Can you describe something blessed with unusual happiness, as in a fairytale ending? Not all the elements of the fairy tale are unreal. Here are the 20 magical destinations that look like they come straight out of a fairy tale but you can actually visit.
1. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
This is a medieval castle built in the 19th century, by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, also known as “the Fairy-tale King”. Neuschwanstein means “New Swan Castle” referring to one of Wagner’s characters, the mysterious rescuer of the medieval tale “the Swan Knight”. There’s also a grotto, which looks like a mysterious cave, and a swan-shaped dressing table inspired by ‘Lohengrin’.
2. Mont Saint Michal, France
Don’t miss this magical island the next time you visit France. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site with quaint medieval and military architecture, located on an island just off the coast in Normandy. The rich history of this castle dates back to the 8th century.
3. Zhangjiajie National Park, China
If you love hiking and mountains, Zhangjiajie National Park in China is the perfect place for you. Yes, this place is real, it exists. This national park features awe-inspiring scenery, clouds drifting across the soaring sandstone pillars, beautiful streams, and amazing wildlife.
4. Vézelay, France
Vézelay is a hilltop village. The basilica of Saint-Marie-Madeleine is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was restored by Viollet-le-Duc. This picturesque village with lovely medieval houses makes you savor every moment of your ascent to the basilica.
5. Kronberg Castle, Denmark
This is the actual castle Shakespeare’s Hamlet was set it. The castle’s history takes back to the 14th century. Although it’s been burnt and rebuilt, it has always maintained its vital position and is well preserved with necessary explanation guides.
6. Wroclaw, Poland
The Wrocław city hall is one of the most magnificent Gothic-Renaissance buildings in Central Europe. The city hosts abundant greenery with more than 14 parks and gardens.
7. Bruges, Belgium
This is a beautiful medieval city with cobblestone streets, intricate canals, picturesque market squares lined with soaring towers, historic churches, and old whitewashed alms-houses.
8. Kitzbuhel, Austria
This chocolate-box Austrian town is famous for ski resorts and winter sports with the beautiful peaks of the Wilder Kaiser Mountains about 60 miles east of Innsbruck in Austria.
9. Gjirokastër, Albania
This old town is described as “a rare example of a well-preserved Ottoman town, built by farmers of the large estate.” It’s also identified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
10. Tallinn, Estonia
This old town with medieval settings is known for its wonders of history, culture, and architecture. Climb up the Toompea Hill to catch a terrific sunset or sunrise.
11. Budva, Montenegro
One of the most popular tourist destinations of Montenegro, Budva is known for its well-preserved medieval settings, splendid beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
12. Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber, Germany
Germany’s fairy-tale dream town overlooking the Tauber River is the country’s most exciting medieval town with a thousand years of history packed between its cobbles.
13. Brasov, Romania
Take a journey back to the 13th century in this small city located in Transylvania. With medieval sites, old churches, soaring watchtowers, and lovely café culture, Brasov has plenty of attractions to offer.
14. Vianden, Luxembourg
Vianden Castle is one of the largest and most beautiful feudal residences of the Romanesque and Gothic periods in Europe. This medieval town is known for the architectural beauty of pastel-colored Luxembourg mansions and the Our Valley backdrop.
15. Castle District of Budapest, Hungary
Each place in Budapest makes you ponder “is this even real?”. Stronghold Hill is perceived as a World Heritage Site. It includes some exquisite insides with Gothic curves, eighteenth-century Baroque houses, and cobblestone lanes.
16. Dingle, Ireland
Experience a real rural Irish adventure in this town located about 5 hours away from the capital Dublin. It features plenty of stunning sights, adorable old thatched houses, and impressive Kerry mountains.
17. Stockholm, Sweden
The city is so modern and close to nature at the same time that wherever you are in Stockholm, you are just a short walk away from the nearest waterscapes.
18. Azenhas do Mar, Portugal
The seaside town of Azenhas do Mar has almost all the houses painted in white. Nestled between the spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the mountains, this place is as magical as any town in a storybook.
19. Gruyeres, Switzerland
Gruyeres is a well-restored medieval town with a beautiful castle, rustic-looking houses, and refreshing countryside. You can also see Switzerland’s most celebrated chocolatiers at the Cailler chocolate factory and Gruyère cheese is known as the most famous of all Swiss cheeses.
20. Giethoorn, Netherlands
This picturesque town has no roads and the only access is by waterways over the many beautiful canals. It is also known as the “Venice of the Netherlands“.
So which of these fairytale destinations do you plan to visit next?
