Even though they are small, these towns can have a lot of character, history, and, yes, even beauty. Banff and Grindelwald are surrounded by soaring mountain ranges, adding to their beauty. Other small towns draw attention for their architecture—the whitewashed walls of St. George’s in Bermuda, for example, are exceptionally photogenic. Tobermory is one of those small towns on the Isle of Mull that has a view of the ocean. This adds an extra element of beauty to the landscape.
We spoke with travel experts to find out the most beautiful towns in the world. These experts have visited many countries and explored the best places. You can see the picks of travel experts and get inspiration for your small-town vacation.
Bibury (England)
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Bibury is an a quintessentially English village A designated National Park is located in Gloucestershire at the heart Cotswolds. Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty“, says Nicola ButlerThe managing director and owner is NoteWorthy The following are some examples of how to get started: Travel + Leisure A-list Travel Advisor. Bibury is everything that people imagine when they think of the English countryside. You’ll find honey-colored cottages nestled in a peaceful setting of gently rolling hills and the River Coln. Arlington Row, which is a row of 17th century cottages built by weavers, and The Swan, a coaching inn-turned-boutique hotel.
Broome, Australia
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Broome is “the edge” of the world, as they say. Cassandra BookholderA T+L Travel Advisor, luxury travel expert and T+L A list member at Camelback Odyssey TravelIts “combination between roughness and luxurious” is a place to put on your radar. “The landscape in Broome will make you feel as if you are on the moon or in a movie with incredible sunsets and camels cruising the beach.” The town is all about the outdoors and grand adventures—from visiting pearl farms to fishing in Roebuck Bay.
Fornalutx is a part of Spain
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The “prettiest village in SpainFornalutx, located on MallorcaThe history of the island, which is one of Spain’s Balearic Islands dates back to over 1,000 years. “Fornalutx, a small town in the Tramuntana Mountains is a place of otherworldly charm. “Meandering cobblestone pathways lead one to breathtaking limestone structures which ooze charm,” says Julia B. PirrungFounder of Jetset World Travel T+L Travel Advisory Board member. The location is right on ancient pilgrimage routes and ideal for exploring the area by foot.
Shirakawa Go, Japan
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Shirakawa go is the perfect place to add to your list if you’ve ever wanted to experience a traditional Japanese village. “This mountain town hidden in Japan’s Northern Alps seems to have been untouched by time. The village is made up of traditional farmhouses dating back centuries, with steep thatched roofing and surrounding by forested mountains and rice fields. This creates a peaceful atmosphere. The winter is especially beautiful when the area is covered with snow,” says Katie Shea a luxury travel adviser at Major Traveler.
Los Olivos, United States
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Los Olivos, named America’s Best Small Food and Culture Town in 2023, is heavy on the wine—and the beauty. You’ll find over 25 wineries in the California town, which is technically an unincorporated community. It’s also surrounded by rolling vineyards and hills. It’s no surprise Auberge took the chance to manage the legendary Inn at Mattei’s TavernPirrung says that Los Olivos, a new food and wine destination on California’s Central Coast, is both alluring and inviting as a day trip from nearby Santa Barbara or Montecito. Los Olivos, a new food and wine destination on California’s Central Coast is a great place to visit for a day trip from Santa Barbara or Montecito. It also makes a wonderful weekend getaway.
Hermanus in South Africa
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“Hermanus, a small coastal village along the coastline South Africa’s Western Cape Shea says, “It is known for its dramatic coastline cliffs and the best land-based whaling in the entire world.” It is a place full of character, where you can enjoy the endless ocean views while sipping wine in the afternoon. You can also browse through some photos to get a better idea of the beauty of the area. Fernkloof Nature ReserveWhere you will find mountains, coastlines, forests and more.
Doolin in Ireland
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Doolin is a charming Irish village that serves as the gateway to Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Cliffs of Moher Butler shares his thoughts on the Aran Islands. Butler states that “it is a mixture of colorful houses in chocolate boxes, friendly pubs with dramatic sea views and a nostalgic atmosphere.” The city is also known as the “music capital” of Ireland. You’ll be able to find live music in local pubs every night.
Grindelwald, Switzerland
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Switzerland is rich with diverse and unique cultures. picturesque villagesGrindelwald, however, is one of the best. Grindelwald is one of many mountain towns located in the Jungfrau Region. It sits at the base of the north face of the Eiger Mountain and offers a variety of outdoor activities. Winter skiing is popular, but summer and autumn hiking offers some of the most beautiful mountain views.
Bayeux, France
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Bayeux is renowned for its 11th-century architecture Bayeux TapestryButler says that Bayeux was “the first French town liberated after D-Day,” and it has preserved its medieval architecture, including the Bayeux Cathedral, as well as its cobbled streets. The cathedral and the tapestry are two of the top attractions in Bayeux, but you can also visit the Baron Gérard MuseumThe Bayeux War Cemetery and MemorialAnd the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy.
Seward (United States)
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Shea has also SewardOn her list, she included, a port city in Alaska with a population of less than 3,000. The area is surrounded by dramatic scenery including fjords, glaciers and deep turquoise water. “The town itself has an unassuming feel with a friendly local atmosphere, but is a real launch pad for adventure,” explains the author. Seward, Alaska, is located on the Kenai Peninsula. It is also the gateway for the Kenai Fjords National Park. Downtown is filled with art galleries and murals.
Tobermory in Scotland
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“Tobermory The Isle of Mull’s colorful waterfront buildings are known for their charming atmosphere and dramatic scenery. Butler says, “The harbor retains much of its charm and is known for its local crafts and seafood.” Butler says that the harbor is a great starting point to explore the Hebrides if you want to learn about “Hebridean heritage, local whisky, and island wildlife.”
Gordes France
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The Luberon Hills are a high-altitude area of the Luberon. ProvenceShea says that Gordes feels like walking into a postcard. The village has narrow cobblestone streets, honey-colored stone houses, and amazing views of vineyards and lavender. You’ll also find that the town has “a timeless charm” and “a deep sense of place which reminds one to enjoy the art slow travel.”
St. George’s (Bermuda)
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The town of St. George’s dates back centuries—in fact, it’s said to be the oldest continuously occupied British settlement in the Americas. In and around St. George’s, you can still see a variety of historic forts. The area is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re in BermudaSave at least one afternoon to stroll through the town, its narrow streets and alleyways and spot its charming cottages and whitewashed houses.
Russell, New Zealand
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Bookholder describes Russell’s town as “dotted” with cafes and art galleries. You can get there by boat or via winding roads. Expect to spend a lot of time on the water—either on a boat cruise to the “Hole in the Rock” on board a tall vessel or a ferry from Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. She says, “It is a beautiful slice of New Zealand’s life.”
Ronda in Spain
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“It is easy to understand Hemingway’s love for Ronda,” says Pirrung. It certainly captured my attention while exploring Andalucia because of the breathtaking vistas and Roman ruins which remind visitors of the rich history. The Ciudad SoñadaThe Puente Nuevo divides the city into El Mercadillo, also known as New Town and La Ciudad, also known as Old Town. The bridge spans a 400-foot-deep gorge. It is best viewed from the paths that run along the Tajo ravine.
Banff, Canada
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Banff is a beautiful resort town in Canada. Banff National Park. Mountain ranges can be seen everywhere, including the downtown area. Banff Avenue has art galleries, museums as well as high-end restaurants and bars. Cascade Mountain, which towers over the city no matter what the season is, provides a stunning backdrop.
Ostuni, Italy
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The village of La Citta Bianca, or “White Town”, is a charming and beautiful place to visit. Puglia,” says Pirrung. The sun setting over the fortified hilltop town is the perfect time to wander the cobblestone pedestrian street. The streets are like a maze, with alleyways and arches and stairs, accented with bright green and turquoise wooden doors.
Ericeira, Portugal
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Shea says, “This fishing village on a cliffside just outside of Lisbon is a mix of classic Portuguese charm and a relaxed surfer vibe.” Think whitewashed homes, tiled building, and golden beach backed by a rugged, dramatic coastline. It’s cool, but not too much. Ericeira is located just 45 minutes from Lisbon and has a few beautiful beaches. These include Praia da Foz do Lizandro and Praia Ribeira d’Ilhas.
Barichara, Colombia
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Barichara’s vibrant colors, cobblestone roads, mountains, Andalusian houses, and green landscape are signs that you have arrived at one of Colombia’s Heritage Towns. It is best to explore this preserved 18th-century city on foot or by taking a tuk tuk tour. Just don’t skip the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception—but don’t worry, you can’t miss it. It was built in 1838 and appears to change color with the movement of the sun. In the morning, it is bright yellow and in the afternoon it turns clay-colored.
Hydra Town, Greece
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Shea describes the style of Hydra as “chic, bohemian, and laid back.” One of the best Greek islands Hydra Town is the only town to visit on Hydra. The harbor is lined by elegant stone mansions and winding alleys with bougainvillea-draped cafés. On the hills, there are old artist’s homes. Shea describes the quiet charm of this place as “as there are no cars to be seen, just boats and donkeys.”
