50+ Fairytale Destinations Around the World ✨ | Magical Places You Need to See

Have you ever dreamt of stepping into the pages of your favorite fairytale? Imagine wandering through charming villages with cobblestone streets, exploring majestic castles perched atop misty mountains, or discovering hidden grottos that whisper ancient legends. The world is full of such enchanting places that seem to have sprung directly from the realm of fantasy. Let’s embark on a journey to some of the most breathtaking fairytale destinations around the globe.

European Fairytale Escapes

Europe, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, is a treasure trove of fairytale destinations.

1. Bavaria, Germany

Highlights: Snowcapped mountains, whimsical towns, and breathtaking castles.
Don’t Miss It: Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella Castle.
What I like about it: The sheer romance of the landscape feels like it’s been plucked straight from a storybook.

2. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Must-Dos: Take a traditional “pletna” boat to Bled Island and ring the wishing bell.
What to Look For: The stunning view of the castle perched on the cliff overlooking the aquamarine lake.
Activities & Experiences: Explore the castle and enjoy the serene beauty of the lake.

3. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Highlights: Well-preserved medieval walls and charming half-timbered houses.
Things to Do: Wander through the cobblestone alleyways and visit the Plönlein.
Local Flavors: Try the Schneeball (snowball), a local pastry.

4. Colmar, France

What I like about it: The “Little Venice” vibe with its canals and colorful traditional houses.
Don’t Miss It: A boat ride along the canals.
What to Look For: The beautifully decorated flower boxes adorning the buildings.

5. Bibury, UK

Highlights: Serene beauty and timeless appeal of Cotswold stone cottages.
Must-Dos: Take a stroll along Arlington Row.
What I like about it: The peaceful and idyllic atmosphere.

6. Cinque Terre, Italy

Activities & Experiences: Hike between the five colorful villages and enjoy the coastal views.
Local Flavors: Savor fresh seafood with a view of the Mediterranean.
What to Look For: The vibrant houses stacked upon each other along the rugged coastline.

7. Santorini, Greece

Must-Dos: Witness the breathtaking sunset in Oia.
What to Look For: The iconic blue dome churches against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea.
What I like about it: The dramatic caldera landscape and the stunning white architecture.

8. Cappadocia, Turkey

Activities & Experiences: Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise for a magical perspective.
What to Look For: The unique “fairy chimney” rock formations.
Don’t Miss It: Exploring the ancient cave dwellings and underground cities.

9. Sintra, Portugal

Highlights: Extravagant palaces, opulent mansions, and lush gardens.
Things to Do: Explore Pena Palace and the Quinta da Regaleira.
What I like about it: The sense of romance and whimsy that permeates the town.

10. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

What to Look For: The ancient architecture and the impressive castle overlooking the Vltava River.
Things to Do: Take a guided tour of the castle.
What I like about it: The feeling of stepping back into a medieval fairytale.

11. Hallstatt, Austria

Highlights: Picturesque village nestled by a serene lake with colorful buildings.
Don’t Miss It: Taking a walk along the lake promenade.
What to Look For: The reflection of the village in the calm waters of the lake.

12. The Isle of Skye, Scotland

Activities & Experiences: Hike to the Fairy Pools and explore the Fairy Glen.
What to Look For: The dramatic landscapes, including the Old Man of Storr.
What I like about it: The mystical and rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

13. Alsace Wine Region, France

Highlights: Charming villages like Colmar and Eguisheim, and rolling vineyards.
Local Flavors: Sample the renowned wines of the region.
Things to Do: Drive along the scenic wine route.

14. Rocamadour, France

What to Look For: The houses, roofs, and churches built into the cliffside.
Don’t Miss It: Visiting the Sanctuary of Rocamadour.
What I like about it: The dramatic and almost unbelievable setting.

15. Portofino, Italy

Highlights: Beautiful harbor lined with vibrantly colored buildings.
Things to Do: Stroll along the harbor and enjoy the glamorous atmosphere.
What to Look For: The picturesque views from Castello Brown.

16. Castellfollit de la Roca, Spain

Highlights: Dramatic village perched atop a basalt cliff.
What to Look For: The breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Don’t Miss It: Viewing the village from a distance to appreciate its unique location.

17. Filzmoos, Austria

Highlights: Beautiful mountain village surrounded by the Dachstein mountains.
Activities & Experiences: Enjoy hiking and skiing in the stunning alpine scenery.
What I like about it: The quintessential Austrian charm.

18. Wengen, Switzerland

Highlights: Homestyle charm with timber houses and stunning mountain views.
Things to Do: Take a scenic train ride and enjoy the car-free village.
What to Look For: The panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.

19. Qasigiannguit, Greenland

Highlights: Colorful houses against the backdrop of high mountains in Disko Bay.
Activities & Experiences: Go whale watching or explore the local culture.
What I like about it: The unique blend of colorful human habitation and dramatic Arctic nature.

20. Kvivik, Faroe Islands

Highlights: Remains of a well-preserved Viking farmstead in a remote setting.
Things to Do: Explore the historical site and enjoy the rugged coastal scenery.
What to Look For: The remnants of the Viking longhouse.

21. Leynar, Faroe Islands

Highlights: Serene lake full of trout and salmon.
Activities & Experiences: Go fishing or enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake.
What I like about it: The tranquility and natural beauty.

22. Bojnice Castle, Slovakia

Highlights: Fairytale-like turrets and a romantic atmosphere.
Things to Do: Take a tour of the castle and learn about its history.
What to Look For: The blue rooftops peeking through the greenery.

23. Eltz Castle, Germany

Highlights: Perfectly preserved medieval castle nestled in the Eifel forest.
Things to Do: Explore the castle’s armory and treasury.
What I like about it: The feeling of discovering a hidden gem in the forest.

24. Kromlau, Germany

Highlights: The Rakotzbrücke bridge that forms a perfect circle in its reflection.
What to Look For: The optical illusion created by the bridge and its reflection.
Don’t Miss It: Visiting on a calm day for the best reflection.

Asian Enchantment

Asia offers its own unique blend of fairytale landscapes and cultural wonders.

1. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China

Highlights: Towering sandstone pillars that inspired Avatar.
Activities & Experiences: Hike through the park and take in the breathtaking views.
What I like about it: The otherworldly and majestic natural formations.

2. Shirakawa-go, Japan

Highlights: Traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with thatched roofs.
Things to Do: Explore the unique architecture and learn about the local way of life.
What to Look For: The distinctive shape of the farmhouse roofs resembling hands clasped in prayer.

3. Hobbiton, New Zealand

Highlights: The movie set from “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit.”
Must-Dos: Take a tour of the Hobbit holes and have a drink at the Green Dragon Inn.
What I like about it: The immersive experience of stepping into a beloved fantasy world.

4. Mù Cang Chải, Vietnam

Highlights: Stunning terraced rice paddies cascading down mountain slopes.
What to Look For: The vibrant green colors of the rice fields, especially during the planting season.
Activities & Experiences: Trek through the rice terraces and interact with the local communities.

5. Ping’an Village, China

Highlights: Authentic rural village with vast rice fields.
Things to Do: Observe the traditional farming practices and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
What I like about it: The glimpse into a traditional way of life.

6. Larung Gar, Tibet

Highlights: The largest Tibetan Buddhist institute in the world with thousands of red dwellings.
What to Look For: The sheer scale and vibrant colors of the monastic settlement.
Activities & Experiences: Observe the daily life of the monks and nuns (respectfully).

7. Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, Shiraz, Iran

Highlights: The “Pink Mosque” with its stunning stained-glass windows.
Don’t Miss It: Visiting in the morning to see the kaleidoscope of colors cast by the sunlight.
What to Look For: The intricate tilework and arabesque embellishments.

8. Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Highlights: Ancient mosques and madrassas with intricate mosaics.
Things to Do: Visit the Registan Square and explore the historical sites.
What I like about it: The rich history and the stunning Islamic architecture.

9. Jaipur, India

Highlights: The “Pink City” with its pastel buildings and colorful bazaars.
Things to Do: Explore the City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Amber Fort.
Local Flavors: Sample traditional Rajasthani cuisine.

10. Jiufen, Taiwan

Highlights: Cliffside teahouses and long buildings stacked one atop the other.
Things to Do: Wander through the narrow streets and enjoy the views of the ocean.
What to Look For: The red lanterns that illuminate the town at night.

11. Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand

Highlights: Underground caves illuminated by thousands of glowworms.
Activities & Experiences: Take a boat ride through the caves to witness the magical display.
What I like about it: The feeling of being under a starry sky in the darkness of the caves.

12. Bagan, Myanmar

Highlights: Thousands of ancient temples scattered across a vast plain.
Activities & Experiences: Explore the temples by bicycle or take a hot air balloon ride.
What to Look For: The breathtaking views at sunrise and sunset.

13. Paro Taktsang, Bhutan

Highlights: The Tiger’s Nest monastery perched precariously on a cliff face.
Must-Dos: Hike to the monastery for stunning views and a spiritual experience.
What I like about it: The incredible location and the sense of serenity.

Other Magical Destinations Around the World

The magic doesn’t stop in Europe and Asia; there are enchanting places to discover across the globe.

1. Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Highlights: The iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge).
Things to Do: Watch the locals dive from the bridge and explore the old town.
What to Look For: The contrast between the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian architecture.

2. The Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

Highlights: Unique hexagonal basalt columns.
Things to Do: Explore the causeway and learn about the geological formations.
What I like about it: The raw and natural beauty that feels almost otherworldly.

3. Bhutan

Highlights: Fortresses in the Himalayas and the iconic Eagle’s Nest monastery.
Activities & Experiences: Immerse yourself in the unique culture and stunning landscapes.
Don’t Miss It: Obtaining a visa and experiencing the tranquility of this Himalayan kingdom.

4. Las Coloradas, Yucatan, Mexico

Highlights: Vibrant pink lakes.
What to Look For: The contrast between the pink water and the blue sky.
Things to Do: Take photos of this surreal natural phenomenon.

5. Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

Highlights: Towering ancient baobab trees.
What to Look For: The unique shapes and sizes of these iconic trees, especially at sunset.
Activities & Experiences: Take a guided tour to learn about the local ecosystem.

6. Kuang Si Falls, Laos

Highlights: Beautiful turquoise waterfalls cascading over limestone rocks.
Activities & Experiences: Swim in the natural pools and hike to the top of the falls.
What I like about it: The vibrant colors and the refreshing water.

7. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Highlights: The world’s largest salt flat creating a mirror effect.
Must-Dos: Visit during the rainy season for the best mirror effect.
What to Look For: The vast expanse of white stretching to the horizon.

8. Devil’s Cauldron, Ecuador

Highlights: Powerful waterfall tumbling into a gorge.
What to Look For: The sheer force and beauty of the cascading water.
Activities & Experiences: Hike to the viewpoints for stunning perspectives.

9. Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland

Highlights: An avenue of intertwined beech trees creating a dramatic tunnel.
Things to Do: Take a walk along the avenue and capture some memorable photos.
What to Look For: The way the branches twist and turn overhead.

10. Siwa Oasis, Egypt

Highlights: Towering sand dunes and ancient mud-brick villages.
Activities & Experiences: Explore the oasis, visit the Temple of the Oracle, and enjoy a traditional date harvest.
What I like about it: The feeling of remoteness and the rich history.

11. Multnomah Falls, Oregon, USA

Highlights: Elegant waterfall with a charming bridge.
Things to Do: Walk across the Benson Bridge and hike to the top of the falls.
What to Look For: The picturesque view of the waterfall framed by the surrounding forest.

12. Borgund Stave Church, Norway

Highlights: Well-preserved stave church with unique architectural details.
Things to Do: Take a tour of the church and learn about its history.
What to Look For: The dragon heads on the roof and the intricate carvings.

13. Las Lajas Sanctuary, Colombia

Highlights: Gothic basilica built into a mountain over a creek.
What to Look For: The incredible architecture and the dramatic natural setting.
Don’t Miss It: Learning about the legend behind the sanctuary’s construction.

14. Masca, Spain

Highlights: Small mountain village with stunning gorge views.
Activities & Experiences: Hike down the Masca Gorge to the coast.
What to Look For: The dramatic cliffs and the lush vegetation.

15. Puglia, Italy

Highlights: Whitewashed houses and turquoise waters, especially the trulli houses in Alberobello.
Things to Do: Explore the charming towns and enjoy the beautiful coastline.
What to Look For: The unique conical roofs of the trulli houses.

Final Thoughts

The world is brimming with fairytale places just waiting to be explored. Whether you dream of wandering through medieval villages, exploring majestic castles, or marveling at natural wonders, these destinations offer a chance to step into a storybook and experience the magic firsthand. So, pack your bags, embrace your sense of wonder, and embark on your own fairytale adventure!