An international research team tallied that there are approximately 117 million lakes found in the world. Lakes can be found anywhere, but the natural ones are mostly found in mountainous areas. There are also those found in the flat cities but natural causes or commercialism may have caused some of them to get dried out.

One of those places that home the best lake towns in the world is Europe. Lakes are undeniably popular destinations for travelers because of its unique appeal. Like most bodies of water, there is something about the lake that allows you to bond with nature in a timeless and calm way. Hence, we listed down 10 Best Lake Towns in Europe that should be on your bucket list.

Lake Bled in northwestern Slovenia 

Picture a magical lake with a castle perched right at the heart of the basin. That is the kind of scenery that Lake Bled provides. This tourist destination is located in the northwestern part of Slovenia. The magnificently broad waters are of 6,960 ft in length and 4,530 ft in width. Adding to the centerpiece of the attraction is the small island where the pilgrimage church is situated which furthers the scenic backdrop. The mountains and colored lush trees around the lake create a dramatic effect on the whole Laketown.

Activities like row boating, hopping into a pletna, or simply ringing the church bells are some of the things to experience. But of course, always savor the fresh air and the picturesque location in one of the best lake towns in Europe.

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Orta San Giulio in Italy

Italy is such a beautiful country. It has all types of sceneries all over the place and lake towns are among the spots that this country is proud of. Italy is, in fact, home of one of the best lake towns in Europe – the Orta San Giulio. Orta lake is a quiet piece and is not exposed to too many travelers yet. This beautiful water creation is silently situated in one of Italy’s historic towns. The Orta San Giulio is actually a town in lakeside and is considered as one of Italy’s natural gems. Milanese calls this lake as Cinderalla because of its undeniable charm, yet with a  touch of calmness and mystery.

Orta is also adorned with splendid architectures which add a picturesque effect to the entire masterpiece. It also has fortresses, captivating villages, numerous flavors of pizza and Italian restaurants nearby. Visiting this lake town is surely a win for every tourist.

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Montreux in Geneva, Switzerland

The landscape and the ethereal beauty of the lake in Montreux Geneva, Switzerland cannot be underestimated. Montreux is meanwhile no question one of the best lake towns in Europe. Thanks to its serene lake with vineyards, alpine peaks and architecture views. It is located on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva.

Montreux can be treated as a tranquil paradise that entices tourists, writers, and painters to make this Laketown a subject or inspiration for their creations and pieces. Moreover, relaxing and soul-filling activities are also good to experience in Montreux. Here are some of the things that you can try in this enchanting town:

• Seeing the Lavaux Vineyards.
• Adventure to Glacier 3000 from Montreux.
• Cruising, of course.
• Experience the Montreux Jazz Festival if you visit in June or July.
• Visit the historical Chillon Castle or known as Château de Chillon Montreux.
• See the statute of the legendary Queen vocalist Freddie Mercury.

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Lake in Yvoire in France

Yvoire is a stunning medieval village in Geneva, France. The town is known for its vintage buildings and summer floral displays. The amazing landscape in front of the serene lake brings you to the 14th century. Yvoire is a place where authenticity, beauty, and history are mixed to produce spectacular scenery that stood the test of time. Thus, below are some of the best places to visit around the village that highlights the lakeside:

• Yvoire castle
• The port of Yvoire
•  Garden of Five Senses

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Bellagio in Lombardy, Italy

There is no shortage of natural wonders in Italy. Another one of the best lake towns in Europe is found in this naturally rich country. This pearl of the Italian region of Lake Como Lombardy is the village of Bellagio. It is located in the popular water formation Lake Como or known as Lario. The village is full of colorful building facades nearby the serene lake. The geographic design of the place, the town is located at the top of the landmass that partitions Lake Como in two, makes it further interesting to visit.

There are two known ways to go to Bellagio: First, it is by an adventurous ferry ride while looking into the serene waters. And, second, is by car, through the Commo or Lecco road. Some of the activities that you can do nearby this Laketown are the following:

• Take the Bellagio Express, a little tourist train to view the village’s spots.
• Get mesmerized by the old-town views near the waterfront promenade. Just walk around the lakeshore and see the beauty of Lake Como and the classic town from a distance.
• Enjoy the gardens of Vila Menzi.

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Hallstatt in Austria’s Salzkammergut region

Austria’s Halsatt brings a spark to every romantic getaway. If you are looking for a place to spend a romantic vacation, then Halsatt should be one of the top choices. Located at Lake Hallstatt’s western shore in the mountainous Salzkammergut region of Austria, this Laketown brings the 16th-century vibe.

Furthermore, It has edifices with bright reds and yellows paint that bring back the old Bronze eras. Several local classic cafes and shops are also available within the vicinity. Heart-wrenching landscapes surround the lake which makes it more enticing for travelers. An estimated million tourists per year visit this one of Austria’s best natural haven.

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Morcote in Switzerland

Morcote is a beautiful village in Switzerland. Natural spots and other wonders make this village a frequent tourist destination mostly by Germans, Swiss, and Lombards. The lake within the village is known as Lake Lugano, calm yet enthrallingly ravishing. The lake is (48 km²) and has a unique shape. You can extensively enjoy this soothing paradise through private cruises or daily tours.

This popular village is considered the “Pearl of Ceresio” because of its notable characteristics. It has old patrician arcades, narrow alleys, distinct architectures, and unforgettable natural wonders. Some of the widely popular architectures within the town (1) the church of Santa Maria del Sasso, (2) the terraced cemetery and (3) the Tower of the Captain. Indeed, this Laketown has more to offer for the eyes.

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Talloires in France

Talloires is one of the best lake towns in Europe which is located in south-eastern France. The stunning village is situated on the shores of Lake Annecy, a tranquil lake with mountains around. Townhouses also surround the lake’s edges.

Some of the watersports activities that you can do while in this area are stand up paddling, waterskiing, and wakeboarding. Some travelers suggest that in order to have a more satisfying view of Lake Town along with the church and townhouses as background, situate yourself at the D909A road above the cemetery, especially during mornings.

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Medieval Titisee-Neustadt in Germany

This town in Germany is situated on the banks of Lake Titisee. The place is perfect for family bonding or group dates as Titisee is the largest natural lake in the Black Forest, Germany.

To get a full view of the ravishing lake space, rent a bike and also see the waterfalls, farmyards, and trail to the breweries. The vibe of this destination brings you back to medieval times. It is known as a spa town because of its location. Titisee is also best for winter sports activities and hiking. Top attractions around this village include Lake Titisee itself, and Skilift Schwarzenbach. Also, take the chance to dine out in their famous Italian restaurants like Mona Lisa and Pizzeria Passarella

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Lucern in Switzerland

Lucerne is one of the go-to destinations for those who want to take a peek of a lake with stunning facades around. It has been a long destination for tourists because of its location right at the shores of Lake Lucerna. Aside from that, other natural spots like river Reuss and mountains Pilatus and Rigi in the Swiss Alps are also viewable from therein.

Moreover, landmarks like churches and wooden bridges are also found in Lucerne which adds to the place’s natural beauty. Lucerne has a population of approximately 80,000 people hence it is known to be the most populous town in Switzerland. Because of the wide scale of people in the village, it has become the center of economics, culture, transportation, and media of the neighboring areas. Should you like some Swiss stuff to take home, there are numerous things to buy in Lucerne. From chocolates and wines to travel souvenirs like Swiss knife, music box, and Swiss watches, you can grab these from the place with just enough penny. Product prices, of course, vary. As to luxury goods, prices are not far from prices offered in other parts of the country, unless of course if the product is locally produced from Switzerland so it should cost lesser.

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