Located in northeastern Italy, Trieste's geography and storied past helped make it one of the country's richest regions. A shopper's paradise, it has designer boutiques for men and women, plus outdoor markets selling everything from fruit to antiques. Enjoy pasta in an old-style osteria, a cozy little place with a handful of tables and cheerful locals.

The rich history and vibrant culture of Rijeka left its mark in countless sites. Beginning with Trsat Castle and its magnificent views of Rijeka's Old City to the bustling Korzo pedestrian promenade with its numerous cafés and bars, this is one of Europe's hidden treasures. Learn about the city's long relationship with the sea at the Maritime and History Museum, which is housed in the former palace of the Austro-Hungarian governor, replete with grand staircases and glittering chandeliers.

Found on the northern Dalmatian coast of Croatia, Zadar is rich with thousands of years of history. Ruled at various times by the Romans, Ostrogoths, and Byzantium, the city became a center of commerce and naval power rivaling that of Venice. Today, Zadar's history, culture, and architecture draw visitors from around the world, as does Plitvice National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik was founded in the 7th century by a group of refugees from Epidaurum (today's Cavtat). It is known worldwide for its unique marble-paved squares, tall houses, steep-cobbled streets and fountains. The city walls, once used to as protection against its enemies, now keep motorists at bay in this picturesque town. UNESCO named the Old City a World Heritage Site, and Dubrovnik's beautiful historic sites have been restored to their former glory.

Perched on the Adriatic Sea, the Italian city of Bari has long served as an important port city for both ancient and modern Italy. Today, its rich past attracts visitors from around the world. The Basilica of Saint Nicholas, built in 1087, holds the remains of its namesake beneath the altar, while the Petruzzelli Theatre is one of the grandest opera houses in the country.

Igoumenitsa's port is like a Greek accordion: expanding, contracting, sometimes silent, but always finding its voice. Founded in the 4th century BC as a key town in Thresprotia, destroyed in World War II after Axis occupation, it has repeatedly rebounded. Today it is a major tourism port, welcoming ferry passengers from across Europe to begin their Greek holidays. Let Igoumenitsa's song welcome you too.

Kotor is a coastal town in Montenegro, located in a most secluded part of the Gulf of Kotor. The old port, surrounded by an impressive city wall built by the House of Nemanjicc, is very well preserved and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Numerous other attractions include the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in the old town (built in 1166), and ancient walls which stretch directly above the city. Nightlife also attracts tourists to Kotor with pubs, taverns, cafes, and nightclubs.

Piraeus is the gateway to Athens, the "Cradle of Western Civilization," famed for its lasting cultural and political influence. Driven by tourism and the 2004 Olympics, Greece has redeveloped many sites. Athens remains a historian's delight, with the Acropolis, Parthenon, Plaka's winding streets, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Archaeological Museum's renowned ancient artifacts.