First up, we'll visit pretty Lovran. There's free time to explore the narrow streets and churches in the old quarter. Lovran developed as a tourist destination in the late 19th century, when several grand hotels and secessionist villas sprang up. It was one of the top resorts in what was then known as the Austrian Riviera. Wander around the vegetation-fringed old town, see the tiny marina and enjoy a tasting of local specialities accompanied by traditional live music.

Next up is the elegant resort of Opatija. It was a simple fishing village, until the aristocracy arrived in the mid-19th century and began building opulent villas and hosting royalty for winter holidays, to take the mild sea air. Today, the historic grandeur is still evident. Josip says, ‘Soak up the regal atmosphere in the Park Angiolina, which surrounds the first holiday villa built here, or on the seaside promenade. Take some time to browse the market, too, where you can get a flavour of local life.'