Kalkan, Turkey

This quaint fishing town on Turkey's southern coast may seem idyllic, but the reality is Kalkan's population of just 3,926 (2022) means you'll be a small fish in a small pond. The town's historical white-washed houses and bougainvillea-draped charm do draw tourists, who made up 96% of visitors in 2011 according to a survey. However, the town's isolation - it's the only safe harbor between Kaş and Fethiye - means bureaucracy and transportation are persistent headaches. Those seeking a romantic getaway close to Europe may find Kalkan appealing, but for most, the trade-offs outweigh the seaside allure.