The Mediterranean is one of the world’s top tourist hotspots, and it’s easy to see why. The region boasts stunning beaches, charming towns, a rich history, and delicious food, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers. If you’re planning your travel bucket list for 2023, the Mediterranean should be at the top. Here, we’ll take you through 10 amazing places to visit in the Mediterranean. Check them out!
What’s the Best Way to Travel Around the Mediterranean?
Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is a lively and colorful city brimming with rich history and culture. A must-see in Marrakech is the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with beautiful and historic buildings. Stroll through the winding streets, soak in the bustling market atmosphere, and savor the local cuisine. Another highlight is the Jardin Majorelle, a stunning garden packed with exotic plants and eye-catching art. The peaceful gardens and beautiful architecture make it easy to see why Marrakech is a top Mediterranean destination.
Best places to visit 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 coastal city where modernity meets tradition. Its standout landmark is the Hassan II Mosque, a magnificent structure perched on the Atlantic Ocean. You can take a guided tour of the mosque, attend a prayer service, or enjoy a sunset stroll along the esplanade. The Quartier Habous is another must-visit, blending Moroccan architecture with a cosmopolitan feel. The vibrant neighborhood offers shops selling spices, carpets, and handicrafts, along with tasty street food and friendly locals.
Best places to visit 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
As Egypt’s second-largest city, Alexandria is a blend of ancient history and coastal beauty. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern library that pays homage to the city’s ancient past, is a must-visit for its impressive collection of books and manuscripts. The Alexandria Corniche, a scenic waterfront promenade lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride to see the iconic Alexandria Lighthouse and the ancient catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa.
Best places to visit 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 a city rich in history, vibrant street life, and iconic landmarks like the Giza Pyramids. You can take a camel ride around the pyramids and explore the Sphinx. The Egyptian Museum is another must-see, housing ancient artifacts, including treasures from King Tutankhamun. Don’t miss the bustling streets and markets like Khan el-Khalili, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and souvenirs. The city’s stunning Islamic architecture, including the Al-Azhar Mosque and the Muhammad Ali Mosque, is also not to be missed.
Best places to visit 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 teeming with history and culture. Start with the Hagia Sophia, which has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Its massive dome and intricate mosaics are breathtaking. Next, visit the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, and explore its gardens and views of the Bosphorus. The Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets, is perfect for trying delicious Turkish food and shopping for unique souvenirs.
Best places to visit 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 famed for its unique landscape of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and rock formations. A hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia offers an unforgettable view of the stunning scenery. On the ground, explore the region’s underground cities and cave churches, which early Christians used to escape persecution. The Goreme Open Air Museum is home to some of the area’s most impressive cave churches.
Best places to visit in Cappadocia:
– Uchisar Castle
– Derinkuyu Underground City
– Pigeon Valley
– Erciyes Ski Resort
– Love Valley
– Ihlara Valley
– Fairy Chimneys
– Goreme Open Air Museum
– Göreme
– Kapuzbaşı Falls (Kapuzbaşı Selalesi Kayseri)
– Kizilcukur Valley (Gun batimi)
– Kayseri Castle
Cinque Terre, Italy
The Cinque Terre in Italy is known for its colorful houses and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The five villages are connected by hiking trails that offer some of the most spectacular vistas. Manarola is known for its picturesque harbor, while Vernazza boasts a historic castle and top-notch seafood restaurants.
Best places to visit 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, renowned for its landscapes, ancient architecture, and clear waters. Start in Valletta, the capital, known for its Baroque architecture and historical sites like St. John’s Co-Cathedral. The Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino is a turquoise paradise perfect for swimming and snorkeling. History enthusiasts will enjoy Mdina, an ancient city dating back to the Roman Empire.
Best places to visit 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 picture-perfect Greek island known for its sunny weather and beautiful beaches. Start your visit in the town of Chora, with its whitewashed buildings and charming windmills. Spend a day lounging at Paradise Beach, Psarou Beach, or Elia Beach, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters and soak up the sun. In the evening, experience Mykonos’ vibrant nightlife with its bustling clubs, bars, and restaurants.
Best places to visit 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 is a captivating region in southeastern France known for its natural beauty and historic charm. Begin your adventure in Avignon, a town famous for its medieval architecture. The Luberon Valley offers charming hilltop villages and verdant vineyards, perfect for wine tasting. One of Provence’s highlights is its lavender fields, which bloom between late June and early August. Explore these fields, particularly around Sault, by bike or on foot to truly appreciate their beauty.
Best places to visit 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 offers countless incredible destinations, so it’s essential to plan your trip carefully. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking landscapes, historical sites, or vibrant cultures, the Mediterranean has something for everyone. So, don’t wait—start planning your Mediterranean adventure today!