Some of the best medieval villages in Europe look exactly like they did hundreds of years ago.
You’ll find ancient stone houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and medieval castles that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The 15 Most Beautiful Medieval Villages in Europe
These villages show off the best medieval architecture and atmosphere you’ll find anywhere in Europe.
1. Conques, France
This small village is built around a stunning 11th-century abbey, with golden stone buildings that line narrow medieval streets.
The old Romanesque architecture and slate roofs create the perfect setting for pilgrims, making it one of the most photographed spots in France.
2. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, France
Sitting high on limestone cliffs about 100 meters above the Lot River, this village has amazing 13th-century stone houses with red tile roofs.
The old castle walls and Gothic church stand out against the sky, while tiny streets wind between buildings that look like they’re growing right out of the cliff.
Further Reading: 20 Most Picturesque Villages in France
3. Riquewihr, France
Medieval walls still surround this colorful Alsatian village, where half-timbered houses from the 1400s and 1500s line cobblestone streets.
The old gates and towers haven’t changed much over the centuries, so walking through feels like stepping into a medieval fairy tale.
4. Eguisheim, France
This unique village was built in circles around a medieval castle, with colorful half-timbered houses that follow the original medieval street plan.
The 13th-century walls are still standing, and pretty fountains with flowers add charm to the perfectly planned layout.
5. Rocamadour, France
This incredible village hangs off a cliff face, with medieval buildings stacked on three different levels connected by old stone stairs.
The 12th-century church sits at the top, while medieval houses below create an amazing view against the limestone cliffs.
6. Santillana del Mar, Spain
Golden stone buildings and cobblestone streets keep this village’s medieval character alive, centered around the beautiful Romanesque church and 15th-century towers.
You’ll see old family crests carved into noble houses, showing off northern Spain’s rich medieval history.
7. Besalú, Spain
The famous 12th-century bridge with its defensive tower crosses the river, leading into a village full of Romanesque churches and medieval stone buildings.
The old Jewish quarter with its ancient ritual bath adds even more history to these well-kept medieval streets.
8. Óbidos, Portugal
Thick 14th-century walls completely surround this hilltop village, where white houses with blue and yellow details line narrow cobblestone streets.
The medieval castle sits at the highest point, and the old gates frame beautiful views of the Portuguese countryside.
Further Reading: Europe’s Most Magnificent Medieval Walled Towns
9. Hallstatt, Austria
Colorful 16th-century houses reflect perfectly in the clear alpine lake, while the medieval town square of Hallstatt tells the story of centuries of salt mining.
The Gothic church rises above traditional Alpine buildings, creating one of the most beautiful lakeside villages you’ll ever see.
Further Reading: 10 Small Fairytale Villages in Austria
10. Gruyères, Switzerland
No cars are allowed on the cobblestone streets in Gruyères that lead up to the impressive 13th-century castle overlooking the Alps.
Medieval stone houses surround the main square, and the old fortifications blend perfectly with traditional Swiss architecture.
Further Reading: 20 Most Beautiful Villages in Switzerland
11. Najac, France
A spectacular royal castle from 1253 sits on top of this ridge village, where medieval stone houses line up in a single row down the steep hillside.
The Gothic church anchors the middle of the village, and narrow streets follow the natural shape of this dramatic hilltop location.
12. Stein am Rhein, Switzerland
Beautiful painted walls decorate the half-timbered buildings around the market square, while 12th-century monastery walls overlook the Rhine River.
The medieval street layout and colorful decorations on old guild houses make this the most photogenic medieval village in Switzerland.
13. Castle Combe, England
Honey-colored Cotswold stone cottages from the 1300s and 1400s form a perfect circle around the old market cross, with an ancient stone bridge crossing the village stream.
There’s no modern development to spoil the view, so you get to experience a completely authentic medieval atmosphere.
14. Kaysersberg, France
A beautiful 13th-century fortified bridge crosses the river, leading into steep streets lined with medieval half-timbered houses and Renaissance buildings.
Castle ruins on the hilltop provide a dramatic backdrop, while the Gothic church tower completes this classic Alsatian medieval scene.
15. Gerberoy, France
Medieval half-timbered houses with exposed wooden beams line quiet streets, while old walls and a church dating back to the 1000s show the village’s ancient origins.
Beautiful rose gardens complement the traditional Norman architecture, creating a cozy medieval atmosphere.
Final Thoughts on The Best Medieval Villages in Europe
These 15 villages are the real deal when it comes to medieval Europe. Each one gives you a genuine taste of what life was like centuries ago, and they’re all small enough to keep that authentic village feel.
Whether you’re into castles, old churches, or just love walking down ancient cobblestone streets, these places won’t disappoint.
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Browse our complete collection of Europe travel guides on our blog for more destination inspiration and practical travel tips.
