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Europe is one lucky continent.
With a wealth of natural resources, including beautiful seaside regions, it offers a perfect selection of yachting and sailing options to versed sea lovers.
Among them, the Adriatic coast stands out as one of the most captivating, versatile seaside stretches with many worthwhile harbors, cities, beaches, and secluded villages.
Even if you decide to head over to one of several stunning Adriatic countries without visiting its neighbors, you’ll find many exciting ways to explore them by hiking in the nature reserves, sunbathing on the sandy beaches, experimenting with the local cuisine, and admiring the architecture.
Here are a few notable places to visit.
Enjoy Albania’s Saranda and Ksamil
If Lord Byron appreciated this small Adriatic country, you would surely find places that could win over your inner explorer.
Albania is still not on the radar for many global travelers, so don’t expect the kind of crowds you’d see in Italy, but you’ll still learn that the surrounding countries gladly flock to its shores for a summer vacation or nature walks.
To start off with its most popular piece of the coast you should visit, Saranda is the city that rules the Albanian Riviera.
It’s large, well-developed, and with many beautiful beaches waiting to be explored.
What’s more, you’ll bask in the view of Corfu, sitting right across from Saranda in the deep blue of the sea.
Move a little to the south with your boat or yacht, and you’ll come across Ksamil.
The village is part of the Butrint National Park, which means you can enjoy the seaside cafés and restaurants while also getting lost in the trails of the reserve.
There are several islands close to Ksamil’s shores, so you can enjoy snorkeling or swimming there, too.
Head over to Split, Hvar, and Zadar
Islands as far as the eye can see paired with inland natural beauty make Croatia a top pick for travelers who love the sea.
This particular portion of the Adriatic is a dream come true for yachting and sailing enthusiasts, as you can find many Croatia yachting opportunities to explore the area comfortably and in style.
Starting with Split in central Dalmatia, you can find everything from thriving nightlife, cultural festivals, all the way to a restaurant scene with delicious local cuisine and seafood specialties.
Don’t skip visiting the renowned Diocletian Palace to see their Roman architectural legacy, well-preserved and cherished by the locals.
Near the coast of Split, you can hop over to the island of Hvar, a beloved summer vacation spot both for locals and international tourists alike.
Private villas, secluded beaches, perfect diving spots, and a buzzing bar scene is all you need to fill up your time there.
Of course, you should also take a trip to Zadar, Croatia’s epicenter of fun and tourism during summer months.
There, you’ll find The Sea Organs producing ethereal music with the help of the waves, as well as numerous Roman and Venetian ruins for another history lesson.
Don’t miss out on Trieste, Venice, and Trani
Italy deserves to have a place on your must-see list all on its own.
It’s packed with world-renowned destinations, some of which are cherished by celebrities as much as they are loved by the locals.
It doesn’t matter who you are, you’ll always find warmth, excellent wine, and fine dining in Italy to make your stay feel truly luxurious.
For starters, Trieste is one of Italy’s most well-known cities, respected for its historic versatility and a multitude of cultural influences.
From the Austro-Hungarian era, all the way to the neighboring Slavic regions and Italy itself, everyone has made their imprint on Trieste in the form of unique architecture, dialects, and food.
To summarize, you’ll feel as if you’re visiting several European countries in this one city alone.
Then there’s timeless Venice and its romantic canals, but keep in mind the city is teeming with tourists almost throughout the year (with the exception of the pandemic).
Keep a map of the city close by, as it’s too easy to get swept away in all the crowds while admiring the architecture.
A smaller, yet equally notable Adriatic gem, Trani might not have been on your travel map so far, and we need to rectify that injustice.
Its modest beaches might not bring too many tourists looking for a typical Mediterranean escapade, but its artistic legacy makes it worth your while.
Visit the Historic District while you’re there, and go see the famous San Nicola Pellegrino Cathedral.
Ready, set, go!
Some of the suggested cities and ports might be famous enough that you’ve already been there, done that.
Others are certainly a hidden treasure for most globetrotters, and you’ll find their charms equally irresistible, rest assured.
No matter what part of the world you’re coming from, make sure to add some of the smaller as well as prominent Adriatic spots to your list.
You’ll appreciate having a boat or a yacht to yourself, to take your time while immersing yourself in the local cultures and historic sites.
Start planning for your next trip to the Adriatic coast now, as you’ll get ready for all the amazing stops you’ll make and learn about the less-known spots to add to your agenda.
It will be a journey you’ll remember your whole life!