In these difficult times, we all dream of a well-deserved vacation in the sun. While traveling is difficult at the moment, we can still make plans that we can take in action as soon as we can travel again! Here we introduce you to the most beautiful small cities in Europe.
Small Towns In Europe That You Must Visit
Italy, Vernazza
Vernazza on the Ligurian coast in Cinque Terre has less than 1000 residents. The old fishing village crouches on a ledge that is just above sea level and thus forms a scenic exception to the otherwise steep, rugged coast. The Belforte, the striking watchtower of Fort Doria, which towers at the top of the ledge, looks like a lighthouse. The facility is open to visitors who have a wonderful view over the coast from here. Vernazza itself has two beaches: one facing the sea, the other on the inner harbor lagoon. Various hiking trails lead directly along the coast. We recommend the route between Vernazza and Monterosso, on which the coastal forest often thins out and offers breathtaking views.
France, Colmar
In the Alsatian town of Colmar you know how idyllic works: Colorful half-timbered houses line the flower-adorned canals, and one quarter is even called “Little Venice” (La Petite Venise). It is worth taking a long walk here, which should take culture lovers to the Museum in the old convent. The huge collection ranges from medieval to contemporary art. In general, the city has a great cultural heritage: it comes from the sculptor Bartholdi, who created the Statue of Liberty in New York. A twelve-meter-high specimen can be viewed in Colmar. In addition, the place is on the Alsace Wine Route and likes to decorate itself as the wine capital of the region. There are numerous cultural events throughout the year, such as the spring reception at Easter with concerts and markets. The international music festival and a large wine fair take place in the summer.
Scotland, Portree
This wonderfully sleepy harbor nest is the capital of the Isle of Skye with around 2300 inhabitants – no feat: it is also the only town on the Scottish island. Fishermen and sailors find shelter from the rough seas in the small bay. A cute shopping mile, Quay Street, stretches along the quay wall. The small Somerled Square with church, bank, hotel, restaurant and police is the center of life in the village, which divides the island into a north and a south half. Portree is a must, especially on a road trip around the Isle of Skye. From the observation tower on the hill “The Lump” you can see the rugged coastal panorama.
Montenegro, Kotor
Steep mountain slopes flank the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro, which is reminiscent of a Scandinavian fjord landscape. The port city of the same name is embedded in this incision in the Dalmatian coast. In its 2000-year history, which was strongly influenced by seafaring, the place played many roles: a pirate’s nest, a trading port, a naval base. Palaces, cathedrals and the four and a half kilometers long city wall bear witness to the former wealth of the Venetian period and the influences of the Orient and Occident.
