Looking to explore ancient walled towns beyond the typical tourist destinations?
These fortified medieval towns offer travelers the chance to walk centuries-old ramparts, and see some of the best-preserved defensive architecture in the world.
This guide will help you discover some of the most impressive fortified medieval towns still standing today.
Best Preserved Medieval Walled Towns Around the World
Ready your camera and walking shoes as we guide you through the world’s most impressive walled towns.
1. Monteriggioni, Italy
One of the most striking fortified towns in Europe, this perfectly circular medieval settlement sits atop a Tuscan hill, with walls dating from 1214-1219.
The 570-meter circuit features 14 square towers and ranges from 6-14 meters high.
Stop at Enoteca La Cantina inside the walls to taste local wines and learn about the town’s historic role in Tuscan wine trade.
2. Korčula, Croatia
A remarkably preserved medieval walled town in Europe showcasing Venetian maritime fortifications from the 13th-15th centuries.
The oval-shaped walls feature unique architectural elements including round towers and stepped battlements.
Book accommodation within the walls to experience the town’s peaceful atmosphere after ferry day-trippers depart.
3. Montagnana, Italy
One of Europe’s most complete medieval circuits with 2 kilometers of walls incorporating 24 hexagonal towers.
The fortifications reach heights of 24 meters and feature three original gates.
The wall walkway offers excellent photography opportunities of both the medieval town and surrounding Veneto plain.
4. Pals, Spain
This well-preserved Catalonian medieval town features impressive Gothic Quarter architecture within its 12th-15th century walls.
The Torre de les Hores (Clock Tower) provides excellent views, while the stone archways and cobblestone streets offer numerous photo opportunities.
5. Estremoz, Portugal
Notable for its dual wall system – medieval castle walls and 17th-century town walls.
The white marble construction creates stunning views, especially at sunset.
The upper town retains its medieval character, while the impressive Porta de Santo António serves as the main entrance.
6. Elburg, Netherlands
This hilltop town showcases classical Catalan military architecture with 12th-century walls connecting to a formidable fortress.
Visit the historic fishing harbor to see how this small fortified town once controlled regional trade.
Less visited than many Spanish medieval towns, offering a more authentic experience.
7. Mdina, Malta
Among the best places to visit in Malta, this medieval walled town combines medieval and baroque fortifications.
The honey-colored walls feature deep moats, impressive bastions, and the notable Greek’s Gate entrance
Visit early morning or evening for the best atmosphere and fewer tourists.
8. Morella, Spain
Perched on a rocky outcrop, this medieval town features 2.5 kilometers of walls encompassing both town and castle.
The 14th-century fortifications include 14 towers and several gates, including the impressive Portal de San Miguel.
Worth visiting for both the military architecture and panoramic countryside views.
9. Tossa de Mar, Spain
The only remaining fortified medieval town on the Catalan coast, featuring 14th-century walls with three impressive cylindrical towers.
The Vila Vella (Old Town) offers excellent walking opportunities and coastal views.
10. Urbino, Italy
A bucket list destination in Italy, this Renaissance walled town features complete 15th-century fortifications and well-preserved gates and bastions.
The compact historic center houses one of Italy’s oldest universities and impressive ducal palace.
11. Aigues-Mortes, France
One of France’s most unique places, Aigues-Mortes is a textbook example of 13th-century military architecture, with perfectly rectangular walls stretching 1,640 meters.
Six towers and five principal gates punctuate the fortifications, which rise 11 meters high.
The flat surrounding landscape makes the complete wall circuit walk particularly impressive.
12. Cittadella, Italy
This medieval town features a perfect circle of 13th-century walls stretching 1.7 kilometers.
Recently restored ramparts allow visitors to walk the entire circuit at rooftop level.
Visit late afternoon for the best light for photography from the 36 towers.
13. Gradara, Italy
Rising above Le Marche’s hills, this medieval town features a rare double wall system from the 12th and 14th centuries.
The 800-meter circuit offers panoramic countryside views from its walkable parapets.
Combine with a visit to the impressive 12th-century castle.
14. Albarracín, Spain
Known for its pink-hued medieval walls that climb steep rocky outcrops.
The defensive system blends 11th-century Islamic and 14th-century Christian architecture.
Visit in morning or late afternoon when the unique colored stone looks most impressive.
15. Le Mont-Saint-Michel, France
Though technically a commune, these medieval walls rank among Europe’s most spectacular fortifications.
The ramparts spiral up the rocky island, integrating with both abbey and natural rock.
16. Anghiari, Italy
Dramatically positioned above steep slopes, this medieval town demonstrates classic military architecture.
The 13th-century walls follow natural contours, creating unique defensive elements.
Visit during the annual medieval festival for historical reenactments within the ancient walls.
17. Hostalric, Spain
This hilltop town showcases classical Catalan military architecture with 12th-century walls connecting to a formidable fortress.
The defensive system maximizes natural topography, creating excellent viewpoints.
Less visited than many Spanish medieval towns, offering a more authentic experience.
18. Bonifacio, France (Corsica)
This fortified medieval town sits 70 meters above the sea on white limestone cliffs.
The defensive walls combine with natural cliff fortifications to create one of the Mediterranean’s most impressive ancient walled towns.
The clifftop walking path offers spectacular views, while the historic center provides excellent restaurants and small hotels within medieval walls.
19. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
One of the most complete medieval European towns, with 3.5 kilometers of accessible walls and towers.
The covered walkway along the ramparts provides excellent views of both the old town and countryside.
Visit in early morning or evening to avoid tour groups and experience the authentic atmosphere of this remarkably preserved medieval village.
20. Óbidos, Portugal
One of the finest medieval European towns, surrounded by imposing 13-meter walls.
The 1.5-kilometer circuit features four gates, including the stunning Main Gate decorated with traditional Portuguese tiles.
Walk the complete wall circuit for panoramic views of whitewashed houses and surrounding countryside.
Final Thoughts on The Best Fortified Towns in the World
From European medieval villages to ancient Asian fortified towns, these 20 locations showcase the world’s best-preserved medieval architecture.
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