Located in the heart of Tuscany, the walled city of Lucca is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors Florence and Pisa. However, this picturesque town has a charming appeal all its own with its Romanesque churches, Renaissance architecture and intact medieval walls. You can rent a bike and cycle atop the wide walls, stroll through the cobblestone streets, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee at an outdoor cafe and soak in the ambiance.
In the French countryside, the storybook village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence has attracted famous artists for decades, including Picasso, Chagall and Matisse. Today, you can see their works at the Fondation Maeght museum. Afterward, wander the ramparts and weave through the narrow alleyways, popping into art galleries and cafes. The pastoral surroundings of olive groves and vineyards only add to the charm.
The Albanian Riviera is one of the last unspoiled stretches of coastline in Europe. While the beaches are world-class, the real highlight is the Llogara Pass, a winding mountain road with hairpin turns offering panoramic vistas of the sea and the Ceraunian Mountains. Stop for a drink at one of the wooden cabanas along the way. The seaside town of Dhermi, with its whitewashed buildings and pebble beach, has a wonderfully relaxed vibe and some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste.
In the heart of the Bohemian Forest in the Czech Republic, the fairytale village of Český Krumlov feels frozen in time. Its Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture is remarkably well-preserved, centered around the dramatic Český Krumlov Castle. Explore the castle’s opulent rooms and tapestry-filled halls, then stroll across the picturesque stone bridge into the Old Town, where you’ll find charming cobblestone squares, colorful historic buildings and a relaxing riverside promenade.
The historic city of Toledo, Spain has a dramatic setting atop a gorge overlooking the River Tagus. During the Middle Ages, Toledo was a center of learning and the arts, as evidenced by its stunning Catedral Primada and Alcázar fortress. The old city is a veritable open-air museum, with narrow cobblestone streets connecting squares dotted with cafes. For panoramic views, walk or take an escalator to the top of the gorge. Toledo’s artistic legacy lives on at the Santa Cruz Museum, housing masterful works of art.