Mediterranean Islands

Written by Viator, April 2012

RECOMMENDATION Keywords:
Good Place to Eat, Good Place to Relax, Good Views / Viewpoint, Nature & Wildlife, Religious Experience, Swim & Snorkel, Tip - Family Travel, Tip - What to See & Do, UNESCO Heritage Site, Walking/Hiking, Water Sports, Island

When you think island paradise, do you think Spain, Portugal and Greece? If not, then you should – the Mediterranean islands of these three countries are among the best retreats, offering everything from upscale beach resorts to mystical rock formations and hidden caves to ancient sights. Here are some of Viator’s top picks.

SPAIN

Balearic Islands
Off the north-eastern coast of Spain lie the sunny Balearic Islands. This archipelago is one of today's most popular holiday retreats, and is full of delicious food and interesting sights. While here, be sure to enjoy some fresh sea food, or other specialties like pomegranate-stuffed chicken. The best-known recipe invented here is actually mayonnaise which came from Menorca! While you may only hear of the amazing nightlife and beaches when people talk of Mallorca or Ibiza, these gorgeous islands have plenty more adventures to offer beyond the party scene.

Mallorca: Explore the capital city, Palma de Mallorca, on a Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour or a One-day Sightseeing Tour which includes rides on a boat and vintage train. You'll get to see the magnificent La Seu Cathedral, Plaza Mayor and more. Some other sights to see around the island include the ancient Almudaina Palace and the beautiful Caves of Drach. Go somewhere the whole family can enjoy on Mallorca at Aqualand El Arenal Water Park or go on a Skip the Line Mallorca Marineland Tour to see dolphin shows and more!

Ibiza: For a little history of paradise, we recommend you stroll in the UNESCO site of D'Alt Vila (Old Town Ibiza), exploring the medieval streets and castle of this lovely walled neighborhood. Ibiza has some gorgeous natural attractions as well, including the mystical Es Vedra rock formation and the Ses Selinas Natural Park. Cala Compte is one of the island's great beaches. Check out our guide to Ibiza beaches here.

For a fun way to tour the cities and natural wonders of the Balearic Islands book a scooter rental or guided scooter tour. We have offerings on the islands of Mallorca, Ibiza and Formentera.

PORTUGAL

Islands of Portugal
At the gate of the Mediterranean stand the Islands of Portugal. Picturesque Madeira is known as the "Garden Island" and is filled with lovely landscapes dotted by quaint villages among the mountains and valleys.Get a feel for what this island is all about on a Half-day Traditions and Enchanting Valley's Tour where you'll see some amazing views, ride a "sledge" and enjoy a wine tasting. Continue the cultural immersion while you enjoy dinner and watch a folk dance show on the Madeira Nights Tour. One of Madeira's claims to fame is the amazing variety of bird species. Birdwatchers come from all over to spot some of the rarest birds. You can discover some of the natural treasures on this island on a Full Day Bird Watching Tour or a Half Day Tour to Laurel Forest.

GREECE

Cyclades Islands
There are over 6000 islands and islets belonging to Greece, the majority of which are uninhabited. The Cyclades group makes up just 212 of this impressive collection, yet includes some of the most important destinations. The largest of the Cyclades is Naxos, a laid-back and fertile island with lovely beaches and quiet towns filled with architectural delights from ancient Greece, the medieval period and more. Its neighbor Paros is the perfect island to explore by scooter, going along the smooth roads to the famed marble quarries inland or the pristine beaches of the coast. If you’re after ancient sights and monuments, Delos is your island. This is the sacred birthplace of Apollo and the sun shining down on the ruins of ancient Greek society will make you believe it’s true.

Santorini: This is one of the most popular of the Cyclades islands, and for good reason. The eruption of the Santorini Volcano may be the source of the legend of Atlantis, and here you’ll find some amazing sights, like a village buried and preserved with Volcanic Ash for the last 3650 years! You can see this archeological wonder along with the modern capital on a Private Tour of Oia, Fira and the Akrotiri Excavation.

Mykonos is another of the most well-known Greek islands. Getting there is easy with our 2-day trip from Athens that will take you to all the major sights. If you’ll be in port for a cruise, we also offer several shore excursions including the Panoramic Sightseeing and Old Town Walking Tour.

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Reply by Viator, October 2012
Doing what: Palma de Mallorca City Hop-on Hop-off Tour

All good. Nice weather - sun shining. Open top bus. Not many places to see but the castle and a few other places were really good.

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Reply by Viator, October 2012
Doing what: 2-Day Santorini Experience from Athens

A wonderful overview of this beautiful island!

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Reply by Viator, September 2012
Doing what: Santorini Shore Excursion: Private Scenic Tour of Santorini, including Oia and Mt Profitis Ilias Monastery

Our tour guide was a nice man named Simone - It was over 100F but we had a nice Van with A/C to take our group of 6 around to the sites. The guy was very patient with our shopping wanderings and was very knowledgable about the areas - a great tour I would recommend highly.

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