10 of the Most Beautiful Small Towns to Visit Around the World

Here’s a fresh, up‑to‑date guide to ten stunning small towns around the globe. Each one is highly photogenic and full of character. To make it truly useful, every destination includes context for travellers across generations, including age, family makeup, and approximate household net worth for tailored experiences.

1. Manarola, Italy

Part of Italy’s UNESCO‑listed Cinque Terre, Manarola charms with steep multicolour houses clinging to cliffs and a small harbour filled with fishing boats. Ideal for couples or families with children age 10–16, average family net worth ~$250k–400k. Perfect for seaside walks, wine tastings in terrace eateries, and boat trips along the riviera.

2. Gordes, France

This hilltop gem in Provence (pop ~1,600) offers stunning sunset views over lavender fields and centuries‑old stone architecture. Suits active couples or multi‑generational families (ages 40s–60s with kids) with net worth ~$500k+. A base for exploring Luberon and Sénanque Abbey via vineyard routes .

3. Shirakawa‑go, Japan

Nestled in the Japanese Alps, this UNESCO village features Gassho‑zukuri thatched homes surrounded by emerald forests in summer and snow‑blanket magic in winter. Ideal for families with kids 8 and up, grandparents, net worth ~$200k‑300k. A cultural and scenic getaway away from crowds .

4. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

A medieval walled town in Bavaria with timber‑framed houses, cobbled lanes, and seasonal markets. Great for families with teens and history buffs aged 12–60+, net worth ~$300k‑$500k. Kids love the towers and puppet museum while adults enjoy centuries‑old culinary specialties and wine.

5. Colmar, France

In Alsace, Colmar blends French‑German architecture, canals and flower‑lined lanes. Light foodie families, university grads in their 30s, or retirees (net worth $250k‑$400k) will enjoy regional Riesling tours, old‑town museums and storybook visuals that suit all ages.

6. Beaumaris, Wales (UK)

This coastal town on Anglesey features a great castle built by Edward I, pastel‑hued waterfront houses, and puffin‑watching cruises to nearby Puffin Island. Ideal for families with children age 5‑15 or grandparents age 60+, net worth ~$200k+. Quiet, yet full of medieval and wildlife charm.

7. Pitigliano, Italy

Known as “Città del Tufo,” carved into volcanic tufa stone, this medieval hill town impresses with winding alleys and atmospheric squares. Best for couples or families age 35‑60, net worth ~$400k+, seeking culture, relaxed pace, and wine‑country access. Airbnb stays like Attico Panoramico offer sweeping views and local hospitality.

8. Brooklin, Maine, USA

The “boat‑building capital of the world,” Brooklin blends New England charm with waterways, craft shops, and fresh lobster offerings. Ideal for families with pre‑teen kids or nature‑loving grandparents (ages 8–65+), net worth ~$150k‑$300k. A quiet US coastal alternative with creative flair.

9. Livingston, Montana, USA

A Wild‑West town with neon signs, train‑whistle nostalgia, fly‑shops and art galleries. Perfect for couples in their 30s–50s or families with teens (net worth ~$200k–$350k) who enjoy outdoor culture and Western history. Gateway to Yellowstone makes it a scenic stop into Montana wilderness.

10. Asheville, North Carolina, USA

An artsy mountain city nestled in Blue Ridge—bohemian, walkable, with craft breweries, galleries and nature access. Ideal for millennials or multi‑gen families age 20–70+, net worth ~$200k‑$400k. Though not tiny, Asheville retains small‑town authenticity and creative energy that earned it a spot among Travel + Leisure favourites.

Travel Tips & Planning Advice

Choose season wisely: European towns like Gordes or Colmar are quiet in spring and fall. Brooklin and Livingston shine in summer with festivals and mild weather.
Stay local, stay unique: Opt for guesthouses, historic inns, or Airbnb rentals in town centres to soak in atmosphere and support local communities.
Transport style matters: Many European towns are walkable and car‑free. In small US spots, a rental car helps, but also enjoy local shuttles or bike rentals.
Experience local food: Colmar and Gordes showcase Alsace and Provençal cuisine; Manarola offers fresh seafood with local wine; Brooklin serves lobster rolls straight from Maine.
Cultural events: Look for village festivals, music weekends, historic re‑enactments, or craft fairs tied to heritage.

Sample Day in Two Destinations

Pitigliano (Italy) – Perfect for a couple aged 45/42, net worth ~$400k: Start with cappuccino over the valley, tour the Etruscan caves and old Jewish quarter, lunch at a hill‑top trattoria. Afternoon exploring medieval balconies and tufa‑cut pathways, ending with local wine and sunset from a panoramic terrace.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber (Germany) – Great for a family with parents age 38/40 and kids 12 & 15, net worth ~$450k: Climb Plönlein viewpoint, chocolate factory visit, medieval crime and punishment museum, shop cuckoo‑clocks, dine on Franconian sausages in the town square, attend an early evening Night Watchman tour.

Why These Towns Stand Out in 2025

They reflect the global “townsizing” trend: younger travellers, especially Gen Z, seek cozy, authentic places over big cities for weekend getaways and deeper experiences .
Many feature in 2025 lists or reader‑poll picks for charm and adventure: Asheville, Livingston, Brooklin among others keep drawing praise from Travel + Leisure, Wildsam and travel media.
Each location offers vivid visuals, cultural richness, and a slower pace—ideal for Google Discover audiences and inspiring itineraries.

Final Thoughts

From the pastel alleys of Manarola and Gordes to the medieval heart of Rothenburg and the creative spirit of Asheville, these ten small towns offer unforgettable beauty and memorable experiences. Whether you’re travelling with family, celebrating together with grandparents, or escaping as a couple, each place caters to particular ages, interests, and budgets. Pack light, stay curious, and let the charm of unexpected corners around the globe be your guide in 2025.