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Lodi, Italy
Your starting point in Lombardy. Fill up the tank and grab a quick espresso before hitting the road south toward the Adriatic coast. The drive to the ferry port is straightforward via the A1 motorway.
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Ancona, Italy
The main Adriatic ferry hub — book your overnight ferry to Split or Dubrovnik in advance. Stroll the historic center and try some fresh seafood at the port before boarding. The Arco di Traiano near the harbor is worth a quick visit.
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Split, Croatia
Diocletian's Palace is a must — it's an entire living neighborhood inside a Roman emperor's retirement home. Wander the Riva promenade, eat grilled fish in Varoš, and day-trip to the nearby Krka waterfalls. Great base for exploring the Dalmatian coast by car.
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Dubrovnik, Croatia
Walk the iconic Old City Walls for panoramic Adriatic views — go early morning to beat the crowds. The cable car up Mount Srđ offers stunning vistas of the old town and islands. Don't miss a swim at Banje Beach just outside the Ploče gate.
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Kotor, Montenegro
One of the most dramatic settings in the Balkans — a medieval walled city nestled between steep mountains and a stunning bay. Hike up to the fortress of San Giovanni for breathtaking views over Boka Kotorska Bay. The drive around the bay is spectacular and dotted with charming villages.
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Budva, Montenegro
Montenegro's liveliest beach resort with a beautiful old town on a small peninsula. The beaches of Sveti Stefan nearby are iconic — even just seeing the island hotel from the shore is worth the stop. Great spot to enjoy a sunset cocktail by the Adriatic.
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Shkodër, Albania
Your entry point into Albania, a friendly and underrated city with a rich Ottoman and Venetian heritage. Rozafa Castle overlooking the lake is absolutely stunning and tells a haunting local legend. Stock up on cash (Albanian Lek) here as ATMs get scarcer further south.
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Tirana, Albania
Albania's colourful and surprisingly vibrant capital is full of energy, great food, and fascinating communist-era history. Visit the Bunk'Art museum inside a massive Cold War bunker and stroll the lively Blloku neighbourhood for cafes and restaurants. Byrek (savory pastry) and tavë kosi (lamb with yogurt) are local must-tries.
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Vlorë, Albania
A significant Albanian city where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea — historically important as the site of Albania's independence declaration. The nearby Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island offer some of the clearest waters in the Mediterranean for snorkeling. Relaxed vibe, great seafood, and a lovely promenade for evening walks.
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Ksamil, Albania
Albania's most beautiful beach destination with crystal-clear turquoise waters and small offshore islands you can swim to. It sits right next to the ancient ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site that's absolutely unmissable. Book accommodation early in summer — this hidden gem is no longer so hidden!
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Corfu, Greece
A short ferry hop from Ksamil brings you to gorgeous Corfu, with its Venetian old town, olive groves, and stunning beaches. Explore Corfu Town's UNESCO-listed old quarter and the two imposing Venetian fortresses. Paleokastritsa on the west coast is one of the most beautiful bays in Greece.
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Igoumenitsa, Greece
The main ferry port connecting Greece back to Italy — ferries run regularly to Ancona, Bari, and Brindisi. Not much to see in the city itself, but it's a convenient overnight stop before your return crossing. Book your ferry back to Italy in advance, especially in peak summer season.
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Ancona, Italy
Welcome back to Italy! After disembarking, the drive north to Lodi takes about 3.5 hours via the A14 and A1 motorways. Grab a celebratory plate of pasta before hitting the road home.
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Lodi, Italy
Home sweet home! You've completed an epic loop through Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, and Greece. Time to unpack, rest, and start planning the next adventure.