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The Mediterranean? For summer? Some might call that groundbreaking. The region’s high season, roughly May through September, brings in travelers intent on doing little else but a rinse-and-repeat of dry heat and salty sea. A summer on the Med can look like a lot of things: indulging in octopus that’s been hanging like laundry on a line at a Greek taverna, combing through the souks of Marrakech for that perfect Berber rug, or celebrating sunset with a tall glass of Pastis in the South of France. With so many options across this sun-soaked ring of Europe, Asia, and Africa, it can be hard to zero in on a single perfect summer destination.
To help you finalize your itinerary, we spoke to a few Traveler specialists who are experts in the region. “As we’re in the middle of peak booking season, I’m able to speak to clear trends rather than just forecasts,” says Mina Agnos, cofounder of Travelive, a luxury travel agency with offices spanning Athens, Cairo, Istanbul, and more. “And travel to the Mediterranean remains strong this summer.” Agnos sees clients approaching the region with a more informed and intentional perspective, focusing on places that offer excitement and variety without too much hassle.
While Italy, France, and Greece remain heavy-hitters, there’s much to be explored when you zoom in—whether that means roaming the marble streets of Syros or embarking on a road trip across Sardinia. Read on for expert-approved recommendations on the best ways to experience the Mediterranean this summer.
In Greece, look to the Cyclades and Peloponnese
While Santorini and Mykonos will always have their moment in the Greek sun, travelers headed to the Mediterranean country are continuing to favor the less-trodden sites, says Agnos. “Islands like Naxos, Paros, and Milos stand out this year, along with the Peloponnese, which are easy to reach from Athens and offer excellent beaches, food, and wellness experiences,” she says. Jeffrey Procopio of Audley Travel, a UK-based tour operator specializing in tailor-made itineraries around the world, suggests starting in Athens and exploring the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum with a private guide or sampling some of the city’s culinary delights with a food tour. From there, the Cycladic islands are just a ferry ride away: “Wander the streets of Ermoupoli on the island of Syros and admire the neoclassical and Venetian architecture before exploring Tinos village and rounding off with a few nights enjoying the beach in the Athens Riviera,” he says.
Elsewhere in the Cyclades, hit up the otherworldly Sarakiniko beach in Milos, explore Paros’s fertile farmland, or make your way through the ruins of the Temple of Apollo in Naxos. On the island of Crete, Procopio recommends “exploring the charming harbor town of Chania and the eastern coast around Agios Nikolaos for relaxed seaside living, beautiful beaches, and authentic Cretan traditions.” Hotel-wise, there are a few exciting openings this summer, including Eréma in Milos and Rosewood Blue Palace on Crete. Agnos also recommends Euphoria Retreat in the Peloponnesian town of Mystras as a destination spa worth visiting.
