17 European Small Towns So Stunning You’ll Wonder If They’re Real
Imagine driving across Europe and passing by these fairytale-like small towns. The tiny towns perch themselves in vibrant coastlines, framed against majestic mountains, or dotted green valleys, all of which are enchanting.
From the fairy-tale towers of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Germany to the sun-kissed beaches of Otranto in Italy, every single town speaks of history and culture amidst natural beauty.
This guide introduces you to some small European towns that are so charming, you will hardly believe they exist.
1. Brasov, Romania
You can find the stunning small town of Brasov, Romania, in the center of Transylvania. It is surrounded by towering mountains and it is rich in history. You can explore Republicii Street, lined with old yet stunning buildings.
Shops and restaurants are everywhere, too, so make sure you have enough money to spend. If not, you can enjoy window shopping or simply admire the beauty of the place.
2. Bled, Slovenia
Bled, Slovenia, is famous for its lovely Lake Bled and towering ancient castles. The lake features an endearing church and a castle perched on a ridge overlooking the lake.
Another interesting part of this town is the dense forest that surrounds it. You can explore its dense woods through a drive or a walk and pass by its charming villages.
3. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a fairy-like town that you can find at the center of the South German countryside. It has a medieval charm and is filled with clock towers, lovely turrets, stone archways, and half-timbered houses.
If you see this town, you’ll feel like you are in another magical dimension. It is best described as a romantic Bavarian hamlet, entirely from a book of fairy tales.
4. Seydisfjordur, Iceland
Seydisfjordur is known for its impressive beauty. It is surrounded by towering mountains with old preserved buildings below them.
When you visit, make sure to see several natural attractions, like Gufufoss waterfalls, and enjoy the peaceful views of the fjords. Head to the central hub and explore art galleries or enjoy unique dining experiences.
5. Cadaqués, Spain
Tucked away on Spain’s Costa Brava, near the France border, is the lovely town of Cadaqués. Its whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets wind down to a pretty harbor dotted with boats and offer breathtaking views along the coastline.
Famous for its beautiful beaches and numerous hiking trails, Cadaqués invites visitors to explore sun-drenched shores and rent boats. Discover neighboring bays adorned with vivid cobalt hues.
6. Sozopol, Bulgaria
The Bulgarian town of Sozopol is a peninsula away from the southernmost point of Bulgaria. It has irresistible charm in its cobblestone streets and red-roofed houses gazing out over the Black Sea. It also has sandy beaches and a picturesque fishing port full of boats.
This town is known for its cultural atmosphere — more specifically, the Apollonia Arts Festival. It is also great for holidays. You can unwind and relax, take a boat trip, or wander through Old Town’s wooden houses and eat at a restaurant.
7. Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France
Located in the heart of France’s Basque Country, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a small town that feels like stepping back in time to an old fishing village. Its quaint old quarters with half-timbered buildings and boats in the sheltered port complete this picture.
Golden sandy beaches and picturesque architecture make its beach walks highly attractive. It is perfect for all-year-round surfing, and many famous breaks like Plage de Lafitenia and Belharra see an influx of surfing enthusiasts. In summer, locals and visitors flock to Saint-Jean-de-Luz for its rich cultural life and charming coastline.
8. Ivalo, Finland
Want to visit Lapland? Many people first think of Rovaniemi, a town with so many more winter wonderlands that are a must, one of them being Ivalo.
It’s the place for an ideal European winter holiday: sleeping in glass igloos, riding with huskies, seeing the Northern lights, and visiting Santa’s village.
9. Haarlem, Netherlands
When it comes to avoiding the crowds, Haarlem is the best town to visit. After a short train ride from Amsterdam, you will find this town very relaxing. Here, you can enjoy Dutch culture and history.
Don’t miss the boat tour, and be sure to visit the Grote Markt and the Molen de Adriaan windmill. Walk through some of those narrow streets and encounter its hidden courtyards and lovely canals.
10. Zermatt, Switzerland
The train ride to Zermatt is dramatic, but this town, with its Alpine scenery dominated by the majestic Matterhorn, is more than worth it. It is a unique scenery that one can see all over Switzerland. Zermatt combines a flashy ski resort with fairy-tale snowy landscapes totaling 200 miles (321.8 km) of ski runs and endless activities off the slopes.
You can stroll down this car-free town center, take warm-weather hikes, or cross into Italy via The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, the highest border crossing in the Alps. In summer or fall, wood-bottomed trails tracing a cliff above a glacial river make Gorner Gorge particularly beautiful and fun.
11. Óbidos, Portugal
Full of historic charm with a romantic, intimate atmosphere, Óbidos has long since been scouted as a gem fit for royalty. This walled hill town was given to the queens of Portugal and has hardly lost any of its magic, with steep stone lanes twisting between whitewashed houses infused with vibrant bougainvillea and terracotta tiles.
Well-preserved, the Castelo de Óbidos nestles at the top of the town, offering panoramic views over its medieval architecture and countryside. Óbidos has conserved the image of a small, lovely destination where history and beauty are in a harmonious blend.
12. Rovinj, Croatia
Tucked away at the end of a small peninsula on Croatia’s Istrian coast, Rovinj charms visitors with its colorful houses, winding streets, and a baroque church perched atop a hill. This ancient fishing port is renowned for its freshly caught Adriatic sardines, local truffles, and wines from nearby vineyards.
You can stop at Stancija Collis for Malvasia tastings, quality olive oil, and goat cheese. The estate is easily accessible by car. Brijuni National Park is not far away, with Rovinj being connected to Fažana by boat for a nice day trip.
13. Castelsardo, Sardinia
Located on the north coast of Sardinia lies the medieval town of Castelsardo. It attracts sailors and visitors with its maze-like streets, beautiful beaches, and medieval elegance. This hilltop town serves as an excellent starting point to do some exploration of the countryside around it.
Accommodation ranges from guest houses and apartments to five-star hotels. Several fish restaurants and wine bars are serving local political specialties. Notable points of interest include dramatic cliffs at Capo Caccia and very impressive beaches at Spiaggia Rena Bianca and Costa Smeralda, all accessible by good roadways.
14. Ambleside, England
Ambleside, a small town in the county of England’s Lake District, offers a gateway to one of the country’s most favored and visited natural wealth. It has a culturally rich locale with a picturesque village green, pubs that ooze character, and independent shops anchored by the iconic 17th-century Bridge House.
For those who want a hike with dramatic views of Lake Windermere, Loughrigg Fell specifies the activity, but for those looking for something a bit longer, the 45-mile (72 km) Windermere Way loop will do. Nearby Grizedale Forest offers more adventure with places to hike, mountain bike, and go zip lining amidst outdoor art sculptures scattered throughout the landscape.
15. Pyrgi, Greece
Pyrgi is a town on Chios in the Aegean Sea. It is famous for its intricate xysta, which decorates buildings, arches, and bell towers in black-and-white geometric patterns. These decorative motifs reflect its medieval heritage during the Genoese rule.
Here, you can enjoy the traditional island life and indulge in the mastic-based local liqueurs, cuisine, and products. This settlement, with its quaint character and historical interior, makes it one of the cultural jewels in Pyrgi yet to be discovered.
16. Telč, Czech Republic
The UNESCO World Heritage town of Telč, near the border of Moravia and Bohemia, looks like it came straight out of a Grimm brothers’ fairytale. The Renaissance castle, Telč Chateau, above the main triangular square, is lined with candy-colored stone houses connected by delicate arches.
Explore the historic center in Telč, where each corner dates back to a few hundred years of architectural beauty. Visiting this town feels like a journey back in time, with well-preserved landmarks steeped in history. It’s a must-visit in the Czech Republic for its beauty and rich historical significance.
17. Hallstatt, Austria
Tucked away by the serene Hallstatt Lake and under the towering Dachstein Alps, the village of Hallstatt looks like a living enactment of a painting. The village is characterized by cottages in fairy-tale-like pastel shades, charming streets, and a breathtaking natural environment.
You can either visit the oldest salt mine in the world or sail on the lake. On the Skywalk Hallstatt viewing platform, you have a view of the town and its surrounding landscapes.
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