thanks peoples.
the Baltic states is an interesting suggestion. while it is close to Russia, I am likely to be meeting the missus in Dubai after the World Cup (before going on to Europe), so its probably not practical on this trip. but combining it with Scandinavia on the next trip would work :fing32
I was expecting Dubrovnik to be busy but unavoidable as I desperately wanna go to Croatia. after last year I am unlikely to visit Europe outside of the northern summer anytime soon. Perhaps going during the week instead of a weekend will help a little?
been to Prague, Budapest and Warsaw. loved them all (especially Budapest). will go back at some point, but I would prefer to avoid visiting a place I have already been to for this destination.