World Of Wanderlust

The Mediterranean region is one of the world’s favorite tourist spots, and it’s easy to see why. With beautiful beaches, charming towns, rich history, and delectable cuisine, there’s something here for everyone. It’s definitely a top suggestion for your 2023 travel list. In this guide, let’s explore 10 of the best places you should visit in the Mediterranean. Ready to check them out?

### Exploring the Mediterranean: Best Modes of Travel

**Marrakech, Morocco**

Marrakech is an energetic and colorful city, steeped in history and culture. One of the must-visit spots in Marrakech is the medina, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area is filled with historic buildings, narrow streets, bustling markets, and delicious local food. Another highlight is the Jardin Majorelle, a serene garden with exotic plants and captivating art. Exploring these gardens and learning about their history is a peaceful delight.

Top Attractions in Marrakech:
– Jardin Majorelle
– Bahia Palace
– Anima André Heller Garden
– Le Jardin Secret – Médina – Marrakech
– Medina of Marrakesh
– Koutoubia
– Jemaa el-Fnaa
– Ibn Youssef School
– Badi Palace
– Yves Saint Laurent Museum

**Casablanca, Morocco**

Casablanca is a mix of modern and traditional influences. The Hassan II Mosque is the city’s iconic landmark, with intricate architecture and stunning mosaics situated along the Atlantic Ocean. You can explore the mosque on a guided tour or enjoy the sunset along the esplanade. Another key area is Quartier Habous, which blends Moroccan architecture with a cosmopolitan feel. This neighborhood is perfect for shopping and enjoying street food while chatting with locals.

Top Attractions in Casablanca:
– Hassan II Mosque
– Morocco Mall
– Arab League Park
– Eglise Notre Dame De Lourdes
– Museum of Moroccan Judaism
– Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum
– Mahkama of Pacha
– Al-Qods Mosque

**Alexandria, Egypt**

Alexandria is Egypt’s second-largest city, rich in ancient history and beautiful coastal views. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a modern library honoring the city’s ancient history, hosting a vast collection of books and cultural events. The Alexandria Corniche is a scenic promenade along the Mediterranean Sea, perfect for a relaxing stroll, dining, or taking a boat ride to the Alexandria Lighthouse.

Top Attractions in Alexandria:
– Montaza Palace
– Citadel of Qaitbay
– Bibliotheca Alexandrina
– Serapeum of Alexandria
– Royal Jewelry Museum
– Alexandria National Museum
– Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas Mosque
– Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa
– Ancient Roman Theatre
– Stanley Bridge

**Cairo, Egypt**

Cairo is known for its historical landmarks and vibrant street life. Start your visit with the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx. Then, head to the Egyptian Museum to see ancient artifacts like King Tutankhamun’s treasures. Exploring Cairo’s streets and markets can also be a thrilling experience, especially in places like Khan el-Khalili. Don’t miss the incredible Islamic architecture, including the Al-Azhar Mosque and Muhammad Ali Mosque.

Top Attractions in Cairo:
– The Egyptian Museum
– Khan el-Khalili
– Al-Azhar Mosque
– Al-Azhar Park
– Cairo Tower
– Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hassan
– Mosque of Muhammad Ali
– Great Sphinx of Giza
– Prince Mohamed Ali Palace (Al Manial Palace)
– The Hanging Church
– Bab Zuweila

**Istanbul, Turkey**

Istanbul is a city overflowing with history and culture. Begin with the Hagia Sophia; this remarkable building has served as a church, a mosque, and now a museum. It’s an architectural marvel with a rich history. Next, explore the Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans, and enjoy the beautiful gardens and Bosphorus views. Don’t miss the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets, where you can sample delicious Turkish food.

Top Attractions in Istanbul:
– Hagia Sophia
– The Blue Mosque
– Galata Tower
– Grand Bazaar
– Basilica Cistern
– Topkapi Palace Museum
– Dolmabahçe Palace
– Egyptian Bazaar
– Suleymaniye Mosque
– Sultanahmet Square
– Istanbul Archaeological Museums
– Kariye Mosque
– Gülhane Park

**Cappadocia, Turkey**

Cappadocia is famous for its unique landscape of fairy chimneys and cave dwellings. A hot air balloon ride here is an unforgettable way to take in the stunning scenery. Explore underground cities and ancient cave churches, which served as refuges for early Christians. The Goreme Open Air Museum is another must-see, featuring impressive cave churches.

Top Attractions in Cappadocia:
– Uchisar Castle
– Derinkuyu Underground City
– Pigeon Valley
– Ercİyes Ski Resort
– Love Valley
– Ihlara Valley
– Fairy Chimneys
– Goreme Open Air Museum
– Göreme
– Kapuzbaşı Selalesi Kayseri
– Kizilcukur Valley (Sunset Valley)
– Kayseri Castle

**Cinque Terre, Italy**

Cinque Terre is a stunning coastal region known for its colorful houses and crystal-clear views of the Mediterranean Sea. Hiking trails connect its five villages, offering some of the most spectacular views. Manarola and Vernazza are especially picturesque, with charming harbors, incredible seafood, and beautiful historic sites.

Top Attractions in Cinque Terre:
– Corniglia
– Vernazza
– Manarola
– Riomaggiore
– Monterosso al Mare
– Ruins of Doria Tower
– Church of St. Margaret of Antioch
– Castello di Riomaggiore
– Church of San Giovanni Battista of Riomaggiore
– Presepe di Manarola

**Malta**

Malta is a hidden gem in the Mediterranean with stunning landscapes and rich history. Start in Valletta, the capital, known for its Baroque architecture and significant historical sites like St. John’s Co-Cathedral. The Blue Lagoon on Comino Island is perfect for swimming and snorkeling in its turquoise waters. History buffs should explore Mdina, an ancient city with remarkable Roman architecture.

Top Attractions in Malta:
– St. John’s Co-Cathedral
– Popeye Village
– Blue Grotto
– Mosta Rotunda
– Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
– Dingli Cliffs
– Tarxien Temples
– Valletta
– Azure Window
– Gozo
– Mdina
– The Lascaris War Rooms
– Upper Barrakka Gardens
– Ħaġar Qim
– Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu

**Mykonos, Greece**

Mykonos is a stunning island with beautiful beaches and lively nightlife. Start your visit in Chora, the charming town with whitewashed buildings and narrow alleys. Relax on beautiful beaches like Paradise Beach, Psarou Beach, or Elia Beach, and then enjoy the island’s vibrant nightlife.

Top Attractions in Mykonos:
– Panagia Paraportiani
– Super Paradise Beach Club
– Monastery of Tourliani
– Archaeological Museum of Mykonos
– Agios Sostis Beach
– Paralia Kalo Livadi
– Aegean Maritime Museum
– Flour Mills of Mykonos
– Agrari Beach Mykonos
– Mykonos Old Port

**Provence, France**

Provence in southeast France is filled with natural beauty and historic charm. Start in Avignon, known for its medieval architecture. Visit the Luberon Valley for hilltop villages and vineyards, where you can savor local wines. The vibrant lavender fields, especially around the town of Sault, are a highlight of the region.

Top Attractions in Provence:
– Palais des Papes
– Verdon Gorge
– Aix-en-Provence
– Avignon
– Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
– Marseille
– Arles
– Gordes
– French Riviera
– Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque
– Saint-Tropez
– Castle Hill
– Carrières de Lumières
– Nice
– Camargue Regional Natural Park

The Mediterranean is home to many incredible destinations. If you’re planning a trip, consider one of our guided group trips, led by our experienced TripLeaders. These trips are designed to create unforgettable memories. So why wait? Book your Mediterranean adventure now!