Coastal itineraries

Sail the gorgeous Tyrrhenian Sea independently along Italy's most storied coastline. Instead of joining a chartered yacht tour, piece together your own island-hopping route through Procida, Ischia, Capri, Positano, Amalfi and Sorrento using local ferries and hydrofoils — the same jaw-dropping seascapes, swimming stops, lemon groves and clifftop villages, at a fraction of the group-tour price. Overnight in charming budget guesthouses and hostels, hop between islands on public ferries, and eat like a local in trattorias. Perfect for travellers who love the water but want to set their own pace and sail budget.

Travel Crew

~£1,100

Base yourself in lively St Julian's and explore Malta's rich history and dramatic coastlines on this flexible self-launched walking week. Follow the golden sandstone trails past ancient Punic tombs, 1,000-year-old carob trees and staggering cliffs to the island's prettiest fishing villages, with a 7-day bus pass covering all your transfers. Wander the backstreets of Valletta, Europe's smallest capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, hike Malta's 'fish tail' with views to Gozo and Comino, and time your Marsaxlokk visit to coincide with the famous Sunday fish market. This is a do-it-at-your-own-pace week — walk where you want, when you want, and enjoy a cold beer by the bay afterwards.

Travel Crew

~£355

Paddle your own way along Crete's turquoise coast and hike its majestic gorges on this self-launched adventure. Base yourself near Kissamos for day trips by bus and rental kayak, then tackle the famous Samaria Gorge independently — all fuelled by taverna feasts and ridiculously good swimming. A fraction of the group tour price, with the same unforgettable landscapes.

Travel Crew

~£500

This is the self-launched, DIY version of Exodus' "Catalan Classic Walk" — a relaxed 5-day walking trip along the rugged Costa Brava coastline and through the lush Empordà countryside of Catalonia. Instead of booked hotels with luggage transfers, you'll base yourself in budget guesthouses and hostels, follow the clearly waymarked coastal and forest trails at your own pace, and link up the same medieval villages — Peratallada, Pals and Begur — using local buses and your own two feet. Expect turquoise coves, cork and pine forests, 5,000-year-old dolmens, swimming stops and sun-drenched fishing ports, all at a fraction of the guided price.

Travel Crew

~£245