The magnificent body of azure water known as the Mediterranean Sea has been an important location for some of the greatest empires in history. At one time, all the land and sea in this area once belonged to the Romans, but now there are many countries that the tourist can visit.

France

Bonifacio [pretty face], Corsica, is located on the southern tip of this French island where Napoleon was born. A city of beauty and history, Bonifacio holds Roman ruins and Medieval fortresses.

Chania, Crete, is renowned for its Venetian harbor and the lighthouse that dates back to the 15th century. Fresh fish and delicacies from the area are served in old taverns that are located on the angled streets that also have charming artisan shops.

Greece

Athens is a must-see as the birthplace of democracy. The ancient architecture is splendid and a delight to see in real life.

Italy

Cinque Terre (Five Lands) is a group of small coastal villages in the Italian region of Liguria. These communities of pastel houses are connected by train tracks constructed in the 19th century.

Venice is a city not to be missed. As one of the most romantic places in the world, Venice charms travelers with its Renaissance architecture and gondolas that meander through the canals of the Venetian lagoon.

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, possesses ancient architectural beauty with monuments dating back to the ninth century when the Normans came. There are also structures from the Byzantine, Baroque, Gothic and Neoclassical periods. With a path that leads to patron Saint Rosalia’s shrine, Mt. Pellegrino looks the over the sea and surrounding mountains.

The Amalfi Coast is composed of sheer cliffs amidst luxuriant vegetation. Picturesque villages sit atop these cliffs that are surrounded by the magnificent sea. This location has been featured in various TV series and movies.

Malta

Malta is a large group of islands in the center of the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and the coast of North Africa. Because of its numerous foreign rulers, Malta has many fortresses and other Roman, Moor, French and British historic sites. A fascinating site in this archipelago is the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, an ancient underground complex of halls and burial rooms from around 4000 B.C.

Spain

Formentera in the Balearic Islands is only 30 minutes from the party city of Ibiza. More subdued, Formentera possesses the beauty of the dazzling turquoise waters and white beaches that front the quiet villas.