Thinking of fairytale destinations? Hoping your mind starts thinking of Europe, right? Europe is a continent where fairy tales come to life, and some places seem to be supernatural.
Breathtaking castles, magnificent mountains, colorful villages, all set together in a landscape that makes a place magical. Europe is brimming with amazing destinations that seem like something out of this world.
I guarantee you can find plenty of destinations between France, Italy, and Germany that you won’t believe exist.
Choose from amazing historic castles to dazzling natural wonders in my ultimate guide of the 10 best fairytale destinations in Europe.
Get whisked away to some of the most magical places!
10 Fairytale Destinations in Europe
1. Colmar, France
Do you know that France is full of small towns and cities that offer the essence of Beauty and the Beast? Colmar is one of the best in France, and it is one of the must-visit destinations for travellers who want to explore a picture-perfect town in Europe.
Colmar is situated in the Alsace region, on the border of the western edge of Germany. Colmar is a colourful city and full of half-timbered buildings.
Complete your visit with ancient churches, ornate fountains, and explore the charming town of Colmar, a popular fairytale destination in Europe.
It feels like stepping into a storybook, and I love strolling around the Petite Venice (Little Venice) for classic views.
The medieval-style buildings, the cobblestone alleys, and the dreamy atmosphere make it a perfect destination for a romantic getaway.
Best period to visit: Open all year round
Best places to visit: La Petite France, Vielle ville, Le Marché Couvert, and more
2. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
No fairytale destination list can be completed without mentioning Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany. This castle was built by Ludwig II in 1868, and you can find it incomplete, yet it looks marvelous in the Bavarian Alps. With its towers, turrets, and throne hall, it seems it was plucked from a medieval fairytale.
Do you know Neuschwanstein Castle is the tallest castle in the world? The tower reaches a height of 213 feet, and the castle features several architectural styles such as Gothic, Roman, and Byzantine.
With its white limestone facade and deep blue turrets, sometimes people say this castle is the real-life inspiration for the Disney classic.
The interior of the castle is interesting, featuring opulent halls, elaborate murals, and a Byzantine-style Throne room. I recommend taking a guided tour to explore its iconic rooms and learn about its fascinating history.
Don’t forget to see the surroundings of the castle; one of the highlights is Marienbrücke. It is a bridge that hangs over a waterfall and offers the most stunning views of this fairytale destination.
Best period to visit: Peak summer months of July and August
Best places to visit: Alpsee Lake, Museum of the Bavarian Kings, Mary’s Bridge, and more
3. Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt, Austria, is one of the most charming places that you have ever visited. Tucked away in the densely wooded district of Gmunden, Hallstatt is a small ancient town that oozes charm.
Do you know it hosts a very small population of 800? Luckily, the tiny town welcomes around 3 million visitors every year happily.
The best way to reach this destination is by boat, and the sailing offers stunning views of the iconic town and its surroundings. You can walk around the old town, and the Parish church and St. Michael’s Chapel are two of the highlights.
There are several viewpoints around the most beautiful, picturesque town in the world. The traditional houses, narrow streets, and surrounding mountains and lake make Hallstatt a photographer’s paradise.
Don’t forget to explore the Hallstatt skywalk, the Hallstatt Museum, the bone house, and the Old Salt Mines. Though Hallstatt can be doable from Vienna or Salzburg, I recommend staying overnight for the best experience.
Best period to visit: Late Spring and Early Autumn (May-June) & (Sep to Oct)
Best places to visit: Hallstatt Skywalk, Market Square, Hallstatt Ossuary, and more
4. Sintra, Portugal
Sintra is a charming holiday destination, located Lisbon district, Portugal. The town is known for its dreamy castles, majestic palaces, and the natural beauty and fairytale atmosphere of its surroundings.
There are plenty of things to do and see, but Pena Palace is one of the most famous landmarks in Sintra. Pena Palace is famous for its bright colours, grand towers, and unique design.
Another important destination worth visiting is the Moorish castle. Moorish Castle is a must-visit destination when you are in Sintra. It was built during the 8th and 9th centuries, when the Moors (North african muslims) used it to control the area.
It is located high on the hill and offers amazing views of the valley below. Next, you can head to some notable historical landmarks such as Sintra National Palace, which served as the Royal Residence of Portugal during the 15th to the late 19th century.
Quinta da Regaleira, Cabo de Roca, and Convent of the Capuchos are some other must-see destinations of Sintra.
Whether wandering across the lush greens, stepping inside the grand halls, or enjoying the relaxing atmosphere, you will definitely enjoy every bit of the moments in this fairytale destination in Europe.
Best period to visit: April -June & Sep-Oct
Best places to visit: Pena Palace, Quinta de Regaleira, Sintra National Palace, Moorish Castle, and more
5. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
If you want to explore the most beautiful romantic village in Germany, head to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. I actually visited this fairytale destination in Europe twice, and every time I visit, I just get stunned by its stunning beauty.
I feel I have explored this town in different ways during my visits. Rothenburg is much more beautiful than it is presented in Google or other videos on social media.
You will fall in love with the picturesque views of the village, and Rothenburg is the best-preserved walled town in Germany.
Modern-day Rothenburg is quite reconstructed rather than preserved, since the village faced lots of damage during World War II. A brief stroll from the city’s main town square is the revered St. Jacob’s Chruch, admiring the beautiful Gothic architecture.
You can explore the medieval city walls, the Town Wall & Towers, which offer picturesque views. Another notable must-visit destination includes the Market Square, featuring the historic Town Hall and the Council tavern with its hourly Glockenspiel show.
Best period to visit: May-June, Sept-Dec
Best places to visit: Town Walls, St. Jacob’s Chruch, Plonlein, The Double Bridge, Taubertal, and more
6. Bruges, Belgium
I have recently spent a holiday in the stunning Belgian city of Bruges, and I have made the best of it. If you are looking for a more chilled-out fairytale destination in Europe, Bruges can be the perfect destination for you.
The historic buildings of Bruges are stunning, and the entire city is walkable. The Market Square is the beating heart of the city, and the majestic Belfry Tower is very impressive to visit. Climb to the 366 steps Belfry Tower to experience the panoramic city view from the top.
Another notable must-visit point is Rozenhoedkaai, featuring postcard-perfect images of medieval buildings, canals, and the Belfry Tower of the city.
I have enjoyed exploring the City Hall and Old Courthouse of Burges. Don’t forget to visit and explore the interior of City Hall; you will be amazed by the beauty of this ornate building.
Do you know that Burges is famous for its canals? A boat tour can be a great way to revel in the city’s distinct panoramic views.
During your visit, you can admire centuries-old cathedrals, chill out in Minewater Park, and indulge in some Belgian chocolates.
Best period to visit: Spring (April -May), & Autumn (Sep-Oct)
Best places to visit: Market Square, Belfry Tower, Minnewater Park, and more
7. Giethoorn, Netherlands
Due to its charming canals, thatched-roof cottages, panoramic wooden bridges, lack of roads, and pleasant atmosphere, Giethoorn is widely considered a fairytale destination.
Giethoorn is a farming village where cars are largely absent in the city. The canals and pavements are serving as primary thoroughfares. No wonder people call this town the Venice of the Netherlands.
Wander along the narrow foothpaths, or you can rent a bike to explore most of the town. When you are in Giethoorn, visit Museum Giethroon ‘T Olde Maat Uus, offering a glimpse into what life was like in Giethoorn in the ancient period.
Are you a nature lover just like me? Then don’t skip exploring Weerribben -Wieden National Park. Kayaking, hiking, and taking an eco-friendly boat tour can make the most of your trip.
Look at the restaurants and cafes right along the canals here. Enjoy a nice cappuccino and a sandwich while enjoying seeing the boats pass by. I would recommend considering Villa Bodelaeke and admiring the views of the waterfront terrace.
Best period to visit: Spring (April-May) & Summer (June-August)
Best places to visit: Museum Giethoorn, Bovenweide Lake, Weerribben-Wieden Nature Reserve, and more
8. Reine, Norway
With a population of 1000, Reine is a picturesque, dramatic scenery, iconic architecture, and a perfect fairytale destination in Europe. Mystical mountains, lovely fishing cabins, magnificent waters, and lovely boats make it really well worth visiting.
Reine is located in the Lofoten islands, surrounded by the Arctic Ocean, that exactly what Reine offers. The Sherpa Stairs to Reinbringen mountains is the most famous hike you can do here.
The views from the tops are spellbinding. I loved doing this hike, and it had the most breathtakingly fantastic views.
Kayaking in the Reine Fjord will be a magical experience. You can look for guided kayak tours here because it will help you learn about every element of Reine. Consider a boat trip to Vinstad and soak up the sun in the golden sands of Bunes Beach.
There is snow in the winter. So, have an amazing snowshoeing experience here in Western Lofoten. Don’t forget the Northern Lights with peak visibility during the dark winter months!
Best period to visit: Summer (June-August) & Winter (October-March)
Best places to visit: Reine village, Reinenringen Hike, The Sherpa Stair, Reine Fjord, and more
9. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Have you seen the picturesque image of the idyllic lake on Instagram? Bled is a small town in Slovenia, and its beauty lies in its fairytale landscape.
If you check on Google, the stunning images surely attract you to come and visit. The town seems to be an imaginary world with marvelous Lake Bled, beautiful surroundings, and lots of things to do.
Wander around the circular path of the Lake, featuring over 90 minutes of walking and various spectacular views. At the centre of the Lake, there is the Church of the Assumption of Maria from the 15th century.
It is probably the most famous place in Slovenia, and then head to the Slovenian castle. The views from the top of the castle are outstanding, and the entrance also gives you access to several museum rooms.
You can take a 10-minute drive from Lake Bled to reach Vintgar Gorge, a gift from nature. You can have a short hike through the path in the rocks while enjoying the transparent blue water along the way.
Don’t forget to book a boat for a few hours, and it would be an amazing boat tour if you add some cheese and wine.
Best period to visit: Summer (June-August) and Winter (December-February)
Best places to visit: Lake Bled, Bled Castle, Vintgar Gorge, and more
10. Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
Every moment you feel you are lucky enough to find yourself in such a beautiful place. Hope you might ask yourself whether it’s true? Last year, I got the opportunity to come and visit the place, Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland, for a few days.
The village seems to be a living fairytale destination, a breathtaking valley surrounded by blushing trees and spring blooms. I can say that Lauterbrunnen can be similar to heaven on earth.
A charming river runs through the valley, Weisse Lutschine, offering milky, whitish-blue colored water and creating a fantastic scenic beauty. When you are in Lauterbrunnen, hiking should be at the top of your to-do list.
You can consider hiking at Muren Trail, I promise you have never seen such a mesmerizing place while vacationing.
You might know that the Swiss village is well-known for its sparkling waterfalls, and none is more popular than Staubbach Falls.
Hop on a scenic cogwheel train toward Wengen; no visit to Lauterbrunnen is complete without heading to Wengen. It is a small, car-free village, offering some of the best panoramic views of the valley.
Looking for some jaw-dropping views? Head to Murren, it is no exception. Click on some fantastic views of the Swiss Alps, immersing the glaciated valley below.
Best period to visit: Late Spring (May-June)
Best places to visit: Murren, Wengen, Satubacch waterfall, Valley Walks, and more
Conclusion
Small villages, countryside, lakes, castles, and mountains offer the best in Europe. The charm, authenticity, and relaxing environment will make you addicted to this lovely continent.
These storybook fairytale destinations are so worth visiting compared to bustling iconic cities. Here, I have compiled a list of 10 fairytale destinations in Europe that you should visit in your lifetime.
You can pick one or more destinations from the list, and you will surely feel that such places truly exist. I feel you could be transported to an era where history feels alive, and you are a part of the tale.
I recommend staying a few nights in your dreamy destination instead of a day-trip, as it could surely amplify your experience!
