August 13, 2026, 12:33 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
It’s not always the big metropolises that captivate travelers the most. Often, it’s the smaller towns where you can leisurely stroll through the old town, linger at a street café, or spontaneously attend a concert in the evening. That’s why the international editorial team of the travel magazine “Condé Nast Traveller” has named the 20 most beautiful cities in the world. TRAVELBOOK highlights the European places on the list, including a city in Germany.
Cobblestone streets, small cafés, unique boutique hotels, and historical landmarks: Europe’s most beautiful small towns offer something for every type of traveler. Unlike the big metropolises, things are usually more relaxed here. Those looking to escape everyday life for a few days will find many suitable destinations for a short trip.
Between Alpine Views and the Mediterranean
On the Amalfi Coast in Italy, Praiano is still considered a hidden gem. While visitors crowd into Positano, the small coastal town is much quieter. White houses cling to the cliffs, offering sweeping views of the Mediterranean in between.
The Slovenian town of Bled owes its reputation mainly to the lake of the same name, whose small island with a church is already quite well-known. A medieval castle towers over the water, with the Alps rising in the background. Walking along the shore or crossing with one of the traditional wooden boats are among the most popular activities here.
Lauterbrunnen is located in a valley in Switzerland, surrounded by steep rock walls, green meadows, and snow-capped mountain peaks. More than 70 waterfalls cascade down the slopes here, including some of the highest in Europe.
6 of the Most Beautiful Old Towns in Bavaria
Named! The World’s Most Beautiful Villages According to Forbes
Bavarian Old Town Among Europe’s Most Beautiful
That a German city made it among the most beautiful small towns in the world is likely to please many travelers. The choice by the renowned travel magazine shows that you don’t always have to go far for extraordinary travel destinations:
In northwestern Bavaria, Rothenburg ob der Tauber feels like a journey back to the Middle Ages. Half-timbered houses, winding alleys, and the nearly intact city wall give the old town a fairytale atmosphere. The Plönlein, a small fork with a crooked, yellow half-timbered house, is particularly famous and is one of the most photographed spots in Germany.
Strolling through the narrow alleys or looking over the historic city wall, you often feel like you’re in a fairy tale. Rothenburg is especially atmospheric in winter. The traditional Reiterlesmarkt, set against the backdrop of festively decorated half-timbered houses, creates a very special atmosphere.
Most Beautiful Cities in the World According to “Condé Nast Traveller” as a List
- Praiano, Italy
- Biei, Japan
- Baños, Ecuador
- Burford, England
- Bled, Slovenia
- Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay
- Göreme, Turkey
- Naples, Florida, USA
- Ilulissat, Greenland
- Itchan Kala, Uzbekistan
- Mandawa, India
- Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
- Lunenburg, Canada
- Penglipuran, Indonesia
- Port Fairy, Australia
- Siwa, Egypt
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
- Tepoztlán, Mexico
- Sai Kung, Hong Kong
- Cadaqués, Spain