A pearl on the coast of Apulia: Monopoli boasts an enchanting old town, with white houses enclosed by the historic city walls and the majestic Castle of Charles V. The name Monopoli means “only city” and comes from the Greek – a reference to the long and eventful history of the place. Stroll through the picturesque lanes of the old town and you will discover charming squares and the impressive baroque cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia. But Monopoli has more to offer than just history and culture: the coastal town is also known for its glorious beaches and crystal-clear water, which invite you to spend some relaxing hours by the sea to swim and enjoy.

Ravenna, a city full of impressive architecture, is one of the most important centres of Italian art and culture. Formerly the capital of the Western Roman Empire, the city later spent many years as the magnificent outpost of the Byzantine Empire in the west. Ravenna’s highlights include the intricate mosaics in the Basilica di San Vitale and the colourful, richly decorated Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. Other sights worth visiting are the Battistero degli Ariani and Battistero Neoniano churches, as well as the impressive last resting place of the Ostrogothic King Theodoric. The city’s close connection with Dante Alighieri can be seen at his temple-like tomb and the Museo Dante, where visitors can learn more about the life and works of the famous poet.

On the coast of the upper Adriatic, a city full of contrasts awaits visitors: Trieste, in north-eastern Italy, combines the charm of the Mediterranean with the elegance of central Europe. The magnificent architecture is particularly evident in Piazza dell’Unita d’Italia, the largest square in Europe that opens onto the sea. Trieste features an exciting mix of sights, including its historic centre, an old port and Miramare Castle. The city’s vibrant coffee house culture, with places to relax and enjoy, reflects its unique character – here you can also discover traces of the Irish writer James Joyce, who found a source of inspiration in Trieste.

A picturesque coastal town that extends far into the deep-blue Mediterranean – Piran enchants with its Italian-Venetian flair. The lively Tartini Square, dating from the 19th century and located directly on the harbour, forms the heart of the city. With its charming alleys, small palazzi and diverse restaurants, it exudes a special atmosphere, which is further enhanced by the surrounding ring walls. The salt from the salt pans brought prosperity to Piran early on and still makes it one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Slovenia.

Opatija on the north-eastern coast of the Istrian peninsula, once known as the “Austrian Riviera”, is an attractive town featuring beautiful historicist architecture. The Habsburg merchant Iginio Scarpa built Villa Angiolina in the 19th century – when Opatija started to attract foreign visitors. In 1889, the town was declared the first health spa resort on the Austrian Adriatic coast and has preserved its historic charm ever since: grand hotels, magnificent villas and opulent parks line the coast waiting to be discovered on a walk along the waterfront promenade as the sun is reflected in the sea.

In the middle of the Adriatic coastline, one of the oldest cities in Croatia, Sibenik, reveals its unique charm. The winding streets of the old town, lively squares and impressive architecture offer an authentic insight into the history of the region. A particular highlight is the Cathedral of St. James, a masterpiece in stonemasonry and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated not far from the mouth of the River Krka, the city is also the ideal starting point for excursions to see the spectacular waterfalls in nearby Krka National Park.

In the middle of the beautiful Adriatic lies Hvar, one of the sunniest islands in the Mediterranean and a jewel of southern Croatia. As you enter the port in Hvar Town, you will get a sense of its charm with old houses, yachts, cafes and boutiques lining the picturesque harbour promenade. The medieval Spanjola Fortress perched on top of the hill offers beautiful views over the Hell’s Islands archipelago. The island’s hinterland is dotted with fragrant lavender fields, olive trees and vineyards. The best beaches are in the south, where pine forests stretch down to the pebble beaches and provide some shade. Hvar combines Mediterranean beauty with historic charm and is a popular holiday destination for those in the know.

Dubrovnik is known as the “pearl of the Adriatic” or the “Croatian Athens”. It is a cultural centre and a highlight on the Dalmatian coast. Its old town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. Mighty fortress walls rise high above the deep-blue sea and protect one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Baroque palaces, churches and Renaissance facades characterise the cityscape, while the narrow streets are partly paved with marble. Fans will recognise the backdrop from the series “Game of Thrones”, which was filmed here. At Gundulic Square, local specialities such as lavender sachets, arancini and liqueurs entice the senses of visitors and showcase the region’s culinary diversity.