img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:66.666666666667%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}How ’bout some positivity this week, folks?
What better part of the world to dream of jetting to than the serene shores of the Mediterranean?
Here at Travel Off Path, it’s one of our favorites across the board for the whole team. Me personally?
Crete is one of my absolute favorites, but I’ve also had the pleasure of visiting numerous other hotspots, as well as some trendy up-and-coming destinations, such as Albania, which has been stamped in my mind’s eye for a myriad of reasons.
The Mediterranean is a sprawling region covering some of the most postcard-worthy locales on Earth, and travel experts sharing the same vision as us are buzzing about 3 places in particular that are too often overshadowed by their iconic neighbors.
Whether it be aforementioned Albania, the picturesque paradise of Montenegro, or perhaps Turkiye’s best-kept secret, let’s dive into all 3 Mediterranean hideaways being hyped as must-visit destinations
Best of all, they’re all super affordable!
3) Kalkan, Turkiye: Leave Antalya’s Crowds Behind
When you think of Turkiye, you likely think of the vibrant metropolis of Istanbul, the newfound popularity of Antalya…or the word “turkey” is already triggering anxiety about family gatherings in November (I get it).
This Turkiye, however, is nothing to worry about. In fact, rather than hear your uncle’s recycled stories year after year, if you visit Kalkan, you’ll be the one doing the talking at Thanksgiving, gloating about how amazing this underrated resort town truly is.
That’s what the experts at The Irish Sun are saying anyway, claiming it boasts ‘fabulous sandy beaches, historical sites, cheap pints’, and super cheap flights if you’re already galavanting across Europe.
Nestled along what’s known as Turkiye’s Turquoise Coast, this growing vacation spot offers everything from postcard waterfronts to flashy resorts to nearby UNESCO-protected sites, Xanthos-Letoon.
One other aspect you can’t help but notice is the gleaming white townscape, some of which house popular rooftop restaurants with unmatched coastal views of the, yes, very turquoise water.
This is especially true at one of Turkiye’s most famous beaches, Kaputaş — truly bucket-list worthy. Now is one of the best times to visit, as the country’s summer crowds have dwindled, creating the opposite experience of record-breaking Antalya.
2) Perast, Montenegro: The Balkans’ Best Kept Secret
Montenegro has become one of the most popular Mediterranean destinations in recent years. While the capital Podgorica may be a snoozefest, the coast is a whole other vibe.
The Bay of Kotor is one of the most beautiful destinations you’ll come across in the entirety of Europe, though there are few proper beaches.
To set expectations, Perast is not a place to grab a lounge chair and get your Vitamin D levels up — it’s the type of place where time moves in church bells and clinking glasses along a picture-perfect waterfront lined with baroque palaces, cozy wine bars, and colorful bobbing boats.
A short hop from more popular Kotor, Perast is less crowded, equally stunning, and home to a pair of islands almost unheard of for most vacationers willing to make the trek this far into the world.
Though not open to the public, the monastery sitting atop the island of Sveti Đorđe is an absolute must-see from a distance, while the other island, Our Lady of the Rocks, boasts a beautiful blue-domed cathedral perfect for a photo-op.
1) Himarë, Albania: The Mediterranean’s Unsung Hero
There’s no doubt it — Albania is the Mediterranean’s trendiest country. When I had the chance to visit a handful of years ago, it was just beginning to creep into the spotlight, but now it’s a full-blown star.
Ask where to go along Albania’s paradise shores, and you’ll get a mixed bag of answers, as some have become arguably just as crowded as a Greek island.
So, the answer may very well be Himarë, a crowd-free hideaway that mostly locals keep a tight-lipped secret.
This low-key beach escape is in a perfect spot along the Albanian Riviera, all without the hordes of tourists visiting more notable names along the same coastline.
Offering visitors vivid blue shores, swimmable coves, alfresco dinners, and easy day trips to nearby Jalë and Gjipe for possibly even more pristine waters, you’ll never have a dull moment, even though it’s a sleepy town.
You don’t have to venture outside the city limits unless your sense of wanderlust just won’t allow you not to as there are ample beaches to visit, all with their own unique flair.
Though some might trigger a side-eye from taxi drivers since they’re so remote, it’s best to stick to Potami Beach and Livadhi Beach to ensure a ride back — both popular amongst locals but never overly thronged with beachgoers.
For the ultimate waterfront locale, check Porto Palermo, a tucked-away bay home to a staggering castle and more tranquil beaches like Spile and Sfageio.
But there’s no better nightcap after a nice beach day than a stroll through Himarë’s Old Town — truly a time capsule.
Sam SearsSam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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