Want to experience the Mediterranean, but don’t want to follow the well-worn path or the crowds? Consider the Mediterranean’s most underrated destinations that are sure to make for an unforgettable visit. From the beautiful scenery in Montenegro to hidden gems in Italy and Croatia, these scenic getaways are worth adding to your bucket list.
Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
The breathtaking country of Montenegro has only been an independent nation since 2006, and the coastal city of Kotor, which sits in a secluded tip of Boka Kotorsky Bay, offers extraordinary beauty few travelers get to experience. Many people aren’t even aware Montenegro exists, which means you should experience the spectacular views of the Dinaric Alps that rise swiftly from the water’s edge, sooner rather than later, before the word gets out. You’ll find a true unspoiled retreat from the chaos of the modern world, with the entire old town area declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Floating through the sunlight-drenched fjords with mountains soaring overhead, this is a place you may want to return to again and again. Dining on delectable Mediterranean cuisine and exploring the medieval walled city with its many ancient structures, churches, cathedrals, palaces and museums, is just icing on the cake.
Caprera, Italy
Caprera is a picturesque island and nature reserve in the La Maddalena Archipelago. One of the best small islands in the Mediterranean, it can be accessed via ferry from La Maddalena, or by bridge from mainland Sardinia. It has been declared a Wildlife Sanctuary and therefore is protected by strict building restrictions. Not only is it home to one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful coves, Cala Coticcio, but it hosts multiple historic treasures, including Roman ships and the home of Giuseppe Garibaldi, one of the fathers of Italian independence. Garibaldi spent the last years of his life on this island, in a white house overlooking the sea. He lived here after the death of his wife Anita for 26 years until passing away in 1882, and today, his house is a museum, offering the chance to see not only the home but the very furniture, works of art and other objects that belonged to the general. A vintage watch hangs on the wall, still marking the time of his death.
Vis, Croatia
Vis is the furthest island from the central Dalmatian Coast and one of the most beautiful islands in Croatia. It served as a base for the Yugoslav Army during the socialist years and was closed to foreign visitors for nearly four decades, from 1950 to 1989, and deserted by much of its local population. Today, it can be reached by a high-speed ferry ride from Split, and offers one of the best destinations for those who are looking for an authentic, unspoiled spot in the Adriatic. Wine enthusiasts will love it too, as some of the most exclusive wines in Croatia are produced on the island, like Plavac and Vugava. Tuck yourself away on one of its many stunning and secluded bays, or explore the island to discover its extensive vineyards, palm, pine, olive, oleander, fig, carob and mulberry trees, more than 300 herbs and local seafood and wine. You can also marvel at old fishing boats on the southwest of the island in Komiza and snorkel in the emerald waters of Stiniva Cove, sometimes right alongside bottlenose dolphins and loggerhead turtles. Boats depart to the small island of Bisevo off Vis’s shore, which is famous for hosting the blue cave, a small sea cave that, during midday, becomes illuminated in a stunning light blue glow.
Bozcaada, Turkey
According to Homer’s Iliad, this island off the west coast of Turkey in the Dardanelles Strait is where the Greek fleet hid waiting for Odysseus’ signal to invade Troy. Undiscovered by most travelers until only just recently, it provides an enchanting, tranquil change from jam-packed holiday destinations, boasting incredible hidden bays that are filled with colorful marine life, along with a rich historical heritage and world-class grapes that produce exceptional wines. With the town center closed to vehicle traffic, the narrow, cobblestone streets are ideal for a romantic stroll, and its windy shores have become popular for kite surfing, particular on the long stretch of Cayir Beach, with its idyllic conditions giving birth to a kite surfing school and a festival. It’s the island’s dry, warm, and windy climate that provides an ideal setting for cultivating deliciously juicy grapes, which is why roughly one-third of it is covered with vineyards.
Cadiz, Spain
One of the oldest cities in Western Europe, Cadiz is one of the top places to visit in the Andalusia region of Spain. Founded by Phoenician sailors some 3,000 years ago, the rich history of Cadiz can be seen throughout the old city. Explore the stone walls and forts, visit the cathedral, and climb the North Tower to take in views of the entire city. You might rent a bike and pedal your way around town, stroll around Park Genoves, try a surfing lesson, or simply enjoy a day at the beach at Playa Victoria. If you want to take a day trip Setenil de las Bodegas, located in the province of Cadiz, about 83 miles northeast, it offers the chance to get a glimpse of residents that quite literally live under a rock, as its dwellings were built into rock overhangs above the Rio Trejo, creating an especially unique setting along the narrow river gorge. The village extends along the course of the river with some houses being built into the rock walls of the gorge itself, created by enlarging natural caves or overhangs and adding an external wall.
Corfu, Greece
Corfu, which lies in the cerulean waters of the Adriatic off Greece’s northwest coast, is loaded with history, natural beauty, and mythology. In Kerkyra’s old quarter, with its arcades facing the esplanade, its pastel-hued multi-story dwellings, tranquil squares and slatted Venetian-style shutters, are ideal for strolling and people watching. Hike the meandering Corful Trail, or a portion of the 136-mile trek, which stretches from one end of the island to the other. You’ll discover everything from soaring summits to bird-filled lagoons. You can also explore scenic waterfalls in Nymphes, enjoy lounges on gorgeous beaches and visit all sorts of fishing villages, where the seafood is plentiful and fresh. Corfu is also renowned for being one of the country’s top scuba venues, particularly around Paleokastritsa, Othoní or Paxi islets and the northeast coast.
Gozo, Malta
Gozo is one of three inhabited islands in the Maltese Archipelago. Malta, the main island, is home to most of the Maltese population and typically draws the biggest tourist crowds. Gozo offers an appealing alternative, thanks to its preservation of the traditional Maltese way of life, magnificent coastline, and ancient temples. The Gozitan and Maltese culture is best experienced by visiting small fishing and farming villages, such as Qala or Nadur. The island’s rocky west coast has a claim to some of Europe’s best diving, not to mention beautiful rock formations, most famously, the Azure Window. Unfortunately, it collapsed in March of 2017, due to the elements and erosion. It had been used in popular movies and television series like “Game of Thrones” and “Clash of the Titans.” Despite its loss, the coast is still one of the most stunning in the world and features a number of other sites, like the Inland Sea, a lake connected to the Mediterranean by an underground tunnel that’s ideal for swimming. Visitors can also enjoy exploring the fossils of hundreds of sea creatures that are easily spotted on the exposed rock around Dwejra Bay and the Azure Window, the island’s most famous attraction.
Haifa, Israel
Haifa, the third-largest city in Israel, is often overlooked as a Mediterranean destination, but its coastal location, proximity to Mount Carmel, loads of activities and lots of delicious eats, should land it on your travel bucket list. While you’re here, be sure to visit Baha’i Gardens and Golden Dome, home to one of the world’s most spectacular gardens as well as boasting breathtaking views of Haifa Bay. At Mount Carmel National Park, enjoy hiking and mountain biking, and sample the delicious street food on Yafo Street and Wadi Nisnas, with must-tries including the shawarma, falafel, baklava, and knafe.
Lipari, Italy
Lipari can be reached with just a one-hour ferry ride from Sicily. Among the chain of tiny Aeolian Islands, of which it’s the largest, Lipari is often overlooked as nothing more than a transport hub, but there are many reasons to visit, including taking advantage of what so many others miss. The main town, of the same name, Lipari, has a laid-back vibe with a bustling main drag known as Corso Vittorio Emanuele, where locals and visitors enjoy their evening walk. It also boasts a number of beautiful beaches, like Porticello, Canneto, Papesca, and along its north coast are pumice and obsidian caves. At the archaeology museum, Museo Archeologico Eoliano, a gorgeous collection of Lipartite urns await, along with galleries that feature pottery from the 4th and 5th century BC, a time when Greeks occupied the area.
Milos, Greece
This volcanic Greek island is the southernmost island in the Cyclades. Milos known for its horseshoe shape and magnificent coastline, which boasts over 75 beaches of all types, as well as for being the place where the famous statue, the “Venus de Milo” was discovered. In addition to countless beautiful stretches of sand, the island offers glorious sunsets, white-washed Cycladic villages, a rich history, fantastic food and welcoming people. The “island of colors,” as it’s sometimes called, is noted as such as the sands are incredibly diverse from white to black, pebble- or shell-covered. The waters are always clear and come in a variety of shades: pale or deep blue, emerald or vibrant green.
