On his previous travels, Michael Palin has ignored his own backyard – Europe. In his new series, however, he explores a unique part of this continent – those mysterious countries that, for so many years, were off limits, hidden behind the Iron Curtain, but are now wanting to become part of the ever-expanding “new” Europe.

In a series which encompasses 20 of Eastern Europe’s most enticing locations, from Albania in the south to Estonia in the north, Michael discovers sights and sounds and tastes and textures that are intense and overwhelming. He has even written a book about his experiences!

In this weeks first instalment, he becomes acquainted with Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia and Albania. From high in the spectacular Julian Alps of Slovenia, Michael heads to the stunning Dalmatian coast and goes on a tour of the ancient port of Split in Croatia.