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ever mind that Americans know so little about this part of the world on the gorgeous (and slightly wild) Adriatic coast. Others have come before us to set the tone. Shakespeare. Agatha Christie. Wallis Simpson and her king (who escaped together to Dalmatia after he abdicated the throne). Eugene Ionesco, whose love for Croatia was boundless. And of course the Roman Emperor Diocletian, a native son who retired to these parts in a palace that would become a town.

Alight in Zagreb, Croatia, one of EuropeÕs oldest cities and youngest capitals. Poke around inside the romantic old walls, and day-trip to Ljubljana, where Tivoli Castle seduces. The history here is deep and multicultural. See what Slovenians, Romans, the Habsburg clan, and the Italians left behind.

Fly to charming Split, where Diocletian built his retirement home. The palace still stands, as do remnants of Barbarian and Venetian occupations. In fact, it's the only Roman palace that's been lived in continuously since ancient times.

Follow UNESCO's World Heritage committee to Trogir to see what it calls "an excellent example of a medieval townÉ The trajectory of social and cultural development is clearly visible in [its] every aspect." In essence, a step back in time.

Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina, next, settled by Muslims in the 1400s. There's a story of the old bridge, the sultan, and the architect worth hearing. Stop in Ston, a medieval fortified settlement known for its farmed oysters. Have an oyster-tasting, of course.

To Dubrovnik, Croatia, on a rocky peninsula overlooking the sea. Walk the main promenade to the Franciscan Monastery, home to one of the world's oldest pharmacies. There are palaces, a cathedral, and museums to discover, a bustling outdoor market to browse.

The diminutive Republic of Montenegro was recently carved from a portion of what was once Yugoslavia. Kotor boasts some of the most exquisite medieval streets in all Europe. UNESCO agrees. Take it all in on a walking tour. Then head for Sveti Stefan, and island at the end of a slender peninsula that's become a luxurious resort.

Back to Dubrovnik and then home, much the wiser for your travels.

Dalmatia's Historic Cities. Exploring Croatia, Montenegro, & Bosnia-Herzegovina. 10 Days.