Big cities have energy, but small towns deliver their own rewards: friendlier locals, unique shops, intimate hotels, and landscapes that stay with you. From coastal villages to desert oases and mountain hamlets, here are 20 of the world’s most beautiful towns—each with what makes it special and a recommended place to stay.
Praiano, Italy — A quieter alternative on the Amalfi Coast, Praiano offers sunlit beaches like Gavitella and Marina di Praia, ornate churches, and traditional tile work, all without Positano-size crowds. Stay: the modern, cliffside Casa Angelina for design-forward rooms and cocktails.
Biei, Japan — In Hokkaido, Biei’s rolling fields burst into color in summer with lavender, poppies, marigolds, and more, making it a floral wonderland amid Hokkaido’s broader natural riches. Stay: minimalist villas at a local retreat where landscape is the main attraction.
Baños, Ecuador — Nestled beneath an active volcano and surrounded by waterfalls, cloud forest, and access toward the Amazon basin, Baños is an adventure base—famous for its dramatic rope swing views. Stay: Luna Volcán Adventure SPA for romantic rooms, in‑room tubs, and candlelit dinners.
Burford, England — The Cotswolds’ gateway charms with medieval stone cottages, a steep High Street of timbered buildings, ancient woodlands, and cozy village shops including a centuries-old pharmacy. Stay: the Bull Burford, a historic inn with classic furnishings and multiple dining options.
Bled, Slovenia — Lake Bled’s emerald water, church-topped islet, hilltop castle, and Julian Alps backdrop create a postcard-perfect scene. The town adds candlelit restaurants and traditional wooden boats. Stay: Vila Bled on the waterfront for unbeatable lake views.
Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay — A short ferry ride from Buenos Aires, Colonia feels frozen in time with cobbled streets, colonial stone walls, tiled roofs, and vintage cars in its UNESCO-listed historic center. Stay: nearby El Nido Treehouses for dreamy, rustic charm.
Göreme, Turkey — Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, cave churches, and surreal landscape are best seen in person—especially from a hot-air balloon at sunrise. Stay: a cave hotel such as Sultan Cave Suites to sleep in carved rock with rooftop views.
Naples, Florida, USA — With powdery beaches, plentiful golf, and old-Florida character along the Paradise Coast, Naples combines coastal leisure with access to Marco Island and the Everglades. Stay: Naples Beach Club, a Four Seasons resort for refined beachfront amenities.
Ilulissat, Greenland — Remote but richly rewarding, Ilulissat draws visitors for colorful wooden houses, dog-sled excursions, and access to the UNESCO-listed Icefjord and towering icebergs. Stay: Hotel Arctic, which can arrange boat, helicopter, and dog-sled tours.
Itchan Kala (Khiva), Uzbekistan — The walled inner town of Khiva is an immaculately preserved Silk Road jewel, full of ancient mosques and madrassas; it feels like an open-air museum while remaining a living community. Stay: Grand Vizir Hotel just outside the walls for comfortable rooms and balcony views.
Mandawa, India — In Rajasthan, Mandawa impresses with forts, ornate haveli mansions, and elaborate frescoes—an atmospheric stop on a route north of Jaipur. Stay: Mandawa Kothi, an affordable palace-like hotel with personalized service.
Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland — A dramatic Alpine valley of sheer cliffs, flower-strewn meadows, and more than 70 waterfalls—some among Europe’s tallest—Lauterbrunnen looks like a fantasy landscape. Stay: nearby grand hotels in the Bern area for classic comfort and regional views.
Lunenburg, Canada — This colorful Nova Scotia fishing village has a UNESCO-listed Old Town recognized for preserving its original layout and maritime character—excellent seafood and historic charm await. Stay: a local inn known for great lobster dinners and warm hospitality.
Penglipuran, Indonesia — A traditional Balinese village near Ubud, Penglipuran showcases local architecture, temples, and sacred bamboo forests; visit during Galungan to see ornate penjor poles along the main street. Stay: luxury riverside tents at a nearby Ubud property for a peaceful base.
Port Fairy, Australia — On Victoria’s coast along the Great Ocean Road, Port Fairy offers 19th-century cottages, antique shops, beaches, and a welcoming village atmosphere that rewards exploration. Stay: a small boutique house with just a few suites and a focus on local produce.
Siwa (Siwa Oasis), Egypt — Emerging from the desert, Siwa Oasis is framed by springs, palm and olive groves, and ancient temple ruins dating to the fourth century BCE—an otherworldly, restorative place. Stay: Adrère Amellal for an authentic, low‑tech oasis experience with candlelit evenings and spring-fed pools.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany — A beautifully preserved medieval walled town with half-timbered houses and colorful facades, Rothenburg feels lifted from a storybook—magical in winter during its famed Christmas market. Stay: Romantik Hotel Markusturm for antique-filled rooms and old-world atmosphere.
Tepoztlán, Mexico — A mountain town within reach of Mexico City, Tepoztlán blends creative architecture, sculpture gardens, inventive bars, and a hike up to the clifftop Tepozteco ruins. Stay: Hotel Boutique Casa Fernanda for garden tranquility and a private pool.
Sai Kung, Hong Kong — A seaside peninsula beloved as a day trip from the city, Sai Kung mixes white-sand coves, geopark scenery, seafood restaurants, and an unexpectedly lively local dining scene. Stay: one of Hong Kong’s top luxury hotels when you return to the urban center.
Cadaqués, Spain — This whitewashed fishing village on the Costa Brava has long inspired artists like Dalí and Miró; winding coastal roads and hidden coves reward nautical exploration. Stay: a collection of white villas perched above the Mediterranean with sweeping sea views.
Note: This list was updated with new information since its original publication.
