Europe's most fairytale cities - 10 places that feel like something out of a fantasy film

Writer: Helena Bergström

Europe is full of cities that feel more like backdrops than real places.
From Alpine villages reflected in lakes to walled coastal towns and medieval alleyways, some places look like they belong in a fairytale. Here are 10 of the most fairytale-like cities in Europe that we've visited ourselves - and that really live up to the dream.

1st Lucerne, Switzerland

With snow-capped Alpine peaks, a clear blue lake and the iconic Kapellbrücke wooden bridge, Lucerne feels almost surreal. As well as strolling among the houses and on the bridges, you can take boat trips on the lake, or travel by train (!) to the top of Mount Pilatus. Combining dramatic scenery with a well-preserved old town, it's the perfect start to a fabulous European holiday.

2. Salzburg, Austria

Baroque facades, a mighty castle above the city and the Alps in the background make Salzburg something special. The Old Town feels like a postcard, and every alleyway offers new views. Here you can visit Mozart's birthplace, take the funicular railway to Hohensalzburg Fortress or visit Mirabell Gardens.

3. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

The winding river, the large castle and the pastel-coloured houses make Český Krumlov one of Europe's most magical small towns. Here you can stroll through the restaurants and shops, or perhaps take a canoe trip around the town! It's easy to see why this place is often compared to a film set.

4. Bamberg, Germany

Bamberg is one of those towns that surprises. With half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and the town hall balancing in the middle of the river, it feels like a real little fairytale town. Here you can cosy up on nice outdoor cafés, shop in small boutiques and check out magnificent and beautiful buildings.

5. Colmar, France

Colourful half-timbered houses, flower-decorated canals and cute little squares make Colmar feel almost like a Disney version of a European city. Absolutely picturesque! In summer, you can go boating on the small canals or sit on the charming outdoor cafés. In December, you'll find a Christmas market and deluxe Christmas decorations.

6th Bruges, Belgium

Belgian Bruges is like a living medieval museum. The canals, pointed houses and small bridges create a romantic atmosphere that makes the city a classic fairytale town in Europe. The small city has many nice museums and of course also breweries with Belgian beer.

7. Carcassonne, France

The medieval citadel of the French city of Carcassonne, the Cité de Carcassonne, is one of Europe's most impressive fortified cities. Not only is it a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but its double walls and towers make the historic city feel like something out of a knight's tale. Many tourists come here, but that doesn't stop it being well worth a visit!

8th Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn's Old Town is one of Europe's best-preserved medieval city centres.
With towers, walls and cobbled streets, it's easy to imagine what the city looked like hundreds of years ago. Today, you can experience the historic and fairytale settings, while enjoying a modern range of restaurants, bars, spas and other experiences.

9. Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor is dramatically set between high mountains and a deep bay. The old walls climb up the mountainside and give the town an almost epic feel. We visited this place during our long motorhome holiday in 2015, and we have only wonderful memories from here!

10. Dubrovnik, Croatia

With its massive walls, marble streets and location on the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is one of Europe's most iconic historic cities. It's not hard to see why it's been used as a filming location for several films and series, not least Game of Thrones.

Europe's most fabulous cities

Europe is full of cities that feel like something out of a fairytale, but what makes them special is that they're not just beautiful in pictures - they're just as magical in real life.

Have you visited any of these cities, or are there any others that should be on the list? Let us know in the comments - we're always looking for new fabulous places to discover.