The Most Beautiful Villages in Europe
Hidden gems in Europe are a rare find, but the charm of small and picturesque villages has inspired travelers to explore the world in search of these dream destinations.
Discovering Hidden Beauty
In order for a village to be truly picturesque and reminiscent of fairy tales, its location must be beautiful in itself. You will find the most beautiful settlements in countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece, or Switzerland. The five fishing villages of Cinque Terre, Italy, are stunning but very crowded. However, just an hour’s drive from Cinque Terre is Tellaro, another amazing seaside village, which is less accessible and still retains the charm of a picturesque hamlet, according to Treasure and Leisure.
Exploring Charming Villages
Reaching some of these European beauties may require extra effort, but the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful place at your own pace – instead of fighting for space – is definitely worth it.
Exploring the Hidden Beauties of European Cities
When planning your next vacation in Europe, consider renting a car to explore the hidden gems of these European cities. It’s definitely worth the effort and you can enjoy spectacular views along the way.
Alberobello, Italy
The beautiful village of Alberobello, located in the Puglia region of Italy, is famous for its stone houses with conical roofs (trulli), included in the UNESCO heritage. It is one of the most renowned attractions of the region. Hiking to Alberobello through the Itria Valley is fascinating and the trails take you through almond fields and wildflowers. You can also enjoy picnics and olive oil tastings at farms along the way.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is a fairytale mountain town at the base of the imposing Matterhorn in Switzerland. The iconic Swiss wooden chalets, winding streets, and the breathtaking scenery make it a must-visit destination. Enjoy hiking in the surrounding mountains or simply take in the beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Discover the charming landscapes of Zermatt, Switzerland. After exploring the town, you can hike to the village of Zmutt (1,935 m) and to the mountain station of Furi. From here, you can take a cable car to Schwarzsee (2,555 m) – a picturesque lake, located right under the iconic Matterhorn peak.
Hallstatt, Austria
The town of Hallstatt in central Austria is a fairy-tale settlement on the shores of Lake Hallstätter See, nestled between the crystal-clear lake and a lush mountain rising dramatically from the water’s edge. A history of salt mining dating back thousands of years has brought sustainable prosperity to the town, evident in the beautiful square surrounded by ivy-covered buildings.
Folegandros, Greece
While the streets of Santorini are crowded with tourists, the neighboring island of Folegandros in the Cyclades offers a similar combination of visual elements – slate-paved streets, whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful flowers, and occasionally a Greek Orthodox church with its blue domes against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea.
Discover the Beauty of Coastal Villages
Experience the wonders of the Italian Ligurian coast by following the trails that connect the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre. From north to south, the five beautiful villages are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. It’s hard to pick a favorite, but Manarola – the second smallest of the famous towns – boasts colorful houses perched on hills overlooking the sea.
Explore the Provencal Landscape
Immerse yourself in the classic Provencal landscape of Luberon, with its tall medieval villages, ancient abbeys, lavender fields, and olive groves. Stop in Gordes, where golden stone houses rise in steep circles above the Calavon Valley. Wander through its labyrinthine cobblestone streets and admire the breathtaking views.
The Hidden Gems of Europe
Embark on a journey through the picturesque hills covered in thyme towards the Senanque Abbey, a collection of 850-year-old Romanesque structures hidden among lavender fields.
Ronda, Spain
Overlooking the impressive 100-meter deep El Tajo gorge, the old town of Ronda in Andalusia seems like something out of a dream. Its stone bridge crossing the canyon at its full height, the white buildings perched precariously close to the edge, and the incredible viewpoints on the edge of the abyss make up one of the most spectacular panoramas in the world. The rest of the town is equally charming: a harmonious blend of Mudéjar palaces, Nasrid buildings, and noble Renaissance or Gothic residences.
Giethoorn, Netherlands
Surrounded by the marshes of the Weerribben-Wieden National Park, just two hours from Amsterdam, Giethoorn (with 2,700 inhabitants) is an incredibly beautiful water village: connected by small wooden bridges, its streets can be explored
The Enchanting Villages of Europe
Traveling by boat, surrounded by impressive layers of flowers, traditional houses with beautifully maintained thatched roofs, and greenery everywhere. A village worthy of a fairy tale. Rovinj, Croatia.
Rovinj, Croatia
If you love Venice and the Renaissance cities on the Italian coast, Rovinj will enchant you: its old town dominated by a Venetian bell tower, colorful houses in warm tones, the red and ocher harbor set at the end of an intense blue lagoon, and the thirteen surrounding islands make the “pearl of Istria” a magical place of incredible beauty at sunset.
Other Beautiful Villages in Europe
Receiving honorable mentions are the following villages:
Bled, Slovenia: With its church lost in the middle of the lake and its hilltop castle, this picturesque resort offers a postcard-perfect setting.
Monschau, Germany: A charming village with a river running through it, half-timbered houses, and narrow cobblestone streets.
Discover the Most Picturesque Villages in Europe
Embark on a journey through some of the most charming villages in Europe, where traditional architecture meets stunning landscapes. From the narrow streets of Pyrgi in Chios, Greece, to the colorful houses of Cinque Terre, Italy, each village has its own unique beauty to offer.
Pyrgi, Chios, Greece
Pyrgi, located on the island of Chios, is a true gem with its narrow and uneven streets lined with houses adorned with traditional geometric patterns. The village exudes a sense of pride in its rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a glimpse of authentic Greek life.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Whether you choose to explore one of the five villages, Cinque Terre will leave you in awe of its beauty. The colorful houses perched on the edge of the cliff create a breathtaking sight at sunrise or sunset. However, it’s best to avoid visiting during peak season when the villages are overcrowded with tourists. Instead, opt for a visit in September or October when the temperatures are cooler and the crowds have dwindled.
Discover the Beauty of Romania
Romania is a country filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and friendly people. From the picturesque villages in Transylvania to the majestic castles of Dracula, there is so much to explore and discover in this beautiful country.
Explore Charming Villages
One of the highlights of Romania is its charming villages, where time seems to stand still. Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets, admire the traditional architecture, and meet the welcoming locals. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Visit Historic Castles
No trip to Romania is complete without visiting one of its historic castles. From the legendary Bran Castle, often associated with Dracula, to the stunning Peleș Castle nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, you’ll be amazed by the grandeur and beauty of these architectural wonders.
Experience Romanian Culture
Immerse yourself in Romanian culture by trying the delicious traditional cuisine, listening to folk music, and learning about the country’s fascinating history. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for this hidden gem of Eastern Europe.
