Exploring Croatia, we'll see the Pearl of the Adriatic, sample some island charm, wander Roman ruins, and hike through a watery wonderland. We'll enjoy its thriving capital city, the Italian-like charm of Istria, and that peninsula's enchanting port town. | Rick Steves' Europe

Set sail on the Mediterranean with me! “Travel Skills: Cruising” — Episode 1004 of Rick Steves’ Europe — is airing now on public television across the country. Check your local listings. | Rick Steves

Join us for the Best of the Adriatic in 14 Days: www.ricksteves.com/tours/eastern-europe/adriatic Your Rick Steves guide will take you from pristine hill towns to sun-soaked islands, lacing together the best destinations in this diverse corner of Europe: Slovenia's Ljubljana and fairy-tale Lake Bled; Croatia's seaside Rovinj, waterfall-laced Plitvice, historic Split, Hvar Island, Korčula, and picture-perfect Dubrovnik; and an enlightening visit to Bosnia-Herzegovina's once-war-torn town of Mosta