Enjoying the Mediterranean Sans Crowds

Looking to head to the Mediterranean this summer but want to avoid the crowds? Check out our list of mind blowing beautiful destinations you can enjoy- without sharing the views!

Istria, Croatia

No, this is not one of Croatia’s famous Game of Thrones filming locations, but that’s what makes it such a hidden treasure. Formed by a small peninsula that gives way to green, rolling hills covered with historic homes, it’s no surprise that one of Istria’s biggest draws is the seafood. Whitefish and pilgrim scallops are popular here, as are the region’s famous white truffles, award-winning wines and tasty olives. After sampling the local fare, check out the Byzantine art inside the Euphrasian Basilica and explore the well-preserved ruins of a Roman amphitheater.

Spetses, Greece
Cars are not allowed on Spetses, meaning you can really get a taste of old-fashioned Greek life here. This Saronic Island is known for its secluded beaches, traditional boat-building culture, and the marinas that hold the local wares. Tour the island by scooter, or by foot to discover gems like the Anargyri Beach and its beautiful Bekiris cave. The morning fish markets are also a must-see, which fuel the island’s seafood-driven cuisine. Sample some of the best around at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel‘s restaurant On The Verandah, where you can try shrimp carbonara and scallops with saganaki while enjoying views of the port. Athens is only a two-hour boat ride away, in case you need a taste of that big-city life.

Polignano a Mare, Italy
This tiny Italian enclave was made for taking it easy, offering some of the Adriatic coast’s best beaches, and a distinct under-the-radar vibe. The walled city is perched atop a 20-meter-high cliff, making it a popular point for cliff diving into the turquoise waters. The town’s also known for its dreamy gelato—try one from Il Super Mago del Gelo and pair it with a ‘caffe special’, a naughty-but-nice drink made with espresso, sugar, lemon zest, cream and amaretto. Once the sun goes down, head to Grotta Palazzese, a romantic restaurant tucked inside a limestone cave, where you can sip local wines, enjoy fresh-caught seafood and sweeping ocean views. 

Tarragona, Spain
You could probably spend your entire trip here geeking out on Roman history, and for good reason. This sunny port city is packed with ancient ruins, subterranean tunnels, archaeological relics, a seaside amphitheater and dizzying network of medieval streets. But don’t let all the ancient goodness fool you: modern Tarragona is worth discovering too. Spend a day lounging in the sand at Playa El Miracle, and at sundown, belly up to the bar at La Isla de Mojito for their namesake tropical drink. Then, if the dance floor’s calling your name, nearby Highland will be hopping all night long. 

Budva, Montenegro
If you’ve never heard of Montenegro, you’re not alone. This tiny Balkan country has only been around since 2006, since the dissolution of Yugoslavia, but it has one of the oldest histories on the Mediterranean Coast. Budva, a coastal city on the Adriatic, is prized for its pebbled beaches, lush backdrop and medieval walled old town. Wander along the Trg Izmedu Crkava (‘square between the churches’) where you can see several ancient churches, including St Mary’s, which dates back to 840 A.D. For a taste of modern life, get a drink at one of the beach bars along the promenade and watch the million-dollar yachts float by in the distance.

Spetses, Greece
Cars are not allowed on Spetses, meaning you can really get a taste of old-fashioned Greek life here. This Saronic Island is known for its secluded beaches, traditional boat-building culture, and the marinas that hold the local wares. Tour the island by scooter, or by foot to discover gems like the Anargyri Beach and its beautiful Bekiris cave. The morning fish markets are also a must-see, which fuel the island’s seafood-driven cuisine. Sample some of the best around at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel‘s restaurant On The Verandah, where you can try shrimp carbonara and scallops with saganaki while enjoying views of the port. Athens is only a two-hour boat ride away, in case you need a taste of that big-city life.

Malaga, Spain
Malaga offers one of the warmest winters in Europe. But that’s not the main draw here—it’s also known for its delicious tapas, fantastic beaches, ancient Roman ruins and lush rolling mountains. Spend a balmy afternoon exploring Gibralfaro Castle and shopping—Malaga’s fashion scene runs the gamut from international retailers to luxury fashion and quirky boutiques. The Picasso Museum is also a must, boasting more than 200 works by the city’s famous native. About an hour east of Malaga are the Nerja Caves, where you’ll find prehistoric cave paintings dating as far back as 25,000 B.C. The caves also host concerts all summer long, so if ‘cave concert’ wasn’t on your bucket list before, it definitely should be.

Procida, Italy
This is where the born-and-bred Italians vacation. The island, located just off the coast of Naples, is blessed with lemon groves and pastel-colored houses that cascade down to the seashore. Plenty of waterfront trattorias dot the area, where you can indulge in local favorites like stewed rabbit and citrus salad with hot chilis. One of Procida’s best traits: its proximity to Naples, Capri and Ischia. They’re all just a boat ride away, so plan for a day trip or two.