Despite their tiny size, small towns can be packed with personality, history, and, of course, beauty. Some, like Banff or Grindelwald, are flanked by soaring mountains, giving them an extra dose of wonder. Other small towns draw attention for their architecture—the whitewashed walls of St. George’s in Bermuda, for example, are exceptionally photogenic. There are also those towns, like Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, that overlook the ocean, adding an additional layer of allure to the scenery.
To find the most beautiful small towns around the world, we spoke to travel experts who have traveled far and wide in search of the best destinations. Read on to see their picks and get all the inspiration you need for your next small-town trip.
Bibury, England
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“Bibury is a quintessentially English village tucked away in Gloucestershire in the heart of the Cotswolds, an officially designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty,” says Nicola Butler, managing director and owner of NoteWorthy and Travel + Leisure A-list Travel Advisor. “Bibury embodies everything people dream of when they imagine the quaint English countryside. Wander through its tranquil lanes to find honey-colored stone cottages surrounded by gently rolling hills with the serene River Coln winding its way through the center.” The two most famous photo-op spots are Arlington Row, a row of 17th-century weavers’ cottages, and The Swan, a coaching inn-turned-boutique hotel.
Broome, Australia
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Broome is truly “the edge of the world,” says Cassandra Bookholder, a T+L A-list Travel Advisor and luxury travel expert at Camelback Odyssey Travel, sharing that its “combination of roughness and luxury” makes it a destination to have on your travel radar. “The landscape around Broome makes you feel like you’re on the moon, or a movie setting with the most amazing sunsets where camels and 4WDs roam the beach.” The town is all about the outdoors and grand adventures—from visiting pearl farms to fishing in Roebuck Bay.
Fornalutx, Spain
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Often referred to as the “prettiest village in Spain,” Fornalutx is located on Mallorca, one of Spain’s Balearic Islands, and its history can be traced back over 1,000 years. “Fornalutx is a small village in the Tramuntana Mountains that is otherworldly in its charm. Meandering cobblestone paths lead one between breathtaking limestone structures that ooze appeal,” says Julia B. Pirrung, founder of Jetset World Travel and member of T+L’s Travel Advisory Board. “The location sits on the doorstep of ancient pilgrimage routes, so it’s ideal for exploring the region by foot.”
Shirakawa-go, Japan
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If you’ve always wanted to visit a traditional Japanese village, consider adding Shirakawa-go to your shortlist. “This mountain village hidden in Japan’s Northern Alps feels completely untouched by time. It’s made up of centuries-old traditional farmhouses with steep thatched roofs and surrounded by forested hills and rice fields that add to its peaceful atmosphere. It’s especially charming in the winter when covered in snow,” says Katie Shea, a luxury travel advisor 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. Within the California town (technically an unincorporated community), you’ll find more than 25 wineries, and it’s surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. “It’s no wonder Auberge jumped at the opportunity to manage the legendary Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, long a hitching post and watering hole for those traveling by horseback up the 101,” says Pirrung. “Now an emerging food and wine destination within California’s Central Coast, Los Olivos is both alluring and inviting as a day visit from nearby Santa Barbara or Montecito, as well as for a long weekend to explore the surrounding region.”
Hermanus, South Africa
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“Hermanus is a small coastal town along South Africa’s Western Cape known for its dramatic seaside cliffs and some of the best land-based whale watching in the world,” says Shea. “It’s full of personality, the kind of place where you can spend the morning exploring a coastal trail and the afternoon sipping local wine while enjoying the endless ocean views.” If that doesn’t convince you of its beauty, then browse through photos of Fernkloof Nature Reserve, where you can find coastline, mountains, forests, and more.
Doolin, Ireland
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“Doolin is a charming village on Ireland’s famed Wild Atlantic Way, serving as the gateway to the stunning Cliffs of Moher and picturesque Aran Islands,” shares Butler. “It consists of colorful chocolate box houses, friendly pubs, and dramatic sea views, with an aura of stepping back in time,” says Butler. It’s also the music capital of Ireland, so you’ll find a number of local pubs hosting live music performances each night.
Grindelwald, Switzerland
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Switzerland is rich in picturesque villages, but Grindelwald is among the very best. One of the many mountain towns in the Jungfrau region, Grindelwald sits at the foot of the Eiger mountain’s north face and welcomes visitors with its classic chalet-style buildings and plethora of outdoor activities. Skiing is a popular activity in the winter, although it’s tough to beat summer and fall, when hikers are rewarded with some of the most gorgeous mountain views you could ever imagine.
Bayeux, France
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“Bayeux, renowned for the 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry, was the first French town to be liberated in World War II after the D-Day landings,” says Butler, noting how it “escaped major damage, which preserved its cobbled streets and medieval architecture such as the stunning Bayeux Cathedral.” The tapestry and the cathedral are two of the most sought-after sites in the town, but visitors can also explore the Baron Gérard Museum, the Bayeux War Cemetery and Memorial, and the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy.
Seward, United States
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Shea also has Seward, an Alaskan port city with a population under 3,000, on her list. “It’s surrounded by incredibly dramatic scenery of glaciers, fjords, and deep turquoise waters. The town itself is small and unassuming, with an easy and local feel, but it’s a true launch point for adventure,” she explains. Located on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula, Seward is also the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, and the downtown is filled with murals and various art galleries.
Tobermory, Scotland
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“Tobermory on the Isle of Mull is known for its colorful waterfront buildings, charming atmosphere, and dramatic natural scenery. The harbor has retained much of its historic charm with its vibrant center, and it’s known for local crafts and seafood,” says Butler. If you’re interested in “Hebridean culture, local whiskey, and island wildlife,” she adds, it also makes for the perfect jumping-off point to the rest of the Hebrides.
Gordes, France
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“Set high in the Luberon Hills of Provence, Gordes is the kind of place that feels like stepping into a postcard,” says Shea. “The village is filled with narrow cobblestone alleyways, golden honey-colored stone buildings, and incredible views over vineyards and lavender fields.” Plus, she adds, you’ll find the town has a “timeless charm” and a “deep sense of place that reminds you to enjoy the art of 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. To this day, you’ll come across all kinds of forts and historic sites in and around the town; the area is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While in Bermuda, save at least an afternoon to walk through the town and its narrow lanes and alleyways, spotting its quaint cottages and whitewashed buildings.
Russell, New Zealand
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Bookholder describes Russell as a town “dotted with cafes, art galleries, and beachside restaurants” that you can reach via boat or windy roads. Expect to spend a lot of time on the water—either on a boat cruise to the “Hole in the Rock,” aboard a historic tall ship, or on a ferry over to Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. “It’s a pretty slice of New Zealand life,” she says.
Ronda, Spain
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“It’s easy to appreciate Hemingway’s affinity for Ronda,” says Pirrung. “It certainly captured my heart while exploring Andalucia due to the unparalleled vistas at every turn and the prominent Roman ruins that remind visitors of its rich history.” The Ciudad Soñada, or the “City of Dreams,” is split into El Mercadillo (also known as the New Town) and La Ciudad (also known as the Old Town) by the Puente Nuevo. The bridge crosses a 400-foot gorge, and you can see it best from various paths along the Tajo ravine.
Banff, Canada
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There are a lot of beautiful reasons to visit the resort town of Banff, starting with the fact that it’s located in Canada’s Banff National Park. Mountains can be seen in every direction, and the downtown area, specifically Banff Avenue, is lined with art galleries, museums, high-end restaurants, bars, and boutiques. No matter the season, the towering Cascade Mountain makes for a majestic backdrop.
Ostuni, Italy
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“La Citta Bianca (“White Town”), named so for its whitewashed buildings, is one of the more charming and visually arresting villages in Puglia,” says Pirrung. “There is no better way to experience this fortified hilltop village than meandering the cobblestone pedestrian streets as the sun sets.” The streets themselves are akin to a maze; there are alleyways, arches, and staircases, all accented by bright green and blue wooden doors.
Ericeira, Portugal
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“This cliffside fishing village just outside of Lisbon has a classic Portuguese charm with a laid-back surfer vibe,” says Shea. “Think whitewashed houses, tiled buildings, and golden beaches backed by a rugged and dramatic coastline. It’s cool without trying too hard.” Just 45 minutes outside of Lisbon, Ericeira has a handful of beautiful beaches, including Praia da Foz do Lizandro, Praia Ribeira d’Ilhas, and Praia do Sul, the latter of which paints a gorgeous picture with its clear blue waters and striped beach tents.
Barichara, Colombia
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Vivid colors, cobblestone streets, mountain views, Andalusian-style houses, and green countryside: These are all signs you’ve arrived in Barichara, one of Colombia’s Heritage Towns. The preserved 18th-century town is best experienced on foot or on a tour with a local tuk-tuk driver. Just don’t skip the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception—but don’t worry, you can’t miss it. The church was built in 1838, and it seemingly changes color as the sun moves; it appears bright yellow in the morning and a clay color in the afternoon.
Hydra Town, Greece
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“Hydra is chic, laid-back, and slightly bohemian,” says Shea. One of the best Greek islands to visit, Hydra has one town: Hydra Town. “The harbor is lined with elegant stone mansions, winding alleys, and bougainvillea-draped cafes, while the hills above are dotted with old artists’ homes. With no cars in sight, just donkeys and boats, it has a quiet charm that feels effortlessly stylish,” says Shea.
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