Best Destinations for Mediterranean Escapes with Friends

The Mediterranean is home to some of the most beautiful coastal regions on the planet. From the stretches of golden sand along the French Riviera to the luxury beach clubs in Mykonos and the charming historic towns of Dubrovnik, there are endless opportunities for an indulgent escape. 

Travelling with friends is a fantastic experience, forging deeper connections and discovering amazing places together. The Mediterranean is the ideal destination for group getaways, with plenty of attractions to explore with your nearest and dearest. Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, snorkelling classes or boutique shopping, the Mediterranean offers something for every traveller. 

In this article, we uncover the best destinations for Mediterranean escapes with friends. Spanning across the continent, from France to Spain and the Balkans, these hand-picked regions offer the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and unforgettable experiences.  

Nice, France

Nice is a charming seaside town located along the sun-kissed Côte d'Azur, or French Riviera, boasting clear blue waters, beautiful architecture and a rich culinary scene. You and your friends will love Nice for its laid-back atmosphere, creating the perfect base for a Mediterranean escape. 

Venture to the Old Town in Nice Centre with narrow winding streets and colourful buildings. Here you can find a central square near Nice Cathedral, an impressive historic structure surrounded by traditional French cafes. This is the perfect spot to catch up with friends over a fresh pastry and coffee. 

The Promenade des Anglais is one of the most iconic spots in Nice, with a beautiful palm-lined promenade stretching along the coastline. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy a picnic by the sea or swim in the waters at sunset to see the golden evening glow. To see the promenade from an aerial view, walk up Castle Hill where you can snap incredible group pictures. 

The food in Nice is exquisite, and friends travelling together should explore the Old Town for authentic dishes. Sample local specialities like socca or Nicoise salad, or for a unique experience, join a wine-tasting tour to truly indulge in the city’s culinary delights.  

Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos, an island in the Greek Cyclades, is synonymous with glitz and glamour. From the picturesque white-washed buildings to the opulent nightclubs and private secluded beaches, Mykonos offers unique upscale group experiences.   

For history enthusiasts, there’s plenty to discover in Mykonos. Take a stroll through the maze-like streets of the Old Town, a paradise of traditional Cycladic architecture. Treat yourself to a spot of shopping in the artisanal boutiques, or savour Greek cuisine in authentic tavernas. 

The nightlife in Mykonos is world-renowned, with exclusive beach clubs such as Nammos and Scorpios blending soulful music with an elegant ambience. Enjoy a glamorous evening with your closest friends, sipping sophisticated cocktails in a private cabana.  

There are many secluded beaches to choose from in Mykonos where you can relax and unwind. Swathes of soft white sand, calm crystal waters and quiet serenity make beaches like Agios Sostis ideal for an afternoon of sunbathing. 

Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve is a region in southern Portugal known for its dramatic cliff scenery and charming coastal towns. Brimming with idyllic seafront accommodations, the Algarve is perfect for a relaxing group getaway. 

Watersports are popular in the Algarve, especially in the capital Lagos where visitors can kayak and surf. Explore the coastline with a kayaking tour, gliding through smooth turquoise waters towards the beautiful Ponta da Piedade sea stacks.  

Praia da Luz is a small, picturesque village just a few kilometres from Lagos with a relaxed vibe and gorgeous beaches. After a day of relaxation, take a walk along the seafront promenade where you can find cafes and restaurants serving traditional Portuguese cuisine. 

There are some beautiful villas in Praia da Luz, featuring private gardens with pools and terraces as well as spacious living areas. These serene villas offer a homey ambience with plenty of modern amenities, perfect for a trip with friends. 

Ibiza, Spain 

Ibiza is a Spanish island in the Balearic cluster, renowned worldwide for its vibrant party scene. Whilst there are a host of incredible beach clubs and bars to choose from, Ibiza also has a lesser-known relaxed side that is perfect for serene group escapes. 

Dalt Vila is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ibiza, complete with cobbled streets and historic architecture. The 16th-century city walls are incredibly well-preserved and offer magnificent views of the port. The Plaza de Vila is lined with cafes, shops and restaurants, making it ideal for friends to relax and sample local cuisine. 

If you love the outdoors, Ibiza’s natural landscapes offer many hiking opportunities. Follow trails that lead to hidden beaches, forested hills and dramatic coastal cliffs. The Sa Talaia trail will take you to the highest point on the island, overlooking fantastic views of the Mediterranean Sea. 

There are some incredible luxury holiday villas in Ibiza, perfect for a friend's getaway. Choose a villa close to Ibiza town for an easily accessible base, featuring many luxury amenities like infinity pools, jacuzzis, a roof terrace and private butlers for a truly indulgent stay. 

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is a beautiful historic city along the southern Dalmatia coast in Croatia. Often referred to as ‘The Pearl of the Adriatic’, this charming city is famous for its natural beauty and medieval history. 

Take a walking tour around the medieval Old Town with the famous city walls offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. The Sponza Palace is a must-see for history enthusiasts and film fanatics alike, with the beautifully preserved Renaissance structure featured in the famous Game of Thrones series. 

To see panoramic views of the city, head up to Mount Srd on a cable car. The best time to visit is at sunset when the Adriatic is bathed in golden light, an idyllic setting to capture incredible pictures of you and your friends.

Island hopping is a popular activity in Dubrovnik, with boats exploring the most scenic spots of the Dalmatian coastline. Soak in the sun on a rooftop deck or dive into the aquamarine water of hidden coves. 

Summary 

Going on holiday with friends is a fantastic way to bond and make lifelong memories. With such a range of destinations on offer, the Mediterranean is a perfect choice for group getaways. Whether it's France, Portugal, Croatia, Greece or Spain, there are plenty of stunning regions to choose from, each offering unique experiences and equally stunning landscapes. 

Be sure to visit some of the destinations mentioned in this guide for an unforgettable Mediterranean escape with friends, filled with love, laughter and a bucket load of fun!