As the pandemic continues to take months out of the year, our travel plans have certainly been put on the backburner. Though, we still continue to dream and hope for the day that we can jump on a plane and explore to our hearts’ content.
When that day comes, consider skipping out on all the crowded tourist hot spots and taking a trip down to quaint villages and towns. These places are often filled with history, charm, and breathtaking landscapes that you won’t find anywhere else.
Here are a couple small towns that you should list down on your travel list.
Alberobello, Italy
Population: 10,700
With its charming 14th-century style trulli, or whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs, Italy’s small town of Alberobello is the best getaway for travellers eager to taste fresh food, purchase handcrafted treasures, and walk through a picture-perfect neighborhood.
Hallstatt, Austria
Population: 800
As one of Austria’s oldest and most picturesque villages, Hallstatt boasts gorgeous visuals in its lakeside Alpine houses and dramatic mountain views. Curious tourists traveling around Vienna will also be able to visit Hallstatt’s stunning old churches, museums, and crystal clear lake.
Bibury, England
Population: 600
England’s “most beautiful village” has much to show for with its unique stone cottages and old-town vibe. History and culture lovers will have much to enjoy at Arlington Row, a row of weavers’ cottages built in the 1300s.
Ráquira, Colombia
Population: 13,600
Ráquira is the artisan capital of Colombia, a title that can be seen throughout its colorful houses and vibrant façade. The small town is littered with craft stores that sell artisanal goods like Ráquira’s famous pottery and handwoven designs.
Shirakawa-go, Japan
Population: 1,600
As a UNESCO world heritage site, Shirakawa-go is a Japanese village that holds centuries-old farmhouses and traditional artifacts. It’s settled near the foot of Mt. Hakusan and is the perfect winter wonderland during the colder months.
St. Michaels, Maryland, USA
Population: 1,100
Saint Michaels is a 1600s-era small town dubbed “The Heart and Soul of Chesapeake Bay.” Here, visitors will find that the coastal town’s endless boutique shops, delicious seafood, and fun water sports are more than enough for the weekend.
