When you envision the Med, what comes to mind?
It's likely Greece, Italy, the French Riviera, or perhaps even trendier coastlines like Malta and Turkiye.
What you may not picture are 3 lesser-known countries with just as vibrant blue waters and possibly even more captivating cultures than some of the aforementioned hotspots.
As more travelers seek out new alternatives to overcrowded and overhyped destinations, these 3 Mediterranean countries fit the bill, offering thrilling new escapes brimming with seaside bliss and timeless urban adventures.
And the numbers back it up!
All 3 record-breaking nations are having their best years yet, anchored by incredible ancient sites to transport you back in time and boasting otherworldly waters for the vacation of a lifetime.
Cyprus: A Tiny, Yet Mighty, Mediterranean Paradise
Cyprus has been on a tear!
This tiny yet mighty island may look like just a blip on the map below Turkiye, but it's well worth the trek to get here.
This safe, dreamlike paradise is teeming with history and equally magnetizing beaches wrapping around the whole island, including Northern Cyprus, a separate de facto state with a complex history, yet seeing a surge in tourism in its own right.
We'll stick with regular ol' Cyprus to keep it simple, though. We covered Cyprus' tourism records back in September, but the country has continued its hot streak all the way through 2024's final chapter, according to the Cyprus Mail.
This is largely in part because Cyprus is great for all types of travelers.
Digital nomads can find affordable long-term stays and obtain a 12-month visa (with renewal options), couples can splurge on upscale resorts overlooking turquoise waters, and solo travelers will love exploring numerous eye-popping castles like Kolossi or ruins rivaling Athens like Tombs of the Kings.
There are no nonstop flights from the U.S., but despite nearly hugging Lebanon, it's quite easy to reach from many major cities with just one connection.
Your best bet might be to connect with Ryanair, as their fares are almost always super cheap. Just know their gate agents are the fun police, so you may have to fork over extra cash even to sit next to your travel partner.
Morocco: Ancient Culture Meets Pristine Beach Towns
If there's one lesson you should learn in 2024, it's that Africa shouldn't be a trigger word to deter from the trip of a lifetime.
Do cultural differences come with the good, the bad, and the ugly? For sure. There's no question I could go without seeing chained monkeys used to lure in ignorant tourists for overpriced photo-ops, but overall, my first trip to the African continent this year was truly one for the books.
I had the pleasure of playing digital nomad for a short time in Marrakesh, Morocco's stunning sprawling capital city and often Americans' preferred gateway into the country as English is well-spoken and connectivity to other regions is easy.
According to Morocco World News, Morocco is set to see a record 16 million visitors in 2024, including a 31% spike in the fall.
Since you clicked on a ‘Mediterranean' article, you probably wanna know about Morocco's beaches, huh?
One place on multiple 2025 ‘where to go' lists is Agadir, a beautiful Atlantic beach town lined with ritzy resorts, golf courses, and a promenade of endless cafes.
On the Med side, one really cool beach getaway to check out is Tetouan. Oozing Santorini vibes with whitewashed hills of historic buildings, backdropped by staggering mountains, and home to beautiful beaches like Playa de Cabo Negro.
Plus, it's only an hour or so from Chefchaouen, Morocco's famous ‘blue city'.
Tunisia: North Africa's Most Underrated Country
Tunisia is a fascinating country brimming with ancient sites, buzzing city streets, and, most notably, an insanely gorgeous Mediterranean coastline.
This might sound a little outlandish, but I view Tunisia as the ‘El Salvador' of North Africa. No, there are no volcanoes, and locals certainly don't speak fluent Spanish, but it's the region's smallest nation taking center stage, much like El Salvador has in Central America.
No word on Tunisia's Bitcoin balance, though.
The numbers I do have from Arabian Gulf Business Insight (AGBI) show Tunisia is having a record-setting year with 10 million visitors.
There are numerous places to scope out for an epic Mediterranean vacation, including the virtually untouched Kerkennah Islands near Malta.
But those in the know always set their sights on Sidi Bou Said, a picturesque whitewashed town reminiscent of Greek islands offering breathtaking views, savory eats, and grand hotels like 5-star La Villa Bleue under $120 this winter.
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