Best Family Vacation Spots in the Mediterranean
Christmas is over and now we all need something else in our lives to look forward to. This time of year sees a huge increase in sales of flights and hotels for those desperate to fill the void. But the question is: where will you go? A family vacation is a tricky one to arrange. How do you balance the travelling needs and requests with each family member, while ensuring you all have a good time together? If you’re planning on trying to fit in a little bit of everything, a trip to countries on the Mediterranean Sea will ensure you have it all: culture, beauty, history, fun and relaxation. The wonderful thing about Europe and its neighbours is the variety. The Med is just one piece of water, but the variety of cultures and traditions that surround it knows no bounds.
Steeped in history are Greece and Italy, dripping in beauty is the South of France and the Balearic Islands, drenched in sunshine, fun and relaxation are Turkey and Cyprus. Whether looking for a trip to one slice of Europe with your family, or even better, taking a cruise to see it all, there are some places that simply must not pass you by.
Barcelona, Spain
This cosmopolitan city draws in about seven million visitors each year this is definitely a stop-off that’s all about the culture. It is the Med’s busiest port and lively tourists and locals spill from restaurants and bars. The beaches, although largely artificial, are teeming with seaside-goers. From the Port Olimpic Marina in the northeast, busy beaches stretch to the Platja de la Nova Icaria in the south. Barcelona is at the heart of the largely culturally independent Catalonia region which has its own dialect, cuisine and traditions. For any sporting fans in the family the city is home to FC Barcelona, food lovers there’s the tapas, clubbers there’s the buzzing nightlife, and for younger families there’s a zoo, CosmoCaixa science museum, and museums for sealife, cinema and music.
Nice, France
Nice is, in itself, wonderful. However what adds to its attraction is its proximity to other gems on the Cote d’Azur. Enjoy Nice’s spotless exquisite beaches and visit its chic cafes. Wander around its shops and take in the French Med. But don’t forget to stop off at other places while you’re there: Monaco – the tiny principality with the humongous yachts in its natural harbour and its own royal family; Cannes – home of the glittering film festival; St Tropez – not off limits to normal people who fancy a gawp at the rich and famous in summer.
Lisbon, Portugal
Portugal’s capital is far more sedate than other European cities, yet it offers no less charm. Its colourful cityscape is packed with backstreets and lanes and cathedrals and monasteries. Its people still gossip in public baths and stroll through the old quarters. Old meets new in Lisbon, as people carry on their business much like they did centuries ago, while life is intertwined with a modern day spirit. Much like many European cities which have retained their historic ways, enjoy the fresh cuisine it has to offer as well as its beauty.
Crete, Greece
A fascinating island, and Greece’s largest, Crete’s history pours out of every crevice. The best part is, there is nowhere quite like it. Find its ruins, beauty and legends off the beaten tracks. The ruined Minoan Palace of Knossos and the cave that is the legendary birthplace of Zeus are a wonder, and there is fun to be had on the island’s beautiful beaches to the east.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
This stretch of Italy is like something from a dream. As well as its breathtaking hillside views across the ocean, find vineyards, olive groves, lemon groves and brightly coloured plants which decorate this authentically Italian region. Its famous town of Sorrento spirals into the sparkling sea from the clifftop and there are also other towns worth a visit, including Positano, Ravello and Salerno.
Croatia
The waters are crystal clear in the country which has one very long coastline (2000 miles), as well as 50 islands worthy of a visit including Hyar, Bracy and Korcula, not to mention its uninhabited collection. White-water rafting, kayaking and sailing are among the fun pastimes visitors can enjoy in this tourism hotspot. It is full of authentic traditions yet glamorous and historic gems and fascinating culture. Find the glitz and glamour in capital Dubrovnik and peace and tranquility in remote hideaways, coves and fishing villages.
This is just a whistle-stop guide to highlights in Europe. Of course, there are other wonderful spots in the rest of Spain, Italy, Greece and many more. It is hard not to find peace and wonder among the rare cities of Europe, and there’s no doubt that the journey for any family would lead to a more fulfilled family: a more educated, rested and spirited one indeed.
