Golden domes and shimmering spires peek out from the wooded hills rising above the wide Dnipro River. Leafy-green Kyiv, with its traffic-packed boulevards, shopping malls, countless churches, brilliant music and lively nightlife, has embraced capitalism, yet held firmly to its heritage. The Caves Monastery is the spiritual heart of Ukraine, and nearby, a gigantic Brezhnev-era Motherland statue bearing sword and shield casts her all-encompassing eye over the city, the river, and its island beaches.

Italians themselves head to Rimini for their holidays, which must be the best endorsement there is. Located by the Adriatic Sea, it is a sophisticated and stylish city known for its lively take on life. Fabulous restaurants and trendy bars serve good food and wine, while kilometres of beaches attract families from around the country. Rimini truly is a city for everyone.

Vilnius, Lithuania's capital, stands out as one of Eastern Europe's most compelling destinations. Its appeal lies in both its distinctive architecture and its thriving cultural scene. Since Lithuania regained independence, the city has steadily grown into a tourist destination. Visitor numbers have risen year after year, matched by expanding infrastructure and services to welcome travellers.

Framed by the stunning snowy peaks of the Apennine Mountains, Pescara is the gateway to the rugged mountainous area of the Abruzzo region. The land tumbles through hilltop villages and down to the blue waters of the Adriatic Ocean. In the town of Pescara itself, the long ten-mile stretches of wide, clean and sandy beaches, superb food and wine explain why it is a favourite holiday spot among many seeking to enjoy both beach-side relaxation and mountain adventures.

Graz – Austria’s culinary and cultural capital. A practical tip from the start: If you want to explore Graz, wear comfortable shoes and loose clothing. Why? Even if Graz is actually small — the second-largest city in Austria with a quarter of a million resident by no means a “big city” — you should be prepared for the fact that time also flies in the many short lanes. Comfortable footwear goes easy on busy feet here. In the historic old town with its roads, streets, squares and courtyards there’s lots to explore and even more to enjoy.