The Mediterranean has long been seducing travelers with its crystalline waters, ancient cities, rocky coastlines, authentic local food, and the many islands one can discover. A great advantage of such a region is the possibility to choose a destination that fits one’s interests, whether they are looking for history, a relaxation place, or a bit of adventure. Exploring several places by sea can make the journey even more rewarding, turning transportation into part of the experience.
Greece: Islands Beyond the Crowds
Greece is one of the top destinations in the Mediterranean and certainly not just for the luxury resorts of Santorini and Mykonos. Other islands attract plenty of visitors, and many of them are not so popular. For example, a Greece yacht charter will allow one to visit deserted beaches, quiet villages, and activity-packed ports easily. The Cyclades are notable because their villages are dominated by the marvels of the whitewashed buildings tucked among the mountains. The Ionian Islands are known for their greener and lusher landscape, as well as more relaxing sea conditions. The island of Crete has many beaches, historic sites, and, of course, delicious food.
Croatia: A Coastline Made for Exploration
Around the Adriatic coastline, you will find many ancient cities and uninhabited islands, which are the favorite places to go exploring and to enjoy the clear waters; sailing, swimming, and cruising there are very pleasant. In Dubrovnik you can admire ancient buildings, and in islands such as Hvar there are pristine beaches and trendy nights. On the tiny islands you can go snorkelling or trekking, and on the coastal bank you can reach many places without constantly changing hotels.
Italy: History, Food, and Coastal Beauty
Hardly any other country can blend culture and food as well as Italy does. In general, the Italian Mediterranean coast can satisfy everyone’s preferences–you can admire the picturesque scenery of the Amalfi Coast and visit the archaeological parks, the volcanoes, and the delicious culinary tradition of Sicily. If you want, however, to stay in a calmer environment outside the city, then Capri, Ischia, or the Aeolian islands are the perfect options for you. All the islands are diverse and have a lot to show, but all of them unmistakably carry the mark of southern Italy.
The French Riviera: Glamour With a Coastal Twist
The French Riviera provides a mix not only for those who love high-end shopping and wellness but also for other kinds of travelers. While Nice has a variety of beaches, museums, and streets of the old town, Antibes is a delightful little place with its antique harbor. Cannes is not only the proud place where the most famous film festival takes place, but is also one of the perfect resorts. The tour along the whole coast can be done depending on the location you are staying in if a boat is rented. During a yachting trip, all the landscapes can be viewed from the water, a feeling you could never experience when travelling by car.
Malta: Where Cultures Meet
Malta is a small island containing a vast historical record within its small territory. Due to Malta’s very central geographical location in the Mediterranean Sea, many different cultures have left their traces in the form of fortifications, churches, archaeological remains, and architecture, which is peculiar to Malta alone. Although Valletta makes the perfect starting point for your tour, there is plenty of pleasure to be taken in exploring the tranquil island of Gozo and the Blue Lagoon on Comino. There is something that most visitors will find the highlight of the Blue Lagoon, however, and this is the crystal-clear water that is perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
Spain: Mediterranean Energy
From Spain’s beach holidays along the Mediterranean, you get a totally new experience that is far from the usual. Barcelona is like a melting pot–there you can admire the architectural work by famous designers, visit galleries, learn about fine art, enjoy the cuisine, and be dazzled by nightclubs and bars. And don’t forget the Balearic Islands that offer all of this in one place–from beach parties to tranquil bays. Mallorca also has basically everything–from mountains to villages, beaches, and old-fashioned towns. Conversely, Menorca is much more tranquil, with its remote bays and relaxed lifestyle.
Choosing Your Mediterranean Adventure
The appeal of the Mediterranean is the diversity. You don’t have to have two identical days on one trip. Instead of trying to visit everything, decide which kind of experience you want–culture, outdoor pursuits, or just relaxing under the sun on deserted bays–the Mediterranean surely has what you want.