Adriatic Coast
& Ancient Greece

Along the Adriatic Sea in southern Croatia lies Dubrovnik, a city well-known for its 16th-century Old Town. Filled with enchanting historic sites and containing a sense of stories past, the Croatian city has rightly earned its place among the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Delve into the fantastical side of the city as you tour the streets that have become part of cinematic history. Take a break from the historic for a relaxing beach day with a quick ferry ride to the nearby Lokrum Island. Delve deep into the local culture with wine and delectable platters of meat and cheese.

With a harbor shared by luxurious yachts and fishing boats alike, as well as a charming historic center and limestone streets, the "Pearl of Puglia," Trani, invites you to discover its secrets. Its iconic seafront cathedral, a beacon of white against the blue Adriatic Sea, has beckoned sailors and explorers to uncover a history dating back to the 11th century. Amid the medieval streets of the Jewish Quarter sit two synagogues and a museum detailing the community’s story within the city. Spend a day in the sun at one of Trani’s stunning beaches — Cala Mariposa, Lido Bella Venezia or Seconda Spiaggia. Puglia’s rich culinary traditions come alive in the local cuisine, such as Orecchiette Pugliesi with broccoli rabe.

Along the Adriatic coast of Montenegro lies the fortified town of Kotor, known for its medieval old town with winding streets and historic squares, as well as its many Romanesque churches and Maritime Museum. For unbelievable views of the Bay of Kotor, hike to the top of San Giovanni Fortress. Stroll through the many vendors, taking in the sounds, scents and colors as they call out their daily specials, produce and homemade goods. Swim the stunning azure waters of the bay with a boat tour to the Blue Cave.

Established as a Greek colony and having been under Byzantine and Roman rule, the city of Durrës has known a long and ancient history. A Roman amphitheater built in the second century by Emperor Trajan has been partially unearthed and stands as a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The architecture of the city’s castle and the archaeological museum remind visitors of its ancient past. Wineries and vineyards such as Abaia and Duka bring you back to the present with selections of Merlot, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Albanian varietals known as white and black Shesh. From this port city, you can make your way to Albania’s capital, Tiran, where you can find fascinating highlights like BUNK’ART, former anti-nuclear bunkers made into art and history centers.

In the north of the Ionian Sea lies Corfu, a Greek island with history and cultural influence from the French, Venetians and the English, all leading to its modern-day, cosmopolitan reputation. While most Greek Isles are associated with ancient ruins, Corfu offers a different historical lens with monuments like Achilleion Palace. It also holds a quainter side with surrounding villages to explore like the charming ghost town of Old Perithia in Kasiopi. It’s not a trip to Greece without visiting some of Corfu’s stunning beaches like Canal d’Amour or Paleokastritsa.

Its natural wonders, from geological arches lining the coast to enticing caves among cerulean waters, create an unparalleled scene that must be appreciated in person. The island of Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is an unspoiled paradise along the Ionian Sea. It’s easy to spend a relaxing day getting some sun as you lay on silky white sands along the shore of water that goes from blue to bluer. For the traveling beach bum that likes to go shore hopping, Zakynthos is the perfect destination. Along Navagio, also known as Shipwreck Beach, if you are looking for stories of adventure, you will not be disappointed. Following the paths along the cliffs above the beach will take your breath away as you look upon the unbelievable horizon. The square in Zakynthos town comes alive at all hours, abuzz with activity throughout the day and into the night. Shops, cafes, and restaurants abound, making it the perfect place to grab a helping of spanakopita, spinach pie, while perusing the local wares and trinkets to take home. There is nothing like sitting at a café with a cup of brew in hand while a soothing sea breeze blows by. Zante’s nightlife rivals that of more famous Greek islands Mykonos and Ios. Many establishments that operate as restaurants during the day convert into clubs with drinks and dancing at night. But you can always choose a quieter evening. A midnight stroll under the lights along the port’s walkway, inhaling sea salt, and listening for the lull of water lapping against the ships makes the perfect end to the day.

In the Saronic Gulf lies the charming small town of Nafplion, Greece. Narrow stone streets amid whitewashed houses and quaint local shops create a romantic picture straight out of a postcard. Find the steps leading to Palamidi castle perched on a cliff atop the town for a heart-pumping exploration. Not far from Nafplion you can explore the remains of King Agamemnon’s castle in Mycenae. This site contains the history of the dominating culture of mainland Greece from the late Bronze Age. Nearby in Epidaurus discover the famous amphitheater where you can stand in certain points at the bottom and hear the speaker at a location in the seats all the way to the top

Athens is still as iconic as ever. Winding pathways from ancient times transformed into modern-day roads and streets lead you to the monumental gateway of the Acropolis and other archaeological sites. It is a land soaked in history and mythology, but not stuck in the past.

As you wend through back alleys, passing the street art and getting serenaded by street musicians, you are never lost. You are simply taking a journey to an unknown destination. You may find yourself at the likes of the Church of Agioi at the southeast corner of the Holy Apostles Ancient Agora, a less-crowded historical site away from the flocks of tourists.

Try your hand at haggling with local vendors at the Plaka or Monastiraki flea market. There are so many handmade wares and trinkets to peruse and purchase. Keep an eye out for the more risqué souvenirs if you want a good laugh.

Aside from venturing through the cradle of Western Civilization, you can explore the port of Piraeus. It is the biggest port in Greece and one of the most important ports of the Mediterranean. Centuries of history have transformed this seaside town from a wartime fortress to a major shipping and transportation center.