10 Underrated European Villages Perfect for a Family Getaway

Summer is just around the corner, and for many families, that means it’s time to start planning a beach vacation. 

European tourism saw a strong recovery in 2023, with foreign tourist arrivals and nights spent reaching close to pre-pandemic 2019 levels¹.

Europe offers a diverse array of vacation options for families, from cultural city breaks to outdoor adventures. So if you’re looking for a laid-back, family-friendly destination, here are some charming European beach towns that are perfect for a relaxing escape.

1. Hallstatt, Austria

This picturesque lakeside town in the Austrian Alps is renowned for its 16th-century Alpine houses and stunning mountain backdrop. Spend a few days exploring the village’s salt mines, hiking trails, and boat tours on Lake Hallstatt.

2. Eze, France

Perched on a hilltop along the French Riviera, Eze is a medieval village with narrow, winding streets and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Families can explore the Exotic Garden, hike the Nietzsche Trail, and visit the nearby beaches.

3. Bibury, England

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds, Bibury is a quintessential English hamlet with honey-colored stone cottages, a picturesque trout stream, and a 17th-century pub. It’s the perfect base for exploring the Cotswolds region.

4. Alberobello, Italy

This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Puglia is famous for its unique cone-shaped “trulli” houses. (ref) Families can wander the maze-like streets, visit the Trulli Sovrano, and enjoy local cuisine like panini and gelato.

5. Oia, Greece

Perched on the northwestern tip of Santorini, Oia is a postcard-perfect village with whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and stunning caldera views. It’s a great spot for families to experience the island’s famous sunsets and Greek hospitality.

6. Ronda, Spain

This mountaintop city in Andalusia is split by the deep El Tajo gorge, spanned by an impressive 18th-century stone bridge. Families can explore the old town, visit the bullring, and take day trips to nearby pueblos blancos (white villages).

7. Colmar, France

Situated in the Alsace region, Colmar is a fairytale-like village with colorful half-timbered houses, winding canals, and a charming old town. It’s a great base for exploring the Alsatian wine route and nearby villages.

8. Cinque Terre, Italy

This string of five coastal villages along the Italian Riviera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site ^(ref) known for its colorful houses, terraced vineyards, and hiking trails. Families can explore each village by train or boat.

9. Giethoorn, Netherlands

Often called the “Venice of the Netherlands,” Giethoorn is a car-free village crisscrossed by canals and footbridges. Families can rent boats, explore the thatched-roof houses, and visit nearby nature reserves.

10. Bled, Slovenia

Set on a glacial lake with a medieval castle and a picturesque island church, Bled is a fairytale-like village in the Julian Alps. Families can hike, row boats on the lake, and explore the nearby Vintgar Gorge.

11. Cong, Ireland

This charming village in County Mayo is famous for being the filming location of the classic movie “The Quiet Man.” Families can explore the Ashford Castle grounds, take a boat tour on Lough Corrib, and visit the nearby Connemara National Park.

12. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

One of the best-preserved medieval towns in Germany, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a walled village with half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and a fairytale-like atmosphere. Families can explore the town’s museums, gardens, and Christmas markets.

Source: 
1. https://etc-corporate.org/reports/european-tourism-2023-trends-prospects-q4-2023/