Article - Best Small Towns Picturesque Towns in Europe - Your Favorite - Europe Forum - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums

18/04/2016
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Picturesque Towns in Europe: Your Favorite?

Posted by: Katie_H(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/katie_h/)
on Aug 7, 09 at 6:44am
Posted in: Europe(http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/)
Jumptolastreply(#lastcomment)
I was in the process of sending a good friend a copy of our Essential Europe guide (she'll be living in Spain for a
year but plans to travel around a good deal) when I stumbled upon a section early in the guide that lists some of our
editors' favorite "picturesque" towns. We have nominated the following:
Brugge, Belgium
ze, France
Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber, Germany
Bath, Great Britain
Mykonos Town, Greece
Lucca, Italy
Delft, Netherlands
Sintra, Portugal
Mrren, Switzerland
Just curious-1. How many of these have you been to?
2. Would you agree that they're particularly "picturesque"?
3. What is woefully missing from this list do you think?
Of these, I've only been to Bath. From my own experience, I know I'd add either Calvi or Ajaccio in Corsica.
Just a fun question for a Thursday afternoon--ReportAbuse(http://www.fodors.com/report.html)
Pegontheroad(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/pegontheroad/)on Aug7,09at6:52am
(#comment5855235)
I've been to Rotenburg, Bath, and Sintra. Maybe Mykonos--long time ago.
My favorites are Meersburg and Bamberg, Germany. Also a little town near Freiburg called Staufen. York, England
was nice too.
I'm especially partial to Germany. I'm about to go to Quedlinburg, which has been designated a world heritage city.
ReportAbuse(http://www.fodors.com/report.html)
yk(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/yk/)on Aug7,09at6:59am(#comment5855244)
Hi Katie,
I've been to
Brugge, Belgium
Bath, Great Britain
Delft, Netherlands
I agree with Brugge & Delft. R od T is way too touristy for me; and Bath is too big.
I also like Bamberg, and while I know Nrnberg is a city, its old town center is very pretty and not too touristy.
maitaitom(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/maitaitom/)on Aug7,09at7:01am(#comment
5855254)
One that was missed that comes to mind right away is:
Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
Palenque(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/palenque/)on Aug7,09at7:02am(#comment
5855256)
Been to them all

and except for Eze and Murren agree the rest are very cute
Murren itself is not cute but is in a stunning location - ditto for Eze, which also is terribly overrun with tourists so
its alleged beauty could not be appreciated anyway. Many would argue that whatever makes Murren so picturesque
then Wengen has more of it and to me Grindelwald is just as mesmerizing.
Lucerne, Siena, York, Oxford, Cambridge, Edinburgh and Amsterdam would all be on my list
any such list IMO must start with Venice - to me the most beautiful city in the world
StCirq(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/stcirq/)on Aug7,09at7:03am(#comment5855260)
I've been to all of them except Sintra.
I wouldn't have either Bath or R od T on the list.
I would add Sarlat. In general, though, I'm partial to smaller towns than any on the list.
http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/picturesque-towns-in-europe-your-favorite.cfm
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18/04/2016
traveller1959(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/traveller1959/)on Aug7,09at7:04am
(#comment5855265)
In Germany:
Quedlinburg
Wernigerode
Freudenberg
Hannoversch Mnden
Fulda
Alsfeld
Celle
..there are many more.
grandmere(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/grandmere/)on Aug7,09at7:06am(#comment
5855271)
Annecy
Rothenburg--many years ago
Collioure
Lucca
Honfleur
Les Baux de Provence
Moustiers-Ste-Marie
bobthenavigator(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/bobthenavigator/)on Aug7,09at7:07am
(#comment5855275)
Good question Katie !

I have been to 6 of your favorites, but much preferred Santorini to Mykonos. Here are ones I would add:
Marvao, Portugal
Ronda, Spain
Hallstatt, Austria
Orta San Guilio, Italy
Portovenere, Italy
Piran, Slovenia
Kotor, Montenegro
Noto, Sicily
5855285)
Here's a few more of my favorites:

Dubrovnik, Croatia
Hallstatt. Austria
Bernkastel-Kues, Germany
Vernazza, Italy
Riquewihr, France
Honfleur, France
Pitigliano, Italy
5855287)
Last ones (for now)

Rovinj, Croatia
Ljubljana, Slovenia
kmkrnn(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/kmkrnn/)on Aug7,09at7:12am(#comment
5855292)
Kathie...Bob and I have been to all but Mykonos and Murren. We would add Clovlley England,Praugue and a small
town just to the south of it called Cesky Krumlov. There are so many wounderful towns and NOT enough time to
see them all.
traveller1959(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/traveller1959/)on Aug7,09at7:14am
(#comment5855297)
In France:
Eguisheim
Riquewihr
Sarlat
Carcassonne
Aigues-Mortes
St. Thegonnec
...
In Spain:
Avila
Cadaques
Vejer de la Frontera
Carmona
Elciego
Santillana del Mar
Lierganes
...
In UK:
Chipping Campden
Culross
Clovelly
2/21
18/04/2016
Mortehoe
Salisbury
...
Katie, I am afraid, your question is typical "American" and it is senseless. There are hundred of quaint town in
Europe which are EQUALLY picturesque, yet different in style.
Please, please, please do not join the notorious question "Which is the best?" This question is as completely
nonsense as rankings. Which is the best novel ever written? Which is the best piece of music ever composed?
Nobody can answer such questions.
Come to Europe and enjoy. Explore the regions which are ignored by guidebooks. You will be surprised.
TDudette(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/tdudette/)on Aug7,09at7:15am(#comment
5855303)
DH and I have been to Brugge, Eze, Bath, Mykonos and Lucca. All were day trips from a home base in another city.
Don't know if 'picturesque' is a word I'd use though. One thinks of small villages, eh? Some of the canalled areas in
Brugge were. Mykonos so dramatic from the sea.
I'd put Arles, France at the top of those listed above.
Friend of mine said Collioure (spelling?) and Honfleur are picturesque. I found Roussillon and Gordes to be both
dramatic and picturesque.
Excuse me while I go look up that word!
adrienne(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/adrienne/)on Aug7,09at7:16am(#comment
5855306)
Been to Brugge, Eze, and Bath although the latter two were a long time ago. I think they're very touristy now. I love
Brugge.
What's missing? Some places I can think of right away are Orta San Guilio, Italy and Tourettes-sur-Loup, St-Remy,
and Aix-en-Provence, France. Although there are dozens of small towns in Italy and France that are charming and
picturesque.
Byrd(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/byrd/)on Aug7,09at7:16am(#comment5855308)
I've been ro Brugge, Eze, Lucca, and Delft, and agree with their being on the list.
I'd add Orvieto and Verona.
Byrd
5855329)
Toledo, Spain would also top my list

USNR(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/usnr/)on Aug7,09at7:46am(#comment5855369)
I've visited all of them and agree they are very picturesque.
Might add Bad Grund in the Harz, Montecatini Terme in Tuscany, Dinkelbuhl on the Romantic Road. There's a
little place called Conques somewhere in the Dordogne that time forgot.
Katie_H(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/katie_h/)
on Aug7,09at7:48am(#comment5855381)
Ooh these are good---traveller1959; I understand what you are saying, but I mean this in a completely fun
"vicarious" way. I don't have a trip planned concretely for Europe right now but I certainly like thinking about all
the places I've yet to have explored (and discovering new ones). I'm intrigued by the mentions of Germany for
instance because I've never been.
Plus, as the saying goes, one man's treasure is another man's junk. I know I've posted about this before but I find
the town of Glastonbury in England to be completely 'picturesque' partly due to its close proximity to the Tor. I had
a friend visit me while I was living there and she described it as "rough around the edges"; I completely didn't see
that! So it's interesting to see what places someone considers beautiful.
This is just one prism...I will share these Spain recommendations with my friend!
Hope others chime in too..
TPAYT(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/tpayt/)on Aug7,09at8:14am(#comment5855458)
We,ve been to Eze (several times-great views) and Murren. Loved both.
We also thought these we're picturesque:
Villefranche-sur-mer
Tourettes-sur-Loup
Amboise
Portofino
Bellagio
Varenna
You've got me thinking now!
padams421(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/padams421/)on Aug7,09at8:25am(#comment
5855479)
Been to Rothenburg and Murren. I agree that Murren should be noted for its beautiful location, not the actual
village itself.
I would add Bergen, Norway to the list.
Aduchamp1(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/aduchamp1/)on Aug7,09at8:41am
(#comment5855513)
In Spain
3/21
18/04/2016
Cuenca
Ronda
Avila used to be on the list until the development outside the walls
In Italy
Cefalu
Siena
(#comment5855534)
Traveller1959
Katie simplu asked for picturesque towns. She did not qualify them as to what constitutes quaint and did not use
the word "best."
Many of the posters, as evidenced by their responses, are experienced travelers who, of course, will have thier own
opinions as what is picturesesque.
bookchick(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/bookchick/)on Aug7,09at8:52am(#comment
5855549)
I've been to ze and to Lucca. I agree that the former is over-run with tourists and the latter was "okay".
I'd add to Italy's most picturesque Orta and Baveno. The former wasn't bombed during WWII so was not "re-built"
and the latter is on Lago Maggiore but not over-run with tourists the way Stresa is. Bomarzo (south of Florence,
north of Rome) also has its charms.
BC
Bert4545(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/bert4545/)on Aug7,09at8:53am(#comment
5855551)
I agree completely with Palenque that Venice is the most beautiful city in the world. How can we say that when
neither of us has seen every other city in the world? Just go there and you will know.
However, that was not the question. Katie was essentially asking if you think that the places mentioned are
'picturesque' and what other places do you think are 'picturesque'. To my way of thinking, for a place to be
'picturesque', it must be small enough to fit into a picture - that much-derided art-form: the chocolate-box. Now
Venice does not fit onto a chocolate-box. There are some very picturesque places in Venice, but there are some parts
that are less than pretty. So I would suggest any of the Pueblos Blancos of Andalusia - Gaucin, Atajate, Benadalid,
Algatocin, etc. similarly, many villages in Italy - San Gimignano for instance, why has no one mentioned that? Siena
is good, too.
(#comment5855553)
Sorry I omitted one in Spain

Santiago de Compsostela during the summer when the streets are filled pilgrims from the Camino.
AJMelheim(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/ajmelheim/)on Aug7,09at9:11am(#comment
5855584)
When I saw the title of this post, I immediately thought of Lucca, Italy. DH and I loved biking the walls.
Add: Segovia, Spain
BigRuss(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/bigruss/)on Aug7,09at9:14am(#comment
5855590)
Oia, Santorini, Greece.

Amboise, France.
zoecat(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/zoecat/)on Aug7,09at10:24am(#comment5855715)
Pitigliano, Italy is very pituresque. It took my breath away the first time I viewed it from a distance. Sorano, Italy
and Todi, Italy, also. I always take tons of pictures when visiting these towns.
I thought Lourmarin, France was also very picturesque.
From your list, I've only been to Lucca. I like it, but feel it is not stunning/charming enough to be on the list.
I saw the movie In Bruges (great, by the way) and thought Bruges looked very picturesque. But, I somehow don't
think that counts. I'll have to plan a trip to Bruges.
blh(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/blh/)on Aug7,09at11:08am(#comment5855804)
Have been to the first three - Brugge, Eze, and Rothenburg and agree they are certainly picturesque.
There are so many picturesque villages in France that it's hard to know which to name. They are picturesque in
different ways - some from a distance - others from the center. Here's just a few:
Vezelay - Burgundy
Equisheim - Alsace
St Paul de Vence, Lourmarin, Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Gordes - Provence
Dinan- Brittany
Honfleur - Normandy
Sarlat, La Roque-Gageac - Dordogne
St Cirq Lapopie - Lot
I would also add many of Italian hilltowns Orvieto, Siena, Spello
also, the Cinque Terre villages.
Because we always go in off season, many of the villages that are overrun with tourists in the summer, are almost
empty in the fall. They are more "picturesque" when you can see the village itself instead of throngs of tourists!
zeppole(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/zeppole/)on Aug7,09at11:39am(#comment
5855852)
I cannot believe that anyone ever went to Burano in the Venetian lagoon and failed to take a picture.
But what makes for a great picture is in the eye of the picture-taker for sure. Has anyone every called Genoa
4/21
18/04/2016
picturesque, and yet:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/14448041@N04/2545231492/in/photostream/
(http://www.flickr.com/photos/14448041@N04/2545231492/in/photostream/)
http://viatraveldesign.com/journal/archives/Staglieno_PorticatoSuperiore_37web.JPG
(http://viatraveldesign.com/journal/archives/Staglieno_PorticatoSuperiore_37web.JPG)
http://blog.cleveland.com/travel/2008/03/genoa_statue.jpg
(http://blog.cleveland.com/travel/2008/03/genoa_statue.jpg)
http://blog.redbean.com/sussman/images/genovaclosed.jpg(http://blog.red
bean.com/sussman/images/genovaclosed.jpg)
Sassafrass(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/sassafrass/)on Aug7,09at11:43am(#comment
5855862)
I've been to only a few. I think Bruges is picturesque, as is parts of Bath, Delft & Rothenburg.
Some of my favorites:
Toledo & Segovia, Spain;
Positano, Siena, Assisi, Venice & Burano, Italy;
Garmisch & Berteschgarten, Germany
kybourbon(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/kybourbon/)on Aug7,09at11:45am(#comment
5855863)
1. Several
2. No
3. Delphi, Greece
Pienza, Montalcino, Orvieto and numerous hill towns in Italy
Some on you list would be on my "not to visit" list.
bettyk(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/bettyk/)on Aug7,09at12:31pm(#comment5855964)
I've only been to Bath, Rothenburg and Mrren. While the Roman Baths were interesting, I don't consider Bath to
be picturesque. Ditto with Murren. It is the location which is breathtaking, not the town.
We're partial to small towns in Germany and have found the following to be especially worthwhile:
Bad Wimpfen
Gengenbach
Dettelbach
Iphofen
Miltenberg
Bernkastel-Kues
Meersburg
Lindau
Hopefully, in September we will be visiting a couple of places that others have mentioned:
Quedlinburg
Wernigerode
Hannoversch Mnden
Alsfeld
Austria: Hallstatt
Switzerland: Stein am Rhein
UK: Chipping Campden
latedaytraveler(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/latedaytraveler/)on Aug7,09at12:38pm
(#comment5855984)
Katie, been to several. Would add:

Gruyere Switzerland
Ronda, Spain
Attnymom(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/attnymom/)on Aug7,09at1:55pm(#comment
5856104)
Of the places you listed, I've been to Brugge and Rothenburg and agree that they are extremely picturesque. I would
definitely add Honfleur, France to the list. I think Salzburg is also lovely.
Cries_Van_Notebook(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/cries_van_notebook/)on Aug7,09at
2:06pm(#comment5856128)
I think everyone if Fodorville knows that I love Sintra, Portugal.
I have been to Bath, Sintra, Eze, and Mykonos.
I would add Segovia, Spain and Cesky Krumlov to your list.
Thin
leuk2(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/leuk2/)on Aug7,09at2:20pm(#comment5856155)
How about Brantome, just outside the Dordogne
cathies(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/cathies/)on Aug7,09at6:12pm(#comment5856313)
Delphi, Greece
Boughton-on-the Water, Cotswolds
Albas, The Lot, France
Burano, Italy
San Gimignano, Italy
The countryside
All of the Cinque Terra towns
hetismij(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/hetismij/)on Aug7,09at6:52pm(#comment
5856323)
Naarden, Blokzijl, Giethoorn, Harlingen, Franeker, Muiden, Baambrugge, Heusden, Dokkum, Sneek, Hindelopen,
5/21
18/04/2016
Vlieland village, West Terschelling, Deventer, Zwaartsluis, Spakenburg, Zierikzee, Middelburg, Maastricht, Gulpen,
Elburg, to name but a few in the Netherlands.
TDudette(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/tdudette/)on Aug7,09at7:24pm(#comment
5856341)
Well, I mixed up Mykonos with Santorini-that was the dramatic one. The windmills and the harbor at Mykonos
were very picturesque.
And TPAYT, how could one leave out the lake towns in Italy?! So beautiful.
ps-1959, your "senseless, typically American" comments were unnecessary and unkind IMHO.
mike1728(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/mike1728/)on Aug7,09at7:48pm(#comment
5856353)
Traveller 1959... Relax..............it's about generating conversation about Europe which is always a good thing. On a
post like this people will hear about different towns throughout Europe and in turn further research the areas via
books and the internet and possibly plan trips around what they have learned...."typically American"??. ..Go
Yanks!!
Mikek
bookchick(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/bookchick/)on Aug7,09at8:30pm(#comment
5856377)
I find San G quite clogged with tourists, too. It's great to find lovely little towns, but when you can barely walk down
the streets due to the congestion, it's kind of off-putting, IMO.
BC
Katie_H(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/katie_h/)
on Aug8,09at12:20am(#comment5856689)
Wooh--happy Friday. Nice to come in to see so many responses. I'm finding myself googling half of these to see
what they look like (and where in the world they are). USNR, your comment about Conques, France, "the town that
time forgot" intrigued me. I found the following on Flickr. I would LOVE to spend a few days just taking photos.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/22260323@N08/2369007273/
(http://www.flickr.com/photos/22260323@N08/2369007273/)
Zeppole---that first flickr photo you posted with the mannequin is cool looking.
I agree that "picturesque" in my mind usually means "smaller".
5856817)
Well yes by 'picturesque' i would place about 50 Italian towns above any town in places like Germany, the U.K. and
just about anyplace north of the Alps. Only southern France seems to have widely preserved the medieval look in
many of its smaller towns as well as places like the Greek Islands.
Indeed if looking romantically untouched and old is the criteria then i'd say Clovelly may be the prettiest town in
England.
bettyk(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/bettyk/)on Aug8,09at3:40am(#comment5857189)
http://travel.webshots.com/photo/1354763582011574650JljlPY
(http://travel.webshots.com/photo/1354763582011574650JljlPY)
http://travel.webshots.com/photo/1354805786011574650EfkKBF
(http://travel.webshots.com/photo/1354805786011574650EfkKBF)
5857450)
Brussels anyone?
rowdytxgirl(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/rowdytxgirl/)on Aug8,09at5:25am
(#comment5857456)
I haven't been to any you have mentioned. All my big trips have been to Germany.
I love Oberammergau (in the fall and winter) and
Mittenwald for the sheer beauty of the mountains.
Both can be pretty touristy but the countryside is very nice!
annabelle2(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/annabelle2/)on Aug8,09at5:47am(#comment
5857514)
I have been to some of the listed places:

Bath
Delft
R on the T
Sintra (stayed there three times and really love it)
Eze
I like many of the additions, especially Cuenca, Ronda, Vernazza & Corniglia, St Paul de Vence; agree that when I
start thinking of "picturesque" places, numerous Italian hill towns, Swiss villages, & French small towns start
tumbling through my mind!
Other worthy places listed like Venice and Santiago de Compostela are cities, not towns, in my book, however.
Three more that spring to mind are:
Mutters in the Austrian Tyrol
Obidos in Portugal
Bibury in England
cathies(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/cathies/)on Aug8,09at7:26am(#comment5857761)
Hi Katie, we renamed Albas in The Lot "Brigadoon" in honour of the Gene Kelly movie - the town only reappears
once every 250 years or so. Albas is gorgeous, but murder to find! We were verging on the divorce courts by the
6/21
18/04/2016
time we got to our gite!! But it's so pretty it was worth the trouble.
Thanks for starting this thread, it's great fun.
screen_name_taken(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/screen_name_taken/)on Aug13,09at
1:42pm(#comment5869506)
If one has ever been to Pedraza and/or Consuegra (Spain), they would both be the list.
brando(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/brando/)on Aug13,09at2:10pm(#comment
5869545)
I agree with op about Sintra and Vernazza as a later poster mentioned.

Anywhere on the trails of CT are great, or a morning sun rise in Florence, walking the st's of rome and catching a
glimpse of the colleseum or the st. peters, a sunset in asissi, etc etc.
littlejane(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/littlejane/)on Aug13,09at5:41pm(#comment
5869683)
Been to:
Eze (would definitely agree)
Bath (no, wouldn't call it picturesque although I loved it)
Sintra - yes, maybe
Lucca - no, not my idea of Picturesque. Think some of the other tuscan hill towns have better vistas and look better
for photos (another poster mentioned san gimignano, I'd substitute this for Lucca)
Mykonos - didn't understand this one at all, while I enjoyed it I thought in terms of beauty it was nothing special.
Oia or Fira on Santorini would get my vote any time.
The big ommission for me is Dubrovnik - breathtakingly beautiful.
reheatedspaghetti(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/reheatedspaghetti/)on Aug13,09at
11:03pm(#comment5869930)
I would definitely add Hvar, Croatia to the list!
ediemay(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/ediemay/)on Aug13,09at11:19pm(#comment
5869972)
I believe this thread would be much shorter if we were naming the ugliest and least quaint of the European towns,
especially in France. Hard to recall very many.
tcreath(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/tcreath/)on Aug13,09at11:34pm(#comment
5869994)
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Hallstatt, Austria
Spello, Italy
tcreath(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/tcreath/)on Aug13,09at11:38pm(#comment
5870008)
I would also second Maitaitom's Ljubljana recommendation as well.

Tracy
stefarr(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/stefarr/)on Aug14,09at12:43am(#comment
5870161)
What about my capital city..Valletta? Its harbour is in a league of its own....

I think in this case it is a question of beauty being in the eye of the beholder..
My all time breath holders,
Pienza in Italy and all the Val D'Orcia
Positano..when not overrun by tourists
Aeolian islands
Cinque Terre
La Morra in Piemonte....
a bit biased I'm afraid, being so close to Italy ...
LJ(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/lj/)on Aug14,09at12:53am(#comment5870193)
Been to Bath, Sintra, Delft and Lucca.
Would add Alberobello (Puglia) Italy.
Luisah(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/luisah/)on Aug14,09at12:57am(#comment
5870208)
I've been to Eze and Lucca and agree with both choices, but would call Lucca charming rather than picturesque.
I would add Roussillon (sp?) and Les Baux in France; Ronda and Mijas in Spain; Santorini in Greece and Eyeries
and Baltimore in Ireland.
I saw several picturesque villages in Switzerland but don't recall the names.
jcreaturetravel(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/jcreaturetravel/)on Aug14,09at1:07am
(#comment5870240)
I've been to Brugge, Bath, Mykonos and Sintra.

I would add Cadaques, Pals and Girona in Spain; Dubrovnik, Grozjnan and Motovun in Croatia; Evora in the
Alentejo region of Portugal; and Alghero on the island of Sardinia in Italy.
Jeanine
www.jthetravelauthority.com(http://www.jthetravelauthority.com)
flygirl(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/flygirl/)on Aug14,09at1:27am(#comment5870300)
Late to the game, I see this went to print today!
I've been to the below:
ze, France
Bath, Great Britain
Sintra, Portugal
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18/04/2016
I'd have suggested Obidos. I enjoyed my brief visit to Sintra, but it didn't have me exclaiming around every corner
like Obidos. It's a gem. I second the mention of Pienza, and Oriveto! Guarda in Switzerland, a perfect view...
CONVERT94(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/convert94/)on Aug14,09at1:54am
(#comment5870376)
Been to Lucca and Mykonos (latter is terribly overrated, not quaint or charming, too staged). My choice is Capri
town before 10am and after 5pm when the hoards of day-trippers go back to the mainland and leave the place to the
natives and residing tourist.
SAnParis2(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/sanparis2/)on Aug14,09at3:35am(#comment
5870662)
I've also been to 3 Brugge, Delft & Rothenburg - The first one that came to my mind is also Cesky Krumlov, others Melk, Austria, Maastricht, Netherlands & Namur, Belgium.
Marlin1(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/marlin1/)on Aug14,09at3:40am(#comment
5870682)
I have been to Eze, Brugge, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Mykonos, Lucca and would add Celle, Quedlinburg,
Germany.
How about doing this survey on the US to help us Europeans to make better choices when going to that country?
saige(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/saige/)on Aug14,09at3:42am(#comment5870691)
I've been to Rothenburg, Bath and Sintra.
Of these, Sintra is my pick for most picturesque.
I'd add:
Avila
Santiago de Compestala
Segovia
Prague
York
Edinburgh
clarasong(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/clarasong/)on Aug14,09at5:15am(#comment
5870972)
I have been to all but two...I would agree with saige above that Sintra is very beautiful. I would also add Northern
Portugal, in particular Viana do Costelo, and Pinhao...incredible. Can post pictures if anyone cares.
bdjtbenson(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/bdjtbenson/)on Aug14,09at5:26am
(#comment5871013)
Salzburg.
Specifically, walking from the town center (opposite side of the river from the fortress) toward the Augustiner
brewery in the evening, crossing one of the bridges and looking back at the lit old center. Absolutely amazing.
Of course you can't have a list without Venice.
Bath, Vernazza, San Gimignano, Cochem and Wurtzburg are also very high on my list.
Of the ones mentioned only Lucca would NOT be on my list. Lucca is okay but not picturesque.
canadian44(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/canadian44/)on Aug14,09at5:28am
(#comment5871020)
I would add Villefranche-Sur-Mer France and Zermatt in Switzerland.

Hinckley1964(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/hinckley1964/)on Aug14,09at8:51am
(#comment5871589)
Lucca in Tuscany is the most picturesque place I have ever been, so it definitely belongs on your list. I would add a
town on the Rhine in Germany and a harbor-town unknown to most Americans.
First, Boppard on the Rhine is one of the few Rhine-side towns where the train tracks are inland rather than right
along the Rhine. This allows for a splendid pedestrian promenade on the river. The views are both charming (the
town's architecture) and magnificent [the physical features of the Rhine Valley's topography here, at what many
observers (self included) think of as the Rhineland's most beautiful part].
Second, St. Peter Port, Guernsey, the Channel Islands. [Note to Los Angelenos: I don't mean the Channel Islands off
your coast, I mean the British Crown's dependencies once described by Victor Hugo as "pieces of France that She
carelessly dropped into the ocean, and which were scooped up by Britain."] Guernsey is about 19 miles west of
France's Cotentin Peninsula [WW2 historians are more familiar with the area immediately EAST of the Cotentin
Peninsula, since that's where Omaha, Sword, Juno etc. are located.]. SPP is built on a series of hill-terraces
surrounding the most perfectly picturesque harbor that can be imagined. It needs to be on your list. It is almost as
picturesque as Lucca, but in a different way.
Hinckley1964(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/hinckley1964/)on Aug14,09at8:58am
(#comment5871602)
I need to thank bettyk for reminding me of Lindau, which I visited in 1995. It is VERY picturesque, and for lovers of
lake rather than river scenery is better than Boppard.
hpeabody(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/hpeabody/)on Aug14,09at9:46am(#comment
5871693)
#1 I have been to 3, Eze, Sintra and Mykonos. #2 Yes, I agree all are picturesque. #3, Burano and the villages of
Cinque Terre were mentioned in responses and I agree those are as well. Perhaps I might add Rousillon or Gourdes,
Cascais/Estoril and the Amalfi Coast
basingstoke2(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/basingstoke2/)on Aug14,09at10:46am
(#comment5871805)
Echternach in Luxembourg
Horta in the Azores - the painted marina walls and particularly the sidewalks done in stone mosaic are amazing.
Burano - I must have used 1 gig of media taking pictures there
Prague - don't miss the views from the Charles Bridge and Kampa Island
Kitty_Parigi(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/kitty_parigi/)on Aug14,09at11:55am
(#comment5871978)
Colmar, France; Salamanca, Spain; Taormina, Italy; Galway, Ireland; Regensburg, Germany.
And of course, PRAGUE, the mother of all eyeball candy cities.
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curlie(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/curlie/)on Aug14,09at12:13pm(#comment5872032)
No one has mentioned Interlaken in Switzerland. We rented an apartment here and our balcony looked straight out
at the Jungfrau - this was magnificent when the sun was setting in the evening. This is a central place to stay when
visiting the mountain areas of Murren and Grindlewald (as already mentioned) and wonderful walking. The train
system here is marvellous for visiting all these areas. April/May is a good time to visit - not too many tourists.
Debs(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/debs/)on Aug14,09at12:28pm(#comment5872055)
Flamm, Norway; Bled, Slovenia; Marsaxlokk, Malta (actually, just about every city in Malta, including Gozo);
Tallinn, Estonia.
Kitty - 'Prague, the mother of all eyeball candy cities' - LOL!
irishface(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/irishface/)on Aug15,09at1:43am(#comment
5873004)
I've been to six of Katie's nine. Loved them all. Almost missed Delft. When staying in Haarlem, I took a train there
one Sunday. The train station where I got off was in a part of town that was nondescript modern and there seemed
to be no one around. Bits of paper and fast food containers were blowing around. It was beginning to rain. I almost
got back on the train to return to Haarlem, but in the distance I saw a spire. With that as my "compass" I began
walking and came out on a lovely city square. (It helped that the rain stopped and the sun came out as I approached
the old part of the city.
However, I don't think that I could list which is to me the most picturesque town. I have been in so many
breathtaking places. The wonder of being in a new place always overwhelms me.
Ediemay's comment that this would be a shorter thread were we to list ugly places is so right on target. I can't think
of any truly ugly places I've been. There are a few sort of gritty places, but there was always something of interest to
make it memorable in a good way.
I had to laugh at Cathies' comment about being nearly ready for the divorce court before finding "Brigadoon". One
of the advantages of traveling solo: there is no one to get mad at you when you screw up as driver or navigator. On
the other hand, there is no one with whom to share the joy of finding that perfect place.
Dutch(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/dutch/)on Aug15,09at2:21am(#comment5873105)
I didn't see Tallin, Estonia on this thread. I would add that.
Brussels, Pal? HaHaHa.
Kwoo(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/kwoo/)on Aug15,09at2:42am(#comment5873148)
I would add Prague, Cesky Krumlov, and Telc!!!
MareW(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/marew/)on Aug15,09at3:23am(#comment
5873260)
I've only been to four of the ones on your list, Brugge, Delft Rothenburg, and Delft. I loved all of them, but
Mittenwald and Burano would be at the top of my list.
MareW(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/marew/)on Aug15,09at3:25am(#comment
5873267)
Grrr. Need that edit button. The four I've been to were Brugge, Delft, Rothenburg, and Bath.
dunia123(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/dunia123/)on Aug15,09at10:40am(#comment
5874456)
Been to Eze (loved it - and it wasn't overrun with tourists in early spring), Mykonos & Bath. All lovely. Loved also
Venasque & Arles. Ahh... Looking forward to adding Oia, Santorini this fall.
giorgioch(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/giorgioch/)on Aug15,09at6:23pm(#comment
5874902)
I live in Italy and I have been in Lucca, Brugge, Mykonos.

In Tuscany I would replace Lucca (well known as Florence or Pisa) with Volterra and Montepulciano.
In Greece Mykonos is -again- very well known. What about Agia Meteora and Delphi?
As for Brugge, no doubt but if you go there add a trip to Genf. The Castle is simply an enchanted place.
bilboburgler(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/bilboburgler/)on Aug15,09at9:44pm
(#comment5874965)
Brugge, Belgium Yes

ze, France No
Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber, Germany Yes
Bath, Great Britain Yes
Mykonos Town, Greece No
Lucca, Italy Yes
Delft, Netherlands Yes
Sintra, Portugal Yes
Mrren, Switzerland No
Weird list, I wouldn't include Bath, Delft, Sintra.
Where is Auxerre, Bescancon, Oxford, Bilbao, Barcelona, Madrid, Cordoba, Chablis etc
bilboburgler(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/bilboburgler/)on Aug15,09at9:48pm
(#comment5874970)
You have to also think about time of day

St Gimigiano is great at 10 at night and 8 in the morning but once the buses turn up it is not
Nikki(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/nikki/)on Aug15,09at10:16pm(#comment5874988)
Having just returned from the Alentejo region of Portugal, I have to say that there is a very high concentration of
picturesque towns there:
Evora
Estremoz
Evoramonte
Marvao
Castelo de Vide
Monsaraz
lanejohann(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/lanejohann/)on Aug15,09at10:27pm
(#comment5875001)
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old town tallinn and cesky krumlov -similar in some regards but very photogenic
SeeDee(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/seedee/)on Aug17,09at5:20am(#comment
5877165)
Eze deserves its place on the list for the view over Cap Ferrat.
Erice in Sicily runs it close.
Lucca hardly rates as particularly picturesque; would suggest Monteriggioni in its place.
Dubrovnik - because my wife says so.
Mykonos - my wife again.
Bath is special but check out Cheltenham when in the area.
Cambridge is the daddy of university towns.
Venice - no contest
Tdmessick(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/tdmessick/)on Aug18,09at10:39pm
(#comment5880657)
I've seen them all but Eze, France. Still, the most beautiful sight I have ever experienced is Bled, Slovenia!! A
MUST.
jetsetj(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/jetsetj/)on Aug18,09at11:09pm(#comment
5880702)
I have been through Eze and Lucca. Both looked nice.

I vote for Venice and CT northern Italy and Nerano in southern Italy.
Aigues Mortes in France
frenchwow(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/frenchwow/)on Aug19,09at12:07am
(#comment5880806)
Bruges Brussels,Gordes France, everywhere in Tuscany

jessicadebrasouth(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/jessicadebrasouth/)on Aug19,09at
3:53am(#comment5881460)
Love ze, France. Would add Innsbruck, Austria; Assisi, Italy and Siena, Italy if you don't mind the steep streets
=0).
Beautiful church to visit if you ever find yourself in Innsbruck: http://www.sacred
destinations.com/austria/innsbruckhofkirche.htm(http://www.sacred
destinations.com/austria/innsbruckhofkirche.htm)
jessicadebrasouth(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/jessicadebrasouth/)on Aug19,09at
3:58am(#comment5881483)
Almost forgot Lucerne, Switzerland. The Lwendenkmal is a must see, and the lake is lovely to walk around. Also,
you can take a cablecar ride up Mt. Pilatus for an amazing view.
wrenwood(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/wrenwood/)on Aug19,09at4:59am(#comment
5881662)
Brugge, Belgium ~ on the "to go to someday list"

Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber, Germany ~ been there twice, definitely deserves to be "on the list"
Bath, Great Britain ~ headed there in 6 weeks
Mrren, Switzerland ~ great setting, thought Gimmelwald had more charm
I would add
Lower Slaughter, England
Soglio, Switzerland
Guarda, Switzerland
Oh my! I googled pictures of Bled Slovenia!!!!! It must go onto my "to go to someday list"
I guess most of my favorites are more villages than towns.
Dreamer2(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/dreamer2/)on Aug20,09at9:38am(#comment
5884763)
Of your list, I've only been to Rothenburg, and do agree with its inclusion. However, I'd definitely have to add
Lindau on Lake Constance, and Stein am Rhine to the list. As for Greece, I'm very surprised not to see Oia on
Santorini included... sunset over the caldera... aaahhh...
I'm so enjoying everyone's replies - More trips to plan!
cobbie(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/cobbie/)on Aug20,09at10:32am(#comment
5884865)
Sundborn, Sweden
Bergen, Norway
Geiranger, Norway
Trondheim, Norway
taconictraveler(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/taconictraveler/)on Aug20,09at11:32am
(#comment5884966)
Well, I have been to ALL of them, and many more which have been mentioned.
I tend to think of picturesque as relating to villages, and would like to mention just one that I visited recently, which
I do not think has been posted.
It is BUREN, in the Netherlands. Have a look at it, if you can.
Well, OK just one more "new" one: Lans, near Innsbruck,
Then of course, Thin is so right: Sintra is a romantic dream, or at least it was in 1984, again in 1985, and seemed
just as good in 2005.
Viana do Costelo was my favorite in 1985.
Riquewihr was delightful in 1982.
I'm hoping these beauties can stay as picturesque as they are in memory.
taconictraveler(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/taconictraveler/)on Aug20,09at11:34am
(#comment5884968)
Forgot to say, for Americans, Martin van Buren's ancestors came from Buren, in the Netherlands, and I'd never
10/21
18/04/2016
even heard of it til our friend took us there for a day's outing in June, 09!
lobo_mau(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/lobo_mau/)on Aug21,09at3:32am(#comment
5886477)
Szentendre, Hungary
cynthia_booker(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/cynthia_booker/)on Aug26,09at11:50pm
(#comment5898540)
Very inspiring thread. So many places to see, so little time.

mr_go(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/mr_go/)on Aug27,09at12:10am(#comment
5898576)
Hard to believe, but Ive only been to one of those towns. Ive been close to several others.
As far as adding to that list, quite frankly I wouldnt know where to start or where to stop. So heres a few
representing the letter S, off the top of my head...
San Gimignano
Saumur
Spoleto
Segovia
Sarlat
oliverandharry(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/oliverandharry/)on Aug27,09at12:45am
(#comment5898655)
In no particular order:
Regensberg, Switzerland (outside Zurich)
Sintra, also Evora, Evoramonte, Estremoz
Wells, England
Chester, England
Robin Hood's Bay, England
Monteriggioni
Cortona (if a little overrun)
Orvieto
Tenby, Wales
Llanrhaeadr, Wales
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland
Tobermory, and the whole Isle of Mull, Scotland
nini(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/nini/)on Aug27,09at12:56am(#comment5898685)
Been to five of the towns listed. I would add:
Wengen
Etretat
St Cirq LaPopie
San Quirico
Martel
Vernazza
Laycock
Castle Combe
Cawdor
travel_buzzing(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/travel_buzzing/)on Aug29,09at2:41am
(#comment5903861)
Noto, Sicily; Citt Barocca

travel_buzzing(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/travel_buzzing/)on Aug29,09at2:44am
(#comment5903872)
Karlovy Vary, czech republic

Delaine(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/delaine/)on Sep3,09at5:18am(#comment
5914571)
I've been to Rothenburg and Bath.

I would add the following:
Mont St. Michele, France -- It is so unique, being on an island and having, as it were, one street that winds its way
up to the top, turning into stairs.
Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic -- I visited on a rainy, chilly late October day, and the gloom added to, rather than
detracted from the town's charm. Despite their being a fair number of people about, Cesky Krumlov seemed to
possess a somewhat Sleeping Beauty-esque quality, as if it were waiting to be awakened from a lingering dream.
Positano, Italy and/or Vernazza, Italy -- Both of these enchanting towns seem to cascade down from the heights to
the sea and are actually viewed better from the sea. What can you say but "che bellezza!"
San Gimignano, Italy -- Viewed from the top of the Torre Grossa, San Gimignano's Piazza della Cisterna and the
surrounding streets and structures look to be part of a patchwork quilt composed of red tile, golden stone and spots
of green. Simply stunning.
ancestralvoices(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/ancestralvoices/)on Feb7,11at9:28am
(#comment6918042)
I've been to only three of your listed towns(Brugge, Rothenburg, Delft). I will be visiting Bath this Summer.
I would nominate:
NETHERLANDS:
1. Hindeloopen(Friesland)
2. Sloten(Friesland)
3. Thorn(Limburg)
4. Veere(Zeeland)
BELGIUM
1. Lier(Antwerp)
2. Ronse(Flanders)
2. Durbuy(Ardennes)
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18/04/2016
LUXEMBOURG
1. Vianden
2. Esch sur sure
DENMARK
1.Aeroskobing
2. Ebeltoft
ChallengerGrey(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/challengergrey/)on Feb7,11at12:59pm
(#comment6918361)
We've been to Bath, but don't recall it as a highlight on our 1700 mile driving trip. But it was nice. IMO:
Innsbruck, Austria
Salzburg, Austria
Capri, Italy
Deauville, France
Honfluer, France
Murano & Burano, Italy
Planning our trip to Montreaux based on Fodor bloggers immediately followed by a Baltic Cruise, so we'll get to see
Tallinn, Estonia listed in this thread. Also we're still considering driving to Bellagio for 2 days based on this thread.
Happy Travels.
P.S. Someone asked for a US City suggestion and besides the obvious New York City (and most Europeans like
Orlando, Florida) my favorite city is San Francisco followed by Chicago.
JillDavis(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/jilldavis/)on Feb7,11at1:23pm(#comment
6918396)
I have only been to Eze on your list and it was quite enchanting.
ncounty(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/ncounty/)on Feb7,11at2:55pm(#comment
6918549)
I have been to Brugges and Sintra. Brugges is particularly picturesque.

I can't believe someone else mentioned Aeroskobing! It wouldn't have leaped to mind but my walk to the beach
there did evoke an impression of old Flemish paintings.
I would add-Coullioure
-Carcassonne
-Lucerne
-Positano
-Capri
-Bellagio
-Varenna
-Agios Nikalos (sp?) on the island of Crete.
-Villefranche sur mer
klondiketoo(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/klondiketoo/)on Feb7,11at6:47pm
(#comment6918706)
Been to 3. I agree with Betty's list. Have to add

France:
Conques
Collioure
Noyers
Fontaines-de-Vaucluse
Nancy (perhaps too large a city for some to be considered)
Wissembourg
Rochefort-en-Terre
Forte La Latte (not actually a town, fort where Kirk Douglas' "The Vikings" was filmed
In Germany
Ladenburg
Speyer
Mainau Island
Bad Wimpfen
Michelstadt
Gengenbach
Neuleiningen
ancestralvoices(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/ancestralvoices/)on Nov4,11at12:22pm
(#comment7353056)
Having just spent 3 weeks in England this Summer I can add to what I listed above in my previous reply:
Rye
York
Robin Hood's Bay
Staithes
Hawkshead
Almost any town and village in The Cotswolds. Little slices of heaven. Standouts were Upper and Lower Slaughter,
Snowshill, Bourton on the Water, Stanton, Chipping Camden, Broadway. The wonderful appeal about this region of
England(Cotswolds) is that there are dozens upon dozens of beautiful towns and villages in a relatively
concentrated area. Some touristy,but many more untouched and remote. Get lost in the Cotswolds--a bucolic
wonderland.
Bath(we were definitely not prepared for how beautiful this Unesco World Heritage Site truly is. So many car free
sections and nothing negative to spoil the atmosphere. Perfectly Georgian). I place it next to Bruges in it's beauty.
JillDavis(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/jilldavis/)on Nov23,11at12:15pm(#comment
7379536)
Postitano, Italy
Venice, Italy
Montichiello (Tuscany region)
twilightzone(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/twilightzone/)on Nov23,11at1:24pm
(#comment7379613)
Oh! this soo good & worth a note!
12/21
18/04/2016
wanttogo(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/wanttogo/)on Nov23,11at1:37pm(#comment
7379624)
I have been to: Rothenburg au Tauber and Brugge, Belgium

I nominate: Bamberg, Ceske Krumlov. Positano and Ronda
I did not realize how many beautiful towns I have missed over
the years. I will have to keep on Traveling!
wanttogo(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/wanttogo/)on Nov23,11at1:49pm(#comment
7379639)
Forgive me, I left out Balzano, Italy.

cigalechanta(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/cigalechanta/)on Nov23,11at2:13pm
(#comment7379675)
In France:
Peruges,
angles-sur-anglin,
Collonges-la-Rouge,
Cordes-sur-Ceil,,
La Couvertoirade,
Gourdon,
Kayserberg,
Uzes,
Riec-sur-Belon,
La Roche-Gyon,
St-Cirq-lapopie,
saint-Guilem-le-Desert,
villefranche-de-Conflent,
Ainhoa,
Le Poet Lavel,
Entrevaux.
Peillon,
dfourh(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/dfourh/)on Nov23,11at2:46pm(#comment
7379708)
Great lists! Not to be redundant but to add some place I can't stop visiting:
* I always delight in is Utrecht -- the long, long stretch along the grand canal is what people were hoping from
Amsterdam: dappling water and sweeping trees, shifting scenes and aspects from moment to moment - - going on
and on - - while vibrant and alive with cobblestones, cafe's and people vividly living everyday joys. Utrecht along the
grand canal is the best of current human civilization.
* Ferrara: rent a bike and discover avenues of amazing architectural diversity and glory in every direction, but in an
air of amazing quiet and often solitude, amidst the medieval masterpieces that are just everywhere; in the center
things are vibrant (in a bicycle-riding sort of way) but still very calm, civil, and natural - - this town is masterpiece,
but you have to cover some significant but wonderful slow-biking territory to realize it.
* Tavira: this whitewashed eastern-Algarve town, with tiled buildings and tiled squares, has a beautiful situation
along the river, with an enchanting walk up to the church and garden on the hill. Not far from there, across the river
in Spain, is pretty Ayamonte, the impressive fortress of Castro Marim with incredible views over towns and valleys,
and the tiny white burg of Cacela Velha, perched like as a whitewashed jewel overlooking the Atlantic.
* Uzes: Northwest from the Pont Du Gard, the central squares are sycamore-dappled heaven. This is one of the
prettiest places you have ever been. You will never feel more relaxed and nurtured walking the narrow streets till
you rest at a cafe' under these grand, grand trees. Seriously - - pull it up in Google Images.
aussie_10(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/aussie_10/)on Nov23,11at4:36pm(#comment
7379788)
Bookmarking
Myer(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/myer/)on Jan4,12at5:25am(#comment7433028)
Katie,
Of the places you mentioned we've been to Brugge (in our opinion the most beautiful small city), Lucca, Delft and
Murren.
I've never been to a place, large or small, that I thought was a waste of time. Enjoyed every place I've ever visited.
luademochila(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/luademochila/)on Jun30,12at7:35am
(#comment7724063)
Bump for a great thread

luademochila(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/luademochila/)on Jun30,12at7:38am
(#comment7724070)
Forgot to add:
San Gimignano, Italy
Amboise, France
annhig(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/annhig/)on Jun30,12at7:44am(#comment
7724075)
haven't read every suggestion, but in case it's not been mentioned, Wells in Somerset.
about 15 miles from Bath but much smaller and really lovely with a perfect mediaeval cathedral and a bishop's
palace surrounded by gardens and a moat.
Dunster in Somerset too.
Appledore in North Devon, and Clovelley [bet no-one mentioned them].
Mousehole, Boscastle and Polperro in Cornwall.
Tenterden and Sandwich in Kent.
Geonev(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/geonev/)on Jun30,12at8:34am(#comment
7724152)
OK, not only picturesque and enchanting but also magic in all senses Matera, with its houses (sassi) built into the
rock. Truly medieval, and most magical at dusk. Stay at the Hotel Italia, and get the owner to tell you about the time
13/21
18/04/2016
Mel Gibson checked in, filming his Passion of the Christ, and brought his own priest.
jamikins(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/jamikins/)on Jun30,12at8:36am(#comment
7724155)
Was just in Matera today and completely agree!

taconictraveler(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/taconictraveler/)on Jun30,12at9:02am
(#comment7724183)
Staying with "b" names, just returned this evening to our home base in Cheshire, England, after an overnight in
Burnsall up in Wharfedale, in Yorkshire. Don't miss it if going that way.
Sadly returning to USA on Sunday.
WorminRome(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/worminrome/)on Jun30,12at9:55am
(#comment7724259)
I have not been to any of those cities yet ...
But I would nominate Orvieto, Italy. The moment I stepped off the tram I turned to my wife and told her I want to
retire to this city....the subsequent meal only strengthened that thought!
uhoh_busted(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/uhoh_busted/)on Jun30,12at2:13pm
(#comment7724480)
Spello, Italy
Carrenac, France
worldinabag(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/worldinabag/)on Jun30,12at2:25pm
(#comment7724491)
Taormina, Sicily
Granada (esp. Albaicin).
Nafplion, Greece
Goreme, Turkey
Firostefani, Santorini
And as for Venice, well I died and went to heaven
HG001London(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/hg001london/)on Jun30,12at6:15pm
(#comment7724575)
bookmarkin
luademochila(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/luademochila/)on Jul4,12at12:07pm
(#comment7730238)
More, please
Pegontheroad(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/pegontheroad/)on Jul4,12at2:07pm
(#comment7730362)
Quedlinburg, Germany. It looks like the setting for a fairy tale.

Attnymom(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/attnymom/)on Jul8,12at9:43am(#comment
7736446)
Adding to my earlier reply ...

Sarlat, France
A
nytraveler(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/nytraveler/)on Jul8,12at11:12am(#comment
7736551)
Some smaller places that we have found picturesque/charming:

Switzerland: Thun, Gruyere, Neuchatel
France: Vezelay, Chinon, Colmar (the center),Ribeauville, Riquewihr
Sweden: Visby
Germany: Rothenburg (but too overrun and obvious), Trier, Titisee, Aachen
Italy: Perugia, Assissi (also kind of large and obvious)
Belgium: Spa, Liege, Gand
England: bibury, Rye
I'm sure there are a lot more - but these come to mind first
luademochila(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/luademochila/)on Aug7,12at6:51am
(#comment7786377)
Bump - keep coming !

ancestralvoices(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/ancestralvoices/)on Mar29,13at8:41am
(#comment8144362)
We went back yet again in 2012 and so adding to my above:

Monschau--Germany
Oudewater-Netherlands
Haarlem-Netherlands
Cavendish-England
Lavenham-England
Abbotsbury-England
Sherborne-England
The Chilterns, England. -- like the Cotswolds, another area full of many un touristed villages. --Hambleden
14/21
18/04/2016
Turville
The Lee
Ewelme
We were underwhelmed with Cambridge.
In Summer we will be visiting Burgundy, Alsace, and Rhineland so hope to add more to this list.
Danila84(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/danila84/)on Mar29,13at9:31am(#comment
8144415)
In the Netherlands, my favourite PICTURESQUE was not Rotterdam nor Amsterdam, but Utrecht.
SAnParis2(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/sanparis2/)on Mar30,13at4:21am(#comment
8145576)
I will stand by original answers circa 8/09

tailsock(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/tailsock/)on Mar30,13at4:38am(#comment
8145613)
the only one on the OP's list i've been to is Sintra. I'll say that i found the views from Pena Palace and the Castle of
the Moors pretty mesmerizing but didn't think too much of the small town itself otherwise. You take those two
castles away and it would pale in comparison to other small towns in Portugal IMO.
i would like to add Gent Belgium to the list as i don't think anyone else has included. Standing on the St. Michael
bridge looking towards the "skyline" is like going back in a time machine. It's extremely overlooked in favor of it's
more popular Wallonian neighbor to the north: Brugge. Has a charming canal system as well
HappyTrvlr(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/happytrvlr/)on Mar30,13at5:03am
(#comment8145673)
Hondarribia, Spain, near San Sebastian, on border with France's Pays Basque.
Leiden, Netherlands
Collioure, France
St. Jean-Cap Ferrat, France
luademochila(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/luademochila/)on Dec9,13at1:18am
(#comment8513273)
ttt
basingstoke2(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/basingstoke2/)on Dec9,13at6:24am
(#comment8513604)
Add Piran in Slovenia to the list. Piran is a lovely, old world town with brightly colored buildings, a fine square and
a view of Trieste across the water.
On our most recent trip we were particularly taken with Gordes, Vence, a lovely walled town and Roussillon with its
ochre buildings all in the south of France.
luademochila(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/luademochila/)on Jan29,15at12:02pm
(#comment9065582)
up
wrenwood(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/wrenwood/)on Jan29,15at1:03pm(#comment
9065668)
From this year....

Riquewihr, France - in fact many of the villages in the Alsace region are just charming
Gubbio Italy
Ortigia, Sicily
wrenwood(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/wrenwood/)on Jan30,15at12:00am
(#comment9066042)
Forgot Ravello!
ancestralvoices(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/ancestralvoices/)on Jun12,15at2:12am
(#comment9228717)
tailsock - Bruges(Brugge) is not Wallonian --it's Flemish just like Ghent.

Adding to my list:
AUSTRIA:
Hallstatt
FRANCE:
Riquewihr(Alsace)
Eguisheim(Alsace)
Colmar(Alsace)
We were surprisingly underwhelmed with Burgundy. (Vezelay, Noyers, Beaune).
LUXEMBOURG:
Vianden
Clervaux
BELGIUM:
Damme(Flemish)
Lissewegge(Flemish)
La Roche en Ardenne(Walloon)
Bouillon(Walloon)
NETHERLANDS:
Veere
Zierikzee
Edam
Marken
Heusden
ENGLAND:
Rye(Sussex)---4 years in a row---we love this town!
Stamford(Lincolnshire)
15/21
18/04/2016
Lincoln(the old part of town on top of the steep hill, by the cathedral)
Haworth(Yorkshire)
Grassington(Yorkshire Dales)
Polperro(Cornwall)
Clovelly(Devon)
Selworthy(Somerset,,,or Devon?)
lkeade(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/lkeade/)on Jun12,15at3:30am(#comment9228821)
As soon as I saw the title I thought of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, but the only way to see it is to spend the night.
During the day there are just too many tourists. Wandering that city at night and first thing in the morning before
the buses arrive, really lets the city shine.
kerouac(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/kerouac/)on Jun12,15at5:27am(#comment
9228926)
Could the information on this thread be consolidated and summarized some day?
ancestralvoices(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/ancestralvoices/)on Jun17,15at12:48pm
(#comment9235096)
Consolidated by country. I corrected any misspelled villages/towns/cities which I was familiar with, but otherwise
left the spellings as is.
Hopefully I'll be back to Europe in 2016 ---this gives a lot to peruse through until then!
No particular order:
BELGIUM
Bruges/Brugge
Brussels
Namur
Ghent
Lier
Ronse
Durbuy
Spa
Liege
La Roche en Ardenne
Oudenaarde
Leuven(Louvain)
Tournai
Veurne
Damme
Lissewegge
Bouillon
FRANCE
Eze
Sarlat
Annecy
Collioure
Honfleur
Les Baux de Provence
Moustiers-Ste-Marie
Riquewihr
Eguisheim
Carcasonne
Aigues-Mortes
St. Thegonnec
Arles
Roussillon
Gordes
Tourettes-sur-Loup
St-Remy
Aix-en-Provence
Conques
Villefranche-sur-mer
Amboise
Lourmarin
Vezelay
St Paul de Vence
Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
Dinan
St Cirq Lapopie
Brantome
Albas
Colmar
Auxerre
Bescancon
Chablis
Saumer
Etretat
Martel
Mont St Michele
Deauville
Noyers
Fontaines-de-Vaucluse
Nancy
Wissembourg
Rochefort-en-Terre
Peruges
Angles-sur-Anglin
Collonges-sur-Ceil
La Couvertoirade
Gourdan
Kaysersberg
Uzes
Riec-sur-Belon
La Roche-Gyon
16/21
18/04/2016
Saint-Guilem-le-Desert
Villefranche-de-Conflent
Ainhoa
Le Poet Lavel
Entrevaux
Peillon
Carrenac
Chinon
Ribeauville
St. Jean-Cap Ferrat
GERMANY
Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber
Meersburg
Bamberg
Staufen
Nurnberg(town center)
Quedlinburg
Wernigerode
Freudenberg
Hannoversch Munden
Fulda
Alsfeld
Celle
Bernkastel-Kues
Bad Grund
Dinkelsbuhl
Garmisch
Bechtesgaden
Bad Wimpfen
Gengenbach
Dettelbach
Iphofen
Miltenberg
Lindau
Oberammergau
Mittenwald
Cochem
Wurzburg
Boppard
Regensburg
Ladenburg
Speyer
Michelstadt
Neuleiningen
Trier
Titisee
Aachen
Monschau
ENGLAND
Bath
York
Oxford
Cambridge
Clovelly
Chipping Campden
Culross
Mortehoe
Salisbury
Glastonbury
Bourton on the Water
Bibury
Cheltenham
Lower Slaughter
Upper Slaughter
Snowshill
Stanton
Broadway
Wells
Robin Hoods Bay
Wells
Chester
Lacock
Castle Combe
Cawdor
Rye
Staithes
Hawkshead
Dunster
Appledore
Mousehole
Boscastle
Polperro
Tenterden
Sandwich
Burnsall
Cavendish
Lavenham
Clare
Abbotsbury
Sherborne
Turville
The Lee
Ewelme
17/21
18/04/2016
Hambleden
Stamford
Bradford on Avon
Shaftesbury
Lincoln
Haworth
Norwich
Grassington
Selworthy
Bishops Castle
Shrewsbury
Ludlow
Bridgnorth
Durham
Mevagissey
Port Isaac
Widecombe in the Moor
Beer
SCOTLAND
Edinburg
GREECE
Mykonos(town)
Santorini
Oia
Delphi
Fira
Capri(town)
Agia Meteora
Agios Nikolaos(Crete)
Nafplion
Firostefani
TURKEY
Goreme
ITALY
Lucca
Siena
Venice
Orta San Guilio
Portovenere
Noto(Sicily)
Vernazza
Pitigliano
Orvieto
Verona
Montecatini Terme
Portofino
Bellagio
Varenna
Cefalu
Orta
Baveno
Bomarzo
San Gimignano
Sorano
Todi
Spello
Positano
Assisi
Burano
Pienza
Montalcino
Florence
Rome
La Morra
Alberobello
Alghero(Sardinia)
Vernazza
Taormina
Volterra
Montepulciano
Erice(Sicily)
Monteriggioni
Nerano
Spoleto
Cortona
San Quirico dOrcia
Noto(Sicily)
Positano
Montichiello
Balzano
Ferrara
Matera
Taormina
Perugia
Gubbio
Ortigia(Sicily)
Ravello
NETHERLANDS(Holland)
Delft
Amsterdam
18/21
18/04/2016
Naarden
Blokzijl
Giethoorn
Harlingen
Franeker
Muiden
Baambrugge
Heusden
Dokkum
Sneek
Hindeloopen
Vlieland(village)
West Terschelling
Deventer
Zwaartsluis
Spakenburg
Zierikzee
Middelburg
Maastricht
Gulpen
Elburg
Buren
Sloten
Thorn
Veere
Utrecht
Oudewater
Haarlem
Leiden
Enkhuizen
Edam
Hoorn
Marken
PORTUGAL
Sintra
Marvao
Obidos
Evora
Viana do Costelo
Pinhao
Cascais
Estoril
Horta(Azores)
Estremoz
Evoramonte
Castelo de Vide
Monsaraz
Tavira
SWITZERLAND
Murren
Wengen
Grindelwald
Lucerne
Stein am Rhein
Gruyere
Guarda
Zermatt
Interlaken
Lucerne
Soglio
Regensburg
Thun
Neuchatel
CZECH REPUBLIC
Cesky Krumlov
Prague
Telc
Karlovy Vary
SPAIN
Ronda
Avila
Cadaques
Vejer de la Frontera
Carmona
Elciego
Santillana del Mar
Lierganes
Cuenca
Gaucin
Atajate
Benadalid
Algatocin
Santiago de Compestala
Segovia
Toledo
Pedraza
Consuegra
Mijas
Pals
Gerona
Salamanca
19/21
18/04/2016
Bilbao
Barcelona
Madrid
Cordoba
Granada
Hondarribia
AUSTRIA
Hallstatt
Salzburg
Mutters
Melk
Innsbruck
Lans
SLOVENIA
Piran
Ljubljana
Bled
MONTENEGRO
Kotor
CROATIA
Dubrovnik
Rovinj
Hvar
Grozjnan
Motovun
IRELAND
Eyeries
Baltimore
Galway
NORWAY
Bergen
Flamm
Geiranger
Trondheim
MALTA
Valletta
Marsaxlokk
Gozo
SCOTLAND
Edinburgh
Kirkwall(Orkney Islands)
Tobermory(Isle of Mull)
GUERNSEY(British Crown)
St. Peter Port
LUXEMBOURG
Echternach
Vianden
Esch sur Sure
Clervaux
Luxembourg City
ESTONIA
Tallinn
SWEDEN
Sunborn
Visby
HUNGARY
Szentendre
WALES
Tenby
Llanrhaeadr
DENMARK
Aeroskobing
Ebeltoft
Ribe
(#comment9236227)
Correction: Culross is in Scotland

9238449)
what was the question?

(#comment9238978)
Annhig--- really? I take the time to do all of that and that's your response?
Incidentally --- it was a lot easier to post the towns when the country was mentioned as well. I had to look up many
who gave a town/village without the country. We are all trying to help fellow travelers.
20/21
18/04/2016
(#comment9238979)
Virgos...lol. I'd forgotten!

annhig(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/annhig/)on Jun20,15at10:29pm(#comment
9239105)
honestly, AV, I wasn't dissing your list, but I had genuinely forgotten what the thread was about.
And from your cornish list you have missed out Mevagissey, Looe, Polperro, [though I suppose we might debate
whether those are towns or villages, if Port Isaac qualifies so do they] St. Ives, Penzance, Fowey, Falmouth, and St
Mawes.
bilboburgler(http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/bilboburgler/)on Jun20,15at11:47pm
(#comment9239183)
Ah but the question has to be how do you pronounce "Picturesque"?

9239299)
and after that we'll count the number of angels on a pinhead shall we Bilbo?
(#comment9239336)
Mevagissey and Polperro are on the consolidated list. Someone asked to have all the towns, villages, cities on this
thread consolidated into one.
I must have missed Looe if it was mentioned.
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21/21

Article - Best Small Towns Picturesque Towns in Europe - Your Favorite - Europe Forum - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums

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18/04/2016

NEWS & FEATURES

Picturesque Towns in Europe: Your Favorite?

Been to them all

Good question Katie !

Here's a few more of my favorites:

Last ones (for now)

Toledo, Spain would also top my list

Sorry I omitted one in Spain

Oia, Santorini, Greece.

picturesque, and yet:

Katie, been to several. Would add:

I have been to some of the listed places:

I agree with op about Sintra and Vernazza as a later poster mentioned.

I would also second Maitaitom's Ljubljana recommendation as well.

What about my capital city..Valletta? Its harbour is in a league of its own....

I've been to Brugge, Bath, Mykonos and Sintra.

I would add Villefranche-Sur-Mer France and Zermatt in Switzerland.

I live in Italy and I have been in Lucca, Brugge, Mykonos.

Brugge, Belgium Yes

You have to also think about time of day

I have been through Eze and Lucca. Both looked nice.

Bruges Brussels,Gordes France, everywhere in Tuscany

Brugge, Belgium ~ on the "to go to someday list"

Very inspiring thread. So many places to see, so little time.

Noto, Sicily; Citt Barocca

Karlovy Vary, czech republic

I've been to Rothenburg and Bath.

I have been to Brugges and Sintra. Brugges is particularly picturesque.

Been to 3. I agree with Betty's list. Have to add

Oh! this soo good & worth a note!

I have been to: Rothenburg au Tauber and Brugge, Belgium

Forgive me, I left out Balzano, Italy.

Bump for a great thread

Was just in Matera today and completely agree!

I have not been to any of those cities yet ...

Quedlinburg, Germany. It looks like the setting for a fairy tale.

Adding to my earlier reply ...

Some smaller places that we have found picturesque/charming:

Bump - keep coming !

We went back yet again in 2012 and so adding to my above:

I will stand by original answers circa 8/09

From this year....

tailsock - Bruges(Brugge) is not Wallonian --it's Flemish just like Ghent.

Correction: Culross is in Scotland

what was the question?

Virgos...lol. I'd forgotten!

Ah but the question has to be how do you pronounce "Picturesque"?

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