Dubrovnik

Known for its ancient city walls and shining white limestone streets, Dubrovnik has rightfully earned the nickname 'Pearl of the Adriatic'. Home to picturesque stone buildings and bright terracotta roofs, this beautiful city is packed with history dating back centuries, while beyond the city walls, you'll find the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic and a multitude of beautiful islands.

Simply put, Dubrovnik is a stunning city. Imposing city walls surround marble streets and baroque buildings that are perfect for exploring. The main pedestrian street, Placa, has a multitude of cafés and shops with narrow cobbled streets branching off up the hillside. The many churches, museums and monasteries featuring finely carved stone recall an eventful history and a vibrant artistic tradition.

The city became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979 and survived the civil war in 1991, although received heavy shelling. You can still see the scars of war in the old town - the marble streets are chipped from the shrapnel. Relatively few buildings were completely destroyed; those that were damaged have since been renovated.

Beyond the city are beautiful hotels, wooded peninsulas and the sparkling Adriatic sea strewn with lush islands.