8 enchanting old towns in Europe to step back in time

Just like a good wine, some cities are better the older they are.

It was Polish poet Stanisław Jerzy Lec who once said, “Youth is the gift of nature, but age is a work of art." Like most wordsmiths, Lec knew what he was talking about.

But it’s not just the human race that ages graciously. While travelling somewhere fresh and new is always exciting, head to Europe and you’ll discover that the oldest parts of a city can be just as magical. In fact, these old towns across the continent will leave you speechless.

1. Prague, Czech Republic

old town of Prague — The Czech capital lures visitors with its fascinating history and stunning architecture. (Image: Getty Images/Ross Helen)

Prague’s old town is one of the most popular areas among tourists in the Czech Republic’s capital city for good reason. Staré Město (literally translating to old town) sits on a bend in the Vltava River and is a maze of winding alleyways and Gothic spires atop looming churches.

But beneath its architecturally bewitching façade, the neighbourhood is brimming with colour and heritage. Think classical concert halls, traditional eateries, art museums and even guided ghost tours. From the golden hands of Prague Orloj, installed in 1410, to the historic Jewish Museum, holding over 100,000 books relating to Judaica, there’s more to this medieval city than meets the eye.

2. Bruges, Belgium

So fabled is the historic centre of Bruges in Belgium, that it’s classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Distinguished by predominantly Gothic facades that ripple across the surface of the ancient arterial canals they flank, it’s a city that draws no comparisons.

A major trade hub in the Middle Ages, Bruges has maintained its commercial and cultural appeal since its fortifications were built in the first century BCE. Simply wandering the city’s cobblestoned streets is one of the best ways to experience its charm. Be sure to visit the art galleries, too – Bruges is known as the birthplace of Flemish primitives, the artists responsible for the 15th century’s proliferation of fine art across Belgium.

3. Toledo, Spain

Another UNESCO World Heritage site, the Spanish city of Toledo is built into a dramatic gorge overlooking the Río Tajo – the Iberian Peninsula’s longest river. While the municipality might be considered more pastoral than some of Europe’s other old towns, it’s just as alluring.

After the Islamic invasion of Spain in 711 CE, Toledo became known as ‘the City of Three Cultures’ – a place where Christian, Muslim and Jewish communities allegedly coexisted in peace. This remains a major drawcard for tourists today, as mosques, synagogues and cathedrals weave together to make up the city’s architectural fabric. Yet there’s plenty more on offer in Toledo, such as historic castles, peaceful monasteries, museums and even a zipline adventure across the rushing Río Tajo.

4. Lucca, Italy

Nestled into Italy’s renowned wine-growing region of Tuscany, the ancient city of Lucca is the perfect destination for wine lovers with a taste for history. In its cultural heart, you’ll find the old town, easily spotted thanks to the Renaissance-era walls that encompass it.

The historic centre of Lucca was built by the Romans around 180 BCE and is surrounded by the Orto Botanico Comunale di Lucca (Botanic Garden of Lucca). The bucolic grounds feature two acres of native and exotic plant species, as well as ponds, greenhouses and arboretums. After exploring the old town’s amphitheatres and piazzas, settle into a gorgeous Tuscan villa to unwind in style.

5. Kraków, Poland

krakow in poland — Krakow is a treasure for tourists with its plethora of classic, romantic spaces. (Image: Getty Images/Aleh Varanishcha)

Known as one of the oldest towns in Poland, the bustling city of Kraków is home to a well-preserved medieval core and historic Jewish quarter, making it one of Europe’s best old towns to visit. Medieval and Renaissance architecture mixed with Baroque flourishes on every corner, an homage to the city’s diverse history.

While the museums and basilicas are key to any itinerary, there’s plenty more to this old town than meets the eye. Linger longer and you’ll discover a plethora of underground bars, hidden shopping arcades and boutique hotels. An afternoon spent lazing in the sun at Planty Park for a lunch of traditional pierogis is also a classic Kraków experience.

6. Edinburgh, Scotland

While technically no longer in Europe, Edinburgh in Scotland is a must-visit old town, made particularly unique due to its Reformation-era architecture, when the country broke away from its Catholic roots and established the Protestant Church of Scotland. Reformation rejected ornamentation and embraced simplicity, reflected in the city’s many churches.

But that’s not the only drawcard. In the heart of the old town, Edinburgh Castle is a portal to the past that remains one of the city’s best tourist attractions. And it’s a city that can do all seasons, too – from autumn’s spellbinding charm to spring in Princes Street Gardens, wild-swimming summers and winters full of Christmas market magic.

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7. Mont Saint-Michel, France

Mont Saint Michel in France — This Gothic-style Benedictine abbey is one of the most visited landmarks in France. (Image: Getty Images/SCS Stock)

The commune of Mont Saint-Michel off the coast of Normandy in France is the quintessential European old town. The city seems straight out of a movie; a Euro-style imitation of the castle that appears at the beginning of a Disney film. Built in the 8th century, the streets of Mont Saint-Michel ascend the leucogranite rock like wild ivy, perfect for a day of exploring.

Romanesque with a Gothic flair, the city’s architecture is worthy of a trip in itself, showcasing Mont Saint-Michel’s masterful landscaping and design. Be sure to take a tour of Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, wander La Grand Rue, visit the city’s historic ramparts and catch a sunset over the surrounding bay.

8. Gamla Stan, Stockholm

Gamla Stan in Stockholm — This old town is home to Stockholm’s iconic 17th- and 18th-century colourful buildings. (Image: Getty Images/Vladislav Zolotov)

Stockholm’s old town spreads seamlessly across the tiny islands of Riddarholmen, Helgeandsholmen and Strömsborg in the Swedish capital. Home to the king’s official residence, Gamla Stan holds major historic and cultural significance for the small country and is slated as one of International Traveller’s best places to visit in 2025.

It may be small, but this old town definitely packs a punch. There’s plenty to marvel at, from cobblestoned streets and secret alleyways to colourful 18th-century buildings and quirky boutiques. Follow up vintage shopping with a tour of the Nobel Prize Museum before hitting up Barrels restaurant for the best burger and beer combo in the city.

Temperatures are soaring this summer, breaking records across Europe and the UK.

Euro summer is a feeling like no other. But when a heatwave hits? The dream trip quickly turns into a sweaty mess. Extreme heat is sweeping Europe and the UK this week, with record-high temperatures impacting travel plans across the continent.

And while Australian summers are typically hotter in absolute temperature, many European cities aren’t equipped for high temperatures, resulting in unbearable weather.

Why is it so hot in Europe?

Signs of a hot summer loomed in May, when the mercury hit unprecedented spring highs. Now, extreme high temperature warning alerts have been issued in countries such as Spain, Italy, France, England, the Netherlands and Germany.

France saw its hottest day on record on Wednesday, with an average temperature of 30°C across the day and night. This surpasses the average temperature for June, which is 15°C to 25°C. Dozens of people have died, including 40 from drowning.

In Spain, 212 deaths have been linked to the heatwave.

The UK recorded its hottest June day ever on Wednesday with temperatures soaring to 36.1°C. In an article published by the Met Office – the UK’s national meteorological service – Professor Stephen Belcher CBE, Met Office Chief Scientist, shared his concerns about June’s heat. “To see temperatures like this in the UK in June is sobering. Events like this bring home the implications of climate change, with very high temperatures and humidity bringing significant health implications from heat stress, as well as impacts to a range of sectors such as transport, energy and water supply,” he said.

Heatwaves are becoming increasingly common in Europe and the UK, neither of which is prepared for such extremes. The World Meteorological Organization reported that in 2025, at least 95% of Europe experienced above-average annual temperatures and that the continent was heating up twice as fast as the global average.

How travel is impacted

A pharmacy sign displaying 40 degrees Celcius — A pharmacy broadcasting local weather data. (Credit: Getty/Dragoncello)

During a heatwave, power grids, water systems and transport networks can be affected, resulting in disrupted itineraries for travellers. In France, power outages have left thousands without electricity and early closures have been implemented for two of Paris’s biggest attractions, the Eiffel Tower (early afternoon rather than late at night) and the Louvre (two hours early). Eurostar cancelled its London to Paris and Paris to London services from the 22nd to the 25th, and major UK rail companies have been advising travellers to avoid using trains where possible, or to travel during early hours.

If a heatwave is predicted, being flexible with your itinerary and having fully refundable/changeable tickets is key, as extreme heat can force the cancellation of outdoor activities, impact rail and flight services and change the opening hours of sites and eateries.

Why does summer in Europe often feel hotter than summer in Australia?

people swimming in the Canal Saint-Martin in Paris — People swimming in the Canal Saint-Martin in Paris to cool off. (Credit: Rachael Thompson)

With some of the highest UV levels in the world, Australians are no strangers to the heat, adapting well to intense weather. But our infrastructure is largely equipped to withstand soaring temperatures with climate-responsive passive design, refrigerated air conditioning or evaporative coolers, as well as swimming spots aplenty.

Buildings in Northern and Western Europe and the UK, however, are constructed to retain heat and handle frosty winters. The lack of universal air conditioning means it generally feels hotter even though the temperature on your app might not look it. During a heatwave, it can feel like you’re in a sauna as cities act like heat traps.

How to stay cool and prepare for another heatwave

Relief is expected across Europe and the UK later this week, but more heatwaves are still possible in the coming months. Summer heat typically peaks in July and August.

Public transport often doesn’t have air conditioning, and buses in particular can be swelteringly hot. If you’re heading outside or your accommodation has no air conditioning, it’s worth buying a spray bottle and a handheld fan from a pharmacy or tourist stand. Check ahead of time if restaurants and cafes have air conditioning and make a booking in advance. The highest temperatures typically hit between 3pm and 6pm, so aim to head outdoors outside of these hours.

Rising temperatures invite travellers to enter a more intentional era of seeing the world. Now more than ever is the time to embrace lower-impact “coolcations” and off-season getaways.