The Best Small Cities to Visit in Europe in 2023

The Best Small Cities to Visit in Europe 2023

Welcome to MojoTravels, and today we’re counting down our picks for the best small cities to visit in Europe in 2023.

For this list, we’re looking at destinations in Europe that may be smaller in scale, but vast in atmosphere and culture.

Salzburg, Austria

Nestled away against the Alps, Salzburg is best known for its association with “The Sound of Music.” Theatre junkies can ride bikes past several landmarks from the film, including the Residenzplatz fountain. When Maria first arrives at the von Trapp mansion, she’s excited yet intimidated. We experience the same sentiment standing in the presence of striking landmarks like Hohensalzburg Fortress, Schloss Hellbrunn, and Mirabell Palace. As grand as the city might be, there’s small-town warmth to be found at every turn. Like the movie musical that helped put it on the map, Salzburg feels untouched by time. It’s a musical city in more ways than one. Fans of classical compositions will want to visit Mozart’s birthplace, a museum dedicated to Amadeus. The hills are alive with the sound of music and so is the Salzach river, which was used for shipping salt to Salzburg. Hence why the city’s name translates to “Salt Castle.”

Bruges, Belgium

You might’ve heard about this dreamy city from the cult black comedy “In Bruges.” The West Flanders capital is distinguished by its charming canals. While it draws comparison to other cities like Venice and Amsterdam, there’s a humble quaintness to Bruges that makes for a more laid back experience. You can spend a day cruising down the canal, exploring the market square, and partaking in a shopper’s paradise. Then before you know it, the cloudy day has turned into a starry night. The “starry” sentiment isn’t just due to the night sky, but also the lit-up buildings. Once you’re done sightseeing, cap off the night at a local pub before crawling into a snug bed at a local inn. Or if you don’t want the night to end, perhaps a self-guided tour across the Brugge BeerWalk is in order.

Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

In terms of architecture, people flock to Europe for three things: churches, castles, and bridges. Český Krumlov is home to some of the continent’s most underappreciated. St. Vitus Church is a historic late Gothic structure comprised of three arcades, rising above the Vltava river. On that note, be sure to take a ride down the river on a sunny day. Český Krumlov Castle is the crown jewel, which possesses five courtyards and more than 350 rooms. Among the castle’s 40 structures is the Cloak Bridge, which stretches five stories above the moat. Interestingly, the castle moat is lacking in water, but don’t be surprised if you spot a few bears down there. While these are the main points of interest, you can wander through any street in Český Krumlov and stumble upon a sight right out of a fairytale.

Annecy, France

This city is among the most animated in all of France. So, it’s only fitting that Annecy has been hosting one of the world’s most prominent animation festivals since the 1960s. Even if you don’t make it in time for the festival, there’s artistic inspiration to unearth within every corner. The city has been described as the Pearl of French Alps due in part to its place between Lake Annecy and the mountains. Aspiring artists can cruise down the lake, sketching the attractive buildings and surrounding green hills. You’ll get an even grander view of the city paragliding from one of the many mountaintops. From the winter’s snow-covered roofs to spring’s eye-popping flowers to the summer sun shimmering on the lake to the radiant autumn leaves, all four seasons are picture perfect in Annecy.

Freiburg, Germany

Studying abroad in Germany is a dream for numerous students. Freiburg might not be the first university city that comes to mind, but it should be at the forefront of your radar. One couldn’t ask for a more tranquil backdrop to study against with timeless buildings and an unbeatable view of the Black Forest. Whether you attend the University of Freiburg or the University of Music, you’ll want to ride your bike to class every day, taking in the festive sites along the way. The standout landmarks include the cathedral Freiburger Münster, the Swabian Gate, and Seepark Betzenhausen. As much as you’ll learn at university, you’ll discover even more about the world and yourself exploring this stunning city. Freiburg goes beyond shaping young minds. No matter what your age is, you’ll leave Freiburg feeling wiser and more complete.

Burano, Italy

Italy overflows with colorful destinations, but none jump out at you like the island of Burano. For those who live in the suburbs, we’re used to every house looking almost identical. Burano provides a refreshing change of scenery with buildings brightly painted blue, pink, and just about every other color you’d find in a box of Crayola. There’s nothing like gliding down the canal, guessing what colors you’ll encounter next. The island can also be experienced on foot, making visitors feel as if they’ve stepped inside a rainbow. It’s so Instagram-friendly that no filters are required. As satisfying as the sightseeing is, you’ll also want to venture inside some of these buildings for dining and shopping. You’re inclined to find multiple stores with souvenirs made from lace, Burano’s specialty. Be it a day trip or a summer getaway, Burano deserves a bravo.

Reine, Norway

There’s remote and then there’s Reine. This sleepy fishing village is hidden away on Moskenesøya with the magnificent mountains towering over the simple cottages below. Nothing tops arriving on a boat, spotting the cozy community on the horizon. The area is comprised of multiple little islands with bridges linking them together. This makes island-hopping a breeze whether you prefer to get around on foot or on bike. Get up-close to the village on a kayak or take it all in from afar as you hike up Reinebringen Mountain. The beaches also provide a soothing locale for walks, yoga, and quick dips. There’s a modesty to Reine that makes you appreciate the little things in life. It’s ideal for those looking to go off the grid, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be without Wi-Fi.

Bled, Slovenia

This enchanting destination serves as the centerpiece of Lake Bled, looking like something out of a picture book. This sentiment is only intensified by Bled Castle, which overlooks the community like a lighthouse guiding tourists. Exploring the castle is the ultimate adventure, functioning as an immersive museum. Taking a rowboat across the lake with your significant other is the most romantic way to reach the central island. Getting around is half the fun, with the city providing arresting vantage points to take in the surrounding lake while enjoying a slice of Cremeschnitte, the creamiest cake you’ll ever sink your teeth into. Take your journey to even greater heights with a zipline journey. Bled manages to feel as picturesque as a village and prominent as a kingdom, bringing together the best of both fairytale worlds.

Albarracín, Spain

Albarracín is one the most unique destinations in Spain, preserving its medieval roots to the point that you feel less like you walked off a plane and more like you’ve wandered out of a time machine. With a population of just over 1,000, it can almost seem like a ghost town just waiting to be discovered. Albarracín stands out with massive city walls and a clifftop castle. While Albarracín was made for history buffs, the sandstone surroundings open the area up to more modern activities like rock climbing. As rocky as Albarracín is, the trees bring another level of beauty during autumn when the leaves change color. The addition of red and orange blends splendidly with the red sandstone, giving Albarracín the impression of a city where the sun is always setting.

Zermatt, Switzerland

The ideal holiday getaway will strike a balance between sweeping winter wonderland and a welcoming little town brimming with warmth. No destination better fits that description than Zermatt. You can spot the Matterhorn from this district, immediately summoning your inner adventurer. Channel that energy into skiing, climbing, and hiking. Dominating the Matterhorn might be too tall of a task for you, but it’s just as gratifying seeking out Gorner Gorge and the small lake Schwarzsee. Or maybe you’re looking for a quiet holiday? Zermatt accommodates easygoing travelers as well with an assortment of spots in town to kick back with a cup of joe. And families make their way to the paradise of Sunnegga where they’re free to unleash their pent-up energy and let the good vibes flow.