Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a little-known alpine train line in France, travelers disclosed their standout finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their choice. Yet the initial suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement provides beyond just a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and narrow alleys filled with bustling eateries. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer crisp pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Retro Music in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed music bar is great enjoyment. The vibe is terrific, with a DJ using just vinyl records. Seating are sometimes cleared to make dancing. Open late, the bar at times features live music, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a peaceful getaway. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and go up a giant twisting lookout for breathtaking vistas over green pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture is on display through rustic restaurants offering hearty fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the main area features multiple medicinal taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. With multiple wonderful sandy shores, its vibrant town center thrives nightly with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot provided a local feel at a much lower of the price. The lodging offered convenient access to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect excursion from nearby cities. But, this service is reportedly at risk of shutting down. The journey passes over spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Travelers are advised to see this picturesque railway soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is striking, characterized by coastline, forests, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base built by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can stroll for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This secret landscape provides wide-open views, marine life offshore, and an array of birds. The trail follows along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A walk can commence at a very old church, among the earliest in England, and finish in a quaint town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The trip requires constant bends to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent vistas. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The journey also offers the opportunity for wildlife sightings, completing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a major city transports people to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined roads featuring grand mansions. The rhythm is leisurely, with time paused by local cats and moments to gaze back at the far-off city. The return journey is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of magnificent books, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition features gorgeous 16th-century maps and
