Mediterranean — Tour Highlights and Travel Tips
The cradle of humanity and an ancient cultural crossroads, a trip to the Mediterranean can encompass a whole world of wonders. Stretching from Gibraltar to the Middle East, a holiday in the Mediterranean’s sparkling waters can take in the bazaars of Istanbul, the souks of North Africa, and the rugged cliffside villages of the Amalfi Coast.
Tour Highlights
- Stroll through the ancient streets of Picasso’s birthplace, Malaga, and discover a new side to Costa del Sol amid a history that takes in the Roman Empire, the Arab conquest of Spain, and the galleries of its Soho district.
- Relax on the sands and enjoy the laid-back summer vibe of Hammamet, Tunisia’s foremost beach resort— just a short ride to the medieval medinas of Sousse, Monastir, and Tunis.
- Explore the oldest freestanding structures in the world at the temple complexes of Hagar Qim, Taxien, and Ggantija in Malta and Gozo, right at the geographical heart of the Mediterranea.
- Rent an iconic Vespa and wind your way through the twisting hills of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, between Salerno and Sorrento, stopping off at village piazzas where time seems to have stood still.
- Check out one of the Mediterranean’s hottest destinations, Tel Aviv. Known for its nightlife of international DJ sets and all-night parties, be sure to also save some time for the 14 kilometers of Mediterranean coastline the Israeli city is able to boast
- Step off dry land and onto the sleek lines of a yacht, island hopping between Greece’s most inspiring spots, from the whitewashed villages of Santorini to the quaint windmills of Mykonos, and family-friendly beaches of Kefalonia.
Travel Tips
- The summer months almost guarantee cloudless skies and warm temperatures. However, it’s also peak season – with prices to match. Spring and autumn are also great times to visit the region, with pleasant temperatures both day and night.
- Don’t be afraid to leave the guidebook at home. The Mediterranean is one of the easiest regions in the world to navigate as a visitor, with some of the best cuisine served from tiny family-run bistros and trattoria that you won’t find in the guidebooks.
- If you’re short of time but still want to explore all the Mediterranean has to offer, consider a cruise. No longer the stuffy ships they once were, cruises offer a great combination of organized and independent travel, and are sure to take in all the main sights
- Doing a little pre-trip preparation can save a lot of time on the road. For instance, pre-booking tickets for the region’s most popular attractions or transport options will save you plenty of worry, and hours of queueing.
- Take a reusable water bottle with you. Many of the Mediterranean’s destinations offer clean drinkable water from public water fountains, keeping you hydrated in the heat and saving you a small fortune on throw-away bottles.