Imagine walking through cobblestone streets, surrounded by picturesque landscapes that look like they belong in a postcard. If you’re craving that perfect escape, we’ve got you covered with the most beautiful villages in the world. From European mountain retreats to tropical island gems, these hidden paradises will leave you breathless. And guess what? With the Explurger travel social app, you can easily plan your trip, share your journey, and connect with fellow travelers as you explore these magical places!
Get Ready to Update Your Bucket List to Visit the Most Beautiful Villages in the World
- Giethoorn
- Gimmelwald
- Reine
- Castellfollit de la Roca
- Ronda
- Colma
- Shirakawa-go
- Piódão
- Å, Norway
- Hanle
1. Giethoorn, the Swiss Village Without Any Roads!
Dubbed the “Venice of the North,” but without the crowds and hefty price tags, Giethoorn in the Netherlands offers a fairytale-like experience. With no roads, you’ll be gliding through canals on small boats, past charming thatched cottages and over arched bridges.
When to Visit: Summer (April-Oct) for boat rides and lush greenery, or autumn when the leaves turn the canals into a golden paradise.
What Not to Miss: Rent a whisper boat and navigate through the peaceful waters while admiring the flower-lined pathways of Giethoorn, one of the most beautiful villages in the world
2. Gimmelwald, Switzerland – An Alpine Dream
While Switzerland lacks beautiful Swiss villages, Gimmelwald is a hidden treasure that remains blissfully untouched by mass tourism. Perched high in the Swiss Alps, this tiny village offers jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks and verdant meadows. It’s a scenic village that feels like a postcard come to life.
When to Visit: Summer (May-Oct) is perfect for hiking, while winter offers stunning snowy landscapes and cozy wooden cabins.
What Not to Miss: Take the cable car to the neighboring village of Mürren and hike the thrilling Via Ferrata route (for the adventurous).
3. Reine, Norway – Straight from a Nordic Legend
If you’re dreaming of dramatic landscapes, Reine in the Lofoten Islands of Norway will sweep you off your feet. This village, surrounded by towering mountains and deep blue fjords, is the embodiment of remote beauty. With its vibrant red and yellow fishing cabins known as “rorbuer,” Reine looks like it was plucked from a Norse legend, one of the most beautiful villages in the world no doubt!
When to Visit: Summer for midnight sun adventures or winter to catch the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
What Not to Miss: Don’t miss hiking Reinebringen for panoramic views that’ll leave you speechless.
4. Castellfollit de la Roca, Spain – A Village on the Edge
Perched dramatically on a basalt cliff, Castellfollit de la Roca is one of Spain’s most striking yet beautiful villages. This medieval village overlooks two rivers and offers panoramic views that will make you feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world.
When to Visit: Visit in spring or autumn when the weather is mild, and the cliffs are surrounded by vibrant greenery or warm fall tones.
What Not to Miss: Explore the ancient stone houses perched precariously on the edge of the cliff and visit the Church of Sant Salvador for breathtaking views.
5. Ronda, Spain – A Hidden Treasure with a Dramatic Gorge
Spain’s most beautiful towns in the world list would be incomplete without mentioning Ronda. While it may not be completely off the map, it still remains one of the lesser-known, quieter spots in the Andalusian region. Sitting high above a deep gorge, Ronda offers sweeping views of the rugged landscape.
When to Visit: Spring is perfect for exploring without the intense summer heat.
What Not to Miss: Walk across Puente Nuevo, the famous bridge that spans the El Tajo gorge, and explore the ancient bullring, Plaza de Toros.
6. Colmar, France – A Hidden Fairytale
While many flock to Paris or Provence, Colmar remains one of the most beautiful villages in the world that feels like it’s straight out of a storybook. Located in the Alsace region of northeastern France, Colmar is often overlooked by tourists, but its charming half-timbered houses, vibrant colors, and cobblestone streets make it one of the most beautiful towns in the world worth visiting.
When to Visit: Spring and summer are perfect, but if you’re a fan of Christmas markets, Colmar’s festive atmosphere in winter is magical.
What Not to Miss: Take a boat ride along the canals of “Little Venice” and stroll through the historic old town, where each building feels like it’s been plucked from a painting.
7. Shirakawa-go, Japan – A Step Back in Time
Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Japan’s hidden gems. Tucked away in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, this traditional village is famous for its Gassho-style houses, which look like they belong in a different century. Despite its beauty, it remains off the radar for most tourists, making it one of the most beautiful villages in the world for a peaceful retreat.
When to Visit: Winter, when the snow transforms the village into a winter wonderland, or autumn when the surrounding mountains are ablaze with color.
What Not to Miss: Visit the Wada House, the largest Gassho-style house in the village, and don’t forget to stop by the observation deck for panoramic views.
8. Piódão, Portugal – A Village in Stone
Nestled in the heart of the Serra do Açor mountains, Piódão is one of Portugal’s most remote and beautiful towns in the world. Built entirely from schist stone, this picturesque village is almost camouflaged against the mountainside, giving it a mystical quality that feels like stepping back in time.
When to Visit: Summers, if you want to have people around, or late Autumn for a more peaceful feel
What Not to Miss: Wander through the narrow alleyways and admire the blue-shuttered stone houses. The village’s historic church, Igreja Matriz, is also a must-see.
9. Å, Norway – A Hidden Village at the Edge of the World
The Lofoten Islands are home to some of the most beautiful villages in the world, and the village of Å (yes, that’s its entire name) is the perfect example. Located at the very end of the Lofoten archipelago, Å feels like the edge of the Earth with its dramatic fjords, jagged mountains, and serene waters. It’s a scenic village where time seems to stand still.
When to Visit: Summer for long days and midnight sun, or winter to experience the magic of the Northern Lights.
What Not to Miss: Explore the old fishing huts and visit the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum to learn about the region’s maritime history.
10. Hanle, India- Stargazer’s Paradise
Nestled in the remote region of Ladakh, India, Hanle is one of the most beautiful villages in the world and a hidden gem for stargazers. Home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, this village boasts some of the clearest skies on Earth, making it perfect for night-sky enthusiasts.
When to Visit: June to September, for clear skies and mild weather.
What Not to Miss: Visit the observatory and Hanle Monastery for stunning valley views.
Don’t Forget to Bucket List the Most Beautiful Villages in the World!
From the fairytale-like canals of Giethoorn to the starry skies of Hanle, the most beautiful villages in the world are hidden treasures waiting to be explored. Planning to visit these stunning locations has never been easier, thanks to the Explurger travel social app. Share your journey, meet like-minded travelers, and document your adventures in real time as you explore these scenic and beautiful villages that deserve a spot on every traveler’s bucket list. So, what are you waiting for? Start packing, because these hidden gems won’t stay secret for long!
FAQ’s About the Most Beautiful Villages in the World
Which is the most beautiful village in the world?
There are many stunning contenders for the most beautiful village in the world. Villages like Gimmelwald in Switzerland, Colmar in France, and Shirakawa-go in Japan, known for their unique architecture and untouched beauty, are often recognized as some of the most beautiful.
Which is the most beautiful village in India?
Hanle, located in the remote region of Ladakh, is considered one of the most beautiful villages in India. With its breathtaking stargazing opportunities, dramatic landscapes, and tranquil environment, it offers a unique blend of natural and cosmic beauty.
What is a picturesque village?
A picturesque village can be anything based on your subjective perception. However we have listed some of the most beautiful villages in the world that you can visit and then decide upon yourself which one would you call the best.