When you’re traveling, sometimes you have the best experiences when you slip off the beaten track. It means you can discover some beautiful parts of the world, including many small towns. Here are 18 small towns you’ve never heard of but should definitely visit.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Germany Travel writes, “You can’t help but ask yourself whether time has stood still in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, as you amble through the Old Town with its secluded squares and tucked-away corners with towers, fountains, gates and wine taverns.” The town is just like a fairytale and well worth a visit.
Alberobello, Italy
You’ll find this small town in the Apulia region of Italy. Alberobello is well-known for its quirky limestone houses and cone roofs. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with many of its one-of-a-kind buildings located in the Rione Monti quarter.
Esperance, Australia
Esperance is home to some of the most incredible beaches in Australia. The waters are crystal clear, giving you the temptation to jump straight in. If you want the full experience of Esperance, then head to Lucky Bay, where you may even come across some friendly kangaroos on the beach.
Ogimachi, Japan
This small, picturesque town in Japan has traditional gassho zukuri farmhouses and is the largest village in Shirakawa-gō. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 1995, with its farmhouses around 250 years old. Try to visit Ogimachi in the winter, as the farmhouses look beautiful covered in snow.
Grindelwald, Switzerland
You’ll find Grindelwald in the Swiss Alps, between the mountains and soft meadows. Heading to Grindelwald will make you feel like you’re in the middle of the Sound of Music, thanks to its traditional Swiss chalets and greenery. Head to the town in the winter for skiing or in the spring for lots of hiking.
Albarracín, Spain
This medieval village is full of ancient stone towers and chapels. If you choose to visit this small town, then you should head to its cultural park, which features some historic rock paintings. The town is sealed in with rustic city walls, which really help to give it a medieval feel.
Pucisca, Croatia
Pucisca is a small and pretty harbor town that’s known for its tall bell tower that looks over the village. It’s home to beaches with turquoise waters and small boats bobbing close to the shore. Pucisca is the perfect destination for a quiet summer vacation.
Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland
This small town is located on the island of Heimaey, which is a part of the Westman Islands archipelago. Vestmannaeyjar is loved for its marine life and puffin sightings, which become a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The small town has many jaw-dropping landscapes that you’ll want your camera for.
Sintra, Portugal
If there’s one thing Sintra is known for, it’s the town’s medieval and Baroque architecture. For example, Sintra Portugal writes, “Once a summer retreat for Portuguese nobility and royalty, this UNESCO World Heritage Site captivates visitors with its wealth of opulent palaces, extravagant villas, and historic sites, all set amidst lush forests and jagged hills.”
Ping’an Village, China
You’ll find this small town on top of Longsheng County’s Longji rice terraces, which are 1,200 meters above sea level. You’ll have some incredible views of the rice fields that will be unlike anything you’ve ever seen. If you want to explore traditional rice fields in China, then this small town should be at the top of your list.
Wengen, Switzerland
Wengen used to be a small alpine farming community, but it’s now a resort town that attracts many people each year. The town features charming wooden houses and is tucked between the Swiss mountains, making it a delight to walk through. Depending on the time of year you visit, you can ski in the winter or hike in the summer.
Burano, Italy
Burano is a small island full of colorful houses, making it easily mistaken for a tropical town, especially on a warm summer’s day. It showcases its history through a 17th-century bell tower and its famous lace-making. Burano is a great town to visit after a few days of exploring Venice.
Bibury, England
This charming English town can be found in the Cotswolds in Gloucestershire. It’s most famous for its Arlington Row, which is a line of pretty weavers’ cottages. Bibury overlooks a meadow and a river, creating a scenic setting in the English countryside that’s a delight to walk through.
Colmar, France
Colmar is located in northeastern France, situated between vineyards and colorful, quaint houses. If you choose to visit this small town, you can take a walk down the scenic canal with a stop at St. Martin’s Church. With its colorful timbered houses and cobbled streets, you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of a French fairytale.
Zell am See, Austria
This small town is incredibly beautiful, no matter what time of year you visit it. In the winter, it’s covered in snow, and in the summer, there’s a bright green meadow to hike through. You can try out lots of outdoor activities here, such as skiing and paddleboarding. There’s also the chance to jump into a cable car for some magnificent views.
Sheridan, Wyoming, USA
Sheridan describes itself as “history with a view—from Main Street to the magnificent backdrop of the Bighorn Mountains—Sheridan offers modern hospitality with old west charm.” The town may be small, but it has lots to keep you occupied if you visit, such as the Trail End Historic Site, the WYO Theater, and the Sheridan Inn.
Madison, South Dakota
If you want the charm of a small town by a lake, then Madison is a great choice. You’ll find it in between Lake Madison and Lake Herman, making it a great spot for those who love nature. It may be a small town, but it still has a large number of amenities, making it a comfortable place to vacation.
Deadwood, South Dakota
This small town is rooted in lots of history, as it was founded during the Gold Rush in 1876. The town is still rich in history thanks to its saloons, bars, and shops. Deadwood is close to the Black Hills National Forest, meaning it’s a great place to visit if you also love outdoor activities.
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