Cities and Splendours of the Adriatic

Emblem of the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is magnificently positioned on a rocky spur. History is sovereign here, in this ancient city, now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. You will perhaps be surprised by the proportions of La Placa, the central drag through the city. The sheer width of it can be explained by the fact that it straddles a former lagoon.

The elegant houses along La Placa are built in the legendary travertine stone. At Pile gate, you will be greeted by the statue of the patron saint of Dubrovnik, and you can admire the coastline as you walk along the ramparts. But what’s inside Fort Saint John, adjoining the outer walls? A maritime museum and an aquarium featuring rare fish from the Adriatic.

The famous medieval city of Dubrovnik, known as 'the pearl of the Adriatic', is found behind massive stonewalls that protect winding streets, charming squares, and red-roofed buildings dating back to the 7th century. Larger ships will dock at Gruz Harbour, while some smaller ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to the Old Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Dubrovnik:

• drive along the Dalmatian coast
• take a cruise along the Dubrovnik Riviera
• stroll the streets of the UNESCO Old City
• visit the traditional village of Ljuta

You will sail towards the popular island of Hvar, for a day in Stari Grad, an intimate port of call that is off the beaten track. Let your feelings guide you and discover this pretty city located at the end of a fertile plain, planted with vines and olive groves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The organisation of its parcels, marked out by dry stone walls that punctuate the landscape, goes back to ancient times. Wander around the small streets at your leisure, discovering the town’s pretty boutiques and gourmet restaurants.

Bol is a destination in the Dalmatian archipelago, best kept secret. This picturesque village is located on the southern coast of Brac Island. Its traditional architecture has unbelievable charm: little houses with white facades and red tiled roofs provide the perfect setting for laid-back meanders. Beyond the port, the waterfront promenade leads onto the beaches which are shaded by pines and cypresses. The most famous of them is Zlatni Rat, “the golden horn”. From the belvedere on Vidova Gora mountain, you can see its unusual contours and get an eyeful of the other Adriatic islands.

A highlight of the Kvarner Gulf, the island of Rab is a protected geopark and offers thrilling scenery for every taste. It is decorated with a spectacular contrast of cliffs, sandbars, dunes and pine forests. The main town of the same name is known for the four bell towers that rise above its sparkling waters. Ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to shore.

Top Things to Do on Rab:

• visit the Kamenjak Viewpoint
• tour the St. Bernardin Monastery
• hike the Geopark Trail
• relax on Suha Punta Beach
  

Viewed from above, the Brijuni archipelago forms rounded shapes in dazzling colours against the blue hues of the Adriatic. This group of 14 Istrian islands has been inhabited by man since the Bronze Age, thanks to its mild climate and favourable geographical position. The architectural heritage of these islands is very significant, since Roman ruins from the 1st century BC can be found here. Vestiges from the Byzantine and Venetian periods round off this deep-dive into the past which continues right up to the 19th century with the arrival of the Austrian industrialist Paul Kupelwieser.

By purchasing Veliki Brijun, the largest island in the group, he actively contributed to the reputation of the archipelago among the Austro-Hungarian aristocrats of the Belle Époque. Later on, great political leaders such as Marshal Tito, the former president of Yugoslavia, would mingle here with the great writers of the time, including James Joyce or Thomas Mann. The islands were granted national park status in 1983, for their natural beauty and their biodiversity. Discover this unique corner of paradise on a bike or in a kayak, via land or from the refreshing waters of the Mediterranean.

Lying at the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula, Pula is undoubtedly the most Roman of all Croatian towns. It is known for its multitude of ancient Roman buildings, the most famous of which is the Pula Arena, one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres. Ships will dock at Quay Rijeka.

Top Things to Do in Pula:

• visit the Pula Arena (ampitheatre)
• explore the Brijuni National Park
• follow the ancient Roman wall to find the Sergius Arch & the Temple of Augustus
• visit nearby medieval Labin
  

Piran, a charming coastal town in Slovenia, is renowned for its Venetian architecture and scenic beauty. Start a visit at Tartini Square, named after the famous violinist Giuseppe Tartini, whose statue graces the plaza. Explore the narrow, winding streets leading to St. George’s Parish Church, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea from its bell tower.

Stroll along the picturesque promenade and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants while watching the sunset over the water. The town's medieval walls are perfect for a leisurely walk, providing panoramic views of Piran and its surroundings. For a taste of local culture, visit the Maritime Museum and learn about Piran’s rich maritime heritage.

Proud and eternal, Venice has reigned on its lagoon ever since the 6th century. You may think you know this city before even setting foot here. You will inevitably fall in love with the charm of the innumerable treasures of the Serenissima: Saint Mark’s square, the basilica, Doges palace, the Grand Canal and the gondolas. Yet, secret Venice is also waiting for you to explore its little interlacing streets and canals, to ramble through its squares and to push open the doors of its churches. The city’s extraordinary heritage shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a glass of Spritz and a few tramezzini.