers. Its long stretches of sandy shores, such as Paradise Beach and Tigaki Beach, offer crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and water sports. The island’s natural hot springs at Therma Beach provide a unique wellness experience, where visitors can relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Kos's coastline is ideal for snorkeling and diving, with opportunities to explore underwater caves and vibrant marine life.

Fun fact: Kos boasts one of the oldest trees in the world, the Plane Tree of Hippocrates, under which legend has it Hippocrates taught his medical students over 2,400 years ago. While the current tree is not the original, it’s believed to be a descendant of the ancient one, making it a symbolic site for visitors to this historic island.