Seven Under-the-Radar Mediterranean Destinations for Easter Getaways
As severe travel disruption impacts the Middle East, holidaymakers are increasingly shifting their plans from destinations like Dubai to the Mediterranean this Easter. With airspace concerns around Cyprus, Turkey, and Egypt prompting caution, traditional hotspots in Spain, Italy, and Greece are expected to see a surge in bookings. To avoid overcrowded piazzas, playas, and tavernas, savvy tourists are turning to lesser-trodden corners of the region as spring unfolds. Below, our experts share their must-visit Mediterranean destinations to inspire your travel plans this Easter.
Jerez de la Frontera, Spain
While Spain boasts numerous tourist attractions from Mallorca to Madrid, Jerez de la Frontera offers a culinary delight. As Spain's Capital of Gastronomy for 2026, it features tiny bars, bustling markets, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Paul Tierney recounts, "At Tabanco San Pablo, I'm perched among hungry families under curling bullfighting posters, impressed by their appetite for life. I eat plates of tortillitas de camarones, translucently crisp shrimp fritters, which are the city's great democratic snack. Around the corner, Tabanco El Pasaje rattles with the staccato rhythm of flamenco, stamping its feet three times nightly in joyous, celebratory abandon."
Arrábida, Portugal
Most visitors flock to the Algarve or Lisbon, but just 45 minutes south of the capital lies the Arrábida Natural Park. Lucy Bryson, who moved to Sesimbra in 2015, describes, "The waters here are crystal clear but cold year-round, which is how I've added cold water swimming to trail running as part of my lifestyle here – all the better to balance the dangerously affordable local wines, delicious cheeses, and regular barbecue sessions." This region offers white sand beaches and forested mountains, making it a hidden gem.
Dalyan, Turkey
To escape the crowds at Antalya's aqua parks, consider Dalyan on Turkey's Dalyan River, where loggerhead sea turtles can be spotted. Writer Bill Borrows found businesses with "real soul," including a gemstone shop guarded by an imperious white cat. He notes, "There is a busy main drag a block inland from the waterfront that looks like it could be in any typical resort, but it just feels different. It's as though somebody decided Dalyan should have one of those 'busy main drag' things, but their heart wasn't really in it."
Certaldo, Italy
Avoid Tuscany's notorious summer traffic by exploring the medieval streets of Certaldo. Phil Thomas enjoyed gelato, olive oil, and wine in this hilltop town last summer. He shares, "It may look frozen in history, but every so often, Certaldo reminds you it's very much alive. As we settle into dinner one evening, a jazz band strikes up on the street outside. Within minutes, Via Boccaccio becomes a stage: people are dancing, toasting and laughing, the music folding into the heat of the evening."
Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France
While Nice and Cannes exude glitz, Saint-Paul-de-Vence on the French Riviera is renowned for its art galleries. Henry Roberts visited, following artists like André Derain and Marc Chagall. He says, "For those wishing to see more beyond the popular spots, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is well worth a visit. Walking through the cobbled streets, it's clear that art is the town's main business. There are more than 20 galleries in the small town, showcasing painting, sculpture and photography by contemporary artists."
Messinia, Greece
As Athens' Acropolis swarms with tourists, Messinia in the Peloponnese peninsula remains tranquil. Fiona McIntosh writes, "Here, on a bougainvillaea-covered hill above Pylos, sits the Palace of Nestor, one of the best-preserved Mycenaean buildings in mainland Greece. Yet there were only a few other tourists when we were there. Ancient Messini, a sprawling city built in 369BC, features the best-preserved ancient stadium in Greece, and we pretty much had the place to ourselves." The area is gaining attention due to Christopher Nolan's upcoming film The Odyssey.
Accursed Mountains, Albania
While Albania's Riviera is touted as the next beach hotspot, its wilderness offers adventure. Laura Sanders advises, "Touch down in Tirana and head north. Within minutes, you're driving through pastures with fruit orchards and shepherds. Stop at Mrizi i Zanave for award-winning agritourism dining. Continue to Shkodër, known as Albania's cycling city, perfect for exploring Lake Shkodër and the Albanian Alps." This region provides an escape from crowds with its untamed landscapes.
