Are you a color lover and travel enthusiast? Then this post is for you! There are so many colorful places in the world waiting to be discovered. They will surely add a pop of hue to your travels as you explore these cheerful towns.
From the pastel-colored houses of Burano, Italy, to the umbrellas hanging above the streets in Agueda, Portugal, to the tropical hues of Havana, Cuba, there is a rainbow of destinations waiting to be explored.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons why you should consider visiting these colorful places all over the world, and what makes each one truly unique and special. So sit back, grab a glass of your favorite hue, and travel this world through your favorite colors!
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1. Nubian Village, Aswan
Visiting the colorful Nubian village in Aswan is a must for anyone looking for colorful places to travel to. This charming village is known for its intricately decorated houses made of clay mud. In fact, when it rains which is a rare occasion they might crumble and fall down.
The Nubian people are renowned for their warm hospitality and you’ll truly feel at home when you visit. The Nubian people pride themselves in their culture. Singing in dancing is a custom they hold to their heart.
In addition to its cultural significance, the village is also located near the stunning banks of the Nile River. Here you will find breathtaking views and a chance to relax in a peaceful and picturesque setting.
In addition to its cultural significance, the village is also located near the stunning banks of the Nile River. Here you will find breathtaking views and a chance to relax in a peaceful and picturesque setting.
Overall, visiting the Nubian village in Aswan is a truly enriching experience, combining cultural exploration with natural beauty and a chance to immerse oneself in the local way of life. To really get the Nubian experience be sure to stay the night at a hotel like Anakato (booking link here) which is where the first picture above was taken!
Read the full blog post here which talks about my personal experience visiting this unique village.
2. Bo-Kaap, Cape Town, South Africa
Bo-Kaap, located in Cape Town, South Africa, is a neighborhood famous for its brightly colored homes and cobblestone streets. This area has a full of history, being one of the earliest settlements of Cape Malay people who arrived as slaves from Malaysia, Indonesia, and other parts of Africa.
The houses painted in all colors of the rainbow started as a way for the residents to express their cultural identity and independence after being freed from slavery. Today, Bo-Kaap is a hub for art, music, and cuisine, with its narrow alleyways leading to charming cafes and a plethora of community centers.
A visit to Bo-Kaap is not just about admiring the colorful homes, it’s also about immersing yourself in the cultural traditions of the Cape Malay community. From sampling the spicy and aromatic local cuisine to observing the traditional Islamic practices and ceremonies to experiencing the lively music and dance performances,
Bo-Kaap truly provides a glimpse into the diverse and interesting culture of South Africa.
3. Burano, Italy
Burano, Italy is a small island located a 30 minute boat ride from Venice. It is known for its brightly painted houses in all shades of the rainbow. This charming town is a photographer’s dream, with each corner offering a new and vibrant backdrop. To visit, you can take a day trip like this one from Venice.
The origin of the colorful houses started in the 16th century when fishermen wanted to easily identify their homes from a distance while out at sea. Today, the tradition continues and the houses are painted in bright hues to make the island even more colorful and picturesque.
A visit to Burano is not just about admiring the colorful houses, but finding yourself becoming accustomed to the relaxed pace of life in this fishing village. You’ll find yourself wandering through the colorful alley ways, sampling local seafood, and observing the skilled artisans creating traditional lace. Burano is a destination that is full of cheer and will most definitely bring a smile to your face.
If you’d like to really get the experience, stay overnight when all the tourists have left you will have the place to yourself! Casa Burano or Venissa Wine Resort are both wonderful options for an overnight stay.
4. Guanajuato, Mexico
Guanajuato located in central Mexico is one of the most colorful places in the world. With its narrow cobblestone streets and brightly painted homes, you can see how it’s become a color lovers’ dream.
The town has so much to offer as it’s full of amazing museums, galleries, and theaters. Be sure to visit the picturesque plazas and witness the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Guanajuato can’t be missed if you’re looking for colorful destinations.
5. Jodhpur, India
Jodhpur, known as the “Sun City” of India, due to the sun always shining and the desert landscape. It is is another colorful destination to add to your bucketlist. This historic city is located in the Rajasthan and is less visited than Jaipur, the Pink City. Most of the homes in Jodhpur are painted bright blue and you can see from above this magical blue city with the desert perched in the backdrop.
Jodhpur is a city full of many magnificent forts and palaces, including the famous Mehrangarh Fort, which showcases the beautiful architecture of the city. In addition to its historical sites, you’ve got to try Jodhpur’s magnificent street food culture and shop the bazaars. The city is bustling with energy and is a different place to experience.
6. Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre is located on the rugged and picturesque coastline in the Liguria region of Italy. This colorful town promises to take your breath away. The five fishing villages that makeup Cinque Terre include Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. All of the villages are connected by stunning hiking trails which offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Each of the villages has something different to offer, with its own unique character and colors. If you have limited time then don’t miss the best few which would be Riomaggiore, Manarola, and, Vernazza. All doable within a day unless you’d like to spend more time hiking.
Read my full blog post on Cinque Terre here
7. Havana, Cuba
Havana, the stunning capital of Cuba, is a city exploding with history, color, and energy. You’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time especially after seeing so many cool classic American cars cruising the streets.
There are many things to do in Havana. For example, eating amazing Cuban food, visiting the many museums or theaters, or simply wandering through the narrow streets of Old Havana.
Havana is also known for its lively music scene, with salsa bars offering a glimpse into the city’s passion for music. The colorful markets, lively street life, and delicious street food only add to the city’s charm.
8. Agueda, Portugal
Agueda, Portugal is one of the most colorful places in the world and is often referred to as the “Colorful Umbrella Town.” This town is known for its installation developed by the Umbrella Sky Project. of brightly colored umbrellas that cover the streets, creating a stunning canopy of color overhead. The umbrellas not only add a pop of color to the town but also provide shade to the hot humid summers. You’ll also find so much beautiful street art around the town like painted stairways and graffiti.
Those visiting the colorful umbrella town can expect to be the most creative atmosphere full of art installations and a happy vibe. Beyond the umbrellas, Agueda is also home to beautiful architecture, and a town center full of only locals, making it a true hidden gem to discover.
☂️ Read more about the Colorful Umbrella Streets Around the World and my full blog post on The Umbrella Street In Agueda, Portugal
9. Chefchaouen, Morocco
Chefchaouen, located in the Rif Mountains of Morocco, is another blue city like Jodhpur mentioned in this post. This colorful town is more under-the-radar than other busy Morrocan cities offering a peaceful escape if that’s what you’re after. Here you can really soak in the calming environment and get acquainted with the different cultural customs.
Spend your day perusing the winding streets, relaxing in one of the many cafes, and also enjoying the sunshine on one of the town’s terraces. The stunning blue hue of the buildings with the surrounding mountain landscape is one of the most serene atmospheres you can experience.
10. Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena is located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia in South America. This city explodes with color and the streets are incredibly fun and beautiful.
The city has well-preserved fortifications and is surrounded by a wall. There are so many narrow cobblestone streets and colorful homes. Cartagena has a great music scene and you’ll find many outdoor concerts and street parties taking place throughout the city.
Cartagena is another colorful destination you must add to your bucket list.
Checkout the visual story on the Most Colorful Places in the World
For more reading, you may also like:
🌈 Colorful Umbrella Streets Around the World
☂️ The Umbrella Street In Portugal
💙 Exploring Egypt’s colorful Nubian Village in Aswan
⚓ Burano, Venice, a colorful fisherman’s island
🤫Travel Secrets & Tips
💎 Best Hidden Gems in Europe
📸 Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
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