Hallstätt, Austria
There’s something special about Hallstätt, made evident when you pull up by ferry across the glassy lake, with mist rolling down from the towering Dachstein mountains.
Giethoorn, the Netherlands
The village of Giethoorn in northern Holland has been called many things, repeatedly: “the Venice of the North,” ; “like something out of a fairytale,”for its thatched roof homes, centuries-old wooden bridges, and tree-lined footpaths.
Sintra, Portugal
British poet Lord Byron said it was the most beautiful town in the world.
It has proposal-worthy views from every angle, and so many 19-century monuments it’s been designated a UNESCO site.
Taormina, Sicily
You’d be hard pressed to find a seaside town in Italy that doesn’t inspire romance, but there’s something especially dreamy about Taormina.
Colmar, France
On the Alsatian wine route in France, Colmar is flanked by vineyards and filled with pretty, colored houses, churches, and tranquil, bridge-covered canals.
Soglio, Switzerland
Another town that inspires: Soglio is “the gateway to paradise,” mused Giovanni Segantini painter, but we’d argue that the Swiss town is paradise in and of itself.
Korcula Town, Croatia
Known as “little Dubrovnik” among locals, the seaside town of Korčula (located on the island of Korčula) is Croatia’s best-kept secret.
