Ten Jewels of the Mediterranean
By chili, June 22nd 2010 in Vacation Ideas Comments (55)
How to find the best section of the Mediterranean coastline that extends for 46,000 kilometres (28,600 mi), winds through 21 countries and is bounded by three continents - Europe, Africa and Asia? From hundreds of amazing spots we selected ten jewels of the Mediterranean that are particularly rewarding, beautiful and special.
Be it perfect surfing conditions, superb food, rich culture or Europe's most famous mountain tracks, these destinations, besides being ideal beach getaways, have something for every type of traveler.
1. Tarifa in Spain
2. Aeolian Islands in Italy
We have selected the Aeolian Islands as one of our favorite Mediterranean locations due to their exceptional beauty. Located not far from Sicily, the archipelago is composed of eight volcanic islands, whose jaw-dropping vistas have power to amaze the most skeptical traveler. Surrounded by crystal azure waters, the mountainous green islands are home to ancient old towns with narrow streets, Mediterranean-style houses and superb restaurants, offering the freshest of fresh sea food. What else does one need for perfect beach-oriented holidays?
3. Malta
According to Lonely Planet Malta is "a microcosm of the Mediterranean", and we fully agree with that statement. In other words, you will not miss anything of the Mediterranean package by visiting only this one little country. Covering the area of 300 km², located centrally in the Sea, Malta is a mix of European, North African and Arabic influences, which makes it such a diverse, fascinating and unique place. Malta is a specially rewarding destination for history enthusiasts as it packs amazing architecture of Norman, Gothic, Renaissance or Baroque periods, amazing ancient buildings dating back as far as 6,000 years ago and wide selection of museums from archaeology to modern history.
4. Cassis in France
For those who love the French style of vacationing, Cassis is the place that will not disappoint the most fastidious Francophile. Situated near Marseille in southern France, the charming town of Cassis is famed for its spectacular cliffs, numerous inlets with hidden beaches and wine. Apparently, the town was the first of three French vineyards to profit from the appellation d'origine contrôlée (label of controlled origin) introduced in the 1930s. Today, renowned white wine from Cassis is a symbol of the region and iconic tipple of France.
5. Dubrovnik in Croatia.
Dubrovnik, in southern Croatia, is an absolutely unique place on the Mediterranean coast. For many it is a number one destination that beats its Mediterranean competitors with spectacular location, stunning old town filled with ancient architecture and fantastic coast. In the Middle Ages, Dubrovnik, an important port and trade center, was the only city that could rival Italian Venice. No wonder, today the city, being on a par with the most popular Mediterranean destinations, attracts a staggering 0.5 million tourists a year.
6. Hydra in Greece
The reason why we love Hydra (besides the obvious) is the fact that the cars and motorbikes are not allowed by law on the islands. How wonderful is that? With donkeys, bicycles, and water taxis providing public transportation, Hydra is truly a special place among the country's islands, making you feel the traditional Greek spirit. Add to it the outstanding Hydra's coast filled with little harbors, pretty buildings, crystal waters and an array of fine restaurants, and you might have enough reasons to make it your next Mediterranean destination.
7. Tossa de Mar in Spain
Tossa de Mar is a perfect getaway, especially for those who want to ease overloaded senses after visiting Barcelona. Located not very far (100 km) from the famed capital of Catalonia, on the Costa Brava, Tossa de Mar lures visitors with picturesque beaches, a charming and quiet old town and a beautiful medieval castle towering above the beaches. Over a glass of fine wine in one of the town's little bars, the town seems to be even more attractive.
8. Corsica in France
If you think Corsica is just another Mediterranean island, you are obviously wrong. Besides its golden beaches and turquoise waters (as if it wasn't enough), Corsica is home to the toughest long distance trail in Europe - the legendary GR 20 that can be walked in 15 days. In fact, mountains cover two-thirds of this French island, located not far from Sardinia. With over 20 summits of more than 2,000 meters (6,600 ft), Corsica is a paradise for hiking lovers. In addition, the island's coastline that winds around 1,000 km is a fantastic destination for beach-goers.
9. Portofino in Italy
If we had to describe Portofino in one word, it would be "fairy tale". Once a small Italian fishing village located on the Italian Riviera, today the town has become a famed resort, considered the most beautiful port on the Mediterranean coast. No wonder, Portofino has a few replicas in the world - it inspired a re-creation of the sea side town at Tokyo DisneySea, is copied in authentic detail at Universal Orlando Resort in USA as well as in the Gulf Harbour marina in New Zealand. With its charming architecture, magical location and multitude of café terraces, Portofino is a quintessence of Italian and Mediterranean lifestyle.
10. Tetouan in Morocco
The richness of the African part of the Mediterranean coast could make another post, but here we present one of the most remarkable destinations surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea - Moroccan Tetouan. In comparison to the European side of the sea, the coast in Morocco remains virgin unspoiled and undeveloped. Tetouan, meaning "the eyes" in the Berber language, is one of the two major Moroccan ports on the coast, being, at the same time, a beautiful resort with the old town listed on the World Heritage List, filled with charming traditional white buildings. Tetouan is truly a unique and slightly exotic side of the Mediterranean coast.
Europe is surely one of the best travel deals one should add on their priority list of countries to have a holiday. Just seeing all the possible tourist destinations makes me want to go right now! Good blog and good insights!
I can't believe neither Turkish cities nor Cyprus is in the list. There are tons of great places and relatively cheaper. Worths to search about it.
What about MarsaMatruh, Egypt
We had the most wonderful vacation there. The beaches were so clean, the water crystal clear & we could have whole beaches to ourselves!! Plus we were in EGYPT!!
Egypt is not in Europe, mate!
no, but Egypt IS on the Mediterranean.
@denise - geography fail
if we're talking about mediterranean cities i think nothing compares to Italy or France, but if we're talking about mediterranean nature then it is a shame that alabanian seacost is not included in here. albania it's the most siutable destination for advetures people, trust me!!!
I have done much traveling in the past and decided to take a break for a time. However, seeing those beautiful pictures, feel like going on the road again.
How on Earth did you miss Turkey? Holy !@#$
Certainly these are beautiful spots, but I'm amazed you couldn't find room for Fethiye, Kas, Cesme, Marmaris, Ayvalik, etc., etc., etc.
"fairy tale" is two words. Luckily it doesn't make Portofino less beautiful
Delete Tossa de Mar - add Cadaques...........
Why don't you call it Ten Christian Jewels of the Mediterranean? It could explain your bias better.
Aren't we talking about Mediterranean jewels
It's not only about Europe guys!!!
Anyway, you should come and check it by yourself. Mediterranean sea is a treasure, the source of every great european civilization...moreover, mediterranean people are the best in the world and don't forget the food.
Europe is a played out destination for white folks.
Afrika and New Zealand are better destinations.
Macedonia, beautiful country in Europe, Skopje capitol city, Ohrid - oldest city in Europe with 365 churches and Tzar Samuil Fortress, First University in Europe in Ohrid in X century, Museums, Café bars and Restaurants (with Macedonian traditional and International food), Natural parks Mavrovo near Ski Resort Mavrovo with multi-activities, Ski Resort Popova shapka and Ohrid lake summer resort, Mountain tourism, Rural tourism, Horse riding, Hiking, Rock climbing, Paragliding, Mountain biking, Football, Basket ball, Tennis, Monasteries, Hunting, Culinary, Eco tourism, Kayak and rafting on Matka and Speleological tour in deepest underwater cave Vrelo in The World........................
Where the f*ck is Turkey
we talk about the best mediteranean places,,,,,and the stupid from "F.Y.R.O.M"( he say's "macadonia".........talk about his coundry whitch has no see
)
hahahhaahha
GREECE HAS MOST BEAUTIFULL BEACHE'S.....
I live right outside of Tarifa, it has so many gorgeous beaches and a thriving nightlife in the summer. Hydra is unlike any place I've been to before and Croatia's Dalmatian Coast is a must-see for me. Beautiful!
some consider the med european i see.....so morocco is what?go back to school all of you ,dare to speak about geography ,illiterates.
Türkiye must be there. there is more more beautiful shores in Antalya, İzmir and other south cities.
dubrovnik is not Mediterranean city...back to school....back to school
i am living in dubrovnik all my life and i did not know that is not mediterranean city...ha...ha...dud you got to go back to first grade.....
hmm. Knidos in Turkey, It must must be in list
i love the places i wished i can see all of them
Lovely pics.
People, as always on the internet hatting. Yes there are more places on the Med that could make the list, but this list is wonderful regardless.
Beutiful photos..
I LIVED in Izmir,Turkey and it is one of the MOST beautiful in the world ! Teos Beach and the Greek Islands of Patmos, Chios and Samos are AMAZING !
As for the poster who asked where the ____ is Turkey...you must not have ANY knowledge of geography whatsoever....go back to school...
You got some great places on that list of which I am familiar with except Tetouan in Morrocco-definitely got me thinking of that trip to Morrocco. Tossa de Mar- interesting inclusion...Costa Brava including Tossa is quite overdeveloped but still on the off peak season it is more tolerable and the beach is not overrun by lager louts. Nice article
hey LTE, there are no moslem jewels anywhere. How about you stop being biased and make all about your damn religion
?
The beautiful scenes made me sigh with longing---
You missed Egypt!!
this list preapred for who? by yourself
you should travel all cities of the mediterranean then write here the most beautifull ones
this list preapred for who? by yourself
you should travel all cities of the mediterranean then write here the most beautifull ones
Great pics and great suggestions.
Love is the triumph of imagination over intelligence.
Croatia is the best destination
amazing photos!!!
You put Corsica, nut not Sardinia which is even better than that?
France is truly a gem of the mediterranean
Dalmatia (southern Croatia ) has more natural beauty condensed into one coastline - than rest of the entire Mediterranean combined. Travel the entire ocean and you will see!
big up croatia!
I'm surprised at how beautiful Croatia is. Now I can't wait to plan my next vacation there!
LOL, you listed Corsica and Malta, you mentioned spain twice. Also a very touristy, artificial and common place as portofino in italy, and you didn't mention at all Sardinia, with it's coral reef, white and pink sand beaches and amazingly crystal clear water, beautiful flamingos all around, wonderful coast towns as Bosa, Alghero, Castelsardo or Cagliari (with one of the longest city beaches of the planet!) that would easily beat many of your selections. And Sardinia is so central and pretty large with 99 % of tropical style white sand beaches and emerald crystal clear waters that it's impossible to forget about it.... not to talk about mountains, food, traditions and archeology, who wrote this article probably just randomly googled for some touristy places and randomly picked up a few ones without actually knowing the mediterranean geography and its true gems.
Come in Sardinia guys
everythings allrihgt
Croatia cerainly the best in Europe. "Old" destinations in Spain, France or Italy do not even compare. How can you beat 6 200 km of pristine coastline?
Turkey must be on the list for its amazing and unique coasts and untouched, natural landscape. I wonder how they resist to see such beauty.
Well you shoulnd't miss these while you are in Rome. It's a pity.- The Palatine Hill great view of Rome at ssunet- Fontana di Trevi throw the coin over the left shoulder and you will come back here- The Spanish Stairs great view at night- Piazza Navona- St.Peters church in the Vatican- Forum Romanum- The Pantheon- Altare Della PatriaFind more information about prices, phone numbers, addresses and open hours here :
I travelled to almost all places,beaches,cities in the mediterranean.so i found that:
1)the best beaches ate in greece,sardinia,corsica by far.
2)the scenery is everywhere perfect,depends on someones taste.
3)best islands in greece then croatia
4)cities:dubrovnik,bonifaccio,santorini,molyvos,chania,rodos,kotor and many many more.
Fyrom not on the coast,tourkey and montenegro destroyed most of the coast line.egypt by the red sea.
I travelled to almost all places,beaches,cities in the mediterranean.so i found that:
1)the best beaches ate in greece,sardinia,corsica by far.
2)the scenery is everywhere perfect,depends on someones taste.
3)best islands in greece then croatia
4)cities:dubrovnik,bonifaccio,santorini,molyvos,chania,rodos,kotor and many many more.
Fyrom not on the coast,tourkey and montenegro destroyed most of the coast line.egypt by the red sea.
By the way almost each city and village by the mediterranean mentioned by everybody is an ancient greek town and the city plans as they are today and the castles venetian,like every city on the coast of tourkey,dubrovnik (ragousa),st tropez (tropida) and many more.
Excellent choices, although I would include something about Malaga or its villages! Greetings from Spain!
all of these small towns sound absolutely charming. I'm a huge fan of small unknown places though.
all of these small towns sound absolutely charming. I'm a huge fan of small unknown places though.
albania has some nice beaches give it a shot