Summary

• The Mediterranean Islands offer stunning beaches and beautiful landscapes, but can be crowded during peak seasons.
• There are lesser-known Mediterranean destinations that provide a similar experience without the overwhelming crowds.
• The article provides a curated list of hotels in these hidden gems, each with a high Kayak rating and range of amenities.

The Mediterranean Islands are well known for their beauty, and they typically top the list of most travelers bucket lists. Nowhere else can beach enthusiasts discover such unspoiled, sun-drenched shores, embraced by the clearest waters and framed by breathtaking island vistas. Take Mykonos or Amalfi Coast, for example; every summer, social media is flooded with beautiful images of these captivating locations. As one would expect, the high season, especially during the bustling summer months, often translates into overwhelming crowds. Coveted locations are not for everyone. Thankfully, there are lesser-known, equally beautiful pristine paradises that provide a similar experience to the top Mediterranean destination but without the crowd, making these locations the perfect escape from these masses. So, why not consider these less-crowded Mediterranean destinations?

The hotels featured on this curated list have been carefully selected through meticulous research focused on less crowded Mediterranean destinations. Each of these hotels boasts an excellent Kayak rating of 8 or higher. While all these accommodations offer a range of amenities for a comfortable and enjoyable stay, we recommend reaching out to the hotel directly before finalizing any booking.

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Sardinia, Italy

The Amalfi Coast and Capri are, without a doubt, the top vacation spots in Italy. Yet, hidden in the shadows of these renowned spots lies Sardinia, one of Italy's best-kept secrets. Its claim to fame? A stunning coastline with some of the most gorgeous beaches on earth. Sardinia beckons to those seeking an all-encompassing getaway where the sun, sea, and sand converge in harmonious bliss. It is the ideal place to sail around the archipelago, eat a lot of pasta, and sunbathe in between dips. What more could one ask for in a vacation spot?

Related: Amalfi Coast: How To Visit Europe's Most Expensive Destination With A Budget

Albufeira, Portugal

Portugal often flies under the radar when it comes to Mediterranean destinations; the southern region, which is predominantly Atlantic-facing, offers a Mediterranean experience that shouldn't be overlooked by travelers in search of Mediterranean vacation spots. One such gem in Portugal is Albufeira. Albufeira may be less popular than Porto or Lisbon, but that adds to its charm. Albufeira has gracefully transitioned from its roots as a fishing village into a prominent holiday destination, and it is not only the largest but also the most exciting resort town that graces Portugal's Algarve coastline.

Alexandria, Egypt

Alexandria, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Mediterranean," is Egypt's second-largest city. In antiquity, it reigned as one of the world's largest cities before eventually yielding its position to Rome. For the ancient Egyptians, Alexandria marked the edge of the known world, a boundary separating their civilization from the vast "Great Green" Mediterranean. Today, the city's resplendent palaces and tombs, although partially ensnared by the labyrinth of modernity, retain echoes of their grandeur. This extraordinary city is steeped in history, and two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—namely, the Pharos lighthouse and the Great Library—graced its shores. Ascending to the Lighthouse's pinnacle unveils a breathtaking panorama of the Mediterranean Sea and the sprawling city below—an experience that truly transcends words.

Menorca, Spain

Menorca is a Mediterranean gem with a coastline that stretches for 216 kilometers. The island is one of Spain's best-kept secrets, and it delivers an impressive Mediterranean holiday, unlike the typical holiday in Spain. From the untamed, rugged shores and their reddish-hued beaches in the north to the gentle, rolling terrain in the south, adorned with golden sandy coves, this island caters to every seaside preference. Set sail on the glistening waters, ride the wind on a windsurfing board, or glide gracefully on water skis. One thing remains constant: the waters here are pristine and crystalline, inviting travelers to bask in the sun and sea.

Related: 10 Best Tourist Attractions In Spain That Will Leave You Spellbound

Zakynthos, Greece

Zakynthos is a beautiful lush green Greek island with clear turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and plenty of opportunities for those who want to enjoy true Greek hospitality. Zakynthos is not as famous as other Greek islands, such as Santorini, yet it remains a great Mediterranean jewel waiting to be explored. Although It is the third-largest Ionian island, time seems to slow down here and people seem to enjoy life a little more. The views are similar to that of the more popular Greek islands but at a fraction of the cost. One of the best places to visit on the island is the Blue Caves. Surrounded by mesmerizing blue waters, the caves are a sight not to be missed.

Costa Smeralda

The Amalfi Coast, with its enchanting allure, has long been the embodiment of "la dolce vita" in Italy. However, Italy boasts more than one stunning coastline, and several gorgeous cities each with its unique charm. Costa Smeralda specifically holds a distinct allure of its own. The boating adventure, beaches, and way of life are the main draws of the Costa Smeralda. Nikki Beach Costa Smeralda is a good option for a joyful yet relaxed ambiance despite the fact that there are numerous free beaches to just lay a towel on the sand and relax. Yet, beyond the glitz and glamour, it's the rugged natural beauty of the region that leaves an indelible mark on all who visit.

Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia

The African side of the Mediterranean offers fine food, cities rich in history, and golden sands like its European cousin. Sidi Bou Said is similar to Santorini in appearance, with its piled, stark white buildings and bougainvillea-lined cobblestone streets. This beachfront town is the ideal choice for people looking to combine the city and the beach because it is only 30 minutes from Tunis's center. There are six archaeological sites to explore, and Sidi Bou Said's hoteliers haven't forgotten the Romans' emphasis on luxury and leisure: the city is home to some of the best lodgings in the nation.

Ksamil, Albania

In contrast to its more frequented Mediterranean counterparts, the Albanian Riviera remains a hidden treasure. Among these natural wonders lies the charming village of Ksamil, graced with some of the most picturesque beaches to be found anywhere along the Mediterranean. Here, the azure waters gently kiss the shoreline, creating a paradise for beach enthusiasts and sun-seekers alike. Ever dreamt of a Mediterranean escape that is easy on the pockets and fills the soul with the beauty of unspoiled landscapes? Ksmail in the Albanian Riviera beckons, promising affordability without compromising on the breathtaking essence of the Mediterranean.

Novigrad, Croatia

While Dubrovnik may have once held the title of Europe's must-visit destination, today, it's a victim of its own success, plagued by crowds and inflated prices. But don't despair; there's a charming alternative waiting to be explored in the north of Croatia – Novigrad, a coastal gem nestled in Istria. Novigrad offers a serene escape from the tourist throngs of Dubrovnik and Split. Here, some accommodations won't dent the wallet, and even the luxury options come at a fraction of the cost compared to their counterparts in more touristy cities. So, why follow the crowds when one can chart their own course to Novigrad? The beaches here are stunning, by the way. Because it is so clear, the water is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other aquatic activities.

Tangier, Morocco

Ever explored a destination that seemed to exist in a time of its own, where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony? Visitors to Tangier have the impression that they are on the "balcony of Africa" because of its atmosphere, which is unmatched anyplace else. Old Town Tangier was a successful trading town even before Marrakech developed into a busy center for camel caravans. Yet, despite its illustrious past, Tangier remains a city often bypassed by tour buses, and its docks aren't teeming with colossal cruise ships. It is overshadowed by its more renowned counterparts like Marrakech. This is where Europe's cosmopolitan elite once mingled, where history gracefully dances alongside innovation, and where the allure of Tangier lies hidden, waiting for intrepid travelers to explore its enchanting streets.