10 days- Milan, Ljubljana & Dubrovnik

About the destination: With something almost Northern European in the air, yet exuding Italian style, Milan is Italy's most cosmopolitan city. The capital of Lombardy is both hardworking and glamorous - powerful in businesses from finance to fashion and, of course, football. But what gives Milan its certain something is its status as the epicentre of Italian fashion and interior design. International fashionistas, designers, supermodels and paparazzi descend upon the city twice a year for its spring and autumn fairs: Milan, which has carefully guarded its reputation for flair, drama and creativity, is Italy's natural stage. This is certainly one of the best places in Italy to shop, or windowshop. Milan is the main industrial, commercial and financial centre of Italy and as such, is unsurprisingly business-like in appearance. At first glance, it lacks the wow factor, but if you take time and are determined to explore Milan’s streets, you’ll access its aesthetically appealing gems – and they do exist. Cut through the modern metropolitan bustle, and you will stumble across impressive churches and palaces, the pretty Navigli area, the chic Brera district and lively university quarter, and no need to mention a landmark such as the Duomo, or that the city is impressively home to Leonardo da Vinci's 15th century masterpiece The Last Supper. Milan cannot be faulted when it comes to having a good time. The Milanese know how to party – and they don’t waste time getting started. Nightlife tends to kick off at 6pm; enjoying an aperitivo in which locals unwind with post-work drinks and nibbles before heading home is the rule rather than exception. So whether you’re looking for cut-price fashion, an alternative city break or a chance to paint the town red, Milan has undoubtedly got it covered.

About the destination: At first glance, Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, seems almost too good to be true. Tucked up against the town’s e-topped hill, the baroque and folk-painted buildings of the old town are like something out of a fairytale. In fact, Ljubljana is very much a part of the real world; industry and the arts flourish here, and commerce is booming lively, lovely, and oh-so-easy for the foreign visitor, modern, sophisticated Ljubljana may well be one of the most pleasant city in Europe. Ljubljana has plenty of places to visit whether they be the city's castle which offers great views over the area from its hill top position, the fine museums and art galleries or taking in the local culture with good local food and drinks, especially beer. The hill with Ljubljana castle is situated in the city centre and narrow river Ljubljanica is slowly circulating around it. The old city centre is situated below this hill on the banks of Ljubljanica River. The focus of the city is Preseren square with its 3 bridges, Tromostovje. From there walk down Stritarjeva street to reach old Ljubljana and Ljubljana castle. Stroll down Copova street to reach Tivoli Park, a gorgeous park, famous for its boulevards, its flower garden and lake. Inside the park we have the International Centre of Graphic Arts. But to really enjoy Ljubljana walk along the Ljubljanica river banks in the evening, listen to the street music, sit in one of the numerous restaurants and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

About the destination: George Bernard Shaw called Dubrovnik “the pearl of the Adriatic, a paradise on earth”, and, indeed, it may be one of the most beautiful cities you’ll ever see. Largely built and long inhabited by Venetians, Dubrovnik possesses a stately charm and striking architectural unity that draw thousands of visitors every summer. Founded in 7th century, Dubrovnik stood amid a great forest of oak trees, from which it took its name. Take a walk atop the old city walls for vistas of the old town and the surrounding coast. Just before exiting the old town through the western gate, turn right to visit the Franciscan Monastery and peaceful cloisters. Just inside the entrance is the oldest European pharmacy, founded in 1371. In the northern corner of the old city is the Dominican Cloister and Museum, with a polyptych by Titian. The impressive Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary stands in the centre of Poljana Marin Držić and its treasury can be visited; look for the work by Raphael. Dubrovnik has warm, crystalline waters; don’t just admire it from a distance and take a dive. The intrepid can dive and sunbathe along the rocks or swim around the walls of the city while others gawk above. Dubrovnik’s impressive battlements gleam in the early morning light, but by early afternoon, the sea’s clear blue waters beckon you away from the city and its tourist din. If you can stand the crunch, you, too, may find a piece of heaven.