Travel insights from Samantha Anderson, contributor to The Compass.

Ibiza, Spain by Guillermo Gavilla.

From bustling city streets and quiet towns to raging nightlife and unlimited outdoor excursions, the Mediterranean islands truly have it all. A real life choose-your-own-adventure, travelers can mix and match their itineraries to experience the most that this diverse region has to offer including historical attractions, traditional Cuisine and local activities.

Corfu – Greece

Known for its conglomerate of cultural identities and distinctly European feel, the island offers a homey vibe with narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets and secluded squares. Architecturally, Corfu offers an intriguing mix as it was previously ruled by the Venetians, French and British centuries ago. From Renaissance to Baroque to Classical styles, historical Old Town offers unbeatable views of Achilleion Palace and the Church of St. Spyridon.

Ischia – Italy

A hidden gem of the Phlegraean Islands, Ischia is often overlooked for its counterpart, Capri. Because of this, Ischia is preferred by travelers seeking a relaxing destination that offers a more authentic experience. Nicknamed the “Green Island” for its abundance of plants and flowers, Ischia is ideal for all things nature and wellness. In fact, Ischia is a volcanic island and due to its bubbling landscape, thermal springs are in abundance — the perfect addition to a calming itinerary. 

Gozo – Malta

An up-and-coming destination, Gozo is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and laid-back travelers. The small island is one of 21 that make up the Maltese archipelago and only covers 26 square miles. Despite Gozo’s compact size, the island is unlimited in outdoor activities. The inlet of Wied il- Għasri is a well-known stop for snorkeling and exploration of underwater caves with trails along the Dwejra Bay providing hikers with breathtaking views of the Blue Hole, Inland Sea Lagoon and Fungus Rock. 

Ibiza – Spain

An island that likely needs no introduction, travelers looking to visit Ibiza should prepare for non-stop adventures day and night. Known for its legendary nightlife and wild atmosphere, visitors flock to the island for the clubbing experience of a lifetime. After all, it isn’t considered the party capital of the world for nothing. 

Cyprus

Officially considered the Republic of Cyprus, the island country is a culturally diverse destination. With its geographic location between the Middle East and Eastern Europe, the citizens of Cyprus identify with two prominent ethno-religious groups — the Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots. Accordingly, visitors will find that Greek is predominately spoken in the southern half, while Turkish is common in the north.

However, the unique ethno-religious distinction is only a small part of what makes Cyprus special. Archaeological sites like Nea Paphos, Tombs of the Kings and Kolossi Castle are also the perfect opportunity for visitors to learn more about the country’s Greek and Turkish roots.

Corsica – France

Where French meets Italian and coastal towns merge to dense forests, Corsica is aptly named “the island of beauty.” With its quintessential European feel, pastel-colored houses dot the harbor shore and overlook the red cliffs of Calanches de Piana. Over 20 mountain peaks elegantly sit on the horizon, Monte Cinto standing the tallest and kissing the turquoise water below. 

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If you travel to Corfu I highly recommend the restaurant Etrusco for a wonderful meal on their patio. Etrusco has been chosen the best restaurant in Greece several years in a row – reservations are a must and it is about a 20 minute drive from the port.