Croatia, the best that Eastern Europe has to offer in a nutshell with forested hills, rustic villages, idyllic islands, walled medieval cities, Roman ruins, Adriatic coastline and a vibrant atmospheric culture. Nestling on the fault line where Western and Eastern Europe join, Croatia has weathered its fair share of difficulties over the centuries, and as a result has subsequently absorbed Latin, Venetian, Hapsburg and Slavic influences to create its own distinctive feel.

Best time to visit: April to September for the best weather - or if you can travel back in time, the 15th century where you should head to Ragusa (Dubrovnik).

Essential experiences: The walled medieval city of Dubrovnik - a symphony of limestone, cobbled streets and terracotta tiles; Split, a city built around Roman Emperor Diocletian's palace; sunning yourself in the Venetian harbour town of Hvar with its 300 days of sunshine per year; visiting the cosmopolitan, vibrant and atmospheric capital - Zagreb.

In a few words, Croatia is: Untouched fishing villages; the beautiful Dalmatian coast; European cafe culture; baroque cathedrals; paprika and garlic, crystal clear waters, beachside promenades and al-fresco dining.

Did you know - Shakespeare's Twelfth Night was set in Dalmatia and cravats and ballpoint pens were invented by Croatians.