Southern Europe is home to many fantastic Mediterranean destinations, but the three that stand apart from the rest because of their unique character and charm are Croatia, Turkey, and Malta.
From ancient ruins to popular offbeat experiences, the hidden gems in each of these
countries are just waiting to be explored and offer a wealth of exciting attractions to every traveler.
The Old Town of Dubrovnik in Croatia is on the top of the radar for all visitors who marvel at the mediaeval walls and the red-tiled roofs. If you venture outside Dubrovnik, you will discover the stunning Plitvice National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a number of scenic lakes and waterfalls.
A short cruise will take you to the island of Hvar, a true hidden treasure of Croatia, known for its quaint villages and lavender fields, which are an attraction not to be missed.
An island, furthest from the mainland and accessible by ferry from Split is the former Yugoslav base of Vis which opened for tourism only in 1989. It therefore retains its untouched charm and laidback way of life.
Turkey is also known for its rich history and natural beauty, none more impressive than the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, a surreal-looking formation of towering rocks that are a sight to behold.
Another unmissable gem in Turkey is the ancient town of Ephesus, known for its remarkably preserved ruins. The busy and vibrant bazaars of Istanbul offer a sensory fear with their fragrant spices and colorful textiles.
Malta may be the smallest of all the countries of the European Union, but when it comes to off the beaten path attractions, it packs quite a punch. From the ancient megalithic temples of Hagar Quim and Mnajdra to the spectacular secret passages at St Gregory’s Church which can rival the spooky catacombs of Paris, Malta beckons visitors to discover the country’s gems and stunning resorts.
Beyond these hidden attractions, each country can be proud of its cultural heritage and tradition. In Croatia, the lively city of Split is always buzzing with dance and music.
During the summer season, the summer festival takes place in Turkey where one can witness mesmerising rituals, while in Malta the colorful village festivals are known for their sparkling firework displays and elaborate costumes.
As far as food is concerned, all these countries offer a culinary delight of Mediterranean fare, with emphasis on seafood. If Croatia is famous for its slow-cooked peka, Turkish kebabs are a delicacy the world over. Malta does not lag far behind either with their famous pastizi, a pastry stuffed with ham and peas.
To sum up, all the three destinations of Croatia, Turkey, and Malta offer a wealth of exciting offbeat experiences for the ardent traveler that are just begging to be explored.
So why not take some time off and venture to places waiting to be discovered on any of these incredible destinations for yourself?
