Enter the world of your favorite fairytale! Wander along small cobblestone lanes, past colorful homes, and into a charming cafe for a cup of tea. One word of caution: as you round each corner in these gorgeous towns, you will find yourself gushing, “Oh my goodness, this is so cute!” Don’t worry though; you won’t be the only one who feels this way.
Bibury, England
Bibury is a true English gem, nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds on the banks of the River Coln. Quiet lanes lined with charming stone cottages covered with green ivy and colorful flower boxes can be found in this beautiful village.
Colmar, France
Are you a fan of the Disney film Beauty and the Beast? Well, it just so happens that Disney based Belle’s hometown village on the beautiful town of Colmar! You’ll feel like you’re walking through a real-life fairytale where you might bump into Gaston or Belle around each corner. Hum the film’s lively songs as you travel down cobblestone lanes past charming medieval and early Renaissance structures.
Hallstatt, Austria
This stunning lakeside hideaway is located in Austria’s gorgeous Salzkammergut mountain range. Make your way past 16th-century Alpine homes and quaint alleyways dotted with stores and cafes! Many say this town inspired the fictional kingdom of Arendelle in the Disney animated hit Frozen – and it’s easy to see why!
Cinque Terre, Italy
It’s impossible to choose just one of Cinque Terre’s five fishing villages. Manarola, Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore are all absolutely gorgeous. Charming outdoor cafés, stone pathways, little hidden stores, olive and lemon groves, and more can be found in these candy-colored, old-world towns on the Italian Riviera. Not to mention the breathtaking vistas of the teal-blue sea! Because no cars are allowed in the villages, you’ll have to stroll from town to town, take a scenic ferry journey, or use the local train to get your gelato fix.
Riquewihr, France
Drink your way through Riquewihr, a picturesque village on the Alsace Wine Route in eastern France. You’ll find half-timbered winemakers’ stores, quaint cafés, and intimate tasting rooms along the cobblestone pathways of this fantastical wonderland. Share a drink, eat some local cheese, and savor a freshly baked baguette!
Annecy, France
Getaway to Annecy’s Vieille Ville (old town)! This alpine village in southeastern France sits at the junction of the Thiou River and the brilliant Lake Annecy. Annecy is a spectacular sight, with its winding canals, cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and pastel-colored cottages. Relax on a riverfront cafe’s terrace, take a lake cruise, or explore the old Chateau d’Annecy!
Kinsale, Ireland
In this charming coastal village, you may feel the luck of the Irish! Kinsale is a thriving city with vibrant colors, distinctive art galleries, and bustling pubs. Relax with a pint and some fresh seafood while watching the yachts drift by in the harbor. Aside from Kinsale, County Cork’s coastline is lined with postcard-worthy villages. Make a point of visiting Clonakilty, Schull, and Cobh!
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Stroll through a real-life storybook! This little jewel is exactly what one imagines when they think of traditional Germany. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a fantasy place of half-timbered early Renaissance homes, castle-like structures, cobblestone streets, and authentic eateries, renowned for its well-preserved medieval city center.
Spoil yourself to some schnitzel, bratwurst, and, of course, beer when in Bavaria.
San Gimignano, Italy
It’s like going back in time when you visit San Gimignano. You’ll be wondering what century you’ve stepped into when you visit here. This picture-perfect Italian hill town is surrounded by 1200s-era walls and is filled with beautiful stone piazzas and medieval turrets. The rolling green landscape of Tuscany – Cyprus trees, vineyards, terra cotta rooftops – the whole nine yards – may be found just beyond the city walls.
Stein-Am-Rhein, Switzerland
Stein-Am-Rhein is the idyllic old town, nestled where Lake Constance meets the Rhine. Because it is so close to the German border, many residents bike from one country to another. Half-timbered buildings with historic murals painted right on the facades may be found in this pristine fairytale village! Stein-Am-Rhein is a gem on the Rhine, with a vibrant world of art and culture.
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