Korčula, Croatia

Sitting off the central Dalmatian coast, the wonderfully-green island of Korčula is dotted with olive groves, vineyards and pine forests. The main town’s pretty Old Town exemplifies Croatia’s rich Venetian heritage. At its center, you’ll find the 15th century St. Mark’s Cathedral rising high above the red-roofed Gothic and Renaissance buildings. Go wine-tasting in Smokvica or Cara; soak up some sun on a Lumbarda beach; or take a kayak tour of the islets of the Skoji archipelago – especially Badija, with its pretty monastery. At the end of the day, watch the sun set at Massimo Bar in Korčula town. Located in the turrets of the 15th century Zakerjan Tower, this bar is truly unique and can be accessed only by ladder.