Ionian and Adriatic Allure

Valletta, the capital of Malta, offers strong coastal views and centuries of military and artistic history. Walk through its fortified streets lined with limestone buildings and colorful balconies. Look out over Grand Harbor for sweeping views of the Mediterranean. Recognize familiar scenes used in Game of Thrones, filmed here along narrow alleys and old stone walls.

Explore Syracuse, a historic city in Sicily with deep roots and layered culture. Walk through ancient ruins, World War II sites, and nature reserves like Plemmirio. Discover 2,700 years of history shaped by Greek, Arabic, Norman, and Spanish influence, reflected in local food and landmarks. Visit nearby towns such as Noto, known for its Baroque architecture and UNESCO status. Experience quiet streets, historic churches, and a strong connection to the island’s past.

A gem of the Calabrian region, the town of Crotone has existed since about 710 BCE, formerly settled by the Greeks, offering a rich history that reaches deep. The 16th-century medieval cathedral of Charles V’s castle rises above the sea, inviting you and your fellow explorers to discover the stories it holds. Ancient ruins, including the column of a temple dedicated to Hera Lacinia from the fifth century BCE, beckon your curiosity at Capo Colonna Archaeological Park. Take a moment to savor the moment with newfound friends as you sip on Calibria’s signature Ciro red wine, one of the oldest named wines with a history that spans thousands of years, at a local restaurant. Enjoy it with a sample of Calibria’s famous bread, Cutro, made with locally grown durum and soft wheat, and a helping of traditional pasta and sausage dishes like fileja ‘nduja.

Amid the Ionian island of Kefalonia lies a small fishing village, Fiskardo, with all the charms of a tiny Greek town but the elegant feel of a luxurious getaway. As a popular choice for yachts to dock, the harbor hosts plenty of upscale seafood restaurants. Opt for a quick dip after a day of adventure at one of Fiskardo’s many pebble coves. For a more typical beach day, venture about 40 minutes out to the famous Myrtos Beach. If you’re seeking a day filled with activity, try diving, snorkeling or kayaking with the locals. Find great hiking at the Venetian Lighthouse, Cypress and Battery Trails.

Standing on a settlement dating back to the fourth century BCE and close to the archaeological site of Nikopolis, founded in 31 BCE, the Greek town of Igoumenitsa holds a rich history. Delve into that history at the Archaeological Museum of Igoumenitsa with a permanent exhibition displaying relics ranging from the Middle Paleolithic to Ottoman rule. Drepano and Makrigialos beaches are the more popular spots for a day in the sun, complete with sunbeds and concessions nearby, but for a more secluded adventure, find your way to Korfu Beach, a pebbled shore isolated from modern conveniences. Stop at a local, family-owned taverna for fresh seafood or the catch of the day. Nearby, you can visit the famous Meteora and its monastery atop a cliff.

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.

The second-largest city in Croatia, Split offers a plethora of treasures. Explore its Old Town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and dive into history at Diocletian’s Palace. Admire the various styles of architecture, as the city has been under Venetian, Roman, French, Austrian, Italian and Yugoslav rule. Away from the bustle of the city, find Kasuni Beach. Its pebbled shores meet crystalline waters, with a backdrop of rugged cliffs dotted with lush forests. Split also contains a wealth of specialty museums with unique displays that will delight any traveler. The Game of Thrones Museum exhibits authentic set props, costumes, weapons, city dioramas and more from the sensational HBO show.

The iconic image of Venice shows a city with no roads, only canals, because it’s built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon amid the Adriatic Sea. In the heart of the city close to Piazza San Marco you will find the Bridge of Sighs, an architectural jewel amid so many historical wonders. Venetian cuisine is renowned throughout Italy for its high-quality seafood. Positioned within a lagoon, local chefs and restaurants have the advantage of fresh-caught fish directly from the source and bringing it straight to their tables.

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.

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.