11. Split, Croatia
Dubrovnik has the reputation as the “Paris of the Adriatic”, but Split is a Croatian city worth visiting as well. Located north of the capital along the dramatic Dalmatian coast, Split has a 1700 year history you can see in Roman walls, ancient squares and old temples. At the center of town lies the impressive Diocletian’s Palace, which dates back to the Roman Emperor’s time. This was one of the first sites to receive a UNESCO World Heritage designation. Today, the historic fortress is a hub of shops, restaurants and bars, not to mention a filming location for HBO’s Game of Thrones. Split’s mountain backdrop and Adriatic foreground make it a stunning location, with a pleasant year round climate. It has a strong sailing and yachting culture, and is a convenient gateway to nearby islands. The Riva promenade has been recently renovated, making a pleasant place to stroll along the old town waterfront.
12. Thessaloniki, Greece
Athens is the classical and cosmopolitan capital that everyone targets, but the second largest urban center in Greece has a lot to offer too. Thessaloniki is a crossroads between east and west, with multiple mosques, Orthodox churches, Jewish synagogues, antique bath houses, amazing museums and ancient monuments on display. Remnants of the Roman, Byzantine an Ottoman empires are dotted throughout the historically rich town, which boasts 15 sites on the UNESCO World Heritage list. You can’t miss the Roman Rotunda and the White Tower. There is a natural beauty to this modern Mediterranean metropolis, which has the longest stretch of urban waterfront in Europe plus stunning views of Mt. Olympus. If that’s not enough, Thessaloniki is also considered the gastronomic capital of Greece. It’s blend of Turkish, Jewish and French influences adds a fresh dimension to traditional Greek fare. Lingering at a taverna or kafeneio coffee house is encouraged in this laid back culture. With several colleges and universities in town, there is a young, international student vibe here without the big city bustle you find in Athens.
