The most comfortable cities in Europe. Version. The most beautiful villages and small towns in Europe
The capitals of any country, of course, are known to the whole world, and they are the most visited cities of the state. But, for example, Europe is not only Rome, Berlin and Paris. It is also a whole series of small pretty towns, travel through which can be no less enjoyable. And maybe even more. Here is a list of small European towns that may be of interest to tourists.
Manarola, Italy
The population of this city is just over 350 people, but it is one of the most famous cities of the Cinque Terre, national park Italy. Manarola is famous for its scattering of rainbow-colored houses, built in the most picturesque way on the rocks near the coast, and fabulous wine. There are no cars, no traffic lights, no screeching tires. You can get to Manarola by car, but you will have to park somewhere near the city and then get there on foot.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
Charming Bavarian mountain resort with a population of 26,000 people is only an hour and a half by train from Munich. This town was formed as a result of the merger of two ancient settlements - ancient Roman and ancient Teutonic, which were merged in 1935 to the Winter Olympic Games 1936. Particularly impressive is the former Partenkirchen, founded in 15 AD, with its narrow cobbled streets and Bavarian-style buildings with pastel-coloured walls frescoed with historical or religious themes.
Portree, Scotland
Portree is the most Big City to the Scottish Isle of Skye and its prosperous Cultural Center, although the population of the town is less than 2500 people. Portree Harbor is a row of pubs, seafood restaurants and breathtaking views of the bay. It is in Portree that you should stop if you plan to explore the incredibly picturesque wild island lands, in addition, in the immediate vicinity of Portree there are unique attractions - Mount Storr and Kilt Rock Falls.
Reine, Norway
In this tiny fishing village on picturesque island Moskenesøy is home to less than 250 people, but the town is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful in Norway. Located north of the Arctic Circle, the city is a sapphire bay, mesmerizing northern lights, breathtaking mountains and fjords. Many of the bright red rorbuers, or fishermen's houses, have been converted into cozy cottages overlooking the Norwegian Sea - perfect place for a couple of nights.
Colmar, France
The history of the town with a population of 67,000 dates back to the 9th century. Even in old sources, this city is often referred to as "Little Venice" because of its many canals. This ancient Alsatian village is also considered wine capital district, and German and French influences will become apparent while walking through the streets with a medieval flavor: bakeries offer kugelhopfs and croissants, and sauerkraut and foie gras can be tasted in cafes. In architecture - the same mix: from French neo-Baroque to German Gothic.
Marsaxlokk, Malta
Lively Trading port Marsaxlokk was founded in 900 BC when the Phoenicians first landed on Malta. Today this picturesque city OK with a population of 3200 is the main supplier of fish island nation in the Mediterranean. The uniqueness of the town lies in the fact that there are no modern buildings in it - only traditional fish markets, old houses and brightly painted luzzu fishing boats.
Bled, Slovenia
Protected majestic mountains The town of Bled was founded in 1004. The Holy Roman Emperor liked Bled so much that he even gave it to the Bishop of Brixen. Bled Castle, the main attraction of the town with a population of 5 thousand people, is located on an island in the center of the picturesque Lake Bled with glacial blue waters.
Hallstatt, Austria
With less than 1,000 inhabitants, Hallstatt is one of the oldest settlements in Austria. It was founded in 5000 BC for salt miners in the mountains. The city on the shores of Lake Hallstatt continuously flourished thanks to this business - it still has salt mines, but today they are more of a landmark, and the whole city has become a monument world heritage UNESCO. The town is insanely beautiful, its square is especially good, surrounded by buildings entwined with ivy.
Annecy, France
This is one of the most beautiful and romantic places on the ground. Perhaps it is even more beautiful here than in the stunningly majestic french alps ah, that surround the city. Located 35 km from Geneva, the city of 51,000 people is famous for the small canals stretching through the city from the blue glittering Lake Annecy, which make the city look like Venice. Among the main attractions of Annecy are the Island Palace, picturesque castle 12th century, built right in the middle of one of the canals.
Albarracin, Spain
Albarracín - perfectly preserved medieval city ok at Northern Spain whose history goes back to the 11th century. The rock paintings in the caves of the Albarracín Cultural Park are one of the most important evidences of Levantine prehistoric art, and the ancient fortifications with winding paths, narrow lanes, ancient stone towers, castles and chapels are also impressive. A trip to Albarracin seems to take you back to the Middle Ages.
Surely, every person who is planning a vacation thinks in advance how to spend it, and most choose tourism in different countries. But it consists in flying to where it is warmer, everything is inclusive, and which is not located in a metropolis, because this type of city is already tired at home.
However, few people know that you can choose another option, how to spend your free time, which involves an excursion to small but very picturesque towns around the globe.
Today Forum-Grad will show you the 25 most beautiful places to go!
Colmar, France
Incredibly cute and cozy streets in composition with fabulous houses
This quiet place is located in Alsace and is an unusual combination of style, architecture and the spirit of the French and Germans. By right, it can be called a hidden gem of France.
Manarola, Italy
Manarola, which is located in beautiful Italy, differs from other settlements in that it is literally cut into a stone wall along the coast mediterranean sea. The main pride of the locals is wine and the fact that Antonio Discovolors lived and created here. In addition, there are not even cars here, which only works for the benefit of any person.
Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
A piece of a fairy tale right in the photo
The Czech Republic itself is very similar to a country that has descended from the pages of storytellers, because only there has its own, special architecture, which creates this impression.
However, there is one town called Cesky Krumlov, which seems to embody the design of an entire state. Only a day from Prague separates tourists from this place, and local guides It is advised to come in summer to be able to go kayaking.
Reine, Norway
Despite the fact that Norway itself is an incredible picturesque region, within its borders there is one fishing village called Reine, which rightfully takes first place on a pedestal among all other places to live.
At the same time, it's really a small village– only 329 inhabitants live in it!
Shiravkawa, Japan
Japan is just a country of wonderful combinations, seemingly incongruous. – traditionalism and high technologies. Just here, among the few meadows, the inconspicuous village of Shirakawa is located.
It is famous for its thatched roofs, which are folded in the shape of hands during prayer and cherry blossoms. What is the beautiful place for life…
Alberabello, Italy
And here we are back again sunny Italy! But this time we will visit the city of Alberabello, where the roofs of the houses are elongated in a cone and they are located on a hill, among olive groves.
Monsanto, Portugal
But this city is called, that neither is, "the most Portuguese in all of Portugal." We can say that this expression is not far from the truth, because it embodies the classic architecture for the whole country.
The ruins are nearby. ancient castle from which a great landscape opens up.
Goreme, Türkiye
Unfortunately, most people know about the cities in Turkey only in terms of resorts. However, you should not miss the opportunity to visit the city of Goreme, which is famous for its fabulous chimneys and the fact that the church and several houses are dug into the rocks.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Not to say that Vietnam itself is beautiful, but in its territory it is spread a beautiful city, Khoy, where, they say, there are more street lamps than people. Here, time passes slowly and an atmosphere of absolute calm reigns.
Giethoorn, The Netherlands
This town was founded back in 1230 AD. Mediterranean settlers who dug a canal to sell peat.
But it really only became known in 1958, when the Dutch director Ber Haanstara made his film here. Tourists often visit it not only to admire, but also to ride a canoe
Babiru, England
This village is located in the county of Gloucestershire and is almost exemplary for other settlements of this type in England. Once, the famous artist and craftsman William Morris called this place "the most beautiful village in the country."
Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia
Art connoisseurs call this place bohemian because of the combination of blue and white architecture. Well, tourists have no time to go into the intricacies of various styles - they just visit it and admire its beauty.
Bruges, Belgium
Meeting of eras in one photo
There are not many cities in Europe that can compete in beauty with Bruges and hundreds of tourists come here to take pictures of unusual houses.
Bled, Slovenia
However, one does not have to travel far to see such amazing views. For example, in Slovenia there is such a place, Bled, which attracts various travelers from nearby countries.
Pucisca, Croatia
IN Lately Croatia has begun to open its tourist gate and the first thing to do is to visit Pucisca, because where else in Eastern Europe Can you see such a beautiful city above the water?
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Monstar can be called the most underrated place in the Old World.
Odense, Denmark
Despite the fact that this place does not fit into our list a little, because it is the third largest city in Denmark, but does that prevent one from being enchanted by its beauty?
Morro de Sao Paulo, Brazil
Everyone knows Brazil only as a country of carnivals and successful football players. But there is an island in its open spaces, which can be reached exclusively by boat or charter flights, and there are also no cars there. Which, in general, is true, because why spoil such a nature with man-made emissions?
Pucon, Chile
This small settlement is located near the mountains, which gives it a very special charm and affects the color scheme of the houses built here.
Jiuzhaigou, China
This village is special because it was built under the Tibetan heritage restoration program and is an example of the traditional design of the settlement of that era.
Leavenworth, Washington, USA
It's time to show what has been done overseas, namely in the USA. They also do not lag behind Europe in the number of beautiful small towns, and among them special place occupies Leavenworth. However, a sharp change in image was associated primarily with the fact that small town ok was on the verge of bankruptcy, and now the treasury is replenished thanks to tourism.
Rothenberg, Germany
It is known for being, firstly, the oldest settlement in Germany, and secondly, it was here that the events of one famous novel took place.
Arosa, Switzerland
In any season this place is tourist resort because of their clean waters, fresh air and incredible view.
Hallstatt, Austria
There are many cities on our list with century history and Hallstatt is no exception. We can say for sure that it serves as a design standard for almost all old cities in Austria.
Marsaxlokk, Malta
Sunny fishing village
And last on our list is a sunny fishing village in the southeast of Malta.
In addition to worldwide famous resorts and popular tourist spots in the world there are completely inconspicuous corners that can charm their visitor and leave him no less than the most pleasant impressions. What secrets does Europe hold? What places that very few people know about can you go in search of an intoxicating and unhurried vacation?
1. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
In the south of Czech Bohemia, the charming town of Cesky Krumlov lurks, captivating the hearts of its visitors fabulous atmosphere paved roads, bridges in sight everywhere you look... and, best of all, there is not a single McDonald's! A small one-day trip to this place, especially in the warm season, will turn into a pleasant adventure. To complete the experience, it is also worth rafting down the Vltava River.
2. Colmar, France
Located in Alsace, the city of Colmar is a unique mixture of French and German architecture, culture and spirit. In reality, it is as colorful as you can see in the photos. Colmar can rightly be called one of the hidden gems of France.
3. Marsaxlokk, Malta
Cute and playful, full of real Maltese spirit, the town of Marsaxlokk is in fact the most important fishing village in the whole country.
4. Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt - a small picturesque town in Austria - is one of the objects cultural heritage UNESCO, and also recognized by many as the most beautiful lakeside village in the world. Visiting Hallstatt in summer or winter time you will surely fall in love with the quiet charm of this place.
5. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is extremely popular with people who want to bring home wonderful photographs of the Lego houses that stand in the city center. Despite the tourist hype, this place remains one of the delightful classic corners of Europe.
6. Bled, Slovenia
In the Slovenian city of Bled, there are many pleasant places for visitors, but the most notable attraction is the famous Lake Bled, which is one of the most beautiful reservoirs our planet.
7. Bibury, England
This small town is filled with Old World charm and has the right to be considered the most charming city in England. In the photo - one of the streets of Biburi most beloved by tourists, most often attracting photographers' lenses.
8. Albarracin, Spain
Just two hours from Valencia and 30 minutes by train from Teruel will bring you to the most charming Spanish village of Albarracin, a trip that will be hard to forget.
9. Pucisca, Croatia
Although Croatia opened as a tidbit for tourists relatively recently, its popularity is currently growing rapidly. The city of Pucisca, located on the coast, is especially good for visiting. Adriatic Sea. What is special about it? Seeing with your own eyes the beauty of this pearl of Breg Island, you will surely understand everything.
10. Eze, France
In the south-east of France, not far from Nice, the cozy city of Eze is located - the perfect place for a short vacation!
11. Annecy, France
The town of Annecy is built around a 14th century castle. Its streets are covered with an indescribable charm of antiquity, and the surroundings of the French Alps perfectly complement the picturesque picture of this wonderful place.
12. Manarola, Italy
This photo speaks for itself: how can you disagree that Manarola is a delightful tiny town on the coast of Italy?! However, this country is fraught with more than one such gift for a tourist - you just need to allocate more time to travel around it, and you can find another whole constellation of similar places.
13. Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland
Do you find it difficult to read the name of this city aloud? As practice shows, it is no more difficult than getting to it. Only once a week a flight is sent from Iceland to the coast of Greenland, reaching which, striving to get to Ittoqqortoormiut, stubborn people must use the services of a helicopter. However, this amazing place worth the effort!
14. Reine, Norway
small fishing village Reine is incredibly picturesque! If we imagine that one image can replace a thousand words, then only a photo of this place expresses twice as much.
15. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
For some reason, pretty Mostar is unfairly missing the well-deserved tourist attention. But those who were lucky enough to be there, appreciate the charm of such an unexpected and pleasant find. By the way, when visiting Mostar, you should pay attention to the nearby town of Blagaj, which is also able to provide its visitors with many pleasant experiences.
16. Odense, Denmark
Although it is the third largest locality in Denmark, Odense has a real small town charm that is hard to find anywhere else in the country. True treasure!
17. Freiburg, Germany
Perhaps this colorful photo will say more than any descriptions, why extra words in the presence of such beauty? Just note for general information that in Freinburg, a city with almost thousand years of history, located in the southwest of Germany, is home to about 230 thousand people.
18. Goreme, Türkiye
This incredible ancient city was erected by the Romans, who literally carved it out of the rocks.
19. Ghent, Belgium
Carrying the title of Flanders delight along with the city of Bruges, Ghent is just as charming, if somewhat less famous. However, the charm of this city is decidedly different from the atmosphere of its more popular neighbor. It will be a very difficult task to explain exactly how, so it is easier to advise you to see it with your own eyes.
20. Ljubljana, Slovenia
The capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, is one of the “untested” cities so far by tourists. As a place of central importance, Ljubljana nevertheless retains a certain charm of a small European city.
21. Torun, Poland
For those who want to get a little away from the tourist bustle of the popular Krakow and Warsaw, we advise you to visit the quiet Torun, located in the north of Poland and captivating with its uncomplicated, but spiritual comfort.
22. Rotenberg, Germany
Does this cityscape remind you of anything? Walt Disney used the images of Rothenberg when creating his cartoon "Pinocchio".
23. Arosa, Switzerland
Relatively small town Swiss Alps is a favorite haunt of the English royal family, so if Arosa is good enough for them, ordinary tourists will surely like it too.
24. Bergen, Norway
located on west coast Norway Bergen was founded around 1070. Fascinating with the view of its supposedly toy houses, this city is loved by Norwegians and tourists from different countries.
25. Livingworth, USA
Of course, Livingworth is not located in Europe at all, but in order to maintain the perfect balance, we decided to crown our selection with this city. Despite the fact that this city is located in the United States, it is built on the model of a Bavarian village and has an unusual American continent European spirit. For those who want to enjoy the classic European atmosphere even in the USA, the city of Livingworth unexpectedly gives such an opportunity.
Adapted from worldofwanderlust.com; translation and adaptation by Catherine Straszewski |
Paris, Rome, London and other world capitals need no introduction. They are loved and visited for the most part tourists and travelers. However, a little off the beaten track are the most wonderful, beautiful and interesting places. You will be surprised to discover that some of the most wonderful cities in Europe are also the smallest.
Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
This wonderful corner of history is one of the oldest settlements in the Czech Republic, the city belongs to the UNESCO world heritage and stands on the Vltava River. In the historical center of the city is gothic castle XIII century and the Church of St. Vitus. The narrow streets of Český Krumlov, paved with old cobblestones, are full of buildings from the Early and High Renaissance and Baroque eras, which now house art galleries, cafes and cozy hotels. To appreciate the views, you can raft down the Vltava on a wooden raft.
Palmanova, Italy
This small commune was built in 1593 in the form of an octagon. The top view is amazing! The city is like a perfect, complex snowflake. In addition to historical charm, Palmanova offers travelers a wonderful Italian cuisine. The local Chardonnay goes well with fresh fish and seafood from the nearby Adriatic lagoon. When dining in a restaurant, try to sit on the terrace - night lighting turns the city into a fairy tale.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
The Bavarian city, located on the "romantic path", conquers not only rich history but also a lively, pulsating social life. Even if you come here for two days, you can feel like a part of the life of the beautiful Rothenburg. Here you can see unique historical sights and interesting museums, such as the Museum of Medieval Forensics, or enjoy local variations on Bavarian cuisine.
Bibury, England
Once called "the most beautiful place England", the tiny town of Bibury is located on the River Colne and touches the eyes of visitors with its "toy" cottages and the charm of the old English village. The most popular place in Bibury is Arlington Row, a narrow street with low stone houses built in the 14th century.
Durnstein, Austria
This unimaginably modest and beautiful city, with a population of only a thousand people, is covered with a shadow medieval castle and is washed by the waters of the Danube. It seems that absolutely everything - from red, tiled roofs and cobbled streets to the clock on the town hall, is copied and reproduced directly from the fairy tale of the Brothers Grimm. In addition to peace and solitude, Dürnstein offers a rich selection of local wines. If you decide to visit it in the spring, choose the moment when the apricot trees are in bloom - you will drown in the pink color and sweet aroma!
Binn, Switzerland
Once in this tiny village, you will feel like you are in another world. Life here flows slowly, measuredly, and this is the choice of 150 local residents who decided to save the village and the surrounding area. mountain valley as a park. There is no ski resorts and freeways, a time capsule called Binn will fill you with peace and a sense of peace.
Tremola, France
Not far from the Lascaux cave with ancient rock paintings, in the north of France, is a small medieval town of Tremola. The main historical value of the city is the church dating back to the 11th century, but the main attraction for which tourists from all over France and not only come to the modest town is the Les Truffieres restaurant. Here, dishes are served on the table from products grown on a local farm. The food is delicious, fresh and inexpensive! All of Europe flocks for bio-delicacies, so you need to reserve a place in a restaurant.
Tenby, Wales (UK)
In the Middle Ages, the walls of the city frightened off the invaders, and now they attract tourists. An extraordinarily vibrant city located right on the seafront, Tenby invites you to appreciate its historical past, strolling through the steep, narrow streets, or enjoy the beautiful sea views from the heights of rocks and city walls.
Ericeira, Portugal
The city is a picture-perfect picture of a Portuguese fishing village, from tiled roofs and cobbled streets to traditional fishing boats. As a fishing port, Ericeira is famous for its fresh seafood, especially lobster. The town is of particular interest to surfers as its location provides consistent waves.
Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland
Iceland is famous untouched nature and benevolent local residents However, crowds of tourists come to the island every year, in any season and any weather. The Vestmannaeyjar archipelago is located away from the tourist pilgrimage and consists of 15 islands with a population of 4 thousand people. Local fishermen will gladly agree to take desperate travelers to one of uninhabited islands archipelago. For lovers of civilization local restaurants offer a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood.
Paris, London, Rome, Madrid - these cities are famous all over the world and attract millions of tourists every year. At the same time, there are no less beautiful and wonderful cities in Europe, which, although not so famous, do not lose their attractiveness for travel because of this. That is why the American website BudgetTravel has compiled a list of the ten most beautiful small towns in Europe. Today we will introduce you to the first five that made this list.
Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
One of the oldest towns in the Czech Republic, Český Krumlov is located in South Bohemia, south of the Blanski Forest, on a bend in the Vltava River. The main attraction of this medieval town is old castle Krumlov, the first mention of which is found in a knightly ballad dating from the 13th century. The narrow, cobblestone streets of the city resemble an intricate labyrinth that stretches along quaint houses typical of the Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance periods. In order not to get lost in this maze, a guide can be high tower Castle. The town is full art galleries, cozy cafes and boarding houses offering accommodation for the night. This is a city of lovers and newlyweds with a unique romantic atmosphere.
One of better ways see Cesky Krumlov (Český Krumlov) - ride down the Vltava on a wooden raft (450 CZK or €17.80; en.ceskykrumlov-info.cz).
Palmanova, Italy
The fortified city of Palmanova is located in the province of Udine, near the Slovenian border and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city and fortress were created in 1593 in honor of the victory of the Venetians over the Turks. The architects specifically planned to design Palmanova so that it had the shape of a regular nine-terminal star. If you look at the city from above, its structure and the pronounced contours of straight streets create a distinct image of a snowflake. Nearby, the vineyard valleys stretching to the Adriatic Sea provide this place with high-quality Chardonnay, while local waters supply the city with mullet, sea bass and other delicious fish. If you are going to visit one of the restaurants in Palmanova, look out for the presence of a green branch of ivy or Frasca near the entrance - a guarantee that here you can taste traditional regional dishes (for example, the Venetian baccalà, made from dry salted cod).
This city is especially beautiful at night, in the light of lights.
How to get there: Palmanova is located 115 km northeast of Venice and 50 km northwest of Trieste. The city can be reached by car along the A4, A23 and highway 352, or by train from Trieste on a direct flight ($8.00), and from Venice from Santa Lucia station with a change at Cervignano-Aquileia-Grado station ($15) (italiarail.com).
Bibury, UK
The town of Bibury is located on the River Colne in the rolling limestone region of the Cotswolds, in the west-central part of England. English writer and artist William Morris called it the most beautiful village in England, which is famous for its unique views for watercolor landscapes. Located on Arlington Row, honey-colored cottages built in the 14th century from local oolite shell rock are Biburi's must-see relics. Among the main attractions is the Saxon church of St. Mary, mentioned in chronicles since the 12th century, as well as a fishing farm founded in 1902 and still operating today.
How to get there: The closest railroad station is located 20 km from Bibury in Kemble. Trains depart daily from Paddington Station in London. Travel time: 80 minutes (nationalrail.co.uk; round trip from £29).
An alternative way is to take a bus from London to Cirencester, 10 kilometers away (nationalexpress.com; from £24 round trip).
Public transport has no connections with Biburi, but taxis go here, and local hotels often organize transfers for their visitors.
Binn, Switzerland
Many years ago, the inhabitants of this small town with a population of 145, decided to suspend any construction in it, keeping the surrounding area as a park. Now, instead of luxury ski resorts and high-speed highways, characteristic of southwestern Switzerland, thanks to Binn, you can be transported to a wonderful alpine corner in which time has stopped. Gravel lanes meandering between well-groomed pine chalets with geranium flower pots placed in the windows, and an old 16th-century bridge where residents walk or use goats instead of cars are clear indications of easy village life.
If you go up the Binna River, you can see a fabulous picture of a real alpine meadow. It will be ideal to have a picnic with local wine and raclette cheese under the ringing of bells coming from high mountain pastures. And if you cross the bridge, climb up mountain path, you can go to the Imfeld restaurant, which is a wooden chalet with a cozy living room and a panoramic terrace overlooking the Alps. The restaurant is located at an altitude of 4983 meters. Here, it would be a good idea to enjoy fresh trout or the institution's specialty - raw beef, seasoned with spices and herbs, and left for a month and a half to dry in the cellar.
How to get there: Due to the remoteness of the town from civilization, a trip to Binn from major cities Switzerland is difficult. To get here from Zurich, you need to make two transfers on PostBus buses. Travel time will be a little over three hours (