We all know the heavy hitters of the Mediterranean: the likes of Spain, Greece, Malta and Italy. Each of these countries brings to mind scorching sun, incredible food served al fresco, sprawling sandy beaches and more history and culture than you can begin to even fathom.
But when we think of the Mediterranean, we tend to think of it as a non-specific region somewhere in Europe. But the truth is, there Med covers a lot more countries – and continents – than we might have first realised. If you’re yet to expand your horizons, or you’re looking to explore as much of the Mediterranean as possible then you’re in luck. Below, we’ll take you on a tour of the region to show you which countries are on the Mediterranean.
But first, let’s take a look at a map of the Mediterranean in all its glory:
Where is the Mediterranean Sea?
The Mediterranean Sea calls its home between the Atlantic Ocean on the west and the continent of Asia on the east. Its basin (that’s the bit of a body of water which dips into the Earth’s surface) reaches 2.6 million square kilometres, and sinks to a depth of 5,267 metres, which makes it the largest enclosed sea on the entire planet!
What countries are on the Mediterranean?
Since it covers such a large swath of Earth’s real estate, there’s a vast amount of regions and countries that are part of the Mediterranean. Let’s take a look at what’s covered across the region.
Eastern Mediterranean
There’s some big names in the Eastern Mediterranean, the kind that immediately come to mind when you think of the Med. There’s Greece and Cyprus – two countries that have brought many a traveller joy and exploration. And with cities like Athens, Mykonos and Rhodes you with picture postcard experiences, cultural icons to admire, and endless sun-kissed good times, it’s easy to sea why. Parts of Turkey are also considered to fall into this region.
However, the region also covers countries you might not have thought were part of the Med, including Israel, Jordan, Palestine, Syria and Lebanon.
Iberia
Spain, a small part of southern France and Gibraltar are all part of the Iberian Peninsula, and so each country is classed as the Mediterranean. Is there a country that sums up the Mediterranean as much as Spain? We’d argue there isn’t it. Just look at this list of cities: Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid, Seville and Valencia. Each one has its own distinct personality, but they all share a collective vibe that firmly makes them Mediterranean.
Southern France, meanwhile, boasts the likes of Nice, Provence and Marseille, a trio of picturesque cities that are each as stunning, seductive and sexy as the last.
And while Portugal is also part of Iberia, it’s not technically a Mediterranean country since it doesn’t have any Mediterranean coastline. However, it’s usually considered a part of it thanks to its gorgeous weather, hilly landscape and rich cultural clout.
The Balkans
Small on size, but big on history, culture and spectacular, the countries that make up the Balkans have more than made a name for themselves in the travel world. For starters, you’ll find Croatia here, and the likes of Split and Dubrovnik alone tend to be high on any list of incredible coastal cities. And with the shimmering Adriatic lapping onto its lands, it’s really no surprise.
You can add Montenegro to that list too thanks to its series of beaches, towering mountains to traverse and scenery you’ll want to snap from all angles. Serbia’s a little different – it’s not as touristy, for one – but you’ll get a warm welcome wherever you’ve travelled from. It’s also brimming with history, a nightlife in a league of its own, and wine regions nestled in its sprawling hills. An off-the-beaten-track treat.
North Africa
Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia and Morocco – all countries that any cruise passenger would do well to check out. But part of the Mediterranean? That’s right, and there’s plenty in store for would be explorers to discover while you’re in any four of these incredible countries.
Beyond the Pyramids, Egypt has a dizzying array of monuments, temples and other tributes to eras from across history – and its locals love to bend an ear when it comes to a story. Pull up a chair and prepare to be amazed.
Imposing ruins and red sands aren’t in short supply across Algeria either, but the tourist count is far less than it is in Egypt. Plus, there’s an adventurous spirit that lets anyone stepping foot here indulge their inner Indiana Jones.
And with Tangier and Marrakech to its name, Morocco boasts diversity at every turn, whether you’re scaling mountain rages or weaving your way through its narrow, winding markets. The architecture alone could well make this a trip worth taking on.
Middle East
Syria and Lebanon are off the travel table as advised by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, but Israel still offers plenty for travellers in this neck of the woods. Floating in the calm stillness of the Dead Sea is worth forking out for on its own.
After you’ve dried off, there are rolling hills and valleys to explore, the winding pathways of Jerusalem and Nazareth to navigate and Tel Aviv’s sprawling beaches boardwalk and markets to experience. Don’t forget about the food here either, from shawarma and falafel to shakshuka and hummus as it should be, your stomach’s in for a real treat here.
Why cruise the Mediterranean? Why not! With so much to see, everyone’s travel style is well and truly catered to here. So, will we see you there?
With the best Mediterranean cruise deals on the web, you won’t find better prices anywhere else – trust us! Ready to get exploring? Head to our homepage for an unbelievable selection of destinations and adventures waiting for you.