Riquewihr, France

In France, in Loire River Valley, there is the charming town of Riquewihr. That's a birthplace of the Disney heroine Belle. This charming medieval town was founded in the 15th century. The castle was built by representatives of Wurttemberg Kingdom. Subsequently, a network of winding rocky streets with tiny houses grew next to the castle. Some of them have survived intact to this day. These wonderful half-timbered houses with unique facades represent a major hallmark of the town.

Riquewihr is ideal for hiking, as important landmarks can be found here at every step. During the walk, you can see a lot of old houses with amazing signs. For example, a plate with an image of scissors may mean that a tailor once lived in this house. In the heart of the city, there's a City Hall that is a vivid example of neoclassical style. One of the most unusual architectural landmarks is Maison Schickhardt house with its original angular bay windows.

Place des Trois Eglises houses three major religious attractions at once. Those include the parish church of the 12th century, the church of Notre Dame, which was built in 1337, as well as St. Herard church, which in the 16th century city housed a school for boys. Old fortifications have survived in the city too. It's particularly amazing to walk along the courtyards of old mansions, where hundreds of years ago the wealthiest citizens used to live. Next - Butchart Gardens