Even today, you can find yourself in the Middle Ages, get acquainted with the bizarre customs and interesting traditions of the inhabitants. To do this, it is enough to visit a number of miniature cities located in the very heart of Europe.
How to save money in Europe - read our life hack.
Traditional tourist routes along long-studied roads that run through huge metropolitan areas are gradually becoming a thing of the past. Inland trips are increasingly popular with travelers, allowing them to experience a different, more static life. It is during such travels that you can stumble upon the "pearls" of Europe - miniature cities in which nothing has changed over the past few centuries.
Here you can still find old buildings, small castles and quaint cultural and historical monuments. Let's take a walk together to interesting places that captivate with their charm!
Czech krumlov
Cesky Krumlov is located in one of the most exotic regions of the country - Bohemia. According to official sources, Krumlov was one of the first settlements in the Czech Republic. It is located in a picturesque place surrounded by the Vlatva River. Even from a distance, it evokes thoughts of the Middle Ages, and the main asset is the castle, made in the Gothic style. The grandiose building dates back to the 13th century.
Interesting facts about the Czech Republic in our article.
The streets of Krumlov are still paved with paving stones. Just imagine how many legs, carts, and now cars have tested it for strength! Here and there unique mansions and small houses "look" at travelers with curious eyes.
In addition to examples of old architecture, Krumlov also boasts modern infrastructure. And this is precisely what makes it unique. Each tourist will be able to enjoy the architecture and spend time at lunch in a first-class, state-of-the-art restaurant. In addition, several art galleries could be accommodated in the small square of Krumlov.
Getting to the city is very easy. Comfortable buses leave from Prague every day, which will take you directly to the gate of Krumlov for just a few euros.
Palmanova
The next point of our trip to Europe will be Italy. It is here that Palmanova is located. You will never guess what is its uniqueness and originality! If you look at Palmanova from a cosmic height, you can notice its unusual shape. It is built in such a way that it resembles a polygon, which includes 18 faces at once. Here is such a "snowflake" on the map of modern Europe.
Planning to visit Venice on your own? We recommend that you check out our 4-day Venice travel guide.
But the uniqueness does not end there. Every tourist who is fortunate enough to be in Palmanova is simply obliged to taste the specialties of seafood and fish. Every day hundreds of fishermen set out on their boats for fresh catch, so that every guest can taste the best delicacies of local culinary magicians.
Palmanova is located just 115 km from Venice and was originally a real fort post. If you decide to include a visit to this place in your Italian tour, you can get to know it in two ways: by renting a car or by train.
Rothenburg an der Tauber
Just imagine, Rothenburg an der Tauber in Germany is a real fortress. But he, unlike many other buildings of that time, was fortunate enough to withstand a difficult battle with time, invaders and nature. Even today, the descendants of those who once participated in the construction of a grandiose architectural monument continue to live, work, and have fun behind the high wall.
Interesting facts about Germany especially for those who are preparing for a vacation in this country.
Also, remember the famous Walt Disney cartoon about the adventures of the wooden boy Pinocchio? So, the red brick houses with tiled roofs that you saw on your TV screen were copied from the buildings of a German town.
You can get to the tiny fortress by a comfortable train from Munich. You will have to cover more than 200 km and spend about 3 hours on the way. The cost of the trip is $ 67.
Durnstein
On the banks of another famous river in Europe - the Danube - Durnstein is located. If in childhood you were fond of the fairy tales of the famous brothers Grimm, then you will certainly be able to appreciate its architecture, and, perhaps, even become its passionate admirer. There is a grandiose clock tower, stone-built structures, and perennial red tiles.
Local craftsmen also have something to boast about. It is here that delicious cider is produced, the recipes of which have been passed down from generation to generation for several centuries.
Tremola
One had only to deviate a little from the traditional route of travel in France, before the eyes of the amazing beauty of Tremola, which is absolutely not inferior in beauty to the famous Provence. It is located in the very heart of France.
As soon as you find yourself in this cozy romantic corner, you will see a Romanesque church of the 11th century, which is simply an ingenious structure, and huge wineries, where millions of liters of the best wine have been produced. There is also a huge cave here, which played the role of a refuge for primitive people.
No less exciting will be the acquaintance with a local restaurant, where you can taste delicious dishes and appreciate the rich bouquet of the best French wine.
Hallstatt
Austria boasts another unique location. Hallstatt - this is the name of the village - is considered one of the most ancient settlements in Europe. And there is a reason for that. The fact is that there are salt mines nearby, the first development of which began long before the beginning of our era. Be sure to include excursions to the salt deposits in your tourist program. Believe me, there is a lot to see with your own eyes!
But the local tradition can bring even a tourist with strong nerves to a state of mild shock. The so-called "Bone House" consists of bones and skulls that once lived in the Austrian town. According to the existing custom, after 10 years after the burial, the bones are dug up and decorated, after which they are exposed for public viewing.
Bruges
Bruges stands out for its unusual sights. Every house, every building here seems to be assembled from the Lego constructor.
Various bridges across the river, historical and cultural monuments, as well as many other attractions draw like a magnet for travelers from all over the world.
Goreme
The Turkish village called Goreme is famous for its considerable complex of rocky temples. There are about 30 of them here. It is quite difficult to notice all the temples from the outside, but as soon as you get inside, amazing pictures from centuries-old frescoes open before your eyes.
Just imagine how many attractions are collected in one village, which you hardly want to leave immediately after arrival. There is something to see here, and the personal archive will certainly be replenished with unique photographs.
Arosa
A small resort town in the Swiss Alps called Arosa, has long been loved by all representatives of the royal family of Great Britain.How did he subdue such fastidious people? In addition to the purest mountain air, it is in this place that there is a record number of sunny days, and there is almost never a wind here. All thanks to the special location of Arosa.
If you're looking for a family-friendly resort and have long promised your kids to teach them how to ski or snowboard, there's no better place to do that! Arosa strikes with a variety of forms for active recreation and measured leisure. Therefore, everyone should visit it!
Bergen in Norway
The Norwegian Bergen has a rich centuries-old history, and it is recommended to visit it for all those who are not indifferent to different directions in art. It features works of both decorative, historical and contemporary art.
Don't pass by Trollhaugen. This intricate name hides the real museum of Edward Grieg. It turns out that unusual landscapes await you right in the open air.
Fans of outdoor activities and fishing will also have something to do. Among tourists who have visited Bergen, there is an opinion that the most vivid impressions and a complete picture of Norway can be obtained by staying here for a couple of days.
We advise you to read the article about 10 films to watch before traveling to Europe - only on our website.
