Driving through Europe’s back roads, you’re bound to stumble upon at least a few beautiful, hidden villages that you’ve never heard about. If you’re the type of traveler that enjoys exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations and would like a head start, consider this list of “secret” villages that are sure to be the highlight of your trip.
Eguisheim, France
Often ranked as one of France’s most beautiful villages, the winding, cobblestone streets of Eguisheim in the Alsace region are lined with traditional medieval half-timbered buildings that are painted in bright shades. When you first step into the town, the narrow street follows the line of a former moat around the town, where you’ll see the brightly colored higgledy-piggledy houses. While there are many other Alsace towns that are worth visiting, this one is especially delightful with cars and tourist traps limited in its medieval heart. Eguisheim also claims to be the birthplace of Alsace wine and hosts a number of working wineries right in the center of the village.
Albarracin, Spain
Some say Albarracin is Spain’s most beautiful village. You’ll feel as if you’ve been transported directly to the Middle Ages in this sleepy little town that lies two hours from Valencia at an elevation of nearly 4,000 feet above sea level. Unspoiled by modernization, its old town is nestled against canyon walls, with bright and colorful church bell towers, creating a magnificent contrast with the golden-hued buildings. You can spend hours strolling the streets lined with quaint homes looking just as they did in medieval times. Stone walls are covered in plaster mixed with red or orange clay to provide the stereotypical Albarracin look, while dark wooden beams give the structures an Old World charm often seen in a German or Belgian village. Arrange to take a guided tour to see various sights like the stunning cathedral constructed with a blend of late Gothic and Renaissance styles.
Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
A true hidden treasure in the Czech Republic, Cesky Krumlov appears as if it’s stepped out of the pages of a fairytale with its narrow cobblestone roads, picturesque bridges and 13th-century castle with Baroque, Renaissance and Gothic elements. Untouched by war, its gorgeous architectural heritage has managed to stay intact. Step back in time to this walled city and explore a number of well-preserved religious sites, including the Minorite Monastery and the exquisite Church of St. Vitus, as well as multiple art galleries and museums. If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, enjoy hiking on nearby Mount Klet or kayaking along the River Vltava.
Cicmany, Slovakia
Visiting the authentic village of Cicmany provides a good glimpse at Slovak folklore. The town is renowned for its well-preserved wooden houses painted with white decorations as well as beautiful traditional costumes. The white geometrical patterns originated about two centuries ago when housewives decided to paint the corners of the homes using simple signs with lime. The ornaments seen today are more complex and were made after a fire devastated the village in 1921. While many of its residents moved away in the following decades, those who’ve remained have aimed to preserve Cicmany’s traditions and cultural celebrations. Be sure to visit the ethnographical museum in Raden house as well as the Baroque chateau in the heart of the village, offering a place to stay and a true Slovak kitchen for dining.
Giethoorn, Netherlands
Giethoorn has been called the “Venice of the North.” This dreamy village that sits about 75 miles northeast of Amsterdam is especially peaceful as no cars are allowed. There are some 180 bridges that cross over the picturesque canals and the loudest sound you’re likely to hear is the quacking of a duck. Rent a boat and paddle through the 56 miles of canals, or walk the footpaths that run beside them. You’ll find lots of canal-side eateries as well as cozy thatched cottages and even three canal-side museums along the way.
Alberobello, Italy
The village of Alberobello, with its unique trulliem structures, looks more like something out of a Disney film than modern Italy. These conical, white limestone cottages are spread throughout the village and became popular in the 15th century for residents who hoped to avoid taxes. They are only located here in the Puglia region and many are available for rent for short stays. Alberobello also offers a number of museums and charming shops featuring local olive oils and almond treats, along with lively tavernas serving some of the best antipasti you’re likely to ever try.
Presicce, Italy
Presicce, a small town in Puglia’s sunny Salento region, enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate as well as being in an area rich with streams and springs. In fact, it was the presence of water that attracted inhabitants here in the 4th century BC and ever since. Its winding, narrow streets meander past magnificent mansions with arched windows, wrought iron and carved columns – and, an interesting cave system sits right below them. Some of the underground chambers were used as ancient olive mills, and the remnants can still be seen today. It’s also home to a castle, the only hanging garden in Salento, a fancy Baroque church, a number of interesting palaces and more.
Marsaxlokk, Malta
Marsaxlokk, Malta9 is a colorful, ancient fishing village that is famous for its decorative “eyed” painted boats known as Luzzus, and its large Sunday fish market which attracts hundreds of visitors and locals who are searching for the freshest catch. Filled with lots of Maltese spirt, this charming village has a rich history that dates back to the ninth century BC. It has a small, sandy beach, and St. Paul’s Bay is popular for cliff jumping as well as outstanding snorkeling and diving. St. Peter’s Pool can be reached with a 20-minute walk, and features smooth, weathered limestone ledges that are ideal for sunbathing, while its waters offer a pleasant, quiet spot for swimming too.
Hallstatt, Austria
Set on the banks of a dazzling, large lake and surrounded by misty mountains, the village of Hallstatt is another true fairytale-like village. Located in the Eastern Alps, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has even been called the prettiest lakeside village in the world. It also happens to be one of Europe’s oldest villages, with a history that dates back as far as 2,000 BC. The richly decorated, colorful homes and the slender silhouette of its evangelical church are the quintessential examples of its magnificent architectural style. By visiting the grounds of the 15th-century Our Lady Church, you’ll discover the Beinhause (Bone House), which holds a collection of hand-painted skulls. The nearby mountains not only provide a breathtaking backdrop, but they’re home to a number of caves, including the famous Ice Cave.
Sighisoara, Romania
Located on the Tarnava River, Sighisoara dates back to the twelfth century. While few travelers have heard of it, from the moment you enter its fortified walls, you’re likely to fall in love with this village. It boasts cobbled streets lined with colorful, gingerbread-roofed 16th-century homes and pretty cafes that lead to its centerpiece square. Sighisoara also has an interesting history, once home to German merchants and craftsmen, most notably, those who were part of the Transylvanian Saxons. The village also has the distinction of being the birthplace of Vlad III (AKA Vlad the Impaler, Vlad Dracula and Vlad Tepes). Vlad’s father was the ruler of nearby Wallachia but was in exile in Transylvania when Vlad was born. His birthplace is marked with a placard and is now home to a very kitschy restaurant called “Casa Dracula.”
Chora, Folégandros, Greece
Shining under the Aegean sun, this tranquil spot in the Cyclades has little if any in common with its neighbor Santorini. There are no buildings taller than two stories, no boutiques or fancy restaurants, not even a cruise ship pulling into port. The remote island of Folegandros makes a fabulous, quiet escape, with its capital town of Chora partially built right into it boasting whitewashed houses with multi-colored doors as timeless creations of traditional Cycladic architecture. Here the waves gently crash on pebbled beaches, old wooden windmills twirl in the salty breeze and goats scurry up the hills. Share delectable homemade dishes and local treats like souroto (white goat cheese) and matsata (handmade noodles with rabbit or rooster), along with the area’s famous refreshing beverage, rakomelo (raki, a liquor, with honey).
Arild, Sweden
This fishing village on a peninsula in southwest Sweden is especially attractive with its narrow streets and charming houses with lavish gardens, but Arild’s most notable site is a public art exhibit known as Nimis, a Scandinavian version of Watts Towers in Los Angeles that features a maze of 30-foot aboveground tunnels and 45-foot-high climbing towers. Wine enthusiasts can also enjoy visiting a vineyard or even staying in one. Located near the village, the vineyard run by Annette and Jonas Ivarsson is especially picturesque with the vines growing in neat rows along the hilly slopes. A hotel and restaurant can both be found onsite.
Grundarfjordur, Iceland
Grundarfjordur is a small town that is not well-known, but it hosts one of Iceland’s most spectacular sights, Kirkjufell, a 1,520-foot-high mountain that rises on the north coast of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Photographers come from across the globe just to capture the unique landmark that’s starred in a number of films, including “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.” The tranquil fishing town itself is gorgeous, set between a mountain range and the sea. It’s surrounded by fascinating landscape, in addition to mountains, there are waterfalls, black beaches and the Snæfellsjökull glacier. This is also a fabulous spot for viewing the northern lights and whale watching – winter brings large pods of orcas that feed on herring close to the shore.
Gubbio, Italy
Gubbio sits in Italy’s Umbria region, known for its vivid natural palette that’s inspired nearly every color pigment made – local artist Piero della Francesca immortalized its countryside in his beautiful paintings. And, Gubbio’s claim to fame is having the best preserved historical and cultural heritage of all the medieval Umbrian towns. Spread out over the steep slopes of Monte Ingino, the harsh conditions of the Middle Ages can most easily be imagined here, especially on a rainy day. Visible traces of its past can still be seen, etched into the facades of buildings in the old center. Discover ancient palaces, churches and cathedrals as well as Gothic-style buildings, traditional in their designs and distinct rooftops, most built in the 14th and 15th centuries, originally inhabited by wealthy merchants.
Portmagee, Ireland
Portmagee has been called one of the “10 Most Beautiful Villages to See in Ireland Before You Die.” Set just across the water from breathtaking Valentia Island, this sleepy fishing village boasts awe-inspiring scenery and is known for its friendly locals as well as being in an ideal spot along the Ring of Kerry route. It also hosts an outstanding bar/restaurant, The Bridge Bar, which frequently hosts traditional live music nights. More recently, Portmagee has been thrust into the spotlight as a town that hosted the cast and crew of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” while they filmed scenes on Skellig Michael, an island that is home to the ruins of an ancient monastery built between the 6th and 8th centuries. Public boat tours to the island are available between late spring and early fall.
Reine, Norway
Reine is a tiny fishing village in Norway that may not be one that many travelers make it to, or have even heard of, but it may be the most jaw-droppingly beautiful town in the entire world. Found on the island of Moskenesoya, north of the Arctic Circle in the Lofoten archipelago, this fairytale town in Europe is home to only a little more than 300 residents. This extraordinary, very off-the-beaten path destination features gorgeous sapphire bays that sit at the edge of soaring mountains and towering fjords. Visitors have the opportunity to stay in red rorbuers, or traditional fishermen’s cabins that were transformed into cozy cottages with awe-inspiring views of the sea and the incredible night sky vistas, including the northern lights.
Gudhjem, Denmark
Gudhjem is located in Bornholm, Denmark’s sunniest region, lying way out in the Baltic Sea, renowned for its stunning chalk cliffs, lush forests, stark white beaches and a pure, ethereal light that draws artists to paint its beautiful landscapes. Gudhjem, with its steep streets and alleyways leading down to the harbor, is Bornholm’s most attractive harbor town. It’s crowned by a windmill that stands over the sloping streets and half-timbered houses. This is also Denmark’s only mountain town, built in the rocky terrain and up the Bokul mountain range. If you climb it, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the town, the red roofs, the harbor and the sea beyond.
Akureyri, Iceland
Akureyri sits at the bottom of Iceland’s longest fjord, which measures 37 miles from its mouth to the bottom, surrounded by soaring, majestic mountains that are filled with thundering waterfalls, roaring rivers and lush forests. This beautiful town dubbed the “Capital of the North,” is the country’s second-largest urban area, after the greater Reykjavik area, though it’s home to just a little over 17,000 inhabitants. It features a number of notable cultural attractions at its center, including a botanical garden that contains nearly every plant that grows in Iceland. Main Street (Aðalstræti) runs along the oceanfront and is dotted with beautiful old houses and interesting museums.
Staufen im Breisgau, Germany
Staufen im Breisgau is a pretty historic village that sits on the edge of the Black Forest in southern Germany. It’s home to well-preserved buildings that provide a glimpse of life as it used to be. In its old town, called “Staufener Stadtle,” you’ll find lots of unique shops as well as an impressive castle ruin that sits atop a hill. Pastel houses lead to its market place, which is crowned by the small Town Hall that has a gothic inscription relating local history back to 770 on its façade. Other places to see include the 9th-century St. Trudpert Monastery Church, Ecomusee (an open-air museum), Keramic Museum and Kysersberg, the home of Albert Schweitzer.
St. Mawes, England
St. Mawes looks so perfect with its quaint tearooms and whitewashed, thatch cottages that you might think it’s a film set. This quiet fishing village is surrounded by the sea and gentle hills, set on the Roseland Peninsula, which was designated part of Cornwall’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for the quality of its landscape and unrivaled scenery. A haven for hikers, wildlife lovers and water sports enthusiasts, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep yourself busy here as well as the opportunity to just relax on a secluded beach or sip a pint in a cozy pub. The village is also home to St. Mawes Castle, one of the best-preserved of Henry VIII’s coastal artillery fortresses, and the most elaborately decorated.
Tasiilaq, Greenland
Greenland mays seem like an uninviting place, but it offers breathtaking scenery, exceptional wildlife, numerous opportunities for exciting adventures and the beautiful village of Tasiilaq, with its unique blend of modern European influence and traditional Inuit culture. It sits in a deep fjord in the center of the country’s east coast, surrounded by soaring mountains, and features a picturesque harbor. You’ll see charming little wooden houses, sled dogs, glaciers, icebergs and much more. The majestic Flower Valley nearby is ideal for hiking, and there are also a number of unforgettable boat excursions that depart from here. To get to Tasiilaq you’ll have to take the once-per-week flight from Reykjavik, Iceland, but that provides the perfect chance to explore both countries.
Poysdorf, Austria
Poysdorf is a peaceful town located just south of the Czech Republic border, nestled within grapevine-laced hills that’s ideal for wine lovers. Here you’ll find the “real Austria,” where you can enjoy exploring vineyards and wine cave as well as visiting a museum dedicated to the wine and culture history of the town, Vino Versum Poysdorf. From May to October, the “open cellar” operation enables a winegrower to show you his farm and invite you to take part in wine tasting every day. A loop circuit known as the “Kellergassen,” will bring you to the wine town’s outskirts among a spectacular landscape of vineyards. While you’re in Poysdorf, be sure to take a picture in front of the monument in the town center that depicts Joshua and Caleb carrying a pole laden with huge grapes.
Moncontour, France
Moncontour, France is a charming walled town in northern Brittany. It’s home to many attractive medieval buildings and houses of the gentry that date back to the 17th-century, its period of prosperity as the center of the region’s renowned linen industry. It still contains a significant amount of its original defensive walls, built in the 13th and 14th centuries. Wander the cobblestone streets and view stonewalled buildings, the Town Hall and the church of Saint-Mathurin, a baroque-style church with an ornate clock tower and beautiful stained glass windows. The pretty surrounding countryside is popular for walking, biking and horse riding.
Inisheer Island
While Inisheer Island, the smallest of the Aran Islands, obviously isn’t a village, it certainly has the feel of a remote, isolated fishing village. Here, locals speak the Irish Gaelic language among themselves, though they do speak English to visitors. When you step off the ferry and onto the pier, you’ll be greeted with an idyllic white sandy beach that faces crystal clear turquoise waters, frequently dotted with fishing boats. The main village can be found adjacent to the beach, enclosed by a small hill with O’Brien’s castle and a fort at the top. The two-square-mile island is easily covered on foot, though there are bicycle rentals and a number of pony and cart drivers willing to show you around. You’ll find a number of things to keep you busy, including walks to the lighthouse or the shipwreck of the Plassy, traditional music pubs and even an art center.
