The Mediterranean Sea is a part of the world that holds particular appeal to British tourists. So much so, in fact, that Mediterranean cruise holidays are a popular option for those who’d like to tour some of Europe’s most important cultural and historic attractions in a single trip.
But beyond the most famous spots in the region, travellers might also wish to acquaint themselves with a few lesser-known gems. These places are hugely appealing for a number of reasons, not least of them being the fact that they’re rarely as crowded with tourists as the more famous parts of the sea.
Table of Contents
Kotor, Montenegro
This amazing city in Montenegro offers not only plenty of historical interest, thanks to the wall medieval old town, but stunning and diverse surroundings, thanks to its position midway between a sweeping bay and a horseshoe-shaped formation of towering mountains. Spend around an hour hiking up to the local fortress, and you’ll enjoy peerless views over the city, and the surrounding countryside.
Valletta, Malta
The Maltese capital is replete with amazing, well-preserved historic buildings. So great is the appeal, in fact, that it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. There are more than three hundred distinct monuments scattered across the city, which provide a glimpse into the various chapters of the city’s past. This place has been ruled by Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines and others, and each of these peoples has helped to shape the city as it exists today. During your visit, you’ll want to stop off at St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, from where you can soak in the view.
Procida, Italy
Naples is among the most popular stops for cruisers in the Med. But if you’re visiting the city, you might also make a point of stopping at one of the amazing islands just off the bay. Procida is one of them, famous for the pastel-shaded houses leading down into the fishing village of Marina Corricella. Here, you’ll be able to get an authentic taste of Italian culture and seafood, without the crowds that come with travel on the mainland.
Lastovo, Croatia
Croatia encompasses a number of secluded islands, which line the eastern flank of the Adriatic. A tour of the region might bring you to one of the more remote of them: Lastovo. The water here is stunning, clear, and perfect for diving and exploration. On the island itself, you might stroll among the traditional stone houses.
Cartagena, Spain
This Spanish city lies just south of Alicante. It’s a port that you’ll pass on your way into the region from the Atlantic, and it’s well worth considering as a stopping point. Here, you’ll find a series of well-preserved Roman ruins, including an amazing amphitheatre. The city is small enough to be navigated on foot, and you’ll find plenty of amazing tapas restaurants near the seafront.