Let’s be honest, Europe is awash with thousands of pretty little villages to explore, but there are always those select few that really stand out. One of the things I love most about Europe is how diverse our continent is. After all, no two countries are the same and you’re really spoilt for choice when it comes to the prettiest villages to visit in Europe.
It doesn’t matter if you’re heading to the fringes of Europe in Iceland, seeing the stunning northern lights in Norway or exploring the sleepy (and totally gorgeous) little villages in Spain. There’s a whole heap to explore, ramble around and enjoy.
Take a look at 11 of the prettiest villages to visit in Europe. As with all our posts, if you ever need some more advice, just pop us a message. You’re going to love exploring them.
1.) Castle Combe, England
Castle Combe is one of those picture-perfect English towns that’s just so quaint. Perched in Wiltshire, it’s a great place to spend a few hours exploring.
Take a wander around the streets, head inside the medieval church and gorge on some proper pub grub at the local.
Read more on what to do in Castle Combe, here
2.) Estaing, France
Possibly one of France’s most pretty villages (shhhh, don’t tell the others 🤣) it’s a great little spot to visit in the summer months. Don’t forget to pop inside the castle, see the Church of Saint-Fleuret and see the old and crooked houses.
If you are planning your visit in the summer months, pop by around mid-August when the La Nuit Lumiere takes place. When the whole bridge and village are transformed by thousands of candles. It really is magical.
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3.) Rocamadour, France
I’d wanted to visit Rocamadour for so long that I was actually worried that my excitement might actually make me disappointed for when I arrive. How wrong I was! The whole of Rocamadour is stunning and it one of the unique places to see in France.
Make sure to see the Chapelle Notre-Dame and the black Madonna too. You’ll love this place.
Read more on visiting Rocamadour, here
4.) Saksun, Faroe Islands
I have a proper soft spot for the Faroe Islands and its stunning natural beauty. I think that’s why I still can’t stop thinking of our time in Saksun, the prettiest village that just blends into the dramatic landscape of the country.
Now, you will need a car to get here, especially if you’re travelling from the capital of the Faroe Islands, Torshavn. Make sure to pack a picnic, head down to the lake and explore the pristine little houses and church. It really is so unique.
Visiting the Faroe Islands? Read our complete guide, here
5.) Vík í Mýrda, Iceland
Relatively close to the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, Vík í Mýrda is a gorgeous spot to visit on your adventure around Iceland.
Make sure to stroll along the volcanic Reynisfjara Beach, see the sunset at Dyrhólaey and gorge on all the food (and see the northern lights) at Hotel Laki. They even wake you up when the lights come out to dance (if you ask nicely).
Read our complete guide to visiting Iceland, here
6.) Stokksnes, Iceland
Stockness is a tiny place that is dominated by the incredible national park that surrounds the whole region. Now, it’s best to visit Stokksnes on a clear day – this is when you’ll get the best views for sure. I mean, just look at it!
One thing I would say is that it’s quite far east from Reykjavik, so unless you’re already planning on visiting this region of Iceland it can end up being a very long trek.
Read our complete guide to visiting Iceland, here
7.) Hamnoy village, Norway
This is possibly the most iconic village in Lofoten or even Norway for that matter! Heck, probably the prettiest village in Europe! Anyway, before I continue rambling, the village is totally gorgeous but the real reason you visit this place is the stunning nature that surrounds it.
Here you’ll be able to hike, wander across the unspoilt landscape and even head out into the ocean spotting whales.
Read more 15 beautiful places to visit in Norway
8.) Civita di Bagnoregio, Italy
One of the only ways to get to Civita di Bagnoregio is via the bridge that connects it to Bagnoregio Village. Now, this village is still one of my favourite little spots to see in Italy and it’s totally gorgeous.
With over 1,300 years of history, it’s one hugely historic spot that really sums up the beauty of Italy.
Also, if you’re looking for a bite to eat, head over to Alma Civita for some local indulgences (did someone say pasta??? 🤣).
Visit some of these gorgeous spots when in Italy
9.) Cornago, Spain
Perched within the gorgeous wine region of Spain, Cornago is blessed with some incredibly picturesque views, some stunning buildings and lots of wine. After all, what is the La Rioja region famous for? WINE!
If you’re visiting close by, pop into the Campo Viejo vineyards and explore the town of Logroño too. It really is a stunning region of Spain.
Make sure to visit the best spots in Spain, right here
10.) Ascona, Switzerland
If you’re looking for some of the prettiest villages in Europe, well Switzerland to be frank – then get over to Ascona! Perched on the southern limits of Switzerland this gorgeous lakeside village is one not to be missed. The whole region around Ascona is a world away from the typical snowy image we have of Zermatt and all the slopes. It almost feels like the Mediterranean.
Plus, one of my favourite things to do whilst in Ascona is to visit some of the pretty little islands (yes, there are actual islands in Switzerland) that are too beautiful to miss.
See more about visiting Ascona and Switzerland’s island, here
11.) Pocitelj, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Probably unknown to most, Pocitelj is a tiny little village within the gorgeous countryside of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Relatively close to the border with Croatia, it’s an easy spot to visit if you’re visiting Split or Dubrovnik (if you have a car).
Best of all, the old stone, UNESCO World Heritage Protected village is perfect for a day exploring the eastern influences in the region. Grab some of the best coffee, explore the mosque and the local shops. Pocitelj really is one of the prettiest villages to visit in Europe.
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