Old Towns charm. A distinct section of a modern city that is quaint, historic, and often protected from further development and/or granted UNESCO World Heritage site status, Old Town can be found in every region of Europe from Venice to Valletta. Often defined by narrow walkways, cobblestone streets, and small artisan shops, markets, and cafes that mingle with centuries-old architecture, Old Towns are, quite simply, sites to behold. They are also immensely strollable and refreshing to just experience. They challenge both locals and visitors alike to slow down, to absorb quiet afternoons in some of the world’s most atmospheric places. While it’s hard to pick just 7 Old Towns we admire, here is this month’s round-up.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Jutting into the southern Adriatic Sea coast, Dubrovnik—dubbed the “Pearl of the Adriatic”—is perhaps the most picturesque city on the Dalmatian coast. A key Mediterranean maritime power from the 13th century, Dubrovnik has preserved its storied mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces, and fountains. Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with the ancient city walls and Rector’s Palace.
Taormina, Italy
Perched high on a cliff carefully watching over the Ionian Sea, Taormina is the perfect blend of old meets new, adorned in an elegant Sicilian setting that makes it perfectly explorable. An ancient Greek theater and dozens of centuries-old churches sit amongst fine restaurants, lively bars, bookstores, antique shops, and farmers’ markets.
Bonifacio, Corsica, France
The medieval Old Town of Bonifacio is the oldest town in Corsica, retaining many of its original homes that line the top of its white limestone peninsula cliffs. The town’s maze of narrow cobblestone streets, accented by medieval buildings, pretty squares, and tiny cafes, make this city more than worthy of a day of relaxation and discovery.
Patmos, Greece
Tucked away in the South Aegean Islands, Patmos was named by Forbes as “Europe’s most idyllic place to live.” Its Cave of the Apocalypse is where John of Patmos (St. John) is said to have written the Book of Revelation. A fortress-like, 11th-century monastery dedicated to the saint overlooks the whitewashed houses of the hilltop capital, Chora, itself an Old Town notable for its more than two dozen ancient churches and stone pathways only accessible by foot.
Cádiz, Spain
This old walled city's history and charm have been inextricably linked with its maritime adventures since time immoral. Dramatically situated on a slice of land surrounded on three sides by the sea, Cádiz launched two of Columbus's four voyages to the New World. Reportedly the oldest city in Europe still standing, its many watchtowers stand guard over the Old Town, where stunning beaches and incredible natural parks are just a stroll away. From Cádiz, travel to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art to spy the famed Andalusian horses.
Valletta, Malta
UNESCO-Awarded Valletta, the famed fortified city perched on a hilly peninsula between two of the most breathtaking harbors in the Mediterranean, is quite simply unmissable. Often described as an open-air museum and living piece of history, Valletta is engulfed by more than 300 historic buildings, and its Old Town’s streets are based on a uniform grid, making it easy to navigate and take in.
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