Best Coastal Towns to Visit This Summer in the Mediterranean
The Mediterranean has long been a symbol of slow, luxurious travel – where cliffside towns meet turquoise bays and ancient streets lead to sunset-drenched harbors. If you’re planning your summer escape, skip the overhyped hotspots and uncover the true gems. These coastal towns blend authentic charm, stunning views, and an unmistakable Mediterranean rhythm that makes every moment unforgettable.
And if hidden gems are your thing, don’t miss our guides to 6 Hidden European Villages That Feel Like a Real-Life Fairytale, 8 Picture-Perfect Villages in the South of France You Need to See.
1. Positano, Italy
Perched dramatically on cliffs above the Tyrrhenian Sea, Positano is the poster child for Italian coastal glamour. Its pastel buildings, winding stairways, and stylish boutiques attract travelers seeking beauty and elegance. Enjoy a seafood lunch by the beach or book a boat ride along the Amalfi Coast for breathtaking views.
Things to Do:
- Cruise the Amalfi Coast on a private boat (book on Trip.com)
- Visit nearby towns like Ravello and Amalfi
- Take a cooking class featuring local seafood and lemon-based dishes
- Lounge on Spiaggia Grande or hike the Path of the Gods
Trip Tip: Looking for a dreamy itinerary? Don’t miss our 7 Dreamy Things to Do on the Amalfi Coast.
2. Cadaqués, Spain
Tucked into Catalonia’s rugged coastline, Cadaqués is a whitewashed wonder with artistic roots – Salvador Dalí once called it home. With cobbled streets and secluded coves, this town is perfect for travelers seeking peace, culture, and sea breezes.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Dalí House-Museum in Portlligat
- Explore Cap de Creus Natural Park’s hidden coves
- Dine al fresco at waterfront tapas bars
- Stroll the charming stone alleys of the old town
3. Rovinj, Croatia
On the Istrian Peninsula, Rovinj is a coastal town that fuses Italian influence with Croatian soul. Think cobblestone streets, a baroque hilltop church, and spectacular sunsets over the Adriatic. For food lovers, this town is a haven for truffle dishes and fresh seafood.
Things to Do:
- Visit St. Euphemia Church for sweeping views
- Explore the Old Town’s cobblestone alleys and art galleries
- Take a day trip to the Brijuni Islands
- Enjoy wine tasting and truffle hunting tours in Istria
4. Taormina, Sicily
Taormina is perched high above the sea on Sicily’s eastern coast, with views stretching to Mount Etna. Its Greek amphitheater, upscale boutiques, and nearby beaches like Isola Bella make it a top destination for travelers who want history, elegance, and coastal beauty in one place.
Things to Do:
- Watch a performance at the ancient Greek Theatre
- Take a cable car down to Isola Bella beach
- Join a Sicilian cooking class
- Explore Mount Etna on a guided tour
5. Cassis, France
Located near Marseille, Cassis blends Provençal charm with the dramatic beauty of the Calanques. Colorful fishing boats, cliffside vineyards, and quiet beaches make it one of the South of France’s most relaxing retreats. It’s also the perfect pairing with the charming villages featured in 8 Picture-Perfect Villages in the South of France.
Things to Do:
- Take a boat tour through Calanques National Park
- Visit the local market for lavender and rosé
- Walk along the port and dine on fresh bouillabaisse
- Hike Cap Canaille for unbeatable coastal views
6. Kotor, Montenegro
Framed by mountains and hugged by a fjord-like bay, Kotor is visually striking and steeped in medieval mystery. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, while nearby coastal spots like Perast offer tranquil waterfront charm.
Things to Do:
- Climb the San Giovanni Fortress at sunrise
- Wander the medieval old town and its quaint cafés
- Take a scenic boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks
- Enjoy a wine tasting tour of the region’s vineyards
These coastal towns prove that the Mediterranean summer isn’t just about where you go – but how you experience it. Whether you’re sipping wine by the sea, sailing into hidden coves, or discovering quiet alleyways filled with charm, each destination offers unforgettable moments with a luxurious twist.
