17 Colorful European Destinations to Inspire Your Nomad Journey
1. Collonges-la-Rouge, France
Nestled in the Dordogne Valley, Collonges-la-Rouge is not just one of France's most beautiful villages—it's a world apart. Its name, meaning 'Red Collonges', comes from the distinctive red sandstone used for every single building. For nomads seeking tranquility and a quintessentially French backdrop for deep work, this idyllic village is a perfect escape.
2. Burano, Italy
While Venice draws the masses, the savvy traveler knows to hop over to the island of Burano. A short Vaporetto ride away, this fishing village in the Venetian Lagoon is a kaleidoscope of brightly painted houses. It's an incredibly picturesque spot, ideal for photographers, artists, and anyone needing a potent dose of color to fuel their creativity.
3. Menton, France
Tucked away on the French Riviera near the Italian border, Menton offers a warmer, more relaxed vibe than its glitzy neighbours. Its old town is a cascade of pastel-hued buildings that feel more Italian than French. Easily reachable from Nice, it’s a fantastic base for exploring both the Côte d'Azur and Italy's Ligurian coast.
4. Alesund, Norway
Rebuilt in stunning Art Nouveau style after a fire in 1904, Alesund is a gateway to Norway's epic fjords. It's the perfect starting point for the scenic drive to Geirangerfjord. Plan a summer visit to experience the midnight sun and maybe even spot puffins on a nearby island—a truly unique work-life balance.
5. Sintra, Portugal
Sintra is a real-life fairytale. Just 30 minutes from Lisbon, this town is a collection of Disney-esque castles, mystical forests, and breathtaking palaces. From the vibrant Pena Palace to the ancient Moorish Castle, Sintra offers endless exploration. It forms a perfect 'nomad trifecta' with the capital, Lisbon, and the coastal town of Cascais.
6. Sighisoara, Romania
Step into a living museum in Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. The city is a tapestry of colourful houses, cobblestone streets, and historic towers. As a bonus, Romania offers a lower cost of living, allowing you to enjoy a richer experience without breaking the bank.
7. Copenhagen, Denmark
The Danish capital is a hub of design, gastronomy, and 'hygge'. While the entire city is architecturally stunning, the most iconic colorful spot is Nyhavn harbour. This 17th-century waterfront is lined with bright buildings now housing bustling restaurants and bars. It's the perfect place to unwind after a productive day. Don't miss Tivoli Gardens, the amusement park that inspired Walt Disney.
8. Cinque Terre, Italy
An iconic destination for a reason, Cinque Terre is a string of five ancient seaside villages clinging to the cliffs of the Italian Riviera. Each town—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—is a postcard of vibrant colors. To avoid the peak crowds, plan your stay for the shoulder seasons of late spring or early autumn.
9. Tenby, Wales, UK
A jewel of the Pembrokeshire coast, Tenby is a picturesque harbor town with a row of pastel-coloured Georgian houses lining the beachfront. It’s a classic British seaside escape, beloved by locals and a perfect spot for nomads looking to explore the rugged beauty of South Wales.
10. Juzcar, Spain
Once a traditional Andalusian 'pueblo blanco' (white village), Juzcar was painted entirely blue in 2011 to promote 'The Smurfs' movie. When the promotion ended, the residents voted to keep it blue, embracing their new identity as the world's only 'Smurf Village'. It's a quirky and unique stop in the Malaga region.
11. Positano, Italy
The crown jewel of the Amalfi Coast, Positano is a cascade of sun-bleached pastel houses tumbling down the cliffside to the sea. It is undeniably enchanting and has captivated artists and writers for decades. While the entire coast is spectacular, Positano's charm is a must-experience for any traveler.
12. Colmar, France
If you've ever dreamt of stepping into a French fairytale, Colmar is your destination. Located in the Alsace region, its 'La Petite Venise' area features canals and quaint, half-timbered houses in every shade imaginable. It's a storybook village come to life.
13. Gdansk, Poland
Often an unexpected surprise for visitors, Gdansk's Old Town is a masterpiece of colourful, reconstructed merchant houses. Rich with maritime history and spectacular architecture, it’s a vibrant and affordable base for exploring Poland's Baltic coast.
14. Portmeirion, Wales, UK
A true hidden gem, Portmeirion is a whimsical village in North Wales designed in the style of an Italian coastal town. It’s a surreal and beautiful creation, offering a slice of the Mediterranean on the Welsh coast. While well-known to locals, it remains an off-the-beaten-path discovery for international nomads.
15. Stockholm, Sweden
The Swedish capital is spread across 14 islands, offering a stunning mix of modern design and historic charm. The most photographed spot is Stortorget, the main square in Gamla Stan (Old Town), with its iconic tall, narrow buildings in warm shades of red, orange, and gold. Stockholm is a clean, efficient, and beautiful city for a longer work-stay.
16. Girona, Spain
Just a 38-minute train ride from Barcelona, Girona is a worthy destination in its own right. The city's most famous view is of the colorful houses lining the Onyar River, with the cathedral rising in the background. Fun fact: the red iron bridge crossing the river was built by Gustave Eiffel before his more famous Parisian creation.
17. Dartmouth, England, UK
For a quintessential English escape, Dartmouth in South Devon is perfect. This charming town on the banks of the River Dart is filled with colorful buildings, quirky shops, and historic pubs. It’s an ideal spot to disconnect from the hustle and focus, with beautiful coastal walks right on your doorstep.
