Sail into Croatian waters and your first port encounters might be photogenic Rovinj,or Pula for its superb first-century amphitheatre. Trogir further south was founded by the Greeks in the third century BC and has Roman remains,but the current town is medieval and sits on a well-defended islet just off modern mainland Trogir. Elaborate stonework comes emblazoned with coats-of-arms,and tiny churches lurk in intimate squares. The town is enlivened by guitar-strumming buskers,while shopkeepers sell lavender oil and delicate local lace. Good seafood restaurants might tempt you away from on-board dining with their peppered swordfish. Seevisittrogir.hr
SPLIT,CROATIA
Just 30 kilometres south of Trogir,the Croatian coast's largest city and busiest port has a fabulous old town embedded in the ruins of a vast Roman-era palace dating to 305AD,when the emperor Diocletian chose this coast for his retirement. It's all World Heritage listed but still vibrant with shops,gelato stores and eateries. Split's contemporary seaside promenades also make for a great stroll. The cruise terminal is a 10-minute walk,so it's worth returning in the evening for the town's buzzing atmosphere,gorgeous sunsets and local white wine. Seevisitsplit.com
HVAR,CROATIA
Along the southern Croatian coast,cruise ships abandon the mainland and navigate lavender-scented islands. Hvar is the highlight for the upmarket,jet-setting yachtie town of the same name,Croatia's answer to chic Saint-Tropez. The Renaissance gem features monasteries,chapels and shady alleys centred on a superb piazza paved in marble. You should hike to the fortress above for splendid views,though it's more de rigueur to haunt the fashion boutiques and trendy harbour-side bars. Some shore excursions take you beyond town to the island's vineyards for wine tasting,or to lavender farms to meet with producers. Seetzhvar.novena.hr