5 enchanting villages in Europe you'll fall in love with
What's the story
From the cobbled streets to the ancient architecture, there are many European villages that feel like a time capsule.
These hidden gems are perfect for travelers keen on exploring a bygone era with their traditional ways of life.
Visiting these villages is like stepping back in time, making for an experience like no other.
Here are some unexpected European villages to take you back in time.
Hallstatt
Hallstatt's timeless charm
Nestled between mountains and a serene lake, Hallstatt in Austria is famous for its postcard-perfect setting and historic salt mines.
The village's wooden houses date back centuries, giving visitors an opportunity to stroll through narrow lanes that have not changed over the years.
The local museum exhibits artifacts from prehistoric times, further making this charming village a place steeped in history.
Eze
Eze's medieval allure
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the French Riviera, Eze is famous for its medieval charm and stunning views.
The village's stone buildings, and winding paths make it seem straight out of centuries' past.
You can either explore the exotic garden at the top of the village or visit the perfume factory to learn about traditional fragrance-making techniques passed down through generations.
Alberobello
Alberobello's unique Trulli houses
Located in southern Italy, Alberobello is famous for its trulli houses—whitewashed stone structures with conical roofs.
These unique buildings date back hundreds of years and continue to be used as homes even today.
Walking through Alberobello feels like entering another world as you admire these distinctive dwellings clustered together along narrow streets.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Rothenburg ob der Tauber's fairy tale setting
Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Germany enthralls its visitors with stunningly preserved medieval architecture.
Surrounded by town walls, the village is home to half-timbered houses with colorful flowers in the summer.
Its cobblestone streets lead to charming squares, each one filled with history.
This place gives you a piece of the bygone era, luring travelers into exploring its magical corners at every turn.
Giethoorn
Giethoorn: A village without roads
In the Netherlands, you'll find Giethoorn—a village where canals completely replace roads.
Dubbed "the Venice of Holland," this serene destination lets you glide through its waterways by boat.
You marvel at traditional Dutch cottages lining up on either side.
There's really no other way to step back into simpler times without modern distractions such as cars or buses interfering with your journey through history here.