Our favourite historic towns

Always wanted to take a step back in time? Take a walk through our favourite historic towns.

We love getting to know the stories behind the towns and villages we visit. There’s something special about hearing the local legends, and spotting the quirks in centuries-old buildings. How great to visit a place where history strolls casually alongside you on your way to breakfast.

So, whether you’re a history buff or just mildly curious about the who, what and when of the places you visit, here are some of our favourite historic towns. 

Some places have charm. These ones have centuries of it.

Annecy, France

Take a stroll through Annecy’s old town, and you’ll quickly see why it’s called the “Venice of the Alps.” With winding canals, colorful houses, and medieval buildings, it feels like stepping back in time.

Annecy is also home to historic landmarks, like the Palais de l’Isle - a quirky building sitting on an island in the heart of town. Once a prison, it’s now a museum that takes you through the city’s rich history.

The town’s role in the French Resistance adds another layer to its story, especially the Plateau de Glières. Learn more about this brave chapter at the Resistance Museum.

As you wander, the canals lead you to the glacial turquoise waters of Lake Annecy, creating a perfect scene. With its mix of churches, museums, and markets, Annecy is undoubtedly one of France’s most captivating historic towns.

At the far end of the lake, you’ll find the peaceful village of Talloires. With its ancient abbey and tranquil atmosphere, it’s a place that inspired artists and writers like Cézanne and Mark Twain, who sought beauty and inspiration in Lake Annecy’s serene landscape.

Lake Garda, Italy

Lake Garda, Italy’s largest and most popular lake, is full of history, especially along its western and southwestern shores. In Gardone, you’ll find the charming historic center, home to the magnificent Vittoriale Gardens.

These gardens were created by the famous and flamboyant Gabriele D'Annunzio, a poet and soldier known for his daring exploits and controversial behavior. Funded by Mussolini and the Italian state, the garden celebrates Italy's military victories.

Malcesine is another must-visit spot, famous for the Scaligero Castle, which dates back to the 13th century. The castle is full of history, and its museum offers a deeper dive for those curious to learn more. Climb to the top for stunning views of the northern lake. For nature and art lovers, the Heller Botanical Gardens, located to the west of the lake, is a must-see.

In Limone, you can explore the Church of Saint Rocco or visit the Tourist Museum to discover more about the town’s rich past. The Limonaia del Castel offers an interesting look into Limone’s famous lemon cultivation. For more history and culture, you can also take an excursion to Venice or Verona, both cities brimming with fascinating stories and landmarks.

Lucerne, Switzerland

Lucerne, located on Lake Lucerne in Switzerland, is home to a charming old town filled with cobbled streets, plazas, fountains, and beautiful half-timbered buildings. One of its standout features is the Chapel Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Europe.

Known for being one of Switzerland's most walkable cities, Lucerne is perfect for exploring on foot. The Old Town offers a beautiful blend of history and charm, with the River Reuss winding through the heart of the city. 

Along the river, you'll find a row of inviting restaurants and cafés, perfect for a relaxing coffee break. The buildings are adorned with colorful flower-filled balconies, adding to the town's picturesque appeal.

Stroll through the cobbled streets, and you'll feel transported back in time, surrounded by well-preserved facades. Be sure to visit the iconic Lion Monument, explore the stunning churches, or join a guided city tour to dive deeper into Lucerne’s fascinating past.

Lucerne’s history dates back to 750 AD when it became home to a Benedictine monastery. Over the centuries, it grew into a prosperous trading hub, and today, you can uncover its rich heritage through the city’s many museums.

Kitzbühel, Austria

Kitzbühel is a town where history is hard to miss. Its medieval charm is clear in the cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and well-preserved old town, which begins at the Jochberg Gate and Pfleghof. Once a full castle with a watchtower and residential wing in 1120, only the five-storey Pfleghof tower remains today.

A visit to the Kitzbühel Museum is worth your time. Alongside the town’s history, it showcases the work of Alfons Walde, the local artist whose paintings helped shape Kitzbühel’s image. The museum holds over 60 of his works and more than 100 prints.

Walk through the Jochberger Tor and you’ll see the town’s historic promenade open up in front of you. At the far end, the twin towers of the Church of Our Lady and St. Andrew’s Church rise into view, with the Wilder Kaiser mountains in the background.

Merano, Italy

This South Tyrolean town is shaped by its Roman roots, spa heritage, and mountain setting.

You’ll spot its Art Nouveau charm in buildings like the Kurhaus and Villa Tivoli - elegant reminders of its past as a 19th-century summer retreat for Europe’s elite.

At Castel Rametz, explore one of the oldest wine cellars in the Alps, dating back to Roman times. Wine tastings here are a highlight, especially when paired with local cured meats - it’s a delicious way to connect with Merano’s roots.

Surrounded by mountains, vineyards, and forests, Merano is also known for its thermal spas and radon springs. In summer, the landscape comes alive with wildflowers and crystal-clear streams.

Whether you're walking through its parks or relaxing in the botanical gardens, Merano offers a slow, scenic kind of holiday that’s hard to beat.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt’s charm goes beyond the Matterhorn. This mountain village is full of wooden chalets, flower-filled balconies, and car-free streets that make exploring easy. The town’s history is visible at every turn. Wander the streets, discover boutique shops, taste Swiss chocolate, or relax with a pastry.

The “Hinterdorf” (old village) is a must-see. The barns, stores, stables, and houses built between the 16th and 18th centuries are a must-see. A stroll through its narrow alleys feels like stepping back in time. Zermatt’s Old Village boasts over 30 buildings built in the traditional style of the Valais region, many perched on stone slabs and stilts to keep out mice. These 500-year-old barns and grain stores offer a glimpse into the lives of the mountain farmers of old. And for those curious about local history, the Matterhorn Museum is a must-visit.