15 Fairytale Places in The World You Need to Visit Before Tourists Ruin The Magic
The world is full of magical places that feel like they are more of a dreamland than part of reality. These gorgeous spots are almost too good to be true. With stunning landscapes, charming towns and unbelievably peaceful atmospheres, you need to visit these places before they are discovered by the masses. Start planning a trip to one of these fairytale spots and experience the wonder firsthand before it is too late! Don’t forget to take lots of pictures so you can remember the magic forever!
Colmar, France
This little town, a perfect mix of France and Germany, will make you feel like a character in the Beauty and the Beast movie. The ancient, colorful houses are the perfect background for every photo, making you believe you just stepped back in time. Visit the Collégiale Saint-Martin de Colmar, take your kids to the Musée du Jouet, or simply stroll around.
Petra, Jordan
Have you ever seen Aladdin by Disney? Petra is the place to go if you love the movie’s vibes. Located in the Middle East, specifically in Jordan, Petra was already inhabited back in 7000 BC! Particularly famous for its archaeological sites carved in the rock, this place will make you feel like an Arabic princess. If you decide to visit, do so in the spring or autumn months, as the desert gets incredibly hot in the summer.
Haa Valley, Buthan
The Haa Valley in Buthan is a must-visit place for all natural lovers. This valley connects the Paro, Chhukha, and Samtse districts, and—unlike other places in the country—it is not overcrowded with tourists. The best time to visit this unspoiled mountainous area is between October and November when snow can be spotted on Mt. Jomolhari, and the weather is perfect for long hikes.
Cappadocia, Turkey
The Cappadocia area in Turkey is unique in its genre. Most people head here for two main reasons. First, to see the weirdly shaped rock formations known as fairy chimneys. Second, to organize a trip on one of the many hot air balloons that every day offer tourists the chance to see this enchanted place from a unique perspective. A one-in-a-lifetime experience!
San Gimignano, Italy
Of course, we could not list fairy-tale places without mentioning Italy. Choosing a place was tough, but San Gimignano in Tuscany won. This town is located in the same region from where famous writer Collodi wrote the popular story of Pinocchio. If you are into enchanted Medieval villages situated on the top of a hill, home to ancient towers, this is the place for you! Plus, the cuisine is amazing.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China
There is a reason why this amazing landscape inspired the famous movie Avatar. Unique in its genre, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is particularly renowned for its pillar-like rock formations immersed in lush nature. Located in inland China, reaching this place may take some time, especially if you’re flying to one of the main cities on the country’s coast, but it will be totally worth it.
Fes, Morocco
Do you remember one of the first scenes in Aladdin, when the protagonist steals bread with his faithful pet, Abu? If you loved the chaotic streets of the market where the scene takes place, you will surely love Fes. This Moroccan city is way less touristic than other sites in the country and is the largest medina in the Arab world. Cars are not allowed in, giving you the impression of traveling back in time.
Lucerne, Switzerland
If you love the famous cartoon Heidi, you will surely be enchanted by the Beauty of Lucerne. Surrounded by the Alps and facing Lucerne Lake, this city has everything you could ever dream of. Visit the famous Chapel Bridge, hike one of the many trails surrounding the city, or simply enjoy a walk in the city center to marvel at its beauty. Keep in mind that this country is extremely expensive, so budget accordingly.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Here is another town that seems to come out from a Disney movie. Located in Bavaria, a southern state of Germany, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is renowned for its charming, colorful houses and marvelous architecture. Visit the three main streets of Klostergasse, Herrngasse, and Schmiedgasse, all of which start from the Market Square, making it extra difficult for you to get lost.
Symi Town, Greece
We are now moving to the Mediterranean Sea to visit Symi Town in Greece. Located on Symi island, this town features colorful houses facing the sea and is surrounded by unspoiled nature. Tourists here can visit the Panormitis Monastery, head to Saint George Bay, or simply enjoy a stroll in the center of the town. If you head here, don’t forget to make the most of the delicious Greek cuisine.
Giant Causeway, UK
The Giant Causeway in Northern Ireland is a unique site in its genre. These hexagon-shaped rocks dive into the sea, giving you the impression of stepping into an alien landscape. You would not be too surprised to see a dragon hiding its treasures among the rocks or a family of giants building their home on this site! The perfect fairy-tale landscape for all fantasy lovers!
Pelourinho, Brazil
Pelourinho, the historical center of Salvador de Bahia in Brazil, is a perfect example of colonial Portuguese architecture. The colorful houses and churches make this place unique and incredibly charming. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pelourinho is home to many historical buildings, including the Cathedral of Salvador, the Church of the Third Order of Our Lady of the Rosary of the Black People, and the Church of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled in Slovenia is straight out of a fairy tale, with its stunning emerald waters and a tiny island topped by a charming church in the middle. Surrounded by mountains and forests, it’s the perfect spot for anyone who loves nature and a touch of magic. You can take a boat ride to the island and hike up to Bled Castle for jaw-dropping views. Or you can just chill by the lake and soak in the scenery. You will feel like you are living in a storybook as you explore this tiny corner of the world.
Hallstatt, Austria
This picturesque fairytale town boasts colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and church steeples, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Alps. It is truly a gorgeous place to visit! Unfortunately, Hallstatt has become a popular European destination in recent years, so it is already starting to get crowded in this small, picture-perfect town. That means you should plan a trip right away! Its charm and beauty make it well worth the trip, even with the crowds. Hallstatt, Austria, is an absolute gem for anyone looking to experience a magical, storybook-like destination!
Santorini, Greece
With its iconic white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning views of the Aegean Sea, Santorini is like a modern-day fairy tale. Perched on cliffs overlooking a breathtaking volcanic caldera, the island offers sunsets so beautiful they seem almost unreal. Wandering through the charming streets cobblestone streets is like stepping into a dream, with its boutique shops, hidden alleys, and romantic vibes. It’s a place where every corner is picture-perfect, creating an unforgettable escape that is still relatively quite and peaceful.
