From hidden seaside gems to ancient mountainside settlements, the world is full of amazing towns. These locations have incredible histories, stunning landscapes, and unique cultures that make them definitely worth a visit. Here are twelve amazing towns that you may not have heard of, but which certainly deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
1. Giethoorn, Netherlands
Often referred to as “The Venice of the North,” Giethoorn is a picturesque village with no roads. All transport is done by water over its many beautiful canals. Take in the beautiful views and stop for a swim when you’re done visiting the shops.
2. Setenil de las Bodegas, Spain
This small town in Spain was built literally underneath a rock. It uses the natural cliff above to form parts of its walls and roofs. The town blends so seamlessly into its rocky backdrop that it can be hard to tell where nature ends and the town begins.
3. Gásadalur, Faroe Islands
Gásadalur is a beautiful island home to the stunning Múlafossur Waterfall, which plunges directly into the ocean. With a population of just a few dozen, it’s a remote, yet breathtaking town that’s perfect for a honeymoon.
4. Popeye Village, Malta
Amazing towns exist all over the world! Visit one of the best for pop culture fans by traveling to Popeye Village in Malta. This quirky seaside town was originally built as a film set for the production of the 1980 musical Popeye. Now it’s full of colorful buildings and fun tourist attractions.
5. Hallstatt, Austria
Some amazing towns are hidden from plain sight. Take for instance Hallstatt, Austria, which is nestled between the edge of the lake and towering Dachstein mountains. This unique location is known for its production of salt, dating back to prehistoric times. Today, it’s one of the most picturesque small towns in Europe.
6. Coober Pedy, Australia
Were you born in October? It might be fun to visit a town that produces your birthstone. Coober Pedy, a beautiful town in South Australia, is known as the “opal capital of the world.” It’s also renowned for its below-ground residences called “dugouts,” which are built to stay cool in the desert heat.
7. Shirakawa-gō, Japan
While there are many unique towns in Europe, Asia is home to a few hidden gems as well. For instance, this historic village in Japan is famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old.
8. Bled, Slovenia
Fans of classic fairy tales will love visiting Bled, Slovenia. This unique town has a crystalline lake, a medieval castle perched on a rocky cliff, and a towering mountain range as a backdrop. If you want to avoid the crowds, this town is largely unvisited by tourists.
9. Goreme, Turkey
Situated among the “fairy chimney” rock formations in Cappadocia, Goreme is noted for its historic cave dwellings. Adventurers will love going to Goreme for vacation. It’s a popular spot for hot-air ballooning!
10. Bibury, England
Bibury is known for its honey-colored stone cottages with steeply pitched roofs. It’s one of the most beautiful villages in Europe thanks to its charming country roads and Arlington Row, a picturesque architectural conservation area that also happens to be the featured image inside United Kingdom passports!
11. Morro de São Paulo, Brazil
Do you want a break from traffic? Head to this car-free village on the island of Tinharé. Not only will you avoid car pollution and backed-up highways, but this town is also known for its tranquil beaches, clear waters, and vibrant night scene, all surrounded by lush tropical forests.
12. Reine, Norway
Located above the Arctic Circle in the Lofoten archipelago, Reine is known for its dramatic natural setting of majestic mountains. There are also quaint red and white fishermen’s cottages that dot the coastline, making this the perfect town for anyone who loves the water.
Visit These Amazing Towns
Each of these amazing towns is perfect for travelers seeking peace, beauty, and a touch of the unusual on their journeys. Whether you shop in their local boutiques, check out their restaurants, or enjoy the picturesque views, you’ll feel like you found a truly special location that only you know about. Share the secret with others, so these towns can get the tourist boom they deserve!
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Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.