When asked, 63% of travelers will likely visit lesser-known and less crowded destinations in 2025. This is according to Expedia’s travel trend report, which surveyed 25,000 respondents from 19 countries. With American tourists who plan to visit Europe dropping to 37% this year, prioritizing small European towns is the key to getting bespoke experiences of a new culture.
Concerns of overtourism and overcrowding of popular vacation spots have emerged. People now seek small towns and more authentic experiences, according to a January 2025 USA Today report. A desire to discover under-the-radar locations fuels travelers to visit small European towns.
Small towns are worth visiting
Small towns in Europe offer a unique contrast to the bustling energy of major cities. Their slower pace of life and preserved traditions make them ideal for travelers seeking a less touristy and more authentic experience.
A slower pace of life
An Expedia travel trend report found that 63% of travelers will likely visit quieter and less crowded destinations in 2025. This slower rhythm allows visitors to soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the charm of daily life that large cities often lack.
“People are seeking out smaller towns and more local authentic experiences,” says Christina Bennett, consumer travel expert for Priceline, in a 2025 USA Today report. She further emphasizes how travelers want to go to unique places to immerse in new cultures and forge new connections.
7 small towns to explore in Europe
Travel + Leisure notes that small towns dot Europe’s coastlines, countrysides and mountain ranges. They offer beauty and culture packed with family-run cafes, intimate hotels and authentic experiences. European small towns make the perfect day trips, overnight stays or weeklong escapes. They may not be household names, but these charming towns offer experiences you won’t soon forget.
Hallstatt, Austria
Named a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1997, Hallstatt is a storybook village that seems to float on the edge of a tranquil lake. Hallstatt has gained popularity in recent years for its historic salt mines and breathtaking scenery but still retains its charm. Early morning or evening visits are the best times to experience its magic without the crowds. Stroll through its narrow streets, visit the Hallstatt Ossuary for a fascinating glimpse into local traditions or take a boat ride on the lake for unparalleled scenic views.
Zuzana Paar of Amazing Travel Life says, “Hallstatt looks like a picture from a storybook, but it’s even more magical in real life. Strolling by the lake, surrounded by towering mountains, it’s unforgettable.” She recommends exploring the salt mines, taking a boat ride or simply soaking in the charm to feel every special moment.
Bolgheri, Italy
With a dramatic welcome of 2,500 cypress trees before your arrival, Bolgheri is a small town set amid the vineyards of Tuscany’s Maremma region. This small town is home to some of the world’s finest Super Tuscan wines, like Sassicaia and Ornellaia. Stop by a local osteria to try one of Bolgheri’s reds that now rivals French Bordeaux. When planning your visit, consider stopping by in April to see a vintage bicycle race, or in September for Bolgheri Jazz.
Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
This medieval town in the Czech Republic feels like stepping into a fairy tale. With its winding streets, colorful buildings and a castle overlooking the Vltava River, Český Krumlov offers a magical atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely kayak ride through the town’s river or explore the castle grounds, which include a beautifully preserved Baroque Theater. Český Krumlov is a remarkable example of a well-preserved small Central European town, with its architectural heritage untouched for more than five centuries.
“I love Český Krumlov! This is a delightful small town and an easy train ride from Prague. With all the requisite charm of a medieval European town, including a picturesque castle perched above, there are plenty of wandering narrow streets and cute cafes,” says Amanda Luhn of Simply Awesome Trips. She further adds that the best thing to do is rent a canoe or raft and paddle the river that encircles the town. “It’s beginner friendly and a memorable change to your typical tourist visit.”
Gjirokastër, Albania
Gjirokastër, known as the City of Stone, is a hidden treasure in the Balkans. Its Ottoman-era architecture, hilltop fortress and cobbled streets offer a rich cultural experience at a fraction of the cost of more famous destinations. The small town is also a hub for Albanian folklore, with traditional music performances and crafts on display. Gjirokastër National Folklore Festival is organized yearly in October, where you can attend traditional dance performances, explore local crafts and participate in Albanian workshops.
Lavenham, England
Nestled in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, Lavenham is one of England’s best-preserved Medieval villages. This small town boasts over 350 heritage houses and features high streets lined with ornamented shops and teahouses. If you’re an art lover, Lavenham has beautiful art galleries you can venture into, like the Lion House Gallery and the Lavenham Contemporary.
Staufen im Breisgau, Germany
The small town of Staufen im Breisgau in Germany is home to the famous Köpfer winery and is the ideal location for a wine weekend. Located at the foot of Germany’s Black Forest, Staufen is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture – a haven for history buffs. This charming town also offers mountain biking trails, such as the Katzenstuhl Trail and the Etzenbacher Höhe Trail, that showcase the region’s stunning landscapes.
Saint-Geniès, France
Saint-Geniès lies between Montignac and Sarlat in Southwestern France. It prides itself on being one of the most beautiful towns in the Perigord Noir region. This small town is dominated by a beautiful religious landmark called the Notre Dame de l’Assomption and a chateau at the center of the village. Visit in the summer months of July and August for their night market held every Wednesday night, where you can sip on locally produced wines and nibble on regional specialties.
Small European towns are worth the detour
Exploring Europe’s small towns offers a distinctly different experience compared to the well-trodden paths of major cities. Planning your next European adventure and incorporating one or two small towns into your itinerary can transform your trip from a mediocre trip to a more meaningful, unforgettable experience.
Jennifer Allen, retired chef turned traveler, cookbook author and writer, shares her adventures and travel tips at All The Best Spots. Living at home with her family – and the cats that rule them all – her work has been featured in The Washington Post, Seattle Times, MSN and more.
