Travel
25 Most Stunning Coastal Cities within the USA — How Many Have You Visited?
From rugged cliffside hamlets to pastel-hued seashore villages, America’s coastlines are sprinkled with small cities that appear plucked from postcards. These are locations the place salt air meets storybook allure, and each view seems like a screensaver. Whether or not you’re craving a romantic escape, a slow-paced seashore break, or a scenic slice of Americana, listed below are 20 of probably the most lovely coastal cities within the U.S. to discover.
1. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel is pure West Coast enchantment. Nestled on the Monterey Peninsula, it’s identified for fairytale cottages, white sand seashores, and an artsy, upscale vibe. Ocean Avenue is lined with boutiques, galleries, and wine bars, whereas the close by 17-Mile Drive presents jaw-dropping coastal views.
2. Bar Harbor, Maine
Framed by the granite cliffs of Acadia Nationwide Park, Bar Harbor blends rugged pure magnificence with New England allure. Its historic harbor, lobster shacks, and colourful Victorian houses make it a prime vacation spot for leaf-peepers, hikers, and anybody trying to escape the peculiar.
3. Beaufort, South Carolina
With its antebellum mansions, moss-draped oaks, and riverside promenades, Beaufort oozes Southern allure. Set alongside the Intracoastal Waterway, it presents marshland views, quiet seashores, and a vibrant arts scene — all wrapped in historic class.
4. La Jolla, California
Simply north of San Diego, La Jolla combines upscale residing with cliff-top vistas and golden seashores. You’ll discover sea lions lounging on rocks, surfers catching waves, and sunsets that cease you in your tracks. The rugged shoreline and Mediterranean-style structure make it unforgettable.
5. Cape Could, New Jersey
Cape Could is America’s oldest seaside resort, and it reveals — in one of the best ways. Its Victorian houses, colourful gingerbread cottages, and vast seashores are straight out of one other period. The energetic promenade and iconic lighthouse add additional seaside magic.
6. Saugatuck, Michigan
Sitting on Lake Michigan’s “freshwater coast,” Saugatuck looks like a seashore city with an artsy soul. It boasts sand dunes, quirky retailers, and high quality galleries — all backed by sugar-sand Oval Seaside and a postcard-worthy harbor.
7. Port Townsend, Washington
This Victorian-era port city on the Olympic Peninsula looks like a forgotten movie set. With its historic downtown, misty harbor, and views of the Puget Sound, Port Townsend is the form of place the place time slows and creativity blooms.
8. Seaside, Florida
Well-known for its pastel homes, picket fences, and seashore cruiser tradition, Seaside is the star of the Emerald Coast. It’s completely deliberate, photogenic, and designed for barefoot bliss. Bonus: it was the filming location for The Truman Present.
9. Nantucket, Massachusetts
This island city is pure New England: grey-shingled cottages, cobbled streets, and hydrangeas in full bloom. Solely accessible by ferry or airplane, Nantucket looks like a time capsule of maritime custom and coastal luxurious.
10. Tybee Island, Georgia
A laid-back escape from Savannah, Tybee Island presents 5 miles of beachy bliss. Colourful cottages, historic forts, and its iconic lighthouse make it very best for a sluggish Southern getaway. The dawn over the Atlantic? Unbeatable.
11. Laguna Seaside, California
A former artist colony turned upscale surf city, Laguna Seaside boasts dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and a golden mild that appears made for painters. It’s an ideal mix of coastal glam and pure surprise, particularly alongside the cliffside Heisler Park.
12. Provincetown, Massachusetts
On the tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown dazzles with its bohemian spirit, vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, and windswept dunes. The seashores are countless, the artwork galleries are in every single place, and the sunshine — famously captured by painters — is magical.
13. Mendocino, California
Perched on northern California’s craggy shoreline, Mendocino is wild and poetic. With Victorian houses, wildflower-strewn cliffs, and mist rolling off the Pacific, it’s a favourite of writers, romantics, and anybody who loves dramatic ocean views.
14. Rockport, Massachusetts
This quintessential New England fishing village is pure allure: purple lobster shacks, artwork galleries in transformed barns, and salty sea breezes. Its star attraction, Motif No. 1, is claimed to be probably the most painted constructing in America.
15. Friday Harbor, Washington
Accessible solely by ferry or seaplane, Friday Harbor on San Juan Island is as peaceable because it will get. With views of snow-capped peaks throughout the Salish Sea, it’s the form of city the place kayakers paddle previous orcas and time stands nonetheless.
16. Kennebunkport, Maine
Kennebunkport’s rugged shoreline, clapboard homes, and iconic lobster boats make it an East Coast dream. It’s elegant however down-to-earth, with cozy inns, boutique retailers, and a few of the greatest seafood on the Atlantic coast.
17. Rehoboth Seaside, Delaware
Rehoboth combines basic boardwalk enjoyable with a trendy edge. Identified for its colourful seashore houses, fun-loving vibe, and artsy downtown, it’s a favourite amongst households, {couples}, and weekend warriors from D.C. and Philly.
18. Cannon Seaside, Oregon
Residence to the enduring Haystack Rock, Cannon Seaside is without doubt one of the most photogenic cities on the Pacific. Foggy mornings, dramatic tides, and charming streets stuffed with artwork galleries make this Oregon coast gem unforgettable.
19. St. Augustine, Florida
Because the oldest metropolis within the U.S., St. Augustine blends Spanish colonial allure with attractive ocean views. Stroll its cobblestone streets, discover the Castillo de San Marcos, or calm down by the ocean — historical past has by no means appeared so good.
20. Chatham, Massachusetts
Positioned on Cape Cod’s elbow, Chatham is a cultured model of basic New England coastal life. With a historic lighthouse, pristine seashores, and quaint Essential Avenue, it’s each idyllic and complicated — an ideal summer season retreat.
21. Astoria, Oregon
Why it’s lovely: Perched on the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria blends maritime historical past with Pacific Northwest allure. Colourful Victorian homes climb the hillside, whereas the Astoria-Megler Bridge sweeps dramatically throughout the water.
High issues to do: Climb the Astoria Column for panoramic views, stroll the Riverwalk, tour the Columbia River Maritime Museum, and spot sea lions alongside the waterfront.
22. Avalon, California (Catalina Island)
Why it’s lovely: Accessible by ferry from Los Angeles, Avalon feels just like the Mediterranean transplanted to California. Its crescent-shaped harbor, pastel-hued buildings, and iconic Catalina On line casino create postcard views.
High issues to do: Snorkel in Lover’s Cove, take a glass-bottom boat tour, hike into Catalina’s rugged inside, and luxuriate in oceanfront eating on Crescent Avenue.
23. Mystic, Connecticut
Why it’s lovely: A quintessential New England harbor city, Mystic is understood for its historic seaport, clapboard homes, and scenic marina crammed with sailboats. The city exudes nautical allure in each element.
High issues to do: Go to Mystic Seaport Museum, stroll the drawbridge over the Mystic River, take pleasure in contemporary seafood at a waterfront restaurant, and cease by the well-known Mystic Pizza.
24. Port Aransas, Texas
Why it’s lovely: Set on Mustang Island alongside the Gulf of Mexico, Port Aransas combines sandy seashores with a laid-back fishing village vibe. Vivid cottages and energetic marinas give it loads of coastal character.
High issues to do: Chill out on 18 miles of seashores, watch dolphins from Roberts Level Park, go deep-sea fishing, or birdwatch on the wetlands of the Port Aransas Nature Protect.
25. Sitka, Alaska
Why it’s lovely: Tucked between forested mountains and the Pacific, Sitka presents a few of the most dramatic surroundings in Alaska. It’s a mix of untamed landscapes and engaging Russian-American heritage.
High issues to do: Discover Sitka Nationwide Historic Park with its totem poles, spot bald eagles and humpback whales on a ship tour, and go to St. Michael’s Cathedral for a contact of historical past.
Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 nations and is a member of the British Guild of Journey Writers in addition to the IFTWTA. She is captivated with wine had has simply accomplished Degree 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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