They will delight guests with spectacular scenery, Nu’s historical heritage and unforgettable beaches.
If you’ve been dreaming of an idyllic Mediterranean vacation, but preferably without the crowds of the same vacationers, and not for all the money in the world, then in this case there are several Mediterranean islands that still go unnoticed by most, and where you won’t empty your wallet.
Lipari, Italy
A small island off the coast of Sicily, the existence of which most tourists do not even know. It has a long history dating back to the Roman period, and although not many historical artefacts have survived, with the exception of the collection housed in the local Archaeological Museum, it exudes Old World charm.
The small capital of the same name, Lipari, is a port city filled with colorful houses, while the second largest settlement, Canneto, has a long beach and a modern promenade with gelateri and family-friendly eateries.
The only way to get to the island is by taking a ferry from Sicily. In terms of prices, a one-day stay at the 3-star Trione Hotel costs $132 for 2 adults, while lunch at the trattoria costs an average of $25 for a small portion of pasta and local red wine.
Gozo, Malta
The island is so small that you wouldn’t even think of spending a weekend here. But in fact, you can spend a whole week here and not exhaust the wonders that are worth seeing.Advertisementad
The most famous municipality on the island is Victoria (or Rabat, as it is called in Maltese), a medieval citadel completely surrounded by walls, where the houses are built of the characteristic ochre-colored stone.
However, Gozo is primarily a beach destination, and if you come here for the sea, Ramla Bay should be on your itinerary.
For fresh-caught fish, lamb stew and other Maltese delicacies, head to the village of Shaara, home to the monumental Baroque church and the legendary Ta’ Frenc restaurant.
If you’re looking for affordable accommodation in Victoria, Maria Rosa Suites offers double rooms starting at $133 for 2 adults, and as for food, the average main course at an Old Town Restaurant is $16.32.
It is located in the Ionian part of the Mediterranean and can best be described by its impressive coastline, interspersed with limestone cliffs and white sand beaches, as well as its unspoilt culture.
The bustling capital city of Argostoli encroaches on a narrow harbour, and it has many local taverns and ouzo bars, including Tzivras, which has been operating since 1933 and is hugely popular for its veal stifado.
In Fiscardo, you’ll see well-preserved Venetian-era architecture (in other words, this is where you go to pick up pastel-colored waterfront homes like on postcards), and as for a beach holiday, no visit to Kefalonia is complete without a day of idle relaxation on Myrtos Beach.
This is just the most famous: there are several lesser-known swimming spots, often only accessible on foot, that provide some of that much-needed exclusivity that you won’t find anywhere else in Greece these days.
A night at the Belle View Hotel, located in the hills overlooking the sea, costs $104 for two people.
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are gyros available in the center of Argostoli for just $5. You also don’t have to spend much on local food – a full meal in an inexpensive tavern will cost $14–$16.
Bozcaada, Turkey
The island has retained much of its historical Hellenic charm. However, walking through the cobblestone streets of Bozcaada and the island’s prominent role in Greek mythology, especially in the works of Homer, tells a much more complex story.
Bozcaada is great for wine tourism: for example, the famous Corvus Winery is located here, in case you are looking for regional grape varieties that you will not find elsewhere.
The beaches are also not disappointing, in particular Ayazma, a wide strip of soft pale gray sand that encircles the Mediterranean Sea. If you feel hungry, the nearby Vahit’in Yeri restaurant serves a large selection of daily catch and meze at affordable prices.
By the way, expect to pay from $7 to $20 for a complete meal and drink package (it all depends on the season).
As for accommodation, the private Ersin Konak Guest house costs $108 per night for two people, or about $54 per person, and you’ll even get one of those generous Turkish breakfasts included in the price.
In most cases, the island can only be accessed from mainland Turkey, and it seems really untouched by mass tourism.
