Perennial sunshine, expansive beaches and world-famous cuisine… what more can a tourist ask for? Mediterranean Europe is strewn with provincial fishing villages, alfresco seafood restaurants, and quaint period architecture. Daytrips from the beach reveal Roman ruins, hidden olive groves and expansive vineyards. From the elite communities of the Côte d’Azur and Monaco to the emerging tourism markets of Croatia and Albania, Mediterranean Europe has something for everyone.
Explore: Albania • Andorra • Bosnia and Herzegovina • Croatia • Cyprus • Gibraltar • Greece • Italy • Kosovo • Macedonia • Malta • Montenegro • Northern Cyprus • Portugal • San Marino • Serbia • Slovenia • Spain • Turkey • Vatican City
Sun-drenched beaches, ancient ruins, medieval architecture and world-class dining await visitors in Mediterranean Europe. Whether staying in exclusive resorts or hiding away in sleepy fishing villages, tourists are met with first-rate hospitality, myriad cultural opportunities and impeccable wine lists.
Mediterranean Europe has a long-standing reputation as a land of fascinating cultural encounters, world-class wine lists and impeccable hospitality. Visitors can base themselves on sun-drenched beaches in sleepy fishing villages or exclusive resorts and enjoy sightseeing excursions among ancient ruins, medieval villages and hidden olive groves.
The Mediterranean is one of the cradles of civilization, offering visitors an incredible range of cultural, historic and seaside attractions. The Greeks and Romans both created their empires around this massive sea, establishing a roster of ancient sites that seems endless. Warm dry weather and sunny skies makes the Mediterranean a popular travel destination any time of year.
For many travelers, the Greek Islands such as Santorini come to mind when imagining cobalt seas and whitewashed fishing villages. But the lesser visited islands of Malta, Crete and Rhodes are even more ancient and just as impressive. Turkey also has a handful of beautiful historic coastal towns and islands more off the beaten track.
There’s plenty to do along the Mediterranean if you’re well-heeled. Exclusive enclaves like Monaco, San Marino, Andorra and Gibraltar are yachting havens catering to the wealthiest of the wealthy. France’s Cote d’Azur is also a hot Mediterranean spot if you want to hang with the rich and famous.
However, there’s more to the European Mediterranean region than just water and sand. Sure, most visitors make a point of staying along the coast, and every country has an excellent array of seaside resort towns. But if you tire of the sea, simply head inland and a whole other world awaits.
Italy isn’t as popular as it used to be, but it’s hard to beat the treasures of Rome and the Vatican, or the romantic canals of Venice. Fashion-conscious Milan buts right up into the stunning Dolomite mountains and on to the Alps. Spain and Portugal are also fascinating destinations. Cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, and Salamanca offer different perspectives on Spanish culture.
Greece has plenty of ancient sites from its golden era, as does Turkey, whose capital Istanbul remains one of the most alluring and mysterious places on earth. Olive groves, vineyards and timeless villages containing the remnants of the first great Western empires lay mostly forgotten and ready to be rediscovered.
But it may be that tourism newcomers Croatia, Albania, Bosnia, Montenegro and Macedonia capture the imagination and wallets of adventurous travelers. Croatia’s beautiful Dalmatian Coast is just one blossoming site to consider.
Where to Go
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Albania: Albania, located in Southeast Europe on the Balkan Peninsula, is known for its stunning Adriatic and Ionian coastlines, rugged mountains, and ancient history. The capital, Tirana, features colorful buildings and great cultural sites such as Skanderbeg Square and the National History Museum. Key attractions include the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gjirokastër, the beautiful beaches of the Albanian Riviera, and the historic town of Berat.
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Andorra: Andorra, a small principality nestled between France and Spain in the Pyrenees mountains, is renowned for its ski resorts, hiking trails, and tax-free shopping. The capital, Andorra la Vella, offers a charming blend of old and new with its historic buildings and modern boutiques. Visitors can explore the Romanesque churches, the scenic Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, and the picturesque village of Ordino.
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Bosnia and Herzegovina: Bosnia and Herzegovina, located in the heart of the Balkans, is known for its diverse cultural heritage and natural beauty. Sarajevo, the capital, is famous for its historic old town, bazaars, and the poignant War Tunnel Museum. Travelers can visit the stunning Stari Most in Mostar, the beautiful Kravice Waterfalls, and the ancient city of Jajce.
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Croatia: Croatia, situated on the Adriatic Sea, is famed for its beautiful coastline, historic cities, and stunning national parks. Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” offers impressive medieval architecture and scenic views. Key attractions include the historic city of Split, the picturesque Plitvice Lakes National Park, and the charming island of Hvar.
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Cyprus: Cyprus, an island nation in the Eastern Mediterranean, is known for its rich history and beautiful beaches. Nicosia, the divided capital, offers a unique blend of Greek and Turkish influences. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins of Kourion, the stunning beaches of Ayia Napa, and the scenic Troodos Mountains.
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Gibraltar: Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory located on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, is famous for its iconic Rock of Gibraltar and strategic location. The capital, Gibraltar, features a blend of British and Mediterranean cultures. Key sights include the St. Michael’s Cave, the historic Great Siege Tunnels, and the diverse wildlife of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.
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Greece: Greece, located in Southern Europe, is known for its ancient history, stunning islands, and ancient culture. Athens, the capital, is home to the iconic Acropolis and Parthenon. Travelers can explore the beautiful islands of Santorini and Mykonos, the historic sites of Delphi and Olympia, and the breathtaking landscapes of Meteora.
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Italy: Italy, situated in Southern Europe, is famed for its rich history, art, and cuisine. Rome, the capital, boasts ancient landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Vatican City, and the Roman Forum. Other highlights include the canals of Venice, the Renaissance art of Florence, and the picturesque Amalfi Coast.
Bologna • Florence • Genoa • Latvia • Milan • Naples • Palermo • Parma • Rimini • Rome • Siena • Trieste • Turin • Tuscany • Venice • Verona
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Kosovo: Kosovo, a landlocked country in the Balkans, offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Pristina, the capital, features modern architecture and historical sites such as the Ethnographic Museum. Visitors can explore the scenic Rugova Canyon, the ancient city of Prizren, and the beautiful Mirusha Waterfalls.
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Macedonia: North Macedonia, located in the Balkans, is known for its scenic lakes, mountains, and ancient history. Skopje, the capital, offers a blend of modern and historical attractions including the Stone Bridge and the Old Bazaar. Key attractions include the stunning Lake Ohrid, the ancient city of Stobi, and the beautiful Matka Canyon.
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Malta: Malta, an island nation in the Mediterranean, is renowned for its historic sites and beautiful beaches. Valletta, the capital, features impressive fortifications, the Grandmaster’s Palace, and St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Travelers can explore the ancient temples of Hagar Qim, the picturesque Blue Lagoon, and the historic city of Mdina.
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Montenegro: Montenegro, located in Southeastern Europe, is known for its stunning Adriatic coastline, rugged mountains, and medieval villages. The Bay of Kotor offers breathtaking scenery and historic towns such as Kotor and Perast. Visitors can also explore the beautiful beaches of Budva, the Durmitor National Park, and the scenic Skadar Lake.
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Northern Cyprus: Northern Cyprus, the Turkish-administered area of Cyprus, is known for its beautiful beaches and ancient ruins. Nicosia, the divided capital, offers a unique blend of Greek and Turkish influences. Key attractions include the historic Kyrenia Harbour, the ancient city of Salamis, and the scenic Karpaz Peninsula.
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Portugal: Portugal, located on the Iberian Peninsula, is famous for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. Lisbon, the capital, boasts historic neighborhoods, the Belem Tower, and the Jeronimos Monastery. Travelers can explore the stunning Algarve coastline, the scenic Douro Valley, and the historic city of Porto.
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San Marino: San Marino, a small landlocked republic surrounded by Italy, is known for its medieval architecture and scenic views. The capital, City of San Marino, features the historic Three Towers, the Basilica di San Marino, and the Palazzo Pubblico. Visitors can enjoy exploring the narrow streets, museums, and panoramic vistas of this ancient republic.
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Serbia: Serbia, located in the Balkans, offers a rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. Belgrade, the capital, is known for its nightlife, historic Kalemegdan Fortress, and the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Key attractions include the medieval monasteries of Studenica, the picturesque Tara National Park, and the historic city of Novi Sad.
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Slovenia: Slovenia, located in Central Europe, is known for its beautiful landscapes and charming towns. Ljubljana, the capital, features a picturesque old town, Ljubljana Castle, and the scenic Ljubljanica River. Travelers can explore the stunning Lake Bled, the Postojna Cave, and the Triglav National Park.
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Spain: Spain, situated on the Iberian Peninsula, is famous for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes. Madrid, the capital, boasts world-class museums, the Royal Palace, and vibrant plazas. Other highlights include the architectural wonders of Barcelona, the historic Alhambra in Granada, and the sunny beaches of the Costa del Sol.
Alicante • Barcelona • Bilbao • Gran Canaria • Granada • Ibiza • Madrid • Malaga • Marbella • Palma • Salamanca • San Sebastian • Santander • Santiago de Compostela • Seville • Toledo • Valencia • Zaragoza
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Turkey: Turkey, straddling both Europe and Asia, is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. Istanbul, the largest city, offers iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, and the beautiful beaches of the Turkish Riviera.
Ankara • Cappadocia • Istanbul
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Vatican City: Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world, is located within Rome and serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church. The Vatican is home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums, housing some of the most significant art and artifacts in history. Visitors can explore the grandeur of these sites and witness the Pope’s addresses in St. Peter’s Square