The Best Hidden Villages and Small Towns in Europe
Europe is full of famous cities and tourist hotspots, but there are countless hidden villages and small towns that offer something truly special. These lesser-known gems are full of character, boasting stunning landscapes, charming architecture, and rich local traditions. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path escape, here are some of the best hidden villages and small towns in Europe, complete with recommendations for things to see, do, and eat.
1. Civita di Bagnoregio, Italy
Why It’s Special: Often called “the dying town” because of its eroding cliffs, Civita di Bagnoregio is an incredibly picturesque village perched atop a hill in central Italy. With its narrow streets, medieval buildings, and dramatic views, it feels like stepping back in time.
What to Do:
- Wander through the village’s stone streets and admire the ancient architecture.
- Visit the Church of San Donato, one of the oldest structures in the village.
- Enjoy the stunning viewpoint overlooking the valley and the surrounding hills. What to Eat: Try local specialties such as strangozzi (handmade pasta) and lenticchie di Castelluccio, lentils grown in the nearby fields.
2. Bled, Slovenia
Why It’s Special: Famous for its picture-perfect Lake Bled, complete with a church on an island and a medieval castle on a cliff, this enchanting village offers more than just its beauty. Bled is perfect for outdoor lovers, with plenty of hiking, swimming, and cycling opportunities.
What to Do:
- Take a Pletna boat to Bled Island and climb the bell tower for a magical view.
- Visit Bled Castle to explore its medieval history and enjoy panoramic views of the lake.
- Walk or bike around Lake Bled, stopping at various scenic spots along the way. What to Eat: Don’t miss Bled cream cake—a traditional dessert made with layers of cream and pastry.
3. Riquewihr, France
Why It’s Special: Situated in the Alsace region of France, Riquewihr is a beautifully preserved medieval village surrounded by vineyards. The village feels straight out of a fairy tale, with its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and colorful facades.
What to Do:
- Stroll through the charming Place du Marché and admire the village’s architecture.
- Visit the Hansi Museum, dedicated to the works of local artist Jean-Jacques Waltz.
- Take a wine tour of the surrounding Alsace vineyards and taste some local white wines. What to Eat: Try tarte flambée, a thin crust pizza-like dish topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons, and sip on some Alsatian Riesling.
4. Gimmelwald, Switzerland
Why It’s Special: A car-free village tucked in the Swiss Alps, Gimmelwald is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Surrounded by towering mountains, this village offers incredible hiking opportunities and breathtaking views, making it an idyllic place to disconnect and recharge.
What to Do:
- Hike the Gimmelwald to Mürren trail for some of the most stunning Alpine vistas.
- Take a cable car to Schilthorn for a rotating restaurant experience and 360-degree views of the mountains.
- Visit the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of powerful waterfalls inside a mountain. What to Eat: Enjoy hearty Swiss alpine dishes such as raclette and fondue, best paired with a glass of Swiss white wine.
5. Kotor, Montenegro
Why It’s Special: Located on the Bay of Kotor, this medieval town is known for its stunning architecture, scenic beauty, and rich history. Surrounded by high mountains, Kotor offers a unique blend of natural and cultural attractions.
What to Do:
- Climb the steps of the Kotor Fortress for panoramic views of the bay.
- Wander through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its winding streets, churches, and squares.
- Take a boat ride around the Bay of Kotor to admire the village from the water. What to Eat: Try black risotto, made with cuttlefish ink, and enjoy cevapi, grilled minced meat sausages, at a local restaurant.
6. Hallstatt, Austria
Why It’s Special: Situated on the shores of a pristine lake and surrounded by the Dachstein Alps, Hallstatt is one of Austria’s most picturesque towns. Its stunning setting, with quaint wooden houses and dramatic mountain views, has made it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
What to Do:
- Explore the Hallstatt Bone House (Beinhaus), where bones are displayed as part of a centuries-old burial practice.
- Take a boat ride on Hallstätter See, or go hiking up to Echerntal Valley.
- Visit the Hallstatt Salt Mine, where you can learn about the town’s mining history. What to Eat: Enjoy Wiener Schnitzel (breaded veal) and apple strudel at one of the lakeside restaurants.
7. Monschau, Germany
Why It’s Special: Set in the Eifel region of Germany, Monschau is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and picturesque setting by the Rur River. The town exudes charm with its half-timbered houses and inviting atmosphere.
What to Do:
- Visit the Monschau Castle and enjoy the view over the village and surrounding hills.
- Wander through the old town’s narrow streets, lined with cafes and small shops.
- Explore the nearby Eifel National Park for hiking and outdoor activities. What to Eat: Try Eifel Rindfleisch, a local beef stew, or enjoy a slice of Apfelstrudel at a café by the river.
8. Pienza, Italy
Why It’s Special: Known as the “ideal Renaissance town,” Pienza is set in the heart of Tuscany and offers breathtaking views of the Val d’Orcia. The town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its well-preserved Renaissance architecture and charming streets.
What to Do:
- Visit the Pienza Cathedral and explore the town’s Renaissance-era palaces.
- Take in the viewpoints overlooking the stunning Tuscan countryside.
- Taste local Pecorino cheese, a specialty of the region. What to Eat: Sample Pecorino cheese in various forms, and enjoy Tuscan specialties like pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread soup) and ribollita (vegetable and bread stew).
9. Czesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
Why It’s Special: This UNESCO-listed town is like something out of a fairy tale, with its cobbled streets, medieval castle, and beautiful setting along the Vltava River. A visit to Czesky Krumlov offers a glimpse into the Czech Republic’s rich history and architecture.
What to Do:
- Visit Czesky Krumlov Castle, which offers beautiful views of the town and river below.
- Walk along the charming streets of the Old Town, visiting the many artisan shops and cafes.
- Enjoy kayaking or canoeing on the Vltava River that winds through the town. What to Eat: Try svíčková, a classic Czech dish of beef in creamy sauce, and don’t miss the delicious trdelník (sweet pastry) from a street vendor.
10. Eze, France
Why It’s Special: Perched high on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean, Eze is a medieval village known for its narrow streets, stunning views, and fragrant lavender fields. The village offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the French Riviera.
What to Do:
- Visit the Fragonard Perfumery to learn about the perfume-making process and buy some unique scents.
- Explore the Exotic Garden, which offers panoramic views of the coast and beautiful botanical displays.
- Wander the ancient cobbled streets and admire the medieval architecture. What to Eat: Enjoy socca, a chickpea-based pancake, or a classic salade niçoise in one of the village’s many bistros.
Final Thoughts
Europe is full of hidden treasures—charming villages and small towns that offer authentic experiences, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. These lesser-known destinations provide an opportunity to explore places off the beaten path, where you can enjoy the slower pace of life and immerse yourself in local traditions. Whether you’re looking for medieval history, dramatic natural beauty, or simply a peaceful getaway, these hidden gems are perfect for those wanting to experience the true essence of Europe.