Underrated Small Towns Near Major Cities Worth Visiting

🇯🇵 Japan: Near Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka

1. Kawagoe (Near Tokyo)
Known as “Little Edo,” Kawagoe is a charming throwback to Japan’s Edo period, with clay-walled warehouses, sweet shops, and historical shrines. It’s only 30 minutes from Tokyo but feels like a time capsule. Don’t miss the bell tower and try the local sweet potato snacks!

2. Uji (Near Kyoto)
While Kyoto gets all the attention for its temples, Uji is a serene gem just 20 minutes south. It's famous for its matcha (green tea), the stunning Byodoin Temple (on the 10 yen coin!), and peaceful river walks. It’s Kyoto’s calm, green sibling.

3. Nara (Near Osaka)
Often overlooked in favor of Osaka and Kyoto, Nara is just under an hour away and home to friendly roaming deer, the towering Great Buddha, and peaceful parkland. It’s the perfect slow-day escape from Osaka’s bustle.

🇵🇹 Portugal: Near Lisbon and Porto

4. Cascais (Near Lisbon)
Just a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon, Cascais is a charming coastal town renowned for its sun, great seafood, and picturesque scenery. With picturesque beaches, pastel houses, and a laid-back vibe, it’s where locals go to escape city life.

5. Guimarães (Near Porto)
Often called the birthplace of Portugal, Guimarães is steeped in medieval history and boasts photogenic alleys. Just an hour from Porto, it’s ideal for a romantic stroll through ancient streets and castle views—without the crowds.

🇫🇷 France: Near Paris and Nice

6. Provins (Near Paris)
About 90 minutes from Paris by train, Provins is a UNESCO-listed medieval town with ramparts, towers, and a rose festival straight out of a storybook. It’s like stepping into a living fairy tale—perfect for a cultural day trip.

7. Èze (Near Nice)
Nestled on a cliff above the French Riviera, Èze is a dramatic, medieval village with sweeping views and botanical gardens. Just a short 25-minute bus ride from Nice, it offers luxury-level beauty without the Nice price tag.

🇮🇪 Ireland: Near Dublin and Cork

8. Howth (Near Dublin)
A quaint fishing village only 30 minutes from Dublin, Howth is known for its cliff walks, castle ruins, and unbeatable fish and chips. It’s where locals go to breathe in fresh sea air and escape the city without going far.

9. Kinsale (Near Cork)
A vibrant harbor town about 30 minutes from Cork, Kinsale is all about color, creativity, and coastlines. With a foodie scene that rivals cities and scenery perfect for seaside strolls, it’s a must-stop for slow travelers.

When traveling, the best experiences often come from the unexpected places—the cobbled alley you didn't plan for, the seaside village you stumble into, or the sleepy town with the best meal of your trip. These small towns are close enough for day trips but special enough to warrant an overnight stay. So the next time you’re mapping out a big-city itinerary, give yourself permission to wander a little off course.

Which hidden gem have you discovered just outside a major city? Share it in the comments or tag us on Instagram @MixedUpTravel.