The word “Mediterranean” brings to mind glorious beaches and long lunches under the sun. However, the Mediterranean is a year-round destination for travel. There is a place in the Mediterranean for every month of the year. Nothing excites us more than planning the next adventure, so we’ve rounded up the best Mediterranean destinations for 2024.

   

Left to Right: The Duomo in Florence, Italy; The ancient city of Fez, Morocco; Cinque Terre, Italy.

 

January – Italy by Rail

Take advantage of Italy’s excellent train system with an independent rail package across the country. At this time of year, you’ll have bucket list galleries and historical sites to yourself. Embrace the colder weather and cosy up with some Italian hot chocolate or handmade pasta while you marvel at stunning art and architecture. The 8-Day Art & Fashion Cities by Rail Package takes you to Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan – perfect destinations during the Italian winter.

 

February – Fez, Morocco

Our favourite city in Morocco is culturally-rich Fez. See its iconic tanneries, beautiful mosques and buzzing Medina, as well as the world’s first university. Travel in Morocco is far more comfortable during the cooler months. Experience Fez on our 12-Day Highlights of Spain & Morocco tour. See all Morocco tours here.

 

March – Italy’s Ligurian Coast

You’re back in Italy this month, continuing to take advantage of the thinner crowds during the cooler weather. Cinque Terre on the Ligurian Coast is an extremely popular destination with a long high season. Visit in March before crowds (and prices) surge, and while the weather is perfect for exploring its picturesque, hillside villages on foot. Spend three days immersed in this region on our Cinque Terre Experience.

 

Left to Right: Kleftiko cave on the island of Milos, Greece; The Sphynx at Giza, Egypt; Zlatni Rat beach on the island of Brač, Croatia.

 

April – Milos, Greece

We’ve never met a traveler who hasn’t fallen in love with Milos. From stunning, volcanic beaches to quaint fishing villages and exceptional food, Milos has it all (and is a firm favourite of ours). The island continues to grow in popularity but retains its laid back vibe and traditional culture. Visit Milos on the Celestyal 8-Day Idyllic Aegean Cruise.

 

May – Egypt

The beginning of Egypt’s low season is a great time to visit. Temperatures are cool enough for exploring the wealth of ancient wonders, while the resorts along the Red Sea are pleasant all year round. The Grand Egyptian Museum is slated to open early 2024. This will be the largest archaeological museum complex in the world, so add Egypt to your bucket list now. Experience Egypt for 8 days on the Magnificent Nile tour, or the 9-Day Highlights of Egypt and the Red Sea tour. See all Egypt tours here.

 

June – Croatia and its Neighbours

Don’t miss the fascinating Balkan nations that surround popular Croatia. Travel overland and combine Croatia’s stunning coast with alpine Slovenia, fairy tale Bosnia, Macedonia’s majestic Lake Ohrid, Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor (the southern-most fjords in Europe), or Albania’s beaches and Roman ruins. Our top picks include the 8-Day Balkan Tour, exploring Montenegro, Albania and Macedonia, and the 10-Day Dubrovnik to Zagreb tour, taking you across Croatia and Slovenia.

 

 

Left to Right: Amorgos in the Cyclades islands, Greece; Rovinj on Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula; Aeolian islands off Sicily, Italy.

 

July – Secret Greece

It’s peak season for travel to Greece, so set sail to the lesser visited islands. Koufonisia has the best beaches in Greece – hands down. We also love Lipsi for its traditional culture, and Amorgos for dramatic landscapes that rival Santorini. Visit these destinations and more on the Variety 8-Day Unexplored Islands small ship cruise (maximum 34 passengers).

 

August – Istrian Peninsula

Skip Croatia’s crowded Dalmatian coast and head north to Istria. From the desolate beauty of the Kornati islands to elegant Rovinj and Pula’s magnificent arena, Istria is a Mediterranean dream come true. You can explore this region on a cruise leaving from Opatija or Split, or overland leaving from Zagreb or Venice.

 

September – Aeolian Islands & Sicily

The Aeolian islands off the northern coast of Sicily are mind-blowingly stunning. Explore ancient villages, dramatic volcanic landscapes and some of the world’s most spectacular swimming spots. You can experience the Aeolian islands in depth on our 8-Day Aeolian Islands Cruise, or as part of a tour from Sicily.

 

 

Left to Right: Travertine baths in Pamukkale, Turkey; Moorish architecture in Granada, Spain; Snow on Lake Bled, Slovenia.

 

October – Turkey

This is a great time of year to visit Turkey’s historic sites, with comfortable temperatures and shorter queues. Witness the magic of Cappadoccia and Pamukkale, lose yourself in beguiling Istanbul, or be awed by magnificent Ephesus. Cross Turkey off your wish list on our 10-Day Turkish Delights tour. See all tours to Turkey here.

 

November – Spain

Spain is an excellent option in Europe’s cooler months. Visit world-class galleries (minus the crowds), admire grand architecture, or catch a flamenco performance while enjoying some tapas. The comfortable weather is perfect for embarking on a hike in Spain’s stunning countryside, such as the 8-Day Camino de Santiago trail. See all tours to Spain here.

 

December – Christmas Markets

Did you know that Zagreb’s Christmas Markets are frequently voted the best in Europe? Travel from Zagreb to Munich for 7 days, exploring Slovenia and Austria along the way. See snow on Lake Bled, explore picturesque villages and medieval castles, and learn about local Christmas traditions and handicrafts. You can even visit a Gingerbread Museum!

 

 

Get in touch with our travel experts today to plan your 2024 travels.