20 Non-European Towns That Are Straight Out of a Fairytale
When we think of fairytale towns, Europe often steals the spotlight with its cobbled lanes and turreted castles—but magic doesn’t stop at its borders. Across the globe, there are places so spellbinding they feel plucked from dreams: mist-draped mountain villages, desert oases lit by lanterns, pastel-painted port towns where folklore lingers in the air. These destinations may not grace the usual travel lists, but they offer something rare—a sense of wonder that feels earned, not manufactured. We’ve expanded our collection to 20 Non-European Towns That Are Straight Out of a Fairytale, showcasing hidden corners of the world where stories live in the stones, colors tell history, and beauty exists on its own terms. From Asia to the Americas, each town invites you to step into a different rhythm—one that defies time and expectation. This isn’t just travel. It’s a return to enchantment, in places that prove fairytales were never just European after all.
1. Chefchaouen, Morocco: The Blue Pearl
Nestled in the Rif Mountains of northwest Morocco, Chefchaouen is a mesmerizing town known for its striking blue-washed buildings. The town's history dates back to 1471, when it was founded as a fortress to fight the Portuguese invasions. Over the centuries, it has become a haven for those seeking tranquility and beauty, with its serene atmosphere and stunning vistas. The blue hue, which is said to symbolize the sky and heaven, creates an ethereal ambiance, inviting visitors to wander through its narrow, winding streets. The town's vibrant markets, offering traditional crafts and textiles, add to its charm, making Chefchaouen a magical escape that feels like stepping into an artist's dream.
2. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico: A Colonial Masterpiece
San Miguel de Allende, located in the heart of Mexico, is a town that effortlessly blends colonial splendor with artistic flair. Founded in the 16th century, its well-preserved historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, characterized by cobblestone streets, baroque architecture, and colorful facades. The town has long been a magnet for artists and writers, drawn by its vibrant cultural scene and stunning landscapes. The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, with its neo-Gothic towers, stands as a testament to the town's rich history and architectural brilliance. San Miguel's lively festivals, art galleries, and culinary delights create a dynamic atmosphere, making it a magical destination that inspires creativity and wonder.
3. Jiufen, Taiwan: A Mountain Retreat
Perched on a mountainside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Jiufen is a charming town in Taiwan that exudes a mystical allure. Once a prosperous gold mining town during the Japanese occupation, Jiufen has retained its historical charm with narrow alleyways, traditional teahouses, and red lanterns that light up the night. The town's unique blend of Taiwanese and Japanese influences is evident in its architecture and cuisine, offering visitors a taste of its rich cultural heritage. Jiufen's misty landscapes and panoramic views create a dreamlike setting, reminiscent of a Miyazaki film, where reality seems to blur with fantasy, inviting exploration and reflection.
4. Paraty, Brazil: A Colonial Gem
Paraty, a coastal town in Brazil, is a living museum of colonial architecture and history. Founded by the Portuguese in the 17th century, Paraty was once a vital port for the export of gold. Today, its cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings with colorful shutters transport visitors back in time. The town's well-preserved historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into Brazil's colonial past. Surrounded by lush rainforests and pristine beaches, Paraty is a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Its vibrant cultural scene, with music festivals and traditional celebrations, adds to its enchanting atmosphere, making Paraty a magical destination that captivates the soul.
5. Luang Prabang, Laos: A Spiritual Sanctuary
Luang Prabang, nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, is a town that embodies the spiritual heart of Laos. Known for its stunning temples, French colonial architecture, and rich cultural heritage, Luang Prabang is a place where tradition and tranquility reign. The town's many Buddhist monasteries and the daily alms-giving ceremony, where monks collect offerings from locals, offer a glimpse into its spiritual life. The lush surrounding landscapes, with waterfalls and mountains, enhance its serene beauty, creating an atmosphere of peace and reflection. Luang Prabang's unique blend of spirituality and natural beauty makes it a magical destination that invites introspection and discovery.
6. Lunenburg, Canada: A Seafaring Tale
Lunenburg, located on the eastern coast of Canada, is a town steeped in maritime history and charm. Founded in 1753, Lunenburg is one of the best-preserved colonial settlements in North America, with its colorful wooden buildings and narrow streets. The town's seafaring heritage is evident in its bustling harbor, where fishing boats and schooners bob gently in the water. Lunenburg's rich history and vibrant cultural scene, with its art galleries, music festivals, and culinary delights, create a dynamic atmosphere that captivates visitors. The town's picturesque setting, with its rolling hills and ocean views, adds to its enchanting allure, making Lunenburg a magical destination that feels like a journey back in time.
7. Ubud, Indonesia: An Artistic Haven
Ubud, located in the heart of Bali, is a town that exudes creativity and spirituality. Known as the cultural capital of Bali, Ubud is a haven for artists, writers, and spiritual seekers. The town is surrounded by lush rice paddies, dense jungles, and ancient temples, creating a serene and inspiring environment. Ubud's vibrant arts scene, with its galleries, workshops, and traditional performances, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Bali. The town's holistic wellness centers and yoga retreats provide a sanctuary for those seeking inner peace and rejuvenation. Ubud's unique blend of art, spirituality, and natural beauty makes it a magical destination that inspires creativity and transformation.
8. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic: A Fairy-tale Castle Town
While technically in Europe, Cesky Krumlov is a town that deserves mention for its fairy-tale charm and historical significance. Located in the South Bohemian region of the Czech Republic, Cesky Krumlov is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning castle. The town's winding streets, colorful buildings, and scenic river views create a picturesque setting that feels like stepping into a storybook. The Cesky Krumlov Castle, with its Renaissance and baroque elements, offers a glimpse into the town's rich history and cultural heritage. The town's vibrant arts scene, with its theaters, galleries, and music festivals, adds to its enchanting allure, making Cesky Krumlov a magical destination that captures the imagination.
9. Hoi An, Vietnam: A Timeless Trading Port
Hoi An, located on the central coast of Vietnam, is a town that embodies the charm and history of a bygone era. Once a bustling trading port, Hoi An is now a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved architecture and rich cultural heritage. The town's narrow streets, lined with traditional wooden houses, colorful lanterns, and vibrant markets, create a lively and enchanting atmosphere. Hoi An's unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences is evident in its architecture and cuisine, offering visitors a taste of its diverse cultural heritage. The town's stunning riverside setting, with its lush landscapes and serene beaches, adds to its magical allure, making Hoi An a destination that captivates the senses and the soul.
10. Gjirokastër, Albania: A Stone City
Gjirokastër, nestled in the mountains of southern Albania, is a town that exudes history and intrigue. Known as the "City of Stone," Gjirokastër is a UNESCO World Heritage site characterized by its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and cobblestone streets. The town's imposing castle, perched on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and a glimpse into its rich history. Gjirokastër's unique blend of Albanian and Ottoman influences is evident in its architecture and cultural heritage, offering visitors a taste of its diverse past. The town's vibrant cultural scene, with its music festivals, art galleries, and traditional crafts, adds to its enchanting allure, making Gjirokastër a magical destination that feels like a journey through time.
11. Shirakawa-go, Japan: A Snow-Covered Village
Shirakawa-go, located in the Japanese Alps, is a village that exudes a magical charm, especially in winter when it is blanketed in snow. Known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, with their steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall, Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into Japan's rural heritage. The village's serene setting, surrounded by mountains and forests, creates a tranquil and picturesque atmosphere that feels like stepping into a winter wonderland. Shirakawa-go's unique architecture and cultural heritage make it a magical destination that captures the imagination and offers a taste of Japan's timeless traditions.
12. Lalibela, Ethiopia: A Spiritual Marvel
Lalibela, nestled in the highlands of Ethiopia, is a town that embodies the spiritual heart of the country. Known for its rock-hewn churches, Lalibela is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into Ethiopia's rich religious heritage. The town's churches, carved from solid rock in the 12th century, are a testament to the ingenuity and devotion of its creators. Lalibela's serene setting, with its rolling hills and lush landscapes, creates a tranquil and inspiring atmosphere that invites reflection and introspection. The town's unique blend of spirituality and natural beauty makes it a magical destination that captivates the soul and offers a glimpse into Ethiopia's timeless traditions.
13. Matera, Italy: A Cave City
Matera, located in the southern region of Basilicata, Italy, is a town that exudes history and intrigue. Known for its ancient cave dwellings, Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into Italy's rich cultural heritage. The town's unique architecture, with its stone houses carved into the cliffs, creates a picturesque and enchanting atmosphere that feels like stepping into a storybook. Matera's vibrant cultural scene, with its art galleries, music festivals, and traditional crafts, adds to its magical allure, making it a destination that captivates the senses and the soul. The town's stunning landscapes, with its rolling hills and lush valleys, create a serene and inspiring environment that invites exploration and discovery.
14. Sucre, Bolivia: A White City
Sucre, the constitutional capital of Bolivia, is a town that exudes colonial charm and history. Known as the "White City" for its whitewashed buildings, Sucre is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into Bolivia's rich cultural heritage. The town's well-preserved colonial architecture, with its narrow streets and colorful facades, creates a picturesque and enchanting atmosphere that feels like stepping into a storybook. Sucre's vibrant cultural scene, with its music festivals, art galleries, and traditional crafts, adds to its magical allure, making it a destination that captivates the senses and the soul. The town's stunning landscapes, with its rolling hills and lush valleys, create a serene and inspiring environment that invites exploration and discovery.
15. St. John's, Newfoundland: A Colorful Seaside Fairytale
St. John's, the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, is a storybook town brought to life with its candy-colored row houses, dramatic seaside cliffs, and misty harbor. One of North America’s oldest cities, it blends old-world charm with a rugged maritime spirit. The famous Jellybean Row—a collection of vibrantly painted houses—looks like something out of a whimsical painting, while the towering Signal Hill offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Local folklore and sea shanties fill the air in cozy pubs, where you can try the region’s beloved cod dishes and even partake in the quirky tradition of being "screeched in" to become an honorary Newfoundlander.
16. Hallstatt, China: A Surreal Replica with Real Charm
In the Guangdong province of China, there’s a town that feels oddly familiar—because it’s a near-exact replica of the Austrian village Hallstatt. Built by a Chinese mining company with remarkable precision, this fairytale clone blends European Alpine charm with local flair. Mist curls over tiled rooftops, swans glide across a manmade lake, and pastel buildings mirror their Western counterparts. While purists scoff at its imitation roots, visitors are often stunned by the beauty and surreal tranquility. It’s a strange kind of magic—part homage, part reinvention—and it offers a whimsical, photogenic detour for travelers craving the unexpected.
17. Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia: A Dream in Blue and White
Perched above the Mediterranean, Sidi Bou Said looks like a town painted by poets. Its signature blue doors and latticed windows pop against stark white walls, echoing the tones of the sea and sky. Cobbled lanes climb toward cliffside cafés, where mint tea is sipped with a view. Long favored by artists like Paul Klee and Simone de Beauvoir, the town hums with creative energy beneath its calm. While rooted in Arab-Andalusian tradition, it carries a distinctly fairytale air—quiet, breezy, and impossibly photogenic. Here, every corner feels like a page from a sun-drenched story you never want to end.
18. Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay: Time’s Gentle Pause
Across the river from Buenos Aires lies Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO-listed gem where time seems to slow. Its cobbled streets are uneven, shaded by bougainvillea and lined with crumbling colonial facades that whisper stories from centuries past. Originally Portuguese, then Spanish, the town wears its layered history with quiet dignity. Gas lamps flicker at dusk, antique cars are still parked by the curb, and sunsets spill gold over the Rio de la Plata. It’s a place of pauses and poetry, where even the air feels older. For those seeking softness over spectacle, Colonia is enchantment incarnate.
19. Valparaíso, Chile: A Vertical Canvas of Color
Valparaíso is chaos dressed in color—a town that spills down hills toward the sea in a riot of street art, winding staircases, and sky-high funiculars. Its dreamlike disorder charms instantly: every building a canvas, every alley a surprise. Once home to Pablo Neruda, the city pulses with artistic rebellion and a wild, bohemian soul. Though larger than a typical “fairytale town,” its mosaic-tiled walls and vintage trolleys feel like props from a surrealist novella. Valparaíso doesn’t just transport you—it transforms you, reminding travelers that magic isn’t always symmetrical. Sometimes, it’s loud, messy, and bursting with life.
20. Gokayama, Japan: A Whisper from the Past
Less known than its neighbor Shirakawa-go, Gokayama is Japan’s quieter snow-covered secret. Hidden in the Toyama prefecture, this village preserves centuries-old gassho-zukuri farmhouses—wooden homes with steep thatched roofs resembling hands in prayer. In winter, they sit under heavy snow like something from a folklore illustration. Unlike more tourist-heavy areas, Gokayama remains tranquil, its traditions intact. Locals still make washi paper by hand and perform ancient folk dances by lantern light. Visiting feels like stepping into a story where silence holds history and snow muffles the world. It’s not just beautiful—it’s hauntingly serene, the kind of place you carry with you long after.
Where Wonder Still Lives
In a world racing toward uniformity, these non-European fairytale towns stand as rare reminders that magic still thrives off the beaten path. Whether nestled in misty mountains, perched beside sun-drenched coasts, or carved from ancient stone, each destination offers more than postcard beauty—it offers a different rhythm of living. Here, stories linger in alleyways, tradition whispers through architecture, and wonder isn’t manufactured—it’s inherited. These are not just towns to visit, but places to feel: quiet awe, sudden joy, the thrill of discovery. As travelers, we often seek escape, but what if we found something deeper—recognition, belonging, even reverence? These 20 towns invite you to step through a different kind of doorway—one where fantasy and reality meet not in spectacle, but in soul. So pack lightly, bring curiosity, and go find the pages of the story you thought only existed in books. Some fairytales are real—you just have to go.
