25 American Towns Where People Live Like They're in Europe

16. Montpelier, Vermont: A French Countryside Vibe

As the smallest state capital in the U.S., Montpelier charms with a distinctly European air, reminiscent of a quiet town tucked in the French countryside. With its pastel-colored buildings, artisanal bakeries, and tree-lined avenues, the city invites visitors to slow down and savor the simple pleasures—just like the French do. The centerpiece is the elegant gold-domed State House, but what truly enchants are the side streets filled with independent bookstores, cheese shops, and cafés serving fresh croissants and locally roasted espresso. Montpelier’s walkable downtown and vibrant arts scene create an intimate, communal atmosphere that echoes small-town Europe. In the fall, the city’s rolling hills burst into fiery shades of orange and red, offering postcard-perfect views worthy of Provence or Alsace. Whether browsing the Saturday farmers’ market or enjoying wine and jazz at a sidewalk bistro, Montpelier delivers a tranquil escape infused with quiet elegance and continental flair.