Athens, cradle of Western democracy, offers a living link to antiquity. Climb the Acropolis to see the Parthenon, Temple of Nike, and Erechtheion caryatids, then visit the Acropolis Museum for original statues and artifacts. The National Archaeological Museum is also outstanding. In the Agora, follow the footsteps of Plato, Aristotle, Socrates, Hippocrates, and Pericles. Finish in Plaka with its winding lanes and lively tavernas.

Milos, one of the Cyclades' most distinctive and culturally rich islands, is a volcanic island known for beautiful beaches, thermal springs, and unusual rock formations. Adámantas, its sheltered port and nightlife hub, sits in the former caldera. Nearby Plaka, the capital, overlooks the Gulf of Milos and has Plaka Castle, an archaeological museum with a Venus of Milo replica, and local specialties like watermelon pie and white-pumpkin bonbons.

Corfu is steeped in history and long coveted by maritime powers since antiquity. The greenest of the Greek islands, it has orange and olive groves, beautiful beaches, and a cerulean sea. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town features the Esplanade, palaces, castles, and archaeological sites. Highlights include Achillion Palace, Mon Repos, and Paleokastritsa, where Odysseus was said to wash ashore.

Kotor is unforgettable: the fjord-like Bay of Kotor winds through forested mountains to a sparkling sea, with the coral-roofed UNESCO Old Town tucked into the innermost cove. Venetian ramparts enclose landmarks like the 12th-century Cathedral of St. Tryphon and the Maritime Museum. Fit visitors can climb 1,350 steps to St. John's Fortress for sweeping views; others can take a boat to Our Lady of the Rocks or visit medieval Budva.

Dubrovnik, dubbed by Lord Byron the pearl of the Adriatic and by George Bernard Shaw a place to seek paradise on earth, is a UNESCO World Heritage city of red-tiled roofs, green hills, and the blue Adriatic. Its thick medieval walls encircle Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces, and fountains. It also featured prominently in Game of Thrones. Its ancient ramparts, surviving centuries of sieges, remain deeply inspiring.

Zadar, one of Croatia's oldest cities, charms with its cultural heritage, spectacular sunsets, and nightlife. Its walled Old Town sits on a tiny peninsula with a waterfront promenade. Inside Venetian fortifications are narrow streets and landmarks like a Roman Forum, a Byzantine church, and a 12th-century Romanesque cathedral. A bridge links it to the mainland, but you can still cross between the sea gate and marina by rowboat. End the day with a drink or dinner while watching its famous sunset.

Venice, a UNESCO World Heritage city, rises from a lagoon on more than 100 small islands linked by canals. A gondola ride passes under the Rialto Bridge and along the Grand Canal. At Piazza San Marco, St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace reflect Venetian power. Art highlights include the Gallerie dell'Accademia and Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Nearby Murano is known for glassblowers, and Burano for colorful shops and lace makers.