Traveling is all about experiencing new places, cultures, and even cuisines. But sometimes, it’s fun to visit somewhere you can really sink your teeth into—literally. What do we mean by this?
Well, if you love the old-fashioned charm and quirky culture, we’ve got the perfect place for you: walled towns. You might not have heard of these charming European enclaves before, but they’re worth checking out if you like history and don’t mind being a little bit off the beaten path.
Mont Saint-Michel, France
Located on an island in Normandy, France and linked to the mainland by a causeway, Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most iconic medieval sites in Europe.
Located on an island in Normandy, France and linked to the mainland by a causeway, Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most iconic medieval sites in Europe. The town has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. It was founded as a monastery during the 8th century. It became an important pilgrimage site during this period because it is home to some of France’s most sacred relics, including those from St Peter.
Palmanova, Italy
Located in northeastern Italy, Palmanova has a population of around 10,000 people. This walled city was built by the Venetian Republic in the 16th century and lay on the Adriatic Sea. It has become increasingly popular with tourists since it was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1996.
Campeche. Mexico
The capital of Campeche State and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993, Campeche is a walled city with Spanish Colonial architecture. Fortifications and defensive buildings have connected the walls surrounding it since the 16th century.
They are constructed from limestone and coral stone and feature several gates, including San Juan de Ulna Gate, and bastions on its perimeter.
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena, Colombia, is a walled city. It is the largest city in Colombia and has a population of approximately 1.3 million people. The city is located on the coast of the Caribbean Sea, making it a popular tourist destination for those who enjoy tropical weather and beaches.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, Croatia, is a walled city founded in the 7th century and has since been an important trading center. It is known for its medieval architecture, including some of the best-preserved fortifications in Europe. These fortifications encompassed two-thirds of Dubrovnik’s urban area and were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
Dubrovnik was once part of the Republic of Venice (7th – 18th centuries). During this period, it became one of the most significant trading centers in the Mediterranean basin due to its strategic location on maritime routes connecting Western Europe with Constantinople and Alexandria.
Each one of these cities is charming in its way. As you can see, they all have something to offer and a history that makes them unique. The best part about visiting any of these places is that there really isn’t a right or wrong way to experience them.
You could go for an hour or two and walk around town taking pictures (and eating your fair share of gelato). Or you could stay for days exploring every nook and cranny. Either way, everyone will fall in love with these walled towns!