Croatia

This is definitely our favorite place for a holiday. So far we've returned three times, each visit uncovering something new. Dubrovnik is usually our base, though our last visit took us by surprise a bit — the crowds were overwhelming at times, especially in high season. Even so, the city still has that unique charm that makes you want to come back.

Dubrovnik is a true gem for anyone who loves sightseeing. A walk along the defensive walls is an absolute must-do — the views of the Adriatic and the red roofs of the Old Town take your breath away no matter how many times you see them. Add the narrow streets, cozy cafés and restaurants, and the distinctive atmosphere of a historic place. Fans of Game of Thrones will be thrilled — Dubrovnik served as King's Landing, and organized tours of the show's locations are a great way to see them up close. Guides share tons of interesting tidbits about how specific scenes were filmed, which adds fun even for those who didn't follow the series closely.

But when in Dubrovnik it's also worth getting out of the city to see the nearby islands. Ferries depart from the port of Gruž, and tickets are really affordable — it's a great option for a day trip. We especially fell in love with the island of Lopud, which stole our hearts. That's where we spent most of our time and took the majority of the photos from our last holiday. Lopud is the perfect place to reset — there are no cars, so it's blissfully quiet, just the sound of the sea and birdsong. The beaches are intimate, the water crystal clear, and a walk around the island really helps you unwind. I particularly recommend Šunj beach — it takes a little while to reach, but the views and the relaxation on site are worth it.

If you're looking for a balance between sightseeing and a break from the crowds, combining Dubrovnik with the nearby islands, especially Lopud, is a perfect choice. We're already planning our next visit — maybe next time we'll discover even more corners of this region?