The Med is booming! It’s not just Greece, Croatia, and Spanish islands having a moment — there are some real surprises surging in popularity.

Most travelers choose the 3 aforementioned destinations as their top choices for postcard beaches, incredible food, and even dusk ’til dawn nightlife at times.

But there’s still far more to be discovered than the household names. In fact, there are 3 stunning paradises breaking all-time tourism records, and we at Travel Off Path would have a hard time believing you would guess any of them.

It’s not Santorini, Mallorca, or even Dubrovnik. Nope — they’re further off-path, but equally captivating. Obviously, they’re worth the trip if so many vacationers are driving to each of the following destinations past record-breaking benchmarks.

Best of all, you’ll find splendid sun-drenched shores even in fall.

Tivat, Montengro

Montenegro is one of the best European countries to scope out right now, just in case this Balkan nation decides to ultimately join the European Union.

If you’ve followed Europe’s latest entry requirements, then you likely know Montenegro remains one of the few nations not to enforce annoying fingerprint policies or entry fees, which is likely one of many key reasons the dreamy seaside town of Tivat is welcoming a record number of visitors (just shy of 2 million).

The other reason is that the capital city, Podgorica, is commonly referred to as a snoozefest with nothing much to see other than drab architecture and an occasional cozy cafe.

Tivat is the antithesis of such boredom. Although, Tivat fits the bill as a sleepy hideaway, and its a great place to pamper yourself on a budget.

Tivat exudes luxury end to end without the sky-high prices you’d assume were attached. Waikiki Beach Resort tops the list for paradise resorts, but ask about getting lei’d at your own risk.

Paphos, Cyprus

Cyprus is about as far-flung a Mediterranean getaway as most American travelers feel comfortable venturing off to without getting into too-close-for-comfort territory near Middle East conflicts.

But there are no legitimate safety concerns regarding vacationing in Cyprus. The U.S. State Department classifies Cyprus as ‘Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions’ since the last update in January.

Once you get here, you won’t think twice about how close to this pristine, historic island is to countries deemed off-limits.

In fact, some areas will take you back in time where you’ll feel like you’re in ancient Greece with Athens dopplegangers like the Tombs of the Kings, for example.

Paphos is equal parts historical as it is pristine. You can easily spend a few days recharging beachside, only to go exploring throughout town, finding hidden gem after hidden gem, as this gorgeous resort town isn’t nearly as publicized as it should be.

Paphos has anything from UNESCO-protected ancient sites, secret waterfalls, gleaming lagoons, and even tight-lipped beaches on the outskirts, many tourists have yet to discover.

But the real draw for Paphos is its value. Resorts here are unbelievably affordable, and there’s no doubt that’s been a huge catalyst for the island’s record-breaking tourism numbers, largely driven by Paphos.

Antalya, Turkiye

Dare we say “move over Istanbul”?

Sure seems like it! Turkiye is one of the world’s most visited cities as the popular sprawling metropolis is one of the globe’s top puzzle pieces to connect travelers worldwide.

As such, most Americans stepping foot in Turkiye don’t venture outside of Istanbul (myself included).

That being said, Antalya, Turkiye’s Mediterranean crown jewel, is already experiencing its best August ever, and the month’s not even over.

The downside to that is prices aren’t what they used to be. Gotta love supply and demand…

While you will spend more to vacation here nowadays, Antalya isn’t your average beach town. Like Paphos, you’ll have a mix of ancient landmarks reminiscent of Europe’s most famed sites, a picturesque Old Town (known as Kaleiçi), and food to die for throughout.

A ride on the Tünektepe Cable Car is a must, if not for the views alone, but also to scope out which cool spots to hit up next, as the city is rather large, housing over 2.7 million people.

You’ll find vibrant turquoise waters, hidden coves, flashy resorts, buzzing nightlife, and mostly welcoming locals.

Though some would argue Antalya is teetering on overtourism.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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