With sun-kissed shores and turquoise waters, these are the best Mediterranean islands to visit. So start your daydreaming ... now.
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Crete
To call Crete Instagram-worthy would be an understatement. Like other gorgeous Mediterranean islands to visit, Crete dazzles with its geographical diversity: stretches of palm-backed sand, abundant orchards, rolling hills, high peaks and mysterious grottoes. Fans of Greek mythology should trek to Ideon Cave, the birthplace of Zeus. History buffs should not miss touring the Bronze Age archeological site Knossos, which, as the seat of the ancient Minoan Civilization, is known as Europe’s oldest city. (The first settlement is thought to have been built there in 7000 B.C.) All that activity is bound to work up an appetite, so refuel with meat, cheese, olive oil and seafood at one of the many tavernas that dot the island.
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Rhodes
Whether you’re pursuing solitude or epic adventure, Rhodes is the perfect escape. Soak up the Mediterranean sun on the Greek island’s golden shores dotted with resorts, restaurants and bars. For a hit of Grecian history, head to archeological sites like the Lindos Acropolis and Ancient Kamiros. Another highlight is Petaloúdes, a 600-acre park with tree-shaded trails and colorful butterflies. Sadly, the Colossus of Rhodes, a statue of Helios, the Greek titan-god of the sun and one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, no longer stands. But you can still visit the entrance to the Mandraki Harbor, where the Statue of Liberty-size statue was said to have been erected in 292 B.C.
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Capri
Capri, on the south side of the Gulf of Naples in Italy, is revered for its lyrical landscape and sophisticated scene. Spellbinding natural sites like the luminous Blue Grotto, Faraglioni Cave and Arco Naturale are just the beginning. It also tempts luxury-oriented travelers with its upmarket lodgings (nab a suite with an ocean-view terrace at Grand Hotel Quisisana), posh shops, attractive piazzas and mega yachts.
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Menorca
Want to slow down and unwind? Menorca, off the coast of Spain, lures relaxation-seekers with its enchanting beauty, archaeological treasures and laid-back vibe. This is a place to enjoy the simple pleasures. Slather on SPF 50 and settle in for an afternoon of lounging on stunning white sand beaches and swimming in the shallow, turquoise waters of Cala Turqueta. Savor local flavors at Subaida, or opt for a guided tour of the island’s Georgian-style estates and dairy farms. Do not forget to taste traditional Mahón, a cured cow’s milk cheese that’s aged for six months.
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Sicily
Busting cities, quaint villages, pristine beaches and rich heritage—Sicily is the largest of the Mediterranean islands, and this Italian island has it all. The capital, Palermo, is home to compelling architecture like Cappella Palatina. An hour-long train ride to the southeast is the vibrant coastal community of Cefalù. On the east side of Sicily, between the cities of Messina and Catania, lies Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe.
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Ibiza
Ibiza conjures visions of wealthy tourists flocking to clubs, DJs blasting tunes and dancing till dawn. But there’s more to this Spanish party-centric playground than nightlife. Discover the serene side of Ibiza with its secluded coves, dusty roads, hilly hamlets, pine forests and pastoral farmlands.
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Elba
Elba is one of many Mediterranean islands to visit with a rich history. Part of the Tuscan Archipelago, Elba is best known as the place where Napoleon was exiled following his forced abdication in 1814. Moreover, its diverse wilderness—sandy shores, central flatlands, jagged mountains and sprawling vineyards—makes Elba a playground for outdoor exploration.
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Santorini
This Greek island offers a mesmerizing mix of volcanic terrain, eye-catching structures (the white, cubiform houses carved into the cliffs of Fira and Oia are instantly recognizable) and black sand beaches. It’s also a great place for a romantic getaway: Santorini oozes Mediterranean amour. Add to that polished eateries, superb wineries and stylish hotels like the Astra Suites and Katikies Santorini. And the sought-after sunsets are straight up gorgeous.
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Sardinia
Sardinia touts 124 miles of magnificent Italian coastline with powder-soft sand and aquamarine waters, plus lush inlands, rambling oaks and sheer cliffs. For a history fix, head to the submerged Roman ruins of Nora or the Nuragic village of Tiscali, whose beehive-shaped dwellings date back to the first millennium B.C. The city of Alghero is home to Catalan Gothic architecture, including the Cattedrale di Santa Maria, Palazzo Guillot and the 4th-century Chiesa di San Francesco, as well as the Museo Diocesano d’Arte Sacra.
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Hvar
Dubbed the queen of Croatia’s Dalmatian islands, Hvar is a paparazzi-free utopia where privacy-seeking celebs frolic on the beaches of Dubovica and Milna. It’s also blessed with lavender farms, rocky coves and olive groves. Hovering above Hvar is Fortica, a hilltop fortress that offers panoramic vistas. The yacht-filled harbor, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Franciscan Monastery are worth checking out, too.
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Corsica
Despite being annexed by France in 1769, Corsica hasn’t lost its connection with Italy—as evidenced by its divine trio of food, wine and music. Breathe in the salty breeze as you stroll through the captivating coastal town of Bonifacio, then post up at an outdoor cafe and delight in gastronomic delicacies such as civet de sanglier (wild boar casserole). Afterward, experience a little pampering at the Hotel A Cheda. Rugged ridges, dense forests and challenging trails, like GR20, make Corsica fabulous for hiking.
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Corfu
A fusion of fertile gardens, fragrant cypress trees, Greek temple ruins and Byzantine churches, Corfu gives a new meaning to the word wondrous. Dip in the azure Ionian Sea, trek to the Waterfalls at Nymfes and imbibe in revelry at local bars. This mythical refuge also has a well-deserved reputation for warm hospitality, so take it from us: Visiting Corfu is one Greek experience you shouldn’t miss.
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Mykonos
Some Mediterranean islands are more relaxing than others, and Mykonos, Greece, is a holiday hotspot of epic proportions. Think: Sun-drenched beaches and massive dance clubs. More than just a good time, this Cycladic isle has a distinctly cosmopolitan air and a dizzying array of attractions. Don’t leave without visiting the well-preserved port of Hora, Aegean Maritime Museum, world-famous windmills and 18th-century Monastery of Paleokastro. Craving a low-key evening? Linger over roasted goat and grilled-to-order fish before settling in for some shut-eye at Grace Mykonos.
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Majorca
Majorca, Spain, the largest of the Balearic Islands, makes a major impression with its sun-kissed shores, limestone bluffs, verdant valleys and orange groves that inspired Catalan surrealist painter Joan Miró. Hikers and cyclists flock to the Serra de Tramuntana. Prefer exploring via locomotive? Take a vintage train ride from the capital, Palma (the Royal Palace of La Almudaina and Santa María Cathedral are must-sees), to the hillside town of Sóller.
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Cyprus
One of the oldest inhabited Mediterranean islands, Cyprus has a long history and complex culture. The UNESCO-listed Neolithic village of Khirokitia features some of the earliest wells ever recorded, and the island’s Greek roots run deep: The Mycenaean people established a settlement 3,500 years ago. The Phoenicians, Assyrians, Egyptians, Romans, Venetians, Ottomans and British also contributed to the mosaic that is modern-day Cyprus. And, of course, you can’t talk about this idyllic island escape without mentioning the rock arches, blue lagoons, imposing peaks and wide beaches.
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Sources:
- Grand Hotel Quisisana: “Discover Quisisana”
- Subaida Menorca Farm: “About Us”
- Astra Suites: “Welcome to Astra Suites”
- Katikies Santorini: “About”
- Hotel A Cheda: “Home”
- Grace Mykonos: “About”
