The capital of Vermont, Montpellier has a distinctly European feel to it. That's probably due to the fact that it was settled by European Americans who named it after a city in France. You can still get a sense for its European ties as you stroll around downtown: historic buildings showcasing European-style architecture, walkable streets, white churches with their spires poking through the changing leaves, Despite that it's a state capital, it still maintains that cozy and quaint New England small town feel. In place of chain restaurants and mega malls, you'll find maple syrup farms, family-run restaurants, art galleries, and tiny bookstores.