Explore Italy and the Mediterranean's Hidden Gems

When most people think of the Med, images of Greece’s paradisical beaches and Italy’s idyllic islands often spring to mind. However, the region spans a huge section of Europe – including the sunny South of France, spectacular Spain and magical Malta… 

While our small group tours of the Mediterranean take in many iconic destinations, they’re also packed with hidden gems. These lesser-known and typically less crowded destinations allow you to delve off the tourist trail and immerse yourself in the local culture. Plus, for an even calmer touring experience, you could book your next escape during the quieter shoulder season months.  

From sleepy coves lapped by crystalline waters to lesser-known wine regions, here we look at a few Mediterranean treasures that won’t be on your typical bucket list. 

Glittering coves and candy-hued villages are synonymous with Italy’s breathtaking Amalfi Coast. Places like postcard-perfect Positano and elegant Capri often get the spotlight.  

Venture off the beaten path, though, and you’ll uncover plenty of other sublime spots worthy of a mention. This includes the majestic town of Maiori – a stop on our Enchanting Southern Italy tour and home to the longest beach on the Amalfi Coast.  

The town’s promenade is the ideal location for a leisurely walk, a refreshing lemon granita in hand. As well as several beautiful bathing spots, it’s also flanked by two historic landmarks: the enchanting Castello Mezzocapo (now Maiori’s town hall) and the 13th century Torre dei Normanni (the oldest watchtower in the Amalfi region). 

Another must-see in Maiori is the magnificent Santa Maria e Mare church. Built on a hillside overlooking the ocean, it’s instantly recognisable for its vibrant green and yellow domed roof.  

Croatia’s Mediterranean coastline is studded with dreamy islands where you can bask in the sunshine and embrace a slower pace of life. One that often slips under the radar is lovely Korcula – the rumoured birthplace of intrepid explorer, Marco Polo. 

Korcula lies just off the coast from Split and its Old Town is often compared to Dubrovnik due to its collection of dramatic stone buildings and medieval squares. Its natural scenery is stunning, too. As well as idyllic coves lapped by turquoise waters, the interiors are thick with verdant forest.  

There’s no doubt that food connoisseurs will be in heaven on Korcula. It’s a fantastic destination to savour Croatian cuisine, with local eateries varying from Michelin-starred restaurants to rustic seaside cafés. What’s more, if you book our Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast tour, you’ll uncover the region’s distinct and flavoursome dishes during a sumptuous cooking class.  

Majestic medieval architecture, a magnificent central piazza, mouthwateringly creamy gelato... No, we’re not describing Florence! Say hello to idyllic San Gimignano – an equally enchanting destination that sits just an hour from Tuscany’s capital.  

The hilltop town is surrounded by lush vineyards, while its old town is crisscrossed with meandering stepped streets lined with beautifully preserved buildings. Embrace San Gimignano’s many delights on our Tuscan Treats tour – including sampling regional wines at a guided tasting and visiting a local gelato maker for a delicious creamy dessert. 

History abounds across Greece – from the ancient ruins of Athens and Delphi to the medieval and Byzantine marvels of Mystras…. 

Our Greece: Legends and Landscapes tour is positively bursting with locations famed for their fascinating relics of the past. This includes charming Nafpaktos – a secret gem nestled on the gorgeous Gulf of Corinth. According to Greek legend, Nafpaktos is where the Heraclids (descendants of the mighty Hercules) built a fleet to invade the Peloponnese.  

Spend an hour or so wandering around its historic harbour that’s lined with colourful sailing boats and an array of enticing eateries. A fairytale Venetian castle looms over the town, too, and it’s a sublime spot to soak up vistas of the shimmering Mediterranean coastline. 

Italy, and the wider Mediterranean region, is a haven for wine lovers thanks to the abundance of lush vineyards. While Tuscany may be famed for its aromatic Chiantis and Piedmont for its complex Barolos, Puglia in sunny Southern Italy also has its fair share of delicious wines.  

Manduria, not far from Puglia’s Mediterranean coastline, is particularly famous for its Primitivo wine. It’s made from a unique blend of dark indigenous grapes which give it an intense, deep flavour that’s not dissimilar to California’s Zinfandel varieties.  

Want to savour some Primitivo for yourself? Sip this delicious tipple straight from a local vineyard on our spectacular Secrets of Puglia tour.   

Set your sights on this wonderful region’s lesser-known gems! Discover them firsthand on our 2024 small group tours.