20 of the cutest lake European towns

Located on Lake Constance — above Switzerland and Liechtenstein — Konstanz is an ideal stop on any trip through the region. The town has an interesting mix of palm trees, sequoias, and Bavarian architecture. Stroll the shopping streets before continuing to the water and enjoying a lakeside coffee.

Often referred to as the “Venice of the Alps," Annecy is definitely one of the prettiest towns you’ll find in the French mountains. Canals flow right through the candy-colored town and mountain peaks around Lake Annecy, which gives the town its name.

Lausanne is just north of Geneva but feels a world away from the larger city. The chilled-out vibe and more relaxed way of living will have you in full zen mode after just a few hours.

Lecco is one of the numerous towns on the shores of Lake Como. However, it’s one of the best options for visitors because it is well-connected to other parts of Italy and one of the larger options, ensuring plenty of restaurant and accommodation availability.

A lesser-known European lake is Lake Shkodër, also spelled Shkodra or Skadar. It is where Albania and Montenegro meet, so the mountains in both countries create a fabulous backdrop. The town itself isn’t actually on the shore of the lake, as it floods regularly in winter and spring. However, it’s not too far away and full of cute coffee shops and a bunch of bike lanes, as that’s the residents' preferred way to get around.

Like Como, Lake Garda has numerous towns along its shores. Sirmione is a great option for visitors as it is well-placed for sightseeing in the area. It is also uniquely located on a long peninsula that juts into the lake.

Slovenia’s most famous site is the stuff of fairytales. The town located along it, which shares the lake's name, couldn’t be cuter. Stay in treehouses, camp (or "glamp"), and enjoy some of Europe’s best hiking!

If Switzerland is known for anything, it would be mountains and lakes (OK, and chocolate), which is why Lucerne is an ideal place for travelers. The snow-capped mountains tower over the medieval town and Lake Lucerne. It’s also well-located for skiers. 

Lake Balaton is a favorite retreat for Hungarians in summer. And the spa town of Balatonfüred dates back to the mid-1800s in its glamor. Enjoy a relaxing weekend after a visit to Budapest.

Ireland might be better known for its breathtaking coastline, but Killarney National Park is full of beautiful lakes and great drives. Killarney town, the start of the Kerry scenic drive, is right next to the largest, Lough Leane, which is perfect for photos.

There are many quaint towns in the UK’s Lakes District, but not all of them are actually located along a lake. Keswick, though, set back from Derwentwater Lake, where visitors can take boat and paddle tours during the warmer months.

Hallstatt might just be Austria’s most famous location, even more so than Vienna. And for good reason, as this snowglobe-esque town along Lake Hallstatt is straight off a movie set. For the best view, arrive by train or bus, which will drop you at the station opposite town. To reach Hallstatt, take a quick ferry ride with unmatched views as you arrive.

Lake Ohrid is one of the Balkan's best-kept secrets. It’s a great resort gem where your dollars go much further than Como or Annecy. And the ancient town where you’ll stay is full of ruins to explore, trendy wine bars, and amazing coffee.

Greece is better known for its Mediterranean islands, but head north on the mainland, and you’ll find plenty of lakes. Kastoria is located on Lake Orestiada’s western shore and is a great alternative summer retreat. While every tourist flocks to Santorini and Corfu, you’ll have Kastoria mostly to yourself.

Another Lake District favorite, charming Loweswater, is located by the lake of the same name. Go hiking in summer and then cool off with a dip in the water.

Finland is the land of the lakes, as you’re spoilt for options in the country. Savonlinna is a favorite due to its ideal location in the heart of the Saimaa Lake region. The town is large enough to have all the amenities you could need while still small enough for respite.

The Black Forest isn’t all fairytales and enchanted trees. There are also some fantastic lakes to check out. And on the outskirts is the beautiful Lake Titisee.

The Andalusia region of Spain is unique in geography and climate. And Iznájar is a great place to enjoy all of it along the shores of the large water reservoir and lake.

This small town in southern Finland is where you go if you really want to “get away” from it all. Go fishing, take a cold plunge, or enjoy a traditional Finnish spa with lake views.

Norway has a famous Atlantic Ocean route, but its lakes aren’t to be missed. Lake Skomakerdiket is a remote lake that can be reached by foot (or ski in winter) from the town of Fløyen.