Turquoise water, so unbelievably blue your friends will think the pictures are Photoshopped. Warm sunny days. Delicious seafood. A nice ocean breeze blowing the dry air across your face. It’s no wonder the Mediterranean has long been a sought-after destination for holidaymakers and sun worshipers. And if beautiful weather and amazing food weren’t enough, the laid-back vibe of these coastal towns just adds to the relaxation you’ll experience on your next European vacation. As you’re researching your upcoming trip, don’t miss out on these seven best places to visit in the Mediterranean.
7. Barcelona, Spain
Most Mediterranean destinations offer sandy beaches or picturesque islands. Sure, you can spend your days in Barcelona lounging on the beach. But this fantastic city makes up for the elements lacking in many small coastal towns: excellent nightlife, world-class cuisine, and celebrated art and architecture. Home to famed architect Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona is dotted with his interesting works that give this city its unmistakable character. Nothing beats a day visiting the famed Sagrada Familia, an unfinished cathedral in central Barcelona, and then enjoying a glass of Spanish wine and some tapas at a local café.
6. Sardinia, Italy
It might not seem fair to include an entire island as a top destination, but only visiting one part of this massive Italian landmass wouldn’t do it justice. With a rugged interior full of mountains and forests, to beautiful coastlines of white sandy beaches, Sardinia might just be one of the Mediterranean’s least-touched natural escapes. And more than just natural beauty, the island boasts a nice collection of local wines and cheeses. Mountains, beaches, interesting culinary offerings, all in a secluded locale? The list of reasons to visit Sardinia on your next vacation keeps getting longer.
5. Milos, Greece
With Greece’s abundance of islands, it’s hard to pick just one to visit. But Milos offers the spectacular beaches and delicious food of Greece, at a fraction of the price and without all the pesky tourists of the other islands. Covered in interesting rock formations, a relic of past volcanoes, you’ll leave Milos with more landscape pictures than your Instagram can handle.
4. Formentera, Spain
Located just south of party destination Ibiza, Formentera has gained the reputation as the more laid-back option for Spain vacation-goers. But this unforgotten island has another repute that can’t be ignored: some of the top beaches in the Mediterranean. The crystal blue water and white sandy beaches are unparalleled along Europe’s coastline. But it might take some effort to reach them. The only way to get to Formentera is by boat from Ibiza. But for those willing to make the trek, a nearly desolate island and beach beauty is sure to please.
3. Comino, Malta
Not as well-known as its Italian neighbor to the north, Malta might be the Mediterranean’s best kept secret. An island located just south of Sicily, Malta’s removed locale makes it a more elusive pick for a Mediterranean vacation. But one look at the stunning Comino Island and you’ll be wondering why you waited so long to visit. A paradise for snorkelers and divers, Malta offers an adventurous seascape fit for exploring. And don’t miss Comino’s Blue Lagoon, a tiny enclave of strikingly blue water, surrounded by rocks and perfect for a relaxing swim.
2. Nice, France
There’s nothing better than spending an afternoon strolling down the sweeping Promenade des Anglais, a magnificent boulevard that follows the pebbly coastline of Nice. If small towns like Cinque Terre are the Mediterranean’s hidden gems, Nice is its brilliant diamond. A luxurious playground for the rich and famous, Nice, France emanates a certain extravagance in which one can’t help but indulge. And there’s no sense restraining yourself; with charming cafes and designer shopping, a trip to Nice is sure to pamper your inner celebrity.
1. Dubrovnik, Croatia
A list of top Mediterranean destinations wouldn’t be complete without highlighting this Dalmatian jewel. Old Town Dubrovnik sits on the edge of the sea, crammed inside a massive wall and surrounded by turquoise water. Strolling through town, up stairways and down tiny alleys, is like being transported back in time. And if cobblestone street charm isn’t your thing, an abundance of islands lay just off the coast. Kayak tours and boat day-trips offer a variety of options for exploring these beautiful islands.
This guest post was written by Andrew Larson, a semi-retired software engineer turned globetrotter and full-time travel enthusiast which now runs Wanderlust 15. For more information, visit Wanderlust 15.
