Top coastal towns to visit in the Mediterranean

Planning a two-week Mediterranean road trip for next summer and trying to narrow down my itinerary. I want to avoid the massive tourist traps if possible and focus on charming coastal towns with great food, walkable streets, and nice beaches. Which hidden gems or classic spots are absolute must-visits along the coast?

If you want to avoid the worst of the crowds, skip the French Riviera and head to Cassis instead. It has stunning white cliffs, incredible seafood, and much more walkable charm.

You definitely need to check out Sperlonga in Italy. It's perched on a cliff between Rome and Naples, boasting gorgeous beaches, whitewashed alleys, and virtually no massive tour buses.

Make sure you pack light and breathable fabrics for this kind of trip; if you need inspiration, take a look at this packing list essentials for a 2-week European summer trip to save space in your car.

Collioure in southern France is an absolute hidden gem. It's right near the Spanish border, famous for its art history, anchovies, and colorful streets right on the water.

For a two-week itinerary, I'd recommend splitting your time between the Spanish Costa Brava and lesser-known Italian coastal towns. Begur in Spain has amazing medieval vibes and hidden coves.

If you find yourself near southern Italy, definitely visit Maratea. It's often called the town of 44 churches and offers dramatic cliffs with crystal clear water without the Amalfi Coast price tag.

Cefalù in Sicily is a classic spot that still manages to feel authentic if you wander away from the main beach. The food is out of this world, especially the street arancini.

Towns like Rovinj in Croatia offer incredible Venetian architecture, pedestrian-only cobblestone streets, and some of the best truffle pasta you'll ever eat.

While you are planning your route through Europe, you might also want to daydream about future travels by checking out these bucket-list castles in Europe that actually live up to the hype.

Don't overlook the Peloponnese region in Greece. Towns like Pylos or Kardamyli give you that authentic Greek coastal experience with great food and zero cruise ship congestion.