The 15 Most Scenic Villages in the Alps

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I’ve spent years chasing Alpine beauty. Winter wonderlands in Switzerland, golden autumns in Austria, summer wildflower hikes in France and Italy, even hidden trails in Slovenia where the only sounds are cowbells and wind. I’ve stood in nearly every country the Alps touch (yes, all seven), and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: the real soul of these mountains lives in the villages.

Not the ski resorts. Not the cities. The villages. The ones tucked beneath glacier peaks, clinging to cliffsides, or nestled in green valleys with waterfalls pouring from the sky. Places where time slows, the air tastes different, and your camera roll fills up before lunch.

These 13 Alpine villages aren’t just beautiful. They are genuinely fun and unique travel destinations with tons to see and do. I’ve walked their streets, eaten their food, and watched the light change on their rooftops. If you’re dreaming of the Alps, this is where the dream begins.

1. Mittenwald, Germany

Mittenwald might just be Bavaria’s most picture-perfect alpine village. Tucked between rugged peaks near the Austrian border, this colorful town feels like a fairytale come to life. Its hand-painted buildings (called Lüftlmalerei) tell stories of saints, folklore, and village life.

But Mittenwald isn’t just a pretty face. It’s been a center for violin-making since the 1600s, and you can learn all about it at the charming Geigenbaumuseum. When you’re ready to stretch your legs, hop on the Karwendelbahn cable car…the ride alone is wild, but the views from the top are even better. You’ll be standing above Germany’s highest nature reserve, with panoramic trails overlooking the Isar Valley.

Afterward? Grab a cold beer in one of the traditional taverns and soak up the mountain air. Mittenwald feels more local and laid-back than Garmisch, but every bit as breathtaking.

2. Annecy, France

Annecy feels like a real-life watercolor painting with pastel buildings, flower-lined canals, and snow-capped peaks reflected in turquoise Lake Annecy. It’s hands-down one of the prettiest Alpine towns, perfect for travelers craving both charm and jaw-dropping scenery.

Stroll through the medieval Old Town, where cobbled lanes wind past crêperies, local markets, and the postcard-perfect Palais de l’Isle in the middle of a canal. Rent bikes and ride the lakefront trail for unreal views, or take a paddleboat out for a lazy afternoon on the water.

In summer, Annecy is pure magic…think picnics, swimming, and sunsets over the Alps. In winter, it’s a cozy base for nearby skiing (La Clusaz is just 40 minutes away).

Fly into Geneva Airport, then hop on a 45-minute shuttle. If you’re looking for the ultimate alpine village with fairytale vibes, Annecy should be at the top of your list. It’s my absolute favorite spot in the French Alps.

3. Mürren, Switzerland

Mürren blew me away the moment I stepped off the cogwheel train. Sitting high above Lauterbrunnen Valley, another top alpine town on this list, this car-free village feels like you’ve entered another world.

From almost every angle, you’re staring straight at the iconic trio: Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. It’s one of those panoramas that makes you put your phone down just to soak it in.

Whether you’re skiing down the Schilthorn (yes, the James Bond one) or hiking in summer through meadows and mountain ridgelines, Mürren delivers year-round magic. There’s a laid-back, timeless feel to the village…no cars, no rush, just wooden chalets and cowbells in the distance.

It’s quieter than Grindelwald and less touristy than Zermatt, but every bit as epic. If you want jaw-dropping alpine beauty without the buzz, Mürren is the place to go.

4. Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt is straight out of a storybook. I love the vibe: tiny wooden homes clinging to a mountainside, swans gliding across a glassy lake, and the Alps rising like a movie backdrop. It’s one of the most photographed alpine towns for a reason, and it lives up to the hype.

Spend your weekend wandering the lakeside promenade, riding the funicular to the Skywalk for panoramic views, and visiting the world’s oldest salt mine, complete with an underground slide. The town is small enough to explore in a day but so stunning you’ll want to linger.

Go early or stay overnight to avoid day-tripping crowds. Fall and shoulder seasons are especially magical (and quieter). I recommend staying in a beautiful Airbnb somewhere nearby in the mountains of Austria to experience the magic!

Fly into Salzburg (1.5 hours away) or Vienna (3 hours), then rent a car or take the train via Attnang-Puchheim. For travelers chasing alpine beauty, Hallstatt delivers that “wow” moment you’ll remember long after the trip.

5. Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Lauterbrunnen is what happens when nature flexes hard. Think 72 waterfalls spilling down the cliffs, snow-dusted peaks towering overhead, and a valley so lush it feels like you’ve stepped into a Tolkien novel.

Start your day with coffee on a balcony facing Staubbach Falls, then hike or cable-car your way up to Mürren or Wengen for even more surreal views. Want adrenaline? Hop a train to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station. Prefer slow travel? Just wander the valley floor, where cows outnumber cars and every turn reveals another jaw-dropper.

It’s ideal for hikers, photographers, and anyone who needs a reset button. Trains from Interlaken run often, and the Swiss Travel Pass makes getting around easy.

Tip: stay overnight to experience Lauterbrunnen without the midday crowds…sunset and early morning here are pure magic. If you’re chasing that wild, cinematic beauty in Switzerland, Lauterbrunnen delivers in every direction.

6. Berchtesgaden, Germany

Berchtesgaden feels like a secret the Alps have been keeping. Set against the jagged face of the Watzmann, this Bavarian village delivers serious drama…towering peaks, mirror-like lakes, and alpine trails that make you feel like you’ve crossed into another world. It’s one of my absolute favorite spots in the mountains of Germany, and for good reason.

The real showstopper? Königssee. Take the silent electric boat across its glacial-green waters to St. Bartholomew’s Church, then hike deeper toward Röthbachfall with almost no crowds. Craving a bit of edge? Ride the mountain bus or hike up to the Eagle’s Nest for panoramic views that punch above their altitude.

Unlike the glitzier resort towns, Berchtesgaden still feels raw, local, and lived-in. It’s perfect for travelers who want beauty without filters. Fly into Salzburg—just 30 minutes away…and you’re in the thick of it. If you’re chasing that rare combination of jaw-dropping scenery and authenticity, Berchtesgaden hits hard.

7. Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled is straight out of a fairytale, but what makes it special isn’t just the scenery, it’s how accessible that beauty feels. One moment you’re walking the shoreline, the next you’re rowing across emerald water to a tiny island church that’s been there for centuries.

Start with the Ojstrica viewpoint for that iconic sunrise shot—early hikers get the lake (and that epic reflection) to themselves. Rent a rowboat or hop on a traditional pletna to reach Bled Island, then climb the 99 stone steps and ring the bell for good luck. Don’t skip Bled Castle either…it’s perched high above the lake with sweeping views and a surprisingly cool medieval vibe.

Bled is perfect for couples, photographers, and nature lovers looking for a romantic but low-key escape. Fly into Ljubljana, just 40 minutes away. Come for the most beautiful views in Slovenia, stay for the calm…Bled has that rare “I could actually live here” feeling.

8. Chamonix, France

Chamonix doesn’t try to charm you…it stuns you. The sheer scale of Mont Blanc towering overhead, glaciers spilling into the valley, and rugged alpine trails that feel carved for the bold. This is the Alps at their most dramatic.

Start with the Aiguille du Midi cable car, which rockets you to 12,600 feet in under 20 minutes. From the top, you’re eye-level with the Mont Blanc massif, with views stretching into Italy and Switzerland. Hikers should tackle parts of the Grand Balcon Nord or head to Lac Blanc for a high-alpine scene that doesn’t require technical skills.

Unlike polished resort towns, Chamonix has edge. It’s a working mountain hub, filled with climbers, off-duty guides, and travelers chasing that “next level” scenery. You can fly into Geneva and be there in 90 minutes. If you want a village that makes you feel small in the best way…Chamonix is it.

9. Grindelwald, Switzerland

Grindelwald is my favorite resort town in all of Switzerland…and I’ve been to plenty. There’s just something about stepping off that train and seeing the Eiger tower above you that hits different. It’s home to one of the nicest mountains in the Swiss Alps, as you’ll soon see.

Every time I visit, I make a beeline for the Eiger Express gondola. You’re at the top in 15 minutes, and from there, it’s a choose-your-own-adventure playground. I’ve hiked ridgelines with views that feel unreal, but honestly? The mountain carts and scooters steal the show. Racing down those alpine trails with the wind in your face and cows grazing beside you…it’s impossible not to grin the whole way.

What I love most is how easy it all feels. No stress, no over-tourism. Just epic nature, smooth logistics, and that addictive blend of peace and adventure. Fly into Zurich or Bern, hop on the scenic train, and you’re in the heart of the Alps without lifting a finger. Grindelwald is where I go when I want to feel fully alive.

• Read also: The Coolest Places to See in the Bernese Oberland Region

10. Alpbach, Austria

Alpbach is the kind of place that feels like it was plucked from a storybook. I love it all: the wooden chalets, flower-filled balconies, and jagged peaks in every direction. But it’s not just a pretty face. This village in the Austrian Tyrol is also one of the best bases for hiking in the Eastern Alps.

Start with the Panoramaweg, a scenic trail that loops above the valley with nonstop views of the Kitzbühel Alps. It’s not overly difficult, and you’ll pass alpine huts where you can stop for cheese dumplings and an ice-cold Radler. If you’re into something higher, grab the Wiedersbergerhornbahn cable car—it gets you above 1,800 meters fast and opens up ridge walks with barely any crowds.

Alpbach is also known as Austria’s most beautiful village, and it lives up to the hype. Come in late spring or early fall for clear skies and quiet trails. Innsbruck is the nearest airport, just 45 minutes away. It’s an awesome home base for exploring the Austrian Alps.

11. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

Cortina d’Ampezzo is a hidden gem weekend getaway in Europe where dramatic alpine scenery meets Italian flair. I’ve visited 4 times, including in shoulder season…and I can’t believe how quiet the trails were. Yet the town still buzzes with stylish cafés, gelato stands, and Aperol spritzes with mountain views. Visiting here is one of my favorite things to do in the Dolomites, 100%.

Nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, Cortina is surrounded by jagged limestone peaks like Tofana di Mezzo and Cinque Torri…perfect for both hikers and photographers. Take the Faloria cable car for insane views over the Ampezzo Valley, or rent an e-bike and cruise the Dolomites Cycle Trail that runs past meadows, villages, and rugged cliffs.

For a short, rewarding hike, the Lago di Sorapis trail is a must. That milky blue lake? Even better in person. Venice is the closest airport (about 2 hours), and there are bus connections year-round. If you’re chasing alpine beauty in the Dolomites without giving up great food and design, Cortina nails it. I highly recommend adding it to a Dolomites road trip and staying here as a homebase.

12. Val d’Isère, France

Val d’Isère isn’t just for hardcore skiers…though if you are one, welcome to paradise. Linked with Tignes to form the Espace Killy, it’s home to over 300 km of world-class slopes, legendary off-piste runs, and high-altitude snow well into spring. But even as someone who’s not racing down black diamonds, I found plenty to love.

The alpine village itself is stylish without being snobby. It’s got stone chalets, cozy après-ski spots, and bakeries that fuel your morning with strong coffee and croissants. In summer, it transforms into a mountain playground with glacier hikes, e-biking, and trail running routes with epic views of the Vanoise National Park.

It’s about a 3-hour drive from Geneva or Lyon, and totally worth the effort. Bonus: you’re not far from charming towns like Annecy or Chamonix if you’re on a longer alpine road trip. If you’re chasing powder or panoramas, Val d’Isère punches way above its weight.

13. Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is one of those places that sneaks up on you…in the best way. Tucked into southern Bavaria near the Austrian border, it’s Germany’s premier alpine resort town, framed by rugged peaks and glacier views that feel more like the Dolomites than Germany.

The star of the show? Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain. You can ride a glass-walled gondola to the summit for insane 360° views stretching into Austria, Italy, and Switzerland. In winter, the skiing is solid, but it’s the hiking, alpine coasters, and Partnach Gorge in summer that really got me hooked. It’s one of the prettiest locations in Germany for these reasons.

The town itself is a cozy mix of fresco-painted buildings, beer gardens, and traditional Bavarian flair without the kitsch. It’s just 90 minutes from Munich by train, making it easy to tack onto a larger Alps itinerary…especially if you’re heading toward Innsbruck or the Austrian Tyrol. Best visited spring through early fall, or mid-winter for snow adventures.

14. Vipiteno, Italy

Vipiteno (Sterzing in German) blew me away when I visited in December. Tucked into South Tyrol just south of the Austrian border, this alpine town feels like something out of a snow globe. Love its medieval towers, cobbled streets, and pastel-colored buildings all framed by snow-dusted peaks.

What makes it special? The Christmas market here is hands-down one of the most magical I’ve experienced in the Alps. It’s smaller than the ones in Innsbruck or Bolzano, but that’s the charm…it feels intimate, local, and authentic. I sipped mulled wine by the Zwölferturm (the 15th-century clock tower in the center of town) and browsed stalls with hand-carved wooden toys, woolen goods, and Alpine cheese.

Vipiteno is easy to reach by train from Innsbruck (just over 1 hour) or Bolzano (under 2 hours), and it makes a great stop if you’re road-tripping through the Brenner Pass. Visit in late November to mid-December for peak festive vibes, or spring for hiking and Törggelen (a South Tyrolean harvest feast tradition). It’s not just a hidden gem in Italy. The place is buzzing with energy, especially when you dive into the local scene.

15. Lech, Austria

If you’re wrapping up an Alpine adventure, Lech is the perfect grand finale. This Austrian mountain village is pure class. Think chalet rooftops, powdery peaks, and après-ski that somehow feels both relaxed and refined. It’s a favorite of royals (yes, actual royals) and longtime ski fanatics alike, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s out of reach.

Compared to more boisterous alpine towns like Chamonix or Cortina, Lech moves at a smoother pace. The slopes are wide, impeccably groomed, and far less crowded. In summer, it turns into a green paradise with wildflower-filled trails and crystal-clear lakes like Formarinsee.

It’s part of the Arlberg ski region, so if you’ve hit St. Anton and want something a bit more scenic and serene, Lech delivers. I’d honestly put it up there with Grindelwald and Bled for sheer beauty…and for travelers chasing the dream alpine escape, this is the mic drop. It’s one of the coolest and cheapest adventure spots to get to in 2025.