8Hallstatt, Austria

Nestled between a serene lake and towering mountains, Hallstatt looks like it belongs in a fairytale. The pastel houses reflected in the still waters create one of the most iconic views in Europe. 

This tiny Austrian town is especially magical in the early morning mist or during winter when snow covers the rooftops. Despite its small size, Hallstatt offers plenty of quiet charm, scenic walks, and moments of peaceful beauty that make visitors feel as if they’ve stepped into another world.