Southwest England's steep Cotswold region has been recognized as a "Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty." Cirencester is only a short drive from Bibury, a lovely village that is typical of the Cotswolds. With gorgeous stone structures lining the banks of the River Coln, it is clear why William Morris dubbed Bibury "The Most Beautiful Village in England."

Its picturesque appearance, with many of its original structures still surviving, makes it one of Europe's most beautiful cities. The main thoroughfare is still dominated by the trout-filled River Coln, and beautiful meadows border historic stone homes with steeply pitched roofs. Arlington Row, a row of sepia-hued cottages constructed in the 17th century to house weavers working at Arlington Mill, is the most picturesque section in Bibury.

Bibury Trout Farm is one of the most renowned and beautiful trout farms in the nation, covering over 15 acres. Here, you may learn about trout or even go fishing for your own dinner. Bibury is a well-liked Cotswolds tourist destination that gets crowded on beautiful summer afternoons and draws tourists even on the harshest winter days. In the village, there are several places to eat and drink. You can also pick up some picnic supplies at the Post Office and Village Shop or Bibury Trout Farm Shop.

Location: Gloucestershire, England

The tiny fishing community of Reine, which is located in the Lofoten archipelago north of the Arctic Circle, is encircled by blue bays, soaring fjords, and magnificent mountain peaks. This unusual village, which has just over 300 residents, may be somewhat off-the-beaten-path but it's also one of the most memorable. Numerous of the vibrantly colored fishing shacks that along the shoreline have been transformed into welcoming cottages for tourists that provide easy access to the Norwegian Sea.

You can anticipate having a front-row seat to the night sky's captivating entertainment in the evening, from the summer's midnight sun to the winter's own magnificent display, the northern lights. Every winter, devoted nature enthusiasts and photographers go to the north in the hopes of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Reine is the most picturesque place in the world, and it is well situated for such views because it is 100 kilometers above the Arctic Circle. The ideal months to gamble are September through April. You will need a window with reasonably clear sky because the Lofoten Islands are a stormy location, but if this happens, the scenery will be magnificent.

Location: Island of Moskenesøya on the Lofoten archipelago

One of the most wonderful fairytale towns in Europe to visit is Giethoorn, a charming village in the northeastern part of the Netherlands. There aren't many cars in this tiny town. Giethoorn is frequently referred to as "Little Venice" or the "Venice of the North," in reference to the well-known Italian city constructed on water. Given how infrequent and remote Giethoorn's roads are, this comparison is commonly drawn. Instead, a network of tiny man-made canals that weave between residences and cross under pedestrian bridges is used by locals and visitors to the community to get around by boat.

To see the fanciful European village, you can rent a motorized whisper boat or arrange a tour on a larger passenger boat. The vast majority of the 2,800 people who call this almost 800-year-old town home reside in charming homes with thatched roofs and immaculate lawns. One of the best reasons to travel to Giethoorn is to merely gaze at the charming homes that line the waterways.

Giethoorn, which is a popular day excursion from Amsterdam, is situated one and a half hours away. To experience the beauty of the small village without the masses, stay there at least one night. And when you're by yourself, Giethoorn is much more wonderful!

Location: northeastern portion of the Netherlands

Wandering around the Old Town's streets, which are lined with vibrant buildings that date back more than 700 years, is one of the best things to do in Hallstatt. Take that classic picture of the village to the north of Old Town, along the lakeshore, for the best perspective of the town.

Consider taking a flat-bottomed boat excursion on Halstatter See for a fantastic way to experience the breathtaking alpine scenery. While on the cruise, you may marvel at the surrounding towering Alps and observe swans gracefully gliding across the lake.

Hallstatt is known for its scenic beauty, but there is also a lot of history and adventure to explore. Visit the 7,000-year-old Salzwelten Hallstatt, thought to be the world's oldest salt mine, for something a little more educational. Or, for something a little heartier, the close-by Dachstein Krippenstein offers a variety of challenging activities, such as via ferrata tours and ice cave exploration.

Hallstatt is incredibly small, you could easily walk around the entire town in 20 minutes, and it soon fills up with tourists, especially during the summer. Even if you could see the most of the sights in a few hours, there is still much to do for two to three days. At the very least, it would be wise to spend the night here after the tour buses have left in the afternoon. The following morning, get up bright and early to enjoy a few hours of solitude on Hallstatt's streets before the hordes gather!

Location: Salzkammergut, Austria

Strasbourg, France is one the best fairytale destinations in Europe. Strasbourg, which is 500 miles east of Paris and is on the Franco-German border, is easily accessible by train in under two hours from Paris, Stuttgart, or Luxembourg. Instead of leaning more toward one country or the other, the city's remarkable history of alternating French and German sovereignty has given it a culture that is all its own.

A network of picturesque canals framed by half-timbered homes and blooms bursting from flower boxes characterize the Petite France section of Strasbourg's historic center. While taking in some of Strasbourg's best sights, cruise the canals and learn about its history. Discover more of the city's Grande-Île center and discover why it was the first whole city center to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988 and how it typifies medieval cities.

You can stay at the hotel or eat there! The magnificent Christmas market in Strasbourg is located at Place Kléber, which is close by and is surrounded by some of the best shopping. Three to four days, however, give you enough time to tour the Alsace wine region and sample some of the best Riesling in existence. Gaining familiarity with the Strasbourg Tram system can also help you make the most of your time by enabling you to travel quickly and safely between different parts of the city.

Location: the northeastern part of France

Quedlinburg is probably one of the best preserved medieval towns in Germany with its more than 1,300 characteristic half-timbered homes. Hanover International Airport, which is only 57 km away, is the closest airport. From Berlin or Hanover, the town is easily accessible by car, bus, or train. The rail ride from Berlin to Hanover takes four hours, while it takes about three hours from Hanover.

As Quedlinburg is still not very well known among tourists, it is a hidden gem. The St. Servatius Church and the surrounding area of the old town have both been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1994, which is primarily responsible for the town's unmodified appearance. Due to its small size, Quedlinburg's main attractions may be seen in just one day. However, at least two days are advised in order to truly appreciate the ambiance and breathtaking views.

The finest thing to do in Quedlinburg is to wander around and get lost in its charming streets. Every area will hold something worth photographing. The market square with the historic city hall, the Schlossmuseum, the St. Benedikt, St. Servatius, and St. Blasii churches, as well as Munzenberg, are among the most significant attractions. Don't miss Hochständerhaus, which is said to be Quedlinburg's oldest half-timbered mansion and dates to about 1310.

Location: in the district of Harz in the west of Saxony-Anhalt, Germany

If you want to visit a place from a fairy tale in real life, Salzburg is just one hour's drive from Hallstatt, another enchanted European town.

Salzburg is a fantastic destination all year round, but winter in Salzburg adds an extra special touch. Because of the Christmas Market and the frigid nights, which are surrounded by the snow-covered Alps, it is a highly popular destination during the Christmas season.

Salzburg is the ideal destination for anyone who enjoys the allure of Austrian towns, surrounded by stunning scenery while learning about history, since it offers a wide variety of activities to do. Discover Mozart's birthplace, tour medieval fortresses, and take in The Sound of Music here. The Hohensalzburg stronghold, which was founded in 1077 and is the largest preserved castle in central Europe, is another important site. It was one of Europe's largest castles at the time it was constructed.

The "salt fortress" gave rise to the name Salzburg. The salt that has been extracted from this region for countless years has also earned the nickname "white gold" since it helped turn Salzburg into a significant trading hub. Salzburg is a small, walkable city with a wonderful setting for a magical getaway, making it simple to explore in just two days.

Location: north-central Austria

One of the best fairytale destinations in Europe if you are looking for fairytale towns is definitely the charming town of Rovinj in Croatia! You can anticipate a number of gorgeous attractions during your journey that will undoubtedly be unforgettable. Impressive is the unusual setting on a tiny peninsula, where the vibrant townhouses evoke a scene from a vacation publication. The magnificent beaches in Rovinj, which surround the fairytale town and are ideal for swimming, are another highlight.

You will get lost in a labyrinth of stone alleys while taking a tour of Rovinj's colorful medieval old town, which is extremely stunning. Wonderful, vibrant squares beckon you to stop and take it all in as you travel. In addition, one learns that fantastic museums and a lot of historical sites are accessible! The quaint coffee shops and romantic restaurants by the water are brilliant places to have a fantastic meal.

In any event, seeing the church of St. Euphemia, which is perched atop the town hill and offers stunning views of the setting sun, is a must when in Rovinj. Particularly photographers will be thrilled by this breathtaking view!

Location: northern Adriatic Sea

One of Europe's most picturesque medieval fairytale towns is Obidos, which is located in central Portugal. Obidos is a must-visit location in Portugal because to its whitewashed homes with blue and yellow trim, cobblestone lanes, medieval castle, and profusion of geraniums and bougainvillea.

In Obidos, there are many of wonderful things to do. For a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding area, climb the crumbling walls of the Obidos Castle. Enter the municipal museum to view the magnificent collection of sacred art. Try some of the renowned Obidos Ginjinha. Take a stroll down Rua Direita, Obidos's busiest street. Or just wander aimlessly through the quaint, flamboyant streets to take the most stunning pictures of your life.

One can easily go to Obidos from Lisbon in a single day. Either take the Rapida Verde bus from the Lisbon Campo Grande bus stop or sign up for a full-day guided trip. Check out Pousada Castelo de Obidos, a former medieval castle that has been transformed into a posh hotel, if you choose to spend the night in Obidos.

Obidos is most enjoyable from May to October, when the weather is sunny and warm and the flowers are in full bloom. If you want to dodge the tour throng, come here first thing in the morning. Obidos's streets can be slippery in several spots, so make sure to bring your best pair of walking shoes.

Location: Central Portugal

The Czech Republic's Cesky Krumlov, the epitome of a fairytale hamlet, is like traveling back in time. Explore this well-preserved medieval village listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site by traveling two hours south of Prague. The Vltava River meanders through the heart of this quaint city, which is filled with vibrant structures and steep red rooftops.

The Cesky Krumlov Castle is located in the heart of this charming town. With several extensions made over the years, the Gothic castle's original construction dates to the 13th century. The second-largest complex in the Czech Republic is this impressive castle, and visiting it is one of the best things to do in Cesky Krumlov. Just like it did all those centuries ago, you enter the castle complex via a huge drawbridge that crosses a moat defended by four black bears. Some important locations to see when touring the castle complex include a Gothic castle tower, a sizable library, a Baroque Castle Theatre, and a historic mint. The castle gardens, which are located on a rise of three distinct levels and have a lovely cascade fountain as their focal point, should not be missed.

The Old Town is located across the river from the castle. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets and take in the vibrant Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

One of the European villages that is best enjoyed as an overnight visit is this one. The streets are quiet once the daytime visitors have left. Only candles or lanterns are used to light the restaurants, creating an enchanting and lovely atmosphere.

Location: South Bohemia, Czech Republic

Vernazza is among the best fairytale towns in all of Europe. This town is located in Italy's Liguria region and is a part of the Cinque Terre region. Five charming tiny settlements can be found in this region. In a short period of time, a train may take you from the towns of Pisa and Genoa to Vernazza. The other Cinque Terre towns are also easily accessible by train from Vernazza.

Vernazza is a lovely area with many picturesque and eye-catchingly colored homes. Vernazza also has a lot of vantage points. From there, you may get a bird's-eye view of the town and the ocean. For instance, the hike from Vernazza to Monterosso al Mare offers a fantastic vantage point. Additionally, it is fascinating to visit Doria Castle, a medieval structure from which you can also take in an incredible perspective.

In addition, there is a church of stunning architectural design, the Church of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia. It's also fun to explore the town's port, where there are lots of eateries serving delectable Italian cuisine. Vernazza can be enjoyed to the fullest in a single day trip, but you can also extend your stay and visit the other Cinque Terre towns.

Location: La Spezia province, Liguria region, northwest Italy

Colmar, a village in Alsace, is one of the most fantastical fantasy cities in all of Europe. It is renowned for being one of France's beautiful towns, and each year, a large number of tourists visit to find out why it is so well-liked. The architecture in Colmar is magnificent. Colmar, which calls itself the "capital of Alsatian wine," is located along the Alsatian Wine Route.

Once you've been to a town, with its vibrant half-timbered homes and well-known Christmas market, you'll never forget it. Colmar is a great area to promenade and take in the architecture that has been influenced by the Germanic culture. Colmar has a lot to offer, so give yourself at least a few days to do it all. After exploring Little Venice's alleyways, take a boat along the Lauch River. You are welcome to wander the streets and admire the must-see residences, particularly the Maison des Têtes and the Maison Pfister, which are more like works of art than plain structures. Include some cultural pursuits like a trip to the Toy Museum, the Bartholdi Museum, or the Museum of Fine Arts. Don't forget to take a trip down the Alsace Wine Route while you are in Comar to see the vineyards and the quaint nearby villages.

Location: Alsace, France

Bush sculpture by Durbuy in the park Durbuy, a little village in Belgium, has a background of scenery that resembles something out of a fairy tale. Despite having the moniker "The Smallest City in the World," it actually feels and looks more like a town.

The town is located in Southern Belgium's lushly forested Ardennes region. It is the ideal location to escape the rush of city life because it is surrounded by forests and hills. The town's scenic location is further enhanced by the presence of the river Ourthe, which runs through the old city center and is full with charming medieval structures.

In Durbuy, there are many things to do. To begin with, the town is a terrific place to take a stroll and discover all the hidden corners of the old town. Visitors can explore the many charming shops and restaurants, view the Durbuy Castle (which regrettably is not accessible to the public), and learn about geography at the 300 million year old anticline Roche à la Falize.

The town and its environs are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities like kayaking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Even though you could theoretically get to Durbuy in one day from Brussels, we advise booking a few extra nights to fully experience the wonderful ambiance. After all, there is nothing more magical than awaking in a town from a fairy tale!

Location: province of Luxembourg, Belgium

On the island of Sicily, the tiny community of Borgo dei Parrini is a true hidden gem. It's unquestionably one of the European fantasy towns you must see! The population, which was already small, remained declining until a few years ago when young people left the village life for jobs that were assured in Sicily's bigger cities. Something needed to be done to resurrect Borgo dei Parrini from the brink of oblivion.

Local artists decided to give the town a makeover and painted the buildings in vibrant colors, adding murals and lovely tile work that is slightly evocative of Park Guell in Barcelona. They took inspiration from Catalan Modernism. Take a stroll through the narrow alleyways and stop at the hamlet pizzeria Nu Parrinaru to sample the lemon pizza, which is a specialty there.

Due to its remote location, Borgo dei Parrini must be reached by your own means of transportation. Borgo dei Parrini is the ideal day trip from Palermo if you have a car. The town is little and can be explored in one to two hours, but if you combine a visit to Borgo dei Parrini with a trip to Cefalu, it is well worth enduring the terrible driving conditions in Sicily and spending the day outside the busy capital of Sicily.

Location: western Sicily, Italy