15 Historic Towns That Are Easy Day Trips From Major Cities

Sometimes the best part of a big-city trip is the quick escape. Just beyond the noise and crowds, there are charming towns packed with history, cobbled streets, and postcard views—all within a few hours’ reach. Whether you’re craving medieval vibes, ancient ruins, or Renaissance beauty, these 15 historic towns are perfect day trips from major cities around the world. Easy to reach, hard to forget.

1. Toledo – from Madrid, Spain

Just 30 minutes by high-speed train from Madrid, Toledo is like a living museum perched on a hill above the Tagus River. Once the capital of Spain, the city blends Christian, Jewish, and Islamic history in its stunning churches, mosques, and synagogues. Walking through Toledo feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages, with narrow alleys, stone walls, and sword-making shops. You can visit the massive Toledo Cathedral, tour the old Jewish Quarter, and enjoy panoramic views from the city walls—all in a single day.

2. Bruges – from Brussels, Belgium

Bruges is a fairytale town just one hour by train from Brussels. Its cobblestone streets, canals, and medieval buildings are beautifully preserved, giving it an almost dreamlike feel. You can climb the Belfry tower for sweeping views, visit chocolate shops and lace boutiques, or take a boat ride through the city’s waterways. It’s compact enough to explore on foot and rich enough in history to make every corner feel like a postcard.

3. Cesky Krumlov – from Prague, Czech Republic

Although it takes about two hours to reach from Prague, Cesky Krumlov is absolutely worth the trip. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its baroque architecture, winding streets, and the stunning Krumlov Castle that overlooks the Vltava River. The entire town feels untouched by time, with colorful buildings, riverside cafés, and peaceful gardens. You can easily spend a day exploring its alleyways and enjoying a slow lunch with a castle view.

4. Nara – from Kyoto or Osaka, Japan

Just under an hour from either Kyoto or Osaka, Nara is full of temples, shrines, and wide green parks. It was Japan’s first permanent capital and is home to some of the country’s oldest and most important landmarks, including Todai-ji Temple and its giant bronze Buddha. The friendly deer that roam Nara Park are famous, and feeding them is a quirky tradition for visitors. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect contrast to Japan’s bustling cities.

5. Évora – from Lisbon, Portugal

A 90-minute drive or bus ride from Lisbon, Évora is a charming town filled with Roman and medieval history. You’ll find the Temple of Diana, a cathedral dating back to the 12th century, and a chapel lined with human bones—all within walking distance. Évora’s whitewashed buildings and tiled streets make for a relaxing stroll, and the local cuisine is a bonus for food lovers. It’s a great place to get a taste of Portugal’s deep historical roots without leaving modern comforts behind.

6. Sintra – from Lisbon, Portugal

Only 40 minutes from Lisbon by train, Sintra looks like it came from a fantasy novel. The colorful Pena Palace sits atop a misty hill, while the ruins of the Moorish Castle offer panoramic views of the surrounding forests. The town itself is full of charm, with narrow lanes, tiled houses, and cozy pastry shops. You can visit palaces, hike through gardens, and still be back in Lisbon in time for dinner.

7. Bath – from London, UK

Just 90 minutes from London by train, Bath offers Roman ruins, Georgian architecture, and a whole lot of elegance. The Roman Baths are the main attraction, but the entire town is steeped in history and charm. You can visit the Jane Austen Centre, relax in the Thermae Bath Spa, or enjoy tea in a historic tearoom. The honey-colored buildings and quiet streets make Bath feel like another world, even though it’s just outside the capital.

8. Giverny – from Paris, France

About an hour from Paris (train and short taxi or bike ride), Giverny is famous as the home of Impressionist painter Claude Monet. His house and gardens, with their lily ponds and arched bridges, inspired many of his most famous works. The town itself is peaceful and artistic, with small cafés, galleries, and views of the Normandy countryside. It’s a relaxing and picturesque escape from the city’s buzz.

9. Delft – from Amsterdam, Netherlands

A 50-minute train ride from Amsterdam brings you to Delft, a peaceful canal city known for its blue-and-white pottery and historic charm. The town is home to charming squares, historic churches, and markets that feel straight out of a painting. You can climb the tower of the Nieuwe Kerk or visit the Royal Delft Factory to learn about the city’s iconic ceramics. It’s ideal for a relaxed day of wandering and admiring classic Dutch scenery.

10. Segovia – from Madrid, Spain

Just an hour by train from Madrid, Segovia offers one of the most dramatic Roman ruins in the world: a massive, perfectly preserved aqueduct that cuts through the center of the city. The Alcázar of Segovia—a fairytale-like castle—is perched on a cliff and looks like it inspired Disney. Add to that a towering cathedral and delicious local cuisine like roast suckling pig, and you’ve got a day trip packed with history and flavor.

11. Sighișoara – from Cluj or Brasov, Romania

A few hours from either Cluj or Brasov, Sighișoara is a colorful hilltop town that claims to be the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (the real-life Dracula). Its medieval streets, towers, and churches are well-preserved and free of tourist overload. You can climb the Clock Tower, visit the tiny Weapon Museum, or just enjoy the pastel-colored houses and cobbled alleys. It’s one of Romania’s best-kept secrets and a favorite among history buffs.

12. Puebla – from Mexico City, Mexico

Roughly two hours by bus from Mexico City, Puebla combines colonial beauty with culinary excellence. The historic center is a UNESCO site full of tiled buildings, ornate churches, and bustling markets. It’s also the birthplace of mole poblano, one of Mexico’s most iconic dishes. Between the architecture and the food, Puebla offers a rich, satisfying escape from the capital’s hustle.

13. Kamakura – from Tokyo, Japan

Just an hour south of Tokyo by train, Kamakura is a historic coastal town that was once a political capital of Japan. It’s famous for its Great Buddha statue, peaceful temples, and forested hiking trails. You can explore bamboo groves, walk along the beach, and even enjoy matcha ice cream at a local café. Kamakura’s laid-back vibe is a welcome contrast to Tokyo’s pace.

14. Heidelberg – from Frankfurt, Germany

Less than an hour by train from Frankfurt, Heidelberg is a postcard-perfect university town with a romantic flair. The ruins of Heidelberg Castle overlook the Neckar River, and the Old Town is full of cafés, bookshops, and historic charm. The Philosopher’s Walk across the river offers one of the best views in Germany. Whether you’re after nature, history, or atmosphere, Heidelberg delivers it all.

15. Meknes – from Fes, Morocco

Only an hour by train from Fes, Meknes is often overshadowed by its famous neighbor but holds its own with imperial architecture and a more laid-back feel. It has a vast royal palace, grand gates, and quiet souks where you can explore without the crowds. You can also visit the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis if you have extra time. Meknes offers a more grounded, less touristy look at Moroccan heritage.