We've highlighted the top 10 Mediterranean holiday hot spots so you can spend sun-kissed afternoons on the blissful beaches of Majorca, Ibiza, Santorini, St Juloan’s and beyond, without flying too far. The lovely Mediterranean climate is a hit all year round, with sun found from April-October and even outside of these months too, so our dreamy destinations are ideal whether you're craving a short haul summer break or winter sun escape!

Not sure where to spend summer 2022? Make the most of these diverse Med resorts…

MAJORCA, SPAIN

Majorca’s mild climate makes it a holiday hotspot for beach lovers, with family-friendly beaches, great watersports and lively nightlife. Spend hours sunbathing on the golden sands, snorkel in rocky coves and let kids have fun paddling in the shallow waters of the Blue Flag Platja de Muro. You can also explore the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, visit wineries and simply enjoy the lush countryside. For foodies, there are about seven Michelin-starred restaurants to try out, besides plenty of tasty tapas bars, especially in the capital Palma. 

We've cherry-picked the best family resorts in Majorca for when you want to whisk the kids away for fun in the Mediterranean sun.

IBIZA, SPAIN

When you think of Ibiza holidays, superclubs such as Pacha and Ushuaia often spring to mind - with chic cocktail lounges, boutique beach bars and open-air clubs pumping live music sets from our favourite international DJs. If you're looking to party, start your evening at the lively harbour in the old town (south of bustling Playa d’en Bossa beach), or head to San Antonio for buzzing bars at pocket-friendly prices. Or for guests that prefer a slower pace, this upbeat resort also has a line-up of gorgeous, more serene resorts to relax in. Soak up the unmatchable sunset views from quaint cafe terraces on the Sant Antoni de Portmany strip, or explore the sun-kissed coastline revealing tiny coves, glamorous hotels and hills covered in pine trees. Santa Eulalia is a great choice for family holidays, with charming waterfront cafes and shops to peruse. 

Get a better feel for the island and all its natural beauty when you browse our pocket guide to the Balearics.

DUBROVNIK, CROATIA

Dubrovnik holidays have it all, from golden coves and beaches to boutique-style resorts, summer festivals and sailing holidays. While the Banje beach is most popular, you can take a ferry to the unspoilt Elaphite archipelago and its pebble beaches on the Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan islands. Sip a drink at a café on Dubrovnik’s Stradun street in the old town, take a cable car up Mt Srđ or stroll down to the enchanting Onofrio Fountain, built in 1438. It’s a good idea to catch the morning market at the Gunduliceva Poljana square in the old town, too. A visit to the port brings you to the iconic city walls, where you can feast on a wonderful panorama and views of beautiful turquoise waters. 

SANTORINI, GREECE

Santorini, a volcanic island located in the Aegean Sea, is undeniably a Mediterranean gem. Whether it’s romantic sunsets, white houses dotting the slopes, pretty villages or fabulous resorts you're seeking, there’s a lot that makes it the perfect place to relax. for all you need to know about island hopping in Greece - check out the ultimate guide to holidays in Greece, including when to go for the sunniest weather! 

There are several beaches to the south, where you can enjoy sunbathing and snorkelling, such as the black sand Kamari and Perissa, besides the popular Red Beach. If you want to explore more of the area, take a boat from Fira across cobalt blue waters and visit the iconic volcano.

When evening rolls around dine in one of the islands alfresco restaurants serving up stunning vistas before enjoying an after dinner drink in PK Cocktail Bar - a firm favourite on our list of top cocktail bar's around the world.

CORFU, GREECE

There’s never a dull moment in Corfu. There are some great beaches to explore, such as Agia Varvára and Agios Stefanos Gyrou. If you enjoy hiking, climb up the Ágii Déka to be rewarded with panoramic views over the lagoon and an orchard of fruit trees. From 5 star family holidays to group trips, there are Corfu holidays to suit every budget. 

Make a trip to Sidari to see unusual rock formations, including swimming along the Canal d’Amour channel or in coves protected by cliffs. Diving enthusiasts must head to Paleokastrítsa, Nissáki or Paxí islets. You can also take a boat to Mouse Island, dense with trees, and drop in at the little Byzantine chapel.

PAPHOS, CYPRUS

Paphos boasts 300 days of sunshine a year, with sandy beaches, great food and lively nightlife. Soak up the sun in this traditional harbour town, cool down amid the pine trees of Troodos Mountains and explore quaint villages like Omodos, famous for its wine. Whether you want fun-loving family holidays or cosy couples retreats, find what you're searching for with our round-up of resorts in Cyprus.

The beautiful Aphrodite’s Rock is a must-see at sunset. Or, if you want to take a trip back in time, enjoy a summer production in the ancient amphitheatre at nearby Kourion, overlooking the sea. Dine at the waterfront, overlooking a medieval castle, with a serving of seafood and fresh fish.

ALBUFEIRA, PORTUGAL

If you love beaches, Albufeira has 25 of them along its 30km coastline, so you can soak up the sun to your heart’s content and indulge in watersports. In the evenings, explore waterfront restaurants and boutiques in the old town or hit the buzzing bars that fringe the resort. Be sure to pack your bucket and spade in preperation of the Algarve's spectacular golden beaches. You'll find family-friendly Praia dos Pescadores or Fisherman’s Beach, the Blue Flag Praia d’Oura beach (ideal for watersports fans) and pretty Praia da Falesia beach framed by ochre cliffs. Golfers can tee off at one of Albufeira's stunning 18-hole courses such as Salgados or explore the beautiful horseshoe marina in Vilamoura. 

Take a look at the top 8 things to do in the Algarve for the inside guide on what to do and when to go.

SAINT-TROPEZ, FRANCE 

 

 

 

 

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Without question one of the world’s most glamorous holiday destinations. It’s a world famous party hotspot so if you visit the chances are you’ll run into somebody famous, throwing money around like it is going out of fashion! Whilst it used to be a quaint village it is now firmly in the sights of the rich and famous so making a trip here is to see how the other half holiday - Benidorm this isn’t! Explore the quay and you’; be able to marvel at some of the world’s best yachts. For a more rustic feel head to the Old Village and have a mooch. Here’s a tip for you all - to avoid having to drive into St Tropez, which can take several hours in high season, park in St Raphaël or Ste Maxime and take the ferry across the bay. It will save you a lot of time! 

OLUDENIZ, TURKEY

To experience the many shades of blue, make a trip to Oludeniz, where sapphire waters of the blue lagoon turn gradually into a gentle sea-green, surrounded by white sands. You can also view the gorgeous scenery from above, paragliding from the highs of the Babadağ mountain.

Lovers of nature can stroll the Lycian Way, offering stunning coastal views, or take a boat to Butterfly Valley in the south. You can go rafting on the Dalaman river, ride horseback through the countryside, visit the quiet Kidrak beach or enjoy kayaking, parasailing and swimming in the sea. If the hunger pangs get you, there are loads of restaurants and bars along the coast. The party starts in the evening, but it if you’re looking for discos, hop across to Hisaronu next door. 

If you want to know more about the Turquouise Coast resorts, browse our guide to the best hotspots in Turkey and find the perfect one for you. 

ST JULAN’S, MALTA

 

 

 

 

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If you are a night owl then the town of St Julian’s in Malta is a must. It is a real music lover’s paradise with all types of music catered for so spend your evenings exploring the countless bars, cafes and restaurants and you’ll be bound to find a mood, a sound or a flavour that awakens your senses. If you want to relax, head to Spinola Bay and enjoy an ice cold glass of white wine or beer whilst watching the sun set over the water. Make sure you get plenty of snaps for the Insta feed though! Malta is fast becoming the world’s leading LGBTQ+ destination so if you are looking for a gay-friendly place to visit then this is the place for you too!