Croatia

Croatia follows the eastern shore of the Adriatic, from the green hills of Istria in the north to the stony coast of Dalmatia and Dubrovnik in the south. The coastline is deeply indented, and more than a thousand islands lie offshore, Hvar, Brač and Lošinj among them. Clear water, pines reaching down to the rocks and old towns shaped by Venetian architecture set the tone.

Diocletian’s Roman palace in Split, the walls of Dubrovnik, medieval Rovinj and Habsburg-era Opatija sit alongside family wineries, olive groves and a cuisine built on fish, truffles and olive oil. Zagreb rounds out a coastal trip with museums, cafés and the feel of a Central European capital.

The climate is Mediterranean, with hot, sunny summers. June to September is the season for the sea, while May and October suit city breaks, sailing and food and wine journeys. Croatia appeals to couples, families, sailors and travellers who like to combine the beach with history and good wine.