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Athens, Greece
Start with the Acropolis and Parthenon before exploring the buzzing Monastiraki flea market. Grab souvlaki in Psiri and end evenings with views from Lycabettus Hill.
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Tirana, Albania
Tirana surprises with colorful communist-era buildings and a lively café culture around Blloku district. Don't miss Skanderbeg Square and the National History Museum.
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Gjirokaster, Albania
This UNESCO-listed Ottoman city is perched dramatically on a hillside with a brooding stone castle overlooking the valley. Wander the old bazaar and try traditional qifqi rice fritters.
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Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor's medieval walled old town sits at the edge of a stunning bay and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike up to St. John's Fortress for panoramic views, and explore the Adriatic seafood scene.
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Budva, Montenegro
Budva's compact old town is one of the best-preserved on the Adriatic coast, with sandy beaches just steps from ancient walls. It's a great base for visiting the iconic island church of Sveti Stefan.
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Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo blends Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences in a deeply moving city. Walk the Baščaršija bazaar, sip Bosnian coffee, and visit the poignant War Tunnel Museum.
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Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mostar is famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) arching over the emerald Neretva River. Stroll the cobblestone old bazaar and watch brave divers leap from the bridge at sunset.
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Ljubljana, Slovenia
Slovenia's charming capital offers a car-free old town, a hilltop castle, and a thriving café culture along the Ljubljanica River. Day trips to Lake Bled are easily done from here.
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Vienna, Austria
End the journey in imperial Vienna with its grand Ringstrasse boulevards, Schönbrunn Palace, and world-class museums. Unwind in a traditional Viennese coffeehouse with a Sachertorte.