BREAK FOR THE BALKANS

Duration 11 days

What did the Romans ever do for Croatia? Well they did build Diocletian’s Palace, a magnificent walled complex complete with towers and gates to which the former emperor retired in AD305. It remains the heart and soul of Split to this day.

This Adriatic city is the highlight of a journey to the Balkans that passes through Slovenia and Croatia, and is offered by specialist company Tailor Made Rail. The itinerary begins with fast trains to Turin via Paris and then a more leisurely ride east to Ljubljana (via

Venice and Trieste). It may be tricky to pronounce, but with a castle in the hills, the Julian Alps in the distance and a mellow riverside café culture, the capital of Slovenia is a true delight.

The journey to Split via Zagreb offers scenic riches in the form of mountains, lakes and vineyards – and it’s important to note that sampling the local produce is an important part of travelling more sustainably.

After soaking up the history, culture and brio of Split, take a ferry to Hvar, the lesser-known Viz or Korcula – reputedly the birthplace of Marco Polo. Coming back involves a return to Zagreb (Museum of Broken Relationships, anyone?), travelling through the Austrian Alps, an overnight stay in Munich and speedy trains to London via Paris.

Go the extra mile Deepen your experience of the Balkans with a visit to Belgrade, the region’s largest city and point of confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers. From here board a train to Bar on the Montenegrin coast. Head north for the medieval magic of Kotor and Dubrovnik and then travel up the coast by ferry to Split

The details The 11-day Croatian Coastline by Rail trip offered by Tailor Made Rail (020 3322 7741; tailormaderail.com) costs from £1,299pp, including Interrail travel and accommodation