From the magic of ancient Greece to the laid-back charm of Spain, a luxury Mediterranean cruise gives you the chance to visit some of the most incredible destinations in the world. Enjoy diving into the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, sipping on local wines, or sampling locally made olive oil. You’ll quickly fall in love with the Mediterranean way of life as you explore the many charming towns the region has to offer. Here are five of the most charming towns in the Mediterranean you simply must visit…
1. Corsica, France
Corsica is a small island that has a lot to offer. From glittering beaches to mountain peaks, the diverse range of activities is unlike anywhere in the world. Picture-perfect clifftop villages are scattered around the island and will make you feel like you’re in a fairytale. The beaches are crystal clear, and offer some of the bluest water in the Mediterranean. Whether you’re looking to spend the day soaking up the sun at the beach, exploring ancient villages, or hiking in the mountains, there are no bad ways to spend your days in beautiful Corsica.
2. Portofino, Italy
Portofino is everything you think of when you’re dreaming of an Italian coastal town. Colorful buildings, a cobblestone town square, and a harbor filled with sleek yachts and boats. In town, you’ll find restaurants serving some of the best seafood you’ll ever have, as well as many high end boutiques and Italian shops to wander through. Be sure to check out the famous castle in Portofino, Castello Brown, to learn about its history and admire the incredible view of the sea from the tower.
3. Split, Croatia
Known for its breathtaking beaches and medieval monuments, Split is a perfect blend of modern and ancient ways of life. This buzzing city is full of exciting bars, restaurants, and nightlife, but also is home to ancient architectural marvels such as the Diocletian’s Palace, a Roman monument and UNESCO World Heritage site. The beaches in Split are a stunning shade of turquoise blue that you must see to believe. There’s no better way to spend the day than by soaking up the Croatian sun by beach or boat.
4. Majorca, Spain
When you think of the Mediterranean, you think of Majorca. Majorca is a truly picturesque island off the coast of Spain, known for its fabulous beach resorts and ancient ruins. The beaches on the island are absolutely stunning, and the clear water will take your breath away. Bike around the island to catch some of the incredible views, and you might find yourself among ancient hilltop Roman monasteries or villages. For a tiny island, the food scene is fantastic, with chefs serving up fresh catch of the day with ocean views that are out of this world. Be sure to scope out the many hidden beaches in Mallorca to have the beach all to yourself!
5. Corfu, Greece
Pristine beaches, lush hillsides, and small villages all add to the allure and magic of this Grecian town. There are Venetian fortresses to explore, mountains to climb, and many sandy coves around the island that are perfect for spending a leisurely afternoon. The local cuisine is an interesting blend of Italian and Greek, so be sure and sample the unique local delicacies on the island such as their famous grilled meats.
These spots are must-sees when visiting the Mediterranean. Between the culture, beaches, and natural beauty of these destinations, there’s no reason not to add them all to your bucket list.
The best part? If you take a Mediterranean cruise, you’ll be able to experience the best of the Mediterranean all in one trip. Explore our favorite luxury cruises below…
