Combining grand Austro-Hungarian architecture with gritty socialist structures, Zagreb is the energetic capital of Croatia. Wander the cobblestone streets of the medieval Gornji Grad and soak up the views from the Tower of Lotrščak, then explore themes of love and loss in the Museum of Broken Relationships. Take a dip with the locals in Jarun Lake, hit the ski slopes of Mount Medvednica and sample Croatian rakija in the bars of Cvjetni trg square.

With the Ljubljanica River curving through its centre, Ljubljana is the lively and liveable capital of Slovenia. Its thriving university population creates an energetic vibe in its waterfront cafes and bars while excellent museums exhibit Slovenia’s rich historic and artistic cultures. Discover the man behind the city’s early-minimalist design, Jože Plečnik, at the Architecture Museum of Ljubljana and feast on traditional Slovenian dishes in the rural-inspired restaurant of Gostilna Sokol.

Encompassing breathtaking lakes connected by cascading travertines, Plitvice Lakes National Park lies in the karst landscapes of Croatia’s interior. Wooden boardwalks and forested pathways lead between its stunning water features, with longer hiking trails allowing you to escape the crowds and glimpse the park’s resident eagles, wolves and bears. Jump aboard the boat that connects the upper and lower lakes, then follow the short trail that leads to the tallest waterfall in Croatia, Veliki Slap.

One of Croatia’s oldest cities, Zadar perches on a small peninsula surrounded by the inviting waters of the Adriatic Sea. Look out across its red-roofed Old Town from the bell tower of St. Anastasia Cathedral and picnic with the locals amidst the ruins of the Roman Forum. Wander through the charming campus of the 14th-century University of Zadar, then experience the wave-created soundscape and light show of the innovative Sea Organ by night.

Centred around the charismatic ruins of Diocletian’s Palace, Split is a sun-drenched city that’s packed with Renaissance, Venetian and Gothic architecture. Wander through its UNESCO-listed streets and people watch in the central Pjaca Square, then hike up the slopes of Marjan Hill to soak up the Adriatic views. Kick back on the lively sands of Bacvice beach, then step onto a real-life “Game of Thrones” film set at the nearby fortress of Klis.

Set around a UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town that overlooks the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is the jewel of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. Wander along the old ramparts to admire the Baroque church of St. Blaise and the ornate Sponza Palace, then witness one of the world’s oldest pharmacies at the Franciscan Monastery. Jump aboard a boat to explore the uncrowded beaches of Lokrum Island and be moved by the documentary works at the War Photo Limited museum.