7 medieval villages in Europe that you must see once in your life

BarcelonaIf you've ever walked at night through the cobbled streets of Český Krumlov, you'll know that there are towns that don't seem real. They could be sets for swords-and-dragons movies or fairy tales that begin with a softly spoken "once upon a time." But they aren't decorated: they are living, beautiful, and imperfect towns that give us a window into the Middle Ages. Some have names that are difficult to pronounce, like Sighişoara, and others that sound like verses, like Monsaraz or San Gimignano. All have a beauty that isn't just picture-postcard: it's authentic. In Europe, there are a handful that seem frozen in the Middle Ages—with walls, towers, and squares that have seen centuries pass by—and that are worth visiting at least once in your life. Some climb to impossible cliffs, like Rocamadour, and others are bathed in Nordic silence, like Visby. In this article, we hop from country to country to discover seven medieval towns that not only delight the eye, but also stir something within us. Perhaps because they remind us of where we come from. Or perhaps because they invite us to pause a moment and appreciate, for example, how the towers remain intact in San Gimignano or how the cobblestone streets are cradled by the Baltic Sea in Visby. Ready for an inspiring trip through the Old Continent?

Roccamador (France)

In Rócamador, the first thing you wonder is how it's possible. How can a village hang from a cliff, literally embedded in the rock, as if the mountain had wanted to make it its own? The houses crowd together above the Alzou gorge, within the Quercy Regional Natural Park. A village where history is present in every step, in every wall, and in every chapel, and where the echoes of pilgrims climbing the 216 steps on their knees can still be felt in the air. Walk through its cobbled streets, let yourself be captivated by the majesty of the Basilica of Saint-Salvador and the mysterious Black Virgin, which has attracted faithful and visitors for centuries, and don't forget to climb the castle for a dizzying panoramic view of the surrounding park. Rócamador is not just a journey into the past; it's an experience where faith, nature, and beauty merge in a single place.

Monsaraz (Portugal)

In Monsaraz, the silence echoes among the whitewashed houses and slate roofs that reflect the sunlight. Perched on a hill, it overlooks the waters of the Guadiana River and the immense Alqueva reservoir, the largest artificial lake in Europe, as if it were still Croatian territory. Its walls bear traces of ancient knights and centuries of history. You walk along cobblestone streets, pass under semicircular arches, and you think you hear the gallop of a horse that is no longer there. You arrive at its imposing 14th-century castle, where the Alentejo landscape stretches out into the distance. And you can't go without tasting the local cuisine, where traditional flavors such as Iberian ham, goat cheese, extra virgin olive oil, and dishes made with local products such as legumes and grains predominate. Monsaraz is a gem that invites you to both lose yourself and find yourself, where the history of the Templars and kings coexists with the splendor of the landscape.

San Gimignano (Italy)

Perched among the golden hills of Tuscany, San Gimignano rises with its towers like a medieval tale made of stone. This "Manhattan of the Middle Ages" still holds the breath of the pilgrims and merchants who walked its cobbled streets centuries ago. Stroll leisurely through the Piazza Duomo, where 14th-century frescoes tell stories of faith and art, and climb the Grossa Tower, the tallest, to enjoy a sea of fields that stretches to infinity. When your body asks for rest, let yourself be captivated by the intense flavor of the vernaccia, the local white wine, and the typical sausages, such as finocchiona wave surpriseSan Gimignano is a town to hear, taste, and fall in love with.

Cesky Krumlov (Czech Republic)

Nestled in a bend of the Vltava River and guarded by one of the largest castles in Central Europe, Český Krumlov seems suspended in time. Its softly painted houses, cobblestone streets, and Gothic and Baroque bell towers create a landscape reminiscent of an ancient fairy tale. Perched on the hill, the castle offers a breathtaking panorama of red roofs and the forest stretching to the horizon. Visit the original Baroque theater, stroll through the gardens with ponds and sculptures, or marvel at the covered bridge that connects the different levels of the villa. In the old town, full of galleries and cozy cafes, local art and crafts coexist with taverns where Czech beer flows freely and you can sample traditional dishes such as goulash or hamburgers. Knödel. Český Krumlov is one of those places you don't just visit: you remember.

Albarracín (Spain)

With its pink-hued houses hanging over the Guadalaviar River and cobblestone streets bordering the walls, Albarracín is one of the most impressive towns on the Iberian Peninsula. From the Molina gate to the Plaza Mayor, every corner invites you to waste time. Climb up to the ruins of the castle and the walls to enjoy the views over the Guadalaviar River and wander around the old town at a leisurely pace, discovering places like the El Salvador Cathedral, the old defensive towers, and the Diocesan Museum. Near the town, the Protected Landscape of the Rodeno Pine Forests hides cave paintings and hiking trails with spectacular views. For lunch, there's nothing better than stopping at a local inn and trying Teruel ham, crumbs or a good game stew.

Visby (Sweden)

On the west coast of the Swedish island of Gotland, Visby preserves the medieval charm that made it one of the most powerful cities in the Hanseatic League. Its walled historic center, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, hides more than 200 ancient buildings, cobbled alleys, and squares redolent of the sea. Also noteworthy are St. Mary's Cathedral and the ruined churches of St. Nicholas and St. Carina, which now host cultural events. Fans of Pippi Longstocking also have a must-see: some scenes from the series were filmed in the old town, and the famous Villa Villekulla can be visited at the Kneippbyn Resort on the outskirts. You can also stroll through the botanical garden, try the typical saffron crepe—with berry jam and cream—or lose yourself in the picturesque Fiskargränd alley, flanked by cottages and rosebushes. And if you go in August, don't miss the Medieval Festival, which transforms Visby into a journey back in time.

Sighișoara (Romania)

Nestled in the wooded hills of Transylvania, this small walled town, continuously inhabited for centuries, is considered one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sighişoara was founded in the 12th century by Transylvanian Saxons, artisans and merchants of German origin. Each guild built its own defensive tower in the fortified city, some of which can still be visited today, such as the Clock Tower, with its animated wooden figures. But Sighişoara isn't just notable for its architecture: it's also the birthplace of Vlad Draculea, better known as Vlad the Impaler, the Wallachian prince who would inspire the Dracula myth. His birthplace is located in the Plaza de la Ciutadella and today houses a restaurant and a small weapons museum. Between visits, take a break in any of the small cafes that pop up in the city's most photogenic corners, or try typical Romanian dishes with Hungarian and Germanic influences.