Anyone entering Szczecin by bridges over the Oder River can see the towering red-brick gothic Cathedral and an elegant, pale silhouette of a Renaissance castle with green towers, which used to be the seat of the dukes of the Griffins dynasty who ruled the Duchy of Pomerania. The Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle has five wings and two courtyards. Acting as a cultural institution it organizes an array of cultural events: concerts, theatre performances, exhibitions, conferences and meetings to popularize science, as well as to spread knowledge about the history of West Pomerania. The largest wing houses an Opera. In the wing that housed a mint in the olden days one can find today Cultural and Tourist Information Centre. There is a panoramic terrace on the rooftop of the northern wing from where splendid views can be appreciated. The wing’s basement houses a Vault with sarcophaguses of six princes. The Duke Boguslaw X hall, which used to be a princely chapel, is now a concert hall with a polychromatic ceiling decorated in Renaissance style. A 17th century astronomical clock is the Castle’s special tourist attraction. Also a room dedicated to Eilhard Lubinus and the Witches’ Cell are definitely worth a visit.

A different way to discover what the city has to offer in terms of culinary delights, a food tour is good for those looking to discover some under-the-radar family-run restaurants and sample some incredible local cuisine. One company that offers such tours is Balkan Bites:

Another one of the city's many religious structures, the Saint Nedelja Church dates back to as early as the 16th century, and can be found in the heart of Sofia. If you enjoy old icons and beautiful architecture, stop by along the route of your itinerary.

Mount Dajti looms majestically over Tirana, offering a beautiful escape into nature with its national park, dense forests and panoramic views. You can reach the top either by taking the Dajti Ekspres cable car — the longest in the Balkans — or enjoy a scenic drive. Once at the summit, you'll find several restaurants where you can savour a meal while enjoying the serene landscape. The sense of standing above the city, with expansive views stretching in every direction, gives you a feeling of being on top of the world. Dajti Mountain National Park also offers an adventure park for kids and adults, a rotating bar, minigolf, hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as many romantic spots for picnicking.