
Medieval town of Bonifacio with its “citadel of cliffs” is Corsica’s oldest town. Image by Christian Klein from Pixabay.
Of these islands, there are a few that your bucket list should not miss. Which are these islands we are talking about? Read this article to get to know and plan to visit soon. Visiting these islands will give you a taste of the best of the Mediterranean.
1. Corsica
This stunning island is the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. This is the place where you will be spoilt for choice for natural delights. You will have more than enough to choose from. Corsica has a famous yet challenging GR20 long-distance hiking path.
So, if you love hiking, then be on the front line to visit Corsica. The island is also home to the best sandy beaches in Europe. It has unusual rock formations and hilltop villages, and although the island technically is French, the way of life of the islanders is distinctly Italian.
2. Santorini
If your goal is to visit the best Mediterranean islands, don’t make the mistake of missing out on Santorini. It is one of the most popular Greek islands and visitors flock to have a view of its jaw-dropping sunset. Moreover, the island boasts clifftop buildings that you will enjoy visiting. You will enjoy a nice view of its principal towns Oia and Fira.
Although Santorini was badly affected by volcanic eruption back in 16th BC, the landscapes it offers are beautiful and definitely worth seeing.
3. Sardinia
Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean and if you are a beach lover then this is your place to visit. It has a coastline spanning 2000 kilometers of white sand and crystal clear waters. The island has a mountainous interior that has crossed hiking trails. Here, you will enjoy untouched landscapes as well as unique ancient culture.
Sardinia has a beautiful landscape dotted with nuraghi (mysterious Bronze Age stones with beehive shapes). If it’s your thing, you can easily enjoy the high life on this island, experiencing top-notch bars, hotels, and boutiques that are often frequented by celebrities. Although the prices may be steep for some budgets, it is well worth the expense of the first-class service Sardinia has to offer.
4. Malta
Malta is among one of the most beautiful Mediterranean islands, being a strategic point in the Mediterranean, it has been conquered and colonized by various empires and countries, and it shows. The island has an eclectic mix of history and modernity as well astounding architecture examples for all the great artistic movements, like Gothic, Baroque and Contemporary. Its Megalithic Temples of Hagar Qim, Mnajdra and Tarxien are a UNESCO site.
However, that’s not all the country has to offer. Malta is home to numerous big names in the online casino industry as well as big software design houses as it offers these industries advantageous tax conditions and its 300 days of sunshine.
5. Hvar
Hvar is arguably the most beautiful island of all of Croatia’s islands dotting the Med. It is known to be evergreen and always sunny and has a number of fine medieval villages and towns that are immaculately preserved and definite points of interest for visiting travelers.
Hvar is famous for its cultural heritage and offers travelers a square in Dalmatia, which has many Renaissance and Baroque examples of architecture. Likewise, it has a number of beaches that will leave you speechless such as Malo Zarace, Dubovica, and Pokonji Dol Beach.
Furthermore, it is the most popular Croatian destination. Many people visit Hvar by yacht to sample its finest nightlife. This is the place to be to mix great visits to old towns and water sports.
How to travel around the Mediterranean?
This must be your number one question. Let me help you find the best way to soak in the beautiful views of these islands.
- You can go for a cruise in the whole Mediterranean Sea to sample day excursions on each of these islands.
- Your next option is a ferry boat to cross from one island to another. This allows you to drive your own car to your destination.
- With low-cost airlines in operation, flying may be a good option for weekend breaks.
- If you are more interested in going on guided tours, there are a number of bus services that will suit you.
What is the best time to visit the Mediterranean?
The best time would be between spring and autumn, summer included. At this time of the year, the weather is usually favorable and this means that it is hot and sunny, and the water, warm. Many travelers from all over Europe flock to these islands to enjoy a mix of cultural visits with modern leisure activities. Don’t get left behind!
With the above list of the best islands you can visit in the Mediterranean, you can plan to pay them a visit. Make a choice, and you will have one of the best experiences in your life.
About the Author
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About the Photo
The photo in the header above is of masked knights on horseback reenacting the Sartiglia (an equestrian jousting game of ancient origins) in Oristano, Sardinia, Italy. Image by cogitosergiosum from Pixabay.
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