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I’ve curated an inventory of 15 attractive small cities in Europe that may make your coronary heart skip a beat. From fairytale villages to charming seaside spots, these hidden gems are ready so that you can discover!
Exploring Europe’s small cities is certainly one of my favourite journey experiences. There’s one thing magical about wandering by charming streets and discovering hidden gems. Through the years, I’ve visited many of those locations, and I can’t wait to share my high picks with you.
These 15 picturesque small cities in Europe are good for anybody seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of massive cities. Every one gives distinctive sights, historical past, and tradition that make them value visiting. From picturesque villages to beautiful medieval cities, you’ll discover quite a lot of locations so as to add to your journey bucket record.
I’ve handpicked these small European cities based mostly on my travels and experiences. Belief me, you gained’t be disenchanted!
Europe’s prettiest small cities
Earlier than we dive into the detailed record, let’s rapidly spotlight some standout spots. These cities every have one thing particular that units them aside:
- Total most lovely: Hallstatt, Austria
- Finest stored secret: Sighișoara, Romania
- Finest for historical past lovers: Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
- Finest small coastal city: Piran, Slovenia
- Most charming village: Bibury, England
- Most original setting: Meteora, Greece
These are simply the tip of the iceberg. Now, let’s discover every one in additional element. Prepared? Let’s begin with the enchanting Giethoorn within the Netherlands.
1. Giethoorn, Netherlands
Usually referred to as the “Venice of the North”, Giethoorn is definitely one of many prettiest cities in Europe. This charming Dutch village is known for its canals, thatched-roof cottages, and wood bridges. One of the best ways to discover Giethoorn is by renting a ship and gliding by the serene waterways. You’ll really feel such as you’ve stepped right into a fairytale vacation spot!
Giethoorn is situated in Overijssel, and you’ll simply attain it from Amsterdam by practice and bus in about two hours. It’s good for a day journey or a calming weekend getaway. Strolling or biking alongside the slim paths gives a peaceable escape and an opportunity to benefit from the scenic environment.
I like to recommend visiting throughout spring or summer season when the gardens are in full bloom, and the climate is ideal for boating. Don’t miss the native museums, just like the Museum Giethoorn ‘t Olde Maat Uus, which gives insights into the village’s historical past.
In case you’re planning to remain in a single day, ebook a room in one of many quaint mattress and breakfasts. I began at B&B de Hofstee, and I can’t suggest it sufficient. Imagine me, the village turns into much more serene as soon as the day-trippers depart!
2. Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt is a surprising city in Austria that appears like a dream. Positioned between the pristine Hallstätter See and the Dachstein Alps, it’s one of many most lovely locations in Europe. The charming pastel-colored homes mirrored within the lake create a postcard-perfect scene.
Attending to Hallstatt is simple. It’s a scenic drive from Salzburg or Vienna, and you can even take a practice and ferry combo for a picturesque arrival. The city is small, and it’s simple to discover on foot.
Considered one of my favourite spots in Hallstatt is the Skywalk. The views from this platform, perched excessive above the village, are breathtaking. The salt mines, which date again to prehistoric occasions, supply fascinating excursions. Don’t neglect to go to the Twelfth-century Hallstatt Ossuary, the place you may see a novel assortment of painted skulls.
Hallstatt has all of it for those who’re into climbing, historical past, or simply absorbing the attractive surroundings. It’s a must-visit for these in search of the most effective small cities to go to in Europe.
3. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
Cesky Krumlov within the Czech Republic actually shocked me. Located on a bend of the Vltava River, this charming city is thought for its beautiful medieval structure and vibrant environment. You’ll love exploring the colourful buildings and cobblestone streets right here.
The spotlight right here is certainly the Cesky Krumlov Fortress. Climbing up the tower provides you an superior view over the city and river. Inside, you’ll discover a cool baroque theater and luxurious gardens which are good for a fast stroll.
Reaching Cesky Krumlov from Prague is a breeze. Direct buses and trains get you there in about three hours. It’s a super spot for a day journey, however I recommend staying in a single day to expertise its magic within the night when the crowds skinny out and the city lights up.
In case you’re feeling adventurous, seize a raft or canoe and float down the Vltava River! It’s an exhilarating option to see the city from a brand new perspective. Afterward, chill in a comfortable riverside café with a neighborhood brew.
Cesky Krumlov is without doubt one of the greatest small cities in Europe to go to, arms down. Its mixture of historical past, beautiful surroundings, and enjoyable actions make it an unforgettable vacation spot. You’ll love each minute spent on this enchanting city!
4. Sintra, Portugal
Sintra, Portugal, is an absolute blast! Simply 40 minutes by practice from Lisbon, it’s a super day journey for anybody visiting the world.
First up, Pena Palace. This place appears to be like prefer it’s been plucked from a dream with its brilliant colours and quirky design. The views from listed below are epic. You possibly can see the whole city and the encircling hills. It’s one of many nicest castles on this planet, making it an amazing spot for images.
Then there’s Quinta da Regaleira. This place is sort of a playground for the curious. Winding paths, hidden tunnels, and magical wells—it’s a spot that invitations exploration and journey. I spent hours right here, and each flip provided one thing new and enjoyable.
In case you’re into climbing, the Sintra-Cascais Pure Park is close by and gives beautiful trails with breathtaking views. It’s an effective way to benefit from the pure fantastic thing about the world.
After exploring, unwind in certainly one of Sintra’s charming cafes or native eateries. The city has a laid-back vibe that makes it good for a calming day trip. Sintra’s mix of historical past, pure magnificence, and distinctive points of interest makes it certainly one of Europe’s most lovely small cities.
5. Bibury, England
In case you ask me, Bibury is without doubt one of the most charming locations to go to in England. This picturesque village within the Cotswolds is known for its beautiful honey-colored cottages and the enduring Arlington Row.
Among the finest methods to take pleasure in Bibury is by merely wandering round. The River Coln runs by the village, including to its serene magnificence. Arlington Row is a must-see; these historic cottages are among the most photographed buildings in England!
In case you’re visiting Bibury, I extremely suggest heading to the Bibury Trout Farm. It’s not solely lovely but in addition a enjoyable spot the place you may catch your individual trout. Excellent for a novel and attractive lunch!
Bibury is definitely accessible from London. A practice to Kemble adopted by a brief taxi experience will get you there in round two hours. It’s a simple and nice journey, good for a day trip within the countryside.
After exploring, seize a seat at a neighborhood pub or tea room. The peaceable vibe of Bibury makes it a super place to loosen up and unwind. It’s undoubtedly one of the lovely small villages in Europe, providing a mixture of beautiful surroundings, quaint appeal, and a style of conventional English life.
6. Sighișoara, Romania
Sighișoara, Romania, is a hidden gem in Europe that’s filled with vibrant historical past and appeal. This medieval city in Transylvania is thought for its colourful homes and cobblestone streets that wind by a superbly preserved citadel.
One of many coolest issues about Sighișoara is its connection to Dracula. It’s the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the real-life inspiration for the well-known vampire. You possibly can even go to his supposed birthplace, which is now a museum.
In the course of the city, you’ll discover the Clock Tower. Climb to the highest for wonderful views of the rooftops and surrounding countryside, really showcasing why Sighișoara is without doubt one of the most lovely cities in Europe. The mix of historic significance with beautiful surroundings is fascinating.
Attending to Sighișoara is fairly simple. It’s a couple of two-hour drive from Sibiu or a scenic practice experience from Bucharest. The journey is a part of the journey, passing by lovely Romanian landscapes.
For a novel expertise, go to throughout the Sighișoara Medieval Pageant. The city comes alive with music, costumes, and performances. It’s a enjoyable option to dive into native tradition. Belief me, Sighișoara’s mixture of historical past, magnificence, and enjoyable makes it a must-visit vacation spot!
7. Kotor, Montenegro
Positioned between towering mountains and the glowing Adriatic Sea, Kotor is an absolute delight. This Montenegrin city is a maze of slim streets, historic partitions, and hidden squares, good for anybody with a way of journey.
The Outdated City, a UNESCO World Heritage web site, is filled with historical past and appeal. Climb the outdated metropolis partitions for breathtaking views over the bay and the red-tiled roofs beneath. It’s among the finest small cities in Europe for many who love a mixture of nature and historical past.
I personally cherished wandering across the quaint outlets and cafes, the place you may soak within the laid-back vibe. For a novel expertise, take a ship journey to Our Girl of the Rocks. It’s a tiny island with a captivating church and museum.
Kotor is definitely accessible from Dubrovnik and Tirana. It’s a implausible addition to any Balkan itinerary. Plus, the bus experience alongside the coast is extremely scenic.
In case you go to in the summertime, take a look at the Kotor Carnival. The streets come alive with music, dancing, and vibrant costumes. It’s usually held at the start of August.
8. Eguisheim, France
With its round streets and half-timbered homes, Eguisheim is certainly one of my favourite locations to go to in France. Positioned within the coronary heart of Alsace, this charming village is known for its flower-adorned facades and winding lanes.
What I like most about Eguisheim is the wine. Surrounded by vineyards, it’s a paradise for wine lovers. Take a tour, style some native Alsace wines, and benefit from the breathtaking views. The wine right here has a definite taste that you just gained’t discover anyplace else.
The central sq., Place du Château Saint-Léon, is a superb start line. From right here, you may wander the cobblestone streets and uncover hidden courtyards and colourful houses. The village is extremely photogenic.
Only a quick drive from Colmar, Eguisheim is tremendous accessible. The drive itself is attractive, with rolling hills and vineyards stretching so far as the attention can see. Excellent for a day journey or a relaxed weekend getaway.
A tip from me: go to throughout the Christmas market season. The village lights up with festive decorations, and the environment is actually magical. There’s nothing like sipping scorching wine within the crisp winter air. Eguisheim is an ideal mix of magnificence, wine, and festivity. It’s a spot you gained’t need to miss!
9. Gruyères, Switzerland
In case you’re searching for the prettiest small cities in Europe, head to Gruyères, Switzerland. Recognized for its medieval appeal and beautiful alpine backdrop, this city is a must-visit.
First up, the cheese. Gruyères is world-famous for its scrumptious cheese, and you’ll go to the native cheese manufacturing unit to see the way it’s made and revel in some samples. It’s a tacky journey you gained’t neglect!
The medieval appeal of the city is fascinating. Wander by the cobblestone streets, discover the Gruyères Fortress, and soak within the beautiful views of the mountains. The fortress gives a implausible glimpse into the area’s historical past and a few breathtaking panoramas.
I discovered the HR Giger Museum to be a stunning twist. It’s devoted to the artist behind the “Alien” movie designs and provides an surprising edge to this quaint city.
One tip: attempt the fondue at a neighborhood café. There’s nothing like having fun with a pot of effervescent cheese with contemporary bread whereas taking within the alpine views. Gruyères is a pleasant mixture of historical past, artwork, and, after all, unimaginable cheese. Don’t miss it!
10. Berat, Albania
Having simply visited Berat, Albania, I can confidently say this city is a hidden treasure. Generally known as the “Metropolis of a Thousand Home windows,” its distinctive Ottoman structure and picturesque setting are a feast for the eyes.
Strolling by the outdated city, I felt like I used to be moving into one other period. The white-washed homes climbing up the hillside and the winding cobblestone streets create a magical environment. Don’t miss the Berat Fortress. The views from the highest are completely beautiful.
Considered one of my favourite experiences was exploring the Gorica and Mangalem quarters, that are divided by the Osum River. Every has its personal appeal and character. Crossing the outdated Gorica Bridge was like stepping right into a postcard.
Berat is definitely accessible from Tirana, only a two-hour bus experience away. It’s a simple and scenic journey by lovely Albanian landscapes. I like to recommend visiting right here earlier than heading to Gjirokaster.
When you’ve got time, go to the native wineries. The Berat area is thought for its scrumptious wine, and tasting it whereas having fun with the view of the rolling hills is a should.
11. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mostar is a real gem in Bosnia. The city is known for its beautiful Stari Most, the enduring outdated bridge that arcs gracefully over the Neretva River. Watching native daredevils dive off the bridge is a thrill you gained’t neglect.
Strolling by the outdated bazaar, you’ll discover vibrant outlets, cafes, and the scent of scrumptious native meals wafting by the air. The cobblestone streets are lined with colourful market stalls promoting every part from handmade crafts to spices.
The Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque is one other spotlight. Climb the minaret for a panoramic view of the bridge and the town beneath. It’s a little bit of a hike, however completely value it for the beautiful panorama.
I counsel visiting within the late afternoon for the most effective gentle and fewer crowds. Seize a espresso at a riverside café and watch the sundown over the bridge. In all, Mostar’s mixture of historical past, vibrant tradition, and beautiful surroundings make it among the finest small cities to go to in Europe.
12. Meteora, Greece
Meteora, Greece, is straight-up magical! Think about hovering rock formations topped with historic monasteries that appear to the touch the sky. It’s a kind of locations that leaves you speechless.
Getting here’s a breeze. A practice experience from Athens to Kalambaka (on the base of Meteora) takes round 5 hours, and the journey gives some attractive views. When you arrive, you’ll be able to discover among the finest locations to go to in Greece.
Climbing as much as the monasteries is an journey in itself. Every climb rewards you with beautiful vistas and a way of peace that’s onerous to search out elsewhere. My favourite was the Holy Trinity Monastery. The views from up there are completely definitely worth the trek.
For a novel expertise, be a part of a sundown tour. Watching the solar dip beneath the horizon, casting a golden glow over the rocks and monasteries, is unforgettable.
A tip from my go to: begin your hikes early within the morning to keep away from the crowds and the noon warmth. And don’t neglect to decorate modestly when visiting the monasteries out of respect.
13. Vipiteno, Italy
Positioned within the Italian Alps, Vipiteno (“Sterzing” in German) is a vibrant city that’s bursting with appeal. The colourful buildings and beautiful mountain backdrop make it a visible deal with. Wandering by the medieval streets appears like a energetic stroll by historical past.
Among the finest experiences right here is visiting the Zwölferturm, the enduring tower within the coronary heart of city. Climb up for a panoramic view that’s completely breathtaking. Belief me, it’s value each step!
Vipiteno can also be well-known for its cozy cafes and pleasant outlets. Seize a gelato or a espresso, and revel in people-watching in one of many picturesque squares. It’s a implausible means to take in the native vibe.
Attending to Vipiteno is straightforward, because it’s well-connected by practice from main Italian cities. When you arrive, every part is inside strolling distance.
For many who love the outside, the encircling space gives nice climbing and snowboarding alternatives. The contemporary mountain air and beautiful surroundings make it among the finest small European cities to go to for nature lovers.
I like to recommend visiting throughout the Christmas market season. The festive lights and decorations rework Vipiteno right into a winter wonderland. It’s a magical expertise you gained’t neglect!
14. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Prepared for a medieval journey? Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Germany is your spot! This Bavarian city bursts with appeal, from its cobblestone streets to its half-timbered homes.
Begin with a stroll alongside the traditional city partitions. The views are superior, and also you get an actual sense of the city’s structure. Plus, the picture ops are infinite.
Within the city sq., you’ll discover charming outlets and cafes. Kathe Wohlfahrt’s Christmas Village is a must-visit, even in summer season. It’s like stepping right into a festive wonderland!
Touring right here is straightforward, with direct trains from Nuremberg and Frankfurt. When you arrive, every part is inside a brief stroll.
One spotlight is the Evening Watchman’s tour. The information’s tales are each humorous and intriguing, and it’s the right option to find out about Rothenburg’s previous. I cherished this tour and extremely suggest it.
Visiting in the summertime? The plush greenery makes the city much more lovely. In winter, it transforms right into a snowy paradise. Rothenburg is a vibrant mixture of historical past, magnificence, and enjoyable. It’s the form of place the place each go to feels contemporary and thrilling, and you’ll’t assist however fall in love with its appeal.
15. Piran, Slovenia
Final on our record of Europe’s most lovely small cities is Piran, Slovenia, and it’s an actual gem! This coastal city is a colourful mixture of Venetian structure, winding alleys, and breathtaking sea views.
Begin your journey at Tartini Sq., the center of Piran. It’s a vibrant spot surrounded by charming buildings and energetic cafes. The environment is infectious, and it’s the right place to sip a espresso and watch the world go by.
The city’s spotlight needs to be the climb to the highest of St. George’s Parish Church. The views over the Adriatic Sea and the crimson rooftops of Piran are beautiful. It’s a climb, however completely value it!
Attending to Piran is easy. It’s a scenic drive from Ljubljana, or you may take a bus that will get you there in about two hours. The coastal views alongside the way in which add to the journey’s appeal.
Considered one of my favourite experiences in Piran was wandering the slim streets, and discovering hidden squares and native eateries. The seafood right here is contemporary and scrumptious – a must-try!
In case you’re exploring historic partitions or having fun with the seaside, Piran’s mixture of historical past, magnificence, and laid-back vibes makes it unforgettable. It’s an ideal finish to our record.
Continuously Requested Questions (FAQs) about essentially the most lovely small cities in Europe
Dreaming of visiting Europe’s greatest small cities? Our FAQs have all of the insider suggestions and knowledge you want.
What’s the most picturesque city in Europe?
Hallstatt, Austria, is sometimes called essentially the most picturesque city in Europe. With its lakeside setting and Alpine backdrop, it’s extremely scenic.
The place is essentially the most colourful city in Europe?
Probably the most colourful city in Europe is Burano, Italy. Well-known for its brightly painted homes, it’s a vibrant and colourful vacation spot.
The place do the happiest individuals dwell in Europe?
You’ll discover the happiest individuals in Europe in Finland. It’s recognized for its prime quality of life and delightful nature, it persistently ranks highest in happiness.
What’s the smallest municipality in Europe?
The smallest municipality in Europe is Hum, Croatia. Generally known as the smallest city on this planet, it has a inhabitants of round 20 individuals!
