With its tropical islands, rice paddies, tea plantations, rugged mountains and sprawling megacities, Asia is a wonderland of diverse destinations.
Among the mix, travelers can discover charming towns that deliver big on romance, history and beauty.
Whether you’re looking for the grandeur of colonial-era architecture, stunning scenery or remote cultural immersion, here are 13 of the most beautiful towns in Asia.
Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An’s Old Town is a heaven for photographers, foodies and architecture lovers.
Added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1999, the former French colonial trade port has been one of the most commercially vital towns in Vietnam since the 16th century.
And thanks to centuries as an important trade hub, the narrow streets of Old Town Hoi An feature rows and rows of charming mustard-hued merchant houses – though many have since been transformed into low-key restaurants, bars, design boutiques and tailors’ shops.
Adding to the atmosphere, lush foliage spills from the rooftops and, come evening, romantic silk lanterns light up the town.
While you’re there, don’t miss the array of delicious food experiences, from banh mi at ever-popular Banh Mi Phuong or local staples like herb-covered rice rolls, white rose dumplings and fresh seafood at Miss Ly’s Cafe.
Yufuin, Japan
George Town, Malaysia
Luang Prabang, Laos
Kampot, Cambodia
Kota Gede, Indonesia
