1. Overview
Discover the hidden gems of Europe with our guide to charming villages and towns that offer authentic experiences away from bustling cities. From picturesque destinations in Switzerland to inviting spots in Greece, these locations promise culture, beauty, and local flavor.
Giornico, Switzerland
The charm of Ticino, the Italian-speaking canton of southern Switzerland, is characterized by a unique, almost timeless atmosphere. To fully appreciate this enchanting place, drive north 35 miles from the popular lake resort towns of Ascona and Locarno towards Giornico, a 14th-century stone village hidden from the main road. Here, you will be greeted by a gently flowing river and two arching stone bridges. The local grotte, or family-run restaurants, serve traditional dishes such as spezzatino (meat ragoût) accompanied by polenta and local Merlot.
Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor, nestled along the Adriatic coast, has emerged as a favored destination for those seeking a European riviera experience without the typical crowds found in more famous locales like France or Italy. The well-preserved old town, enriched with charming red-roofed buildings amid lush greenery and serene waters, provides a visually stunning stop along the Dalmatian Coast.
Bolgheri, Italy
The enchanting Viale dei Cipressi, a three-mile-long road adorned with over 2,500 cypress trees, leads you directly into Bolgheri, a picturesque village nestled within Tuscany’s Maremma vineyards. Beyond the dramatic arrival, Bolgheri is known for its acclaimed red wines. Visit Caffè della Posta located in the main square to savor these locally produced wines, which have gained recognition since their inception in the 1980s, now rivaling the finest Bordeaux.
Staufen im Breisgau, Germany
This lovely enclave located at the edge of the Black Forest is perfect for a wine weekend getaway. A scenic drive from Strasbourg takes you through hills adorned with terraced vineyards. You will arrive in a picturesque downtown featuring pastel houses leading to a market square adorned with the historic Town Hall, showcasing gothic inscriptions that recount local history dating back to 770. Enjoy the lively atmosphere at an outdoor wine bar, but do be careful: it is said that anyone who falls into one of the town’s pristine irrigation ditches is destined to marry a local!
Lavenham, England
Lavenham in Suffolk is often regarded as one of the prettiest towns in England, featuring over 350 heritage houses. Its high street is lined with quirky shops and teahouses that serve traditional scones and clotted cream—delights that are increasingly rare in rural England and virtually extinct in more polished areas like the Cotswolds.
Aberdour, Scotland
The picturesque village of Aberdour can be reached via a train from Edinburgh, arriving at a Victorian station next to beautifully cultivated flower gardens adjoining a medieval castle. This charming hamlet is quite walkable, featuring well-kept pathways connecting local attractions. In August, it transforms into a serene base for visitors attending the Edinburgh International Festival, while throughout the year, it remains a vibrant working village complete with shops and cozy pubs.
Norcia, Italy
In eastern Umbria, Norcia is steeped in artisanal culinary traditions. Here, pecorino cheese is aged for two years, and trained dogs explore the woodlands to find black truffles. The culinary pride of the town is the cinghiale, or wild boar, with a tantalizing scent of spiced salumi wafting from the local norcineria. A stroll through the historical center reveals shopkeepers who skillfully cure boar meat using methods refined over the last 800 years. Sample fresh ciauscoli and find a spot in the Piazza San Benedetto, where the community celebrates the Festival of Saint Benedict each spring.
Roundstone, Ireland
In the quaint fishing village of Roundstone, even the simple pleasures abound, like collecting ripe blackberries along winding lanes. For those seeking adventure, a hike up Errisbeg Hill rewards you with breathtaking views of Connemara National Park and its Twelve Bens mountain range. Should rain surprise you—as it often does in Ireland—take refuge in local shops selling traditional Irish instruments or enjoy a firelit evening at O’Dowds with a comforting pint of Guinness paired with Irish whiskey.
Chassignolles, France
In this quaint village, celebrated as a retreat for Marseille’s elite during the 1950s, visitors are treated to scenic views of dormant green volcanoes and meandering streams. The restored auberge provides picturesque vistas of a 12th-century Romanesque church while offering innovative dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients.
Folegandros, Greece
In stark contrast to nearby Santorini, Folegandros offers a tranquil escape where buildings are limited to two stories in height, avoiding the hustle of high-end boutiques and fashionable restaurants. Here, picturesque pebbled beaches, goats roaming the hills, and traditional wooden windmills create a perfect setting for a peaceful getaway.
Getaria, Spain
Just 15 miles from San Sebastián, the Basque village of Getaria is known primarily for its exquisite seafood offerings. Revel in the tradition of dining on freshly grilled baby squid and turbot from the Bay of Biscay. You’ll find the local asadores bustling during weekend lunches, where residents indulge in leisurely multi-course meals paired with refreshing bottles of local white Rioja.
Marvão, Portugal
Marvão, perched atop a rocky hill in the Alentejo region, is home to a Moorish castle dating back to the 13th century. The castle ruins now resemble a stunning and weathered landmark that overlooks the vibrant red-tile rooftops and winding streets of the village below, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Terschelling, The Netherlands
Located just 85 miles from Amsterdam, the island of Terschelling presents travelers with tranquil sandy stretches rather than bustling beach clubs. Here, you will find charming 19th-century villas and seaside houses, illuminated by the Brandaris lighthouse— the oldest in the Netherlands, built in 1594. As dusk approaches during the summer months, the harbor bistros become lively as locals savor a cold Jupiler beer, celebrating their good fortune.
Tisvildeleje, Denmark
Embarking on a train ride from Copenhagen to Tisvildeleje feels like an 80-minute journey encompassing the beauty of Denmark. This serene seaside village offers a picturesque landscape where thatched-roof cottages intermingle with sandy dunes. For anyone skeptical about Denmark’s beach offerings, a visit to Tisvildeleje will undoubtedly change your perspective.
Arild, Sweden
Arild, a fishing village on a picturesque peninsula in southwest Sweden, is renowned for both its idyllic natural surroundings and its unique art scene. In 1980, artist Lars Vilks began constructing Nimis—a monumental installation made from driftwood and lumber—declaring it an independent entity. This public art exhibit now stands as a fascinating attraction for adventurous visitors exploring the town.
Hellnar, Iceland
Hellnar, with its remnants of 11th-century fishing structures, showcases a unique blend of historical legacy and contemporary environmental commitment, exemplified by its small fishing community. They focus heavily on sustainability efforts while cherishing their traditional roots.
Slavonice, Czech Republic
Once an overlooked area during the Communist era, Slavonice has become a haven for artists and creatives since the Velvet Revolution. This quaint village, with its two town squares and Renaissance-era burgher houses featuring stunning biblical scenes, is now home to the Slavonice Institute, promoting art and progressive thought.
St. Mawes, England
St. Mawes, located in southern Cornwall, evokes a picturesque scene of fishing villages, featuring whitewashed cottages and quaint tearooms. Enjoy freshly caught fish sold at the quay, while evenings often find the locals unwinding with Cornish-brewed ale and Pimm’s Cups at the local pubs.
Saint-Geniès, France
The village of Saint-Geniès, situated in the Périgord region of the Dordogne, boasts two of France’s culinary treasures: foie gras and truffles. On market days, the local square is buzzing with shoppers collecting delicious offerings, including pommes salardaises—potatoes sautéed in duck fat.
Kardamili, Greece
Visitors flock to the Mani region for its breathtaking mountains and pristine beaches. In Kardamili, immerse yourself in authentic Greek culture with homemade dishes like Greek salad and moussaka at Lela’s Taverna, followed by a relaxing evening at the Elies Hotel’s outdoor patio overlooking the Gulf of Messenia.
Ullastret, Spain
Located in the vibrant Baix Empordà region of Spain, Ullastret is not just known for its ancient archaeological sites but also for El Fort, a restaurant and hotel operated by the renowned chef Lola Puig, appealing to food enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Hall in Tirol, Austria
Taking a quick train ride from Innsbruck transports you to Hall in Tirol, a town founded in 1303 that brings you back to the Middle Ages. Its medieval architecture and stunning salt mining history are well-preserved, thanks to the area’s prosperity. Explore the beautiful hiking and skiing trails in the surrounding Alps, adding an extra dimension to your visit in this idyllic town.
Koguva, Estonia
Located in Koguva, a charming Estonian island village, traditional fishing and shepherding practices have preserved the natural beauty surrounding the area. Visitors can witness diverse wildlife, including wild goats and deer, or venture to the breathtaking 60-foot Üügu Cliff for panoramic views of the coastline.
Les Baux-de-Provence, France
Located in the Provence region, Les Baux-de-Provence is a quaint village surrounded by lavender fields, vineyards, and olive groves. Enjoy panoramic views of the stunning countryside and make a stop at the Carrières de Lumières, known for its captivating multimedia art shows hosted in a former quarry.
Viscri, Romania
With the support of the Mihai Eminescu Trust, Viscri, a Saxon village in Transylvania, has preserved its rich heritage. The village’s 12th-century church and cemetery are now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Restoration efforts have reintroduced indigenous pear trees, revitalized local crafts, and showcased traditional Saxon life for both visitors and philanthropic supporters.
