Summer comes and with it, cities start to sizzle. That is when the Mediterranean calls, and one can ignore that, as the Mediterranean is one of the rare locations on the planet where history, food, landscape, and local culture all blend in such an intriguing manner.
The beauty of this area is so varied. One minute you could be walking through a historic village, the next you could be bobbing around in turquoise water or eating grilled fish at a table with your feet in the sand. This inspired us for an overview of some of the most interesting places to spend your summer in the Mediterranean — as there’s something here for everyone.
1. Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia feels like a secret—even though it isn’t. Italians know it well, and in August it gets booked up in a flash. But outside the high weeks, this island is one of the most lovely and multi-faceted destinations in the Mediterranean.
Its coast stretches nearly 2,000 kilometers, with everything from wild, empty beaches to tacky resort towns. The Costa Smeralda steals most of the spotlight (and the yachts), but Sardinia’s true enchantment is more likely to be found elsewhere—in the brutal east, the agrarian hinterland of the interior, and the hidden coves of the south.
The water is impossibly blue, the food is simple and rich, and the culture, rooted in centuries of tradition, is unique within Italy. And for those who like a more controlled experience, https://vretreats.com/en/sardinia-land-of-magic/ can open doors to private sites and activities far from the tourist routes.
2. Kotor, Montenegro
If you haven’t put Montenegro on the radar for this summer’s holiday, it is time to put it on the map. Kotor, in particular, is a place that surprises people. Situated at the head of a bay that looks more like a Norwegian fjord than a southern European shoreline, Kotor is dramatic and peaceful. The ancient town is a maze of stone buildings and quiet piazzas during medieval times. You can climb the old fortress wall on foot for a view that’s equal to anything in the region. And because Montenegro hasn’t yet reached its prime popularity, prices remain lower than most of the neighboring countries.
3. Nafplio, Greece
Santorini and Mykonos get quite all the fame, but Nafplio is possibly Greece’s best-kept secret. Located in the Peloponnese, just two hours from Athens, Nafplio has everything you’re looking for in a Greek summer vacation — sea views, neoclassical buildings, and local cuisine without the impossible crowds.
The town itself has an upscale energy. You can swim in small beaches just a short walk from the town center, climb the Palamidi fortress for views across the bay, and take fresh seafood with live music from the nearby square. It’s historic, pedestrianized, and (low-key) romantic. Perfect both for couples and solo travelers.
4. Menorca, Spain
Ibiza and Mallorca are household names — but Menorca is the island to visit to relax. This Balearic island has stayed less crowded and more intact than its party-happy neighbors.
Menorca is nature. Beautiful coves, quiet turquoise sea, cliff top walks, and pretty white-washed villages. There’s no pressure to do much here, and that’s the point. Some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean are here, usually reachable on foot or by boat — Cala Macarella, Cala Mitjana, and Cala Pregonda, to name just a few.
5. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik isn’t a secret, but it’s famous for a reason. The old walled city is like a film set come to life (literally, in fact, courtesy of Game of Thrones), and a walk along the top of the walls at sunset is something that every guest should do at least once. And yet, Dubrovnik is also a gateway. From here, you can take boat trips out to the Elafiti Islands, discover secluded swimming spots, or head further north to less crowded stretches of Dalmatian coastline.
Despite being packed in high season, you can still find peace if you just step a bit outside the center. And whether you’re a history buff or beach bum, Dubrovnik has both—usually in the same day.
6. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Yes, it’s cliché. Yes, it’s touristy. But the Amalfi Coast still belongs on the list — because when you do it correctly, it’s magic. The key is not to rush. Stay in one town — Praiano or Cetara, rather than Positano or Amalfi — and make day trips from there. Move slowly along the coast by boat or local bus. Eat lemon pasta at a cliffside trattoria. Swim in stony coves. And don’t be afraid to wander off the “top 10” locations as some of the finest spots here are the least crowded. Even in a destination renowned for glamour, slow travel makes all the difference.
The Mediterranean is stunningly beautiful. But the problem here isn’t so much finding them as choosing which ones to spend your time on. Slow travel is all about visiting fewer places and exploring each more deeply. With places as amazing as these, you won’t be disappointed.
