20 beautiful European mountain towns

Considered one of the prettiest towns in France, a trip to Annecy will delight all types of travelers. You’re close to many top French ski resorts for winter trips, in the heart of the Alps for summer hiking, and right on the shores of Lake Annecy. It also has a cute, walkable city center.

Germany isn’t at the top of everyone’s mind when the Alps come up, but Bavaria is in the heart of these amazing mountains. For a quiet base, Krün makes a great option. Sure, there isn’t much there, but that’s kind of the point. You’ll have easy access to many hikes in the area.

Salzburg isn’t right in the mountains, but it isn’t too far away from them. The nearest peak is Gaisberg, a hiker’s paradise.

In the center of the Alps, not far from Switzerland, is the beautiful town of Aix-les-Bains. There are also numerous Roman ruins and an old Abbaye to visit, as well as plenty of hiking trails and, of course, Lake du Bourget. 

The tranquil town of La Thuile is located in the Aosta Valley in the country's northwest. Located in the border region with France, it’s quite common to hear both languages spoken here!

Switzerland is famous for the likes of the Matterhorn and Zermatt. But smaller mountain towns like Lauterbrunnen are also well worth a visit. Located in a lush valley, you have mountains to wander around, usually dotted with cows. 

The Dolomites are Italy's best-known mountains and their unique appearance actually makes the mountains UNESCO Heritage Sites. If you want to explore these wonders, Cortina d'Ampezzo makes a great base.

Another much-loved French alpine village, Chambéry has a bit of everything. It’s small and walkable enough to feel like a tranquil escape and usually has a bit of winter snow and great access to nearby trails.

Surprise! Romania has mountains. The town is located in the Carpathian Mountains in Transylvania and receives a fraction of the visitors of similar destinations in Austria, France, and Switzerland.

A small town in the Drôme department, Nyons is a bit of a drive from most places in France but well worth the trip. Known as “Sun City,” it’s rare the sun doesn’t make an appearance here. There are many amazing cafes and great access to smaller peaks in the Alps.

Not far from Bern, the capital city, Gimmelwald is an idyllic stay in the Swiss Alps. The best part is that the center is car-free, making for a truly relaxing vacation.

Just east of the larger mountain city of Innsbruck, Kitzbuhel is a favorite among skiers. The resort area is the perfect place for a winter trip, regardless of whether you enjoy hitting the slopes!

In southern Tirol, the mountainous region that crosses the border into Italy, lies the lovely town of Prags. It’s not too far from the larger city, Bolzano, and close to a lovely lake; just go early in summer, as the shores fill up!

Two towns combined into one long ago to form one of Germany’s top mountain destinations. You’ll also be close to Zugspitze, the tallest point in the entire country.

Travelers often overlook Liechtenstein, but the country is a hidden gem if you love mountains. And there are plenty of trails accessible from the tiny capital, Vaduz, as well as others just a short bus ride away.

The fifth-largest city in Austria also has some of the best mountain access. The Tirol capital has long been popular amongst skiers, hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers. Even if you don’t feel like being too active, you can take the funicular up to one of the best viewpoints in the country.

One of Albania’s oldest cities is set in a mountain valley straight from a fairytale. There’s a beautiful castle you must visit and miles and miles of trails to explore.

Greece might be most famous for its islands and beaches, but the mountains on the mainland are not to be missed. Kalambaka in the Meteora region of the country is a great place to stay to explore the area. From most hotels and guest houses, the trails and monasteries can easily be reached by car or foot.

Slovakia’s Tatras Mountains are great for an off-beat mountain trip in Europe. And spectacular Banská Štiavnica is a great place to explore. The town is situated in a caldera formed by an ancient volcanic eruption.

In the center of Spain, Albarracin’s unique Moorish architecture stands out amongst the mountains. An impressive castle at the top of town is also not to be missed.