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Shining hills, bright cityscapes and photo opportunities at every turn.
That’s what you can usually expect when you visit a beautiful whitewashed destination.
What immediately comes to mind are the numerous Greek islands, especially Santorini.
But the Travel Off Path team decided to release a classic switcheroo for this revealing 5 whitewashed getaways you must visit are not in Greece.
That’s right: there’s no need to follow the crowds to hotspots like Mykonos, as there are plenty of other vibrant postcard-worthy adventures scattered around the world.
We’ve picked five that we really think you should visit at least once in your life, but wherever your journey takes you, always remember to check travel warnings and entry requirements first.
5 whitewashed destinations everyone should visit at least once:
PLUS: We’ve built an interactive quiz for you at the end of this article to find your perfect match!
1) Bozcaada: the ‘Greek’ island of Turkiye 🇹🇷
If you’re craving some Greek vibes but want to check another country off your list, Bozcaada makes perfect sense.
Located a stone’s throw from Corfu, this funny-named Turkish island is almost a spitting image of its Greek neighbors.
Formerly known as Tenedos, on the Turkish mainland, this island has become a summer hotspot for locals but relatively unknown to the masses.
With picturesque cityscapes, an official ‘Greek Quarter’ and blissful wine country far away from the cobbled town of the same name, Bozcaada is one of Turkiye’s best-kept secrets – and that may be because it blends in with the more notable islands, yet still offers beautiful blue-water beaches and sensational cuisine that combines Greek and Turkish dishes.
The atmosphere: A breezy, wine-drinking Aegean island with colorful streets, clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere, a far cry from Antalya and the busy Greek islands
3 must-visit attractions:
- The Bozcaada Castle
- Ayazma Beach
- Bozcaada’s vineyards and wineries
This is what travelers think about safety in Turkiye (also still spelled ‘Turkey’):
2) Sidi Bou Said: the “Santorini” of North Africa 🇹🇳
Tunisia may not be on your bingo card, but the smallest country in North Africa is more heavenly than you might imagine.
In the capital Tunis you will find remarkably well-preserved ruins. But there are beautiful Mediterranean seaside resorts along the coast that may fascinate you even more.
Sidi Bou Said is as close as you can get to Santorini without being in Greece.
With cobalt blue accents and a maze of whitewashed passageways, this elevated city, perched on a cliff, is an enchanting coastal charmer.
Better yet, Tunisia’s most famous destination is noticeably more affordable than Santorini, but isn’t that everywhere right now?
The atmosphere: Sidi Bou Said feels tailor-made for wandering, with artsy corners, cliff-top cafes and sweeping Mediterranean vistas.
3 must-visit attractions:
- Ennejma Ezzahra Palace
- Cafe des Delices
- Dar El Annabi
This is what travelers think of safety in Tunisia:
3) Manzanillo: discover Mexico’s popular seaside resort 🇲🇽
“Rough Diamond” may be off-putting to some, but Manzanillo has embraced the title.
Located in Colima’s no-go zone – at least according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Manzanillo is the only bright spot.
Known as the ‘Santorini of Mexico’, this growing resort town is not only the sailfish capital of the world, but also a great all-inclusive destination for those who long for a feeling of Real Mexico.
However, those concerned about Manzanillo’s safety problems shouldn’t blink. There’s a reason there are more flights from Canada and the US than domestic flights to Manzanillo’s Playa de Oro International Airport.
That’s because it is hospitable and safe for tourists. Without guaranteeing security here, the state of Colima’s economy would deteriorate.
The atmosphere: A laid-back Pacific beach town with sunny shores, bay views and a local vibe.
3 must-visit attractions:
- El Tapo de Ventanas
- Playa La Audiencia
- Centro Histórico et Monumento del Pez Vela
This is what travelers think about safety in Mexico:
4) Alberobello: Italy’s secret, quirky village 🇮🇹
Certainly, the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s undeniably beautiful destinations. Remember, we’re focusing on places worth traversing, even if just once.
That’s where Alberobello comes in: a UNESCO-listed time capsule known for its unusual cone shape trulli cityscape with more than 1,500 characteristic homes.
The entire village exudes white wonders with the typical cobbled maze of narrow alleys and terraces, especially in the charming Rione Monti district.
The atmosphere: A whimsical whitewashed village that gives the feeling of entering another world without sacrificing the Italian flair
3 must-visit attractions:
- Rione Monti
- Casa Pezzolla
- Trullo Sovrano
This is what travelers think about safety in Italy:
5) Algiers: the ultimate adventure for culture seekers 🇩🇿
Algiers isn’t a name that rings a bell, but it is a vibrant whitewashed capital of Africa’s largest country.
No, not safari Africa.
We are talking about the desert of North Africa and the pristine Mediterranean Sea, largely untouched by mass tourism.
We won’t sugarcoat it: Algeria is not the easiest country for Americans to visit, as a visa is required.
However, Algiers is the perfect gateway with a UNESCO-listed whitewashed Casbah and stunning views of the azure waters.
You may feel like a sore thumb in the busy streets, but many travelers rave about Algeria’s hospitality in a classic case of the old adage that “people are not their governments.”
While some areas feel a bit gritty, much of Algiers is ancient history and coastal beauty without the seaside town fluff, with grand palaces and mosques instead of poolside cocktails.
The atmosphere: A culture-packed capital that still feels undiscovered, with Old World streets and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean
- 3 must-visit attractions:
- The Kasbah
- Palace des Rais
- Notre Dame d’Afrique
This is what travelers think of safety in Algeria:
Take this quiz now to find your perfect match!
Question 1 of 3
What is your main travel purpose?
Question 2 of 3
Which atmosphere appeals to you most?
Last question
What do you think about the logistics of getting there?
Your match: Bozcaada
The ‘Greek’ island of Turkiye
Why it fits: You crave the Greek atmosphere, but want a gem off the beaten path. Bozcaada offers beautiful beaches with blue water, sensational cuisine and picturesque vineyards, far away from the huge summer crowds.
Your match: Sidi Bou Said
The North African Santorini
Why it fits: You want beautiful clifftop cafes, sweeping views of the Mediterranean and a maze of cobalt blue and white corridors – all at a remarkably more affordable price than Greece!
Your match: Manzanillo
Mexico’s popular seaside resort
Why it fits: You want an easy, accessible vacation with a feeling of ‘real Mexico’. Known as the Santorini of Mexico, it is a safe, welcoming place, perfect for enjoying bay views and warm hospitality.
Your match: Alberobello
Italy’s quirky village
Why it fits: You are looking for truly unique, UNESCO-protected architecture. Wandering through the cobbled maze of more than 1,500 cone-shaped trulli houses offers the ultimate blend of history and Italian flair.
Your match: Algiers
The ultimate adventure
Why it fits: You don’t mind a little courage or the hassle of obtaining a visa. In return you get a vast, whitewashed UNESCO casbah, grand palaces and incredible local hospitality, untouched by mass tourism.
