ALLTOURS

How do you judge whether a city is good for real life, not just a vacation?

1. The Subterranean Homes of Opal Country

Coober Pedy, Australia

Many residents of this remote Australian town live entirely underground to escape the scorching desert heat.

2. Houses Under the Rock

Setenil de las Bodegas, Spain

This Andalusian village features houses built directly into and beneath massive overhanging rock formations, making the cliff itself part of the architecture.

3. The Ancient Cave City Rediscovered

Matera, Italy

Matera is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited settlements, where ancient cave dwellings known as 'Sassi' have been home to people for over 9,000 years.

4. The Village Saved by Cats

Houtong Cat Village, Taiwan

This former coal mining village, once on the brink of abandonment, was spectacularly revitalized by its thriving population of friendly stray cats.

5. Medieval Walls Over a Modern Sea

Monsaraz, Portugal

This impeccably preserved medieval walled village sits atop a hill, offering panoramic views over Europe's largest artificial lake, the Alqueva reservoir.

6. The Roadless Water Village

Giethoorn, Netherlands

Often called the 'Venice of the North,' this Dutch village has no roads; its residents travel exclusively by boat along a network of charming canals.

7. A Living Windmill Museum

Zaanse Schans, Netherlands

More than just a museum, Zaanse Schans is a living, working neighborhood where traditional Dutch crafts and industries, like cheesemaking and clog production, continue daily.

8. Wild Coast of Seal Pups and Arches

Wharariki Beach, New Zealand

This remote, wild beach on New Zealand's South Island is famous for its dramatic sea stacks and a nursery for fur seal pups, often only accessible during low tide.

UNLOCK THE STORY

Discover the Real Story Behind Every Place You See

Ready to dive deeper? Point your phone camera at any landscape or landmark and hear its history, geology, and culture narrated instantly in your language.