If you’re planning to visit Europe, some of the first destinations that come to your mind will be the teeming cities of London in England, Berlin in Germany, or Paris in France.
While these cities are incredible, they are far from what all Europe has to offer. You can see a more traditional side of Europe by exploring some smaller towns across the continent. Here are some of the most charming small towns in Europe that you can visit.
Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt is one of the most beautiful Austrian towns located on Hallstatter Lake and surrounded by the gorgeous Salzkammergut Mountains.
This small town has so many things to offer — an attractive shoreline, unique cobblestoned streets and squares, and 16th-century buildings built with wood and stone.
You have man gorgeous buildings and churches to explore.
Everything about this town is picturesque — especially in summer and spring when everything around it gets green.
Folegandros, Greece
Folegandros is a rocky Greek island with whitewashed buildings decorated with lovely flowers, streets paved in slates, and Orthodox churches.
This island is a perfect place to walk around.
There are plenty of beautiful beaches that you can explore.
All of the beaches are accessible by bus or boat. Perfect for a summer holiday, and you’ll avoid crowds since it’s not one of the most famous islands in Greek.
Manarola, Italy
Manarola is packed with an array of vibrant rainbow-colored houses along the Mediterranean coast.
This beautiful fishing town is well-known for its fabulous wine, especially Sciacchetra, and the paintings of Antonio Discovolors.
This artist fell in love with the town and devoted much of his time to work in the region. There are no cars here, no traffic lights, and no horns. You can drive down to the town, but you’ll have to park outside and take a shuttle bus or then walk in.
Colmar, France
Colmar is often known as “Little Venice” because of the waterways that pass through medieval streets.
The town is known for great wines and great food, which is a mixture of German and French cuisine.
The Colmar Cathedral is a fantastic place to visit in this town.
Colmar is amazing in the winter, and you will be able to enjoy its Christmas and New Year market.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
This is a small town in Germany Located in the Franconia region of Bavaria.
One of the things you will like about this town is its imposing Rathaus, one of the finest town halls in southern Germany.
Rothenburg is known for its incredible Christmas and New Year market, so December is the best time for visiting this gorgeous town.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
The historic seaside town of Dubrovnik is both compelling and charming.
This small town is one of the world’s most beautiful walled cities, overlooking the calm blue sea with the most captivating views you’ll ever see.
Dubrovnik shines all season. Wine is in abundance in this town.
Be sure to walk through the cobbled streets down to Malvasija Wine Bar to taste some unique wines.
Lindau, Germany
Lindau is a small Bavarian town on the eastern side of Lake Constance.
This old town is charming, but the views across the water catapult it to the top.
When you visit the town, take some time to walk around the picturesque lakeside town.
There are many cafes and shops to explore, plus the lighthouse and lion statue that guards the marina.