From a Venice-like Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known alpine train line in France, travelers revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their selection. But the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This picturesque location provides more than swimming. Guests can wander through beautiful public squares and cobbled lanes filled with bustling places to eat. Man-made platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Local spots provide delicious pastries and beverages with warm service.
Vintage Tunes in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue offers great enjoyment. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ using just vinyl records. Furniture are routinely moved to allow for space to dance. Operating late, the bar occasionally has performances, guaranteeing a great experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene retreat. Travelers can hike to the peak of a hill and go up a large spiral viewing tower for breathtaking vistas over green pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional dining offering substantial food and traditional music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area has a number of medicinal taps to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. With three stunning pristine coastlines, its bustling town center thrives nightly with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a local atmosphere at a fraction of the price. Accommodation provided easy access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb excursion from nearby cities. However, this service is potentially under threat of shutting down. The trip passes over breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to see this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable attractions and is accessible by boat from several countries. The landscape is striking, with shores, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This undiscovered landscape boasts wide-open views, marine life offshore, and an array of birds. The coast path winds along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where remains of ships are visible. A journey can start at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The journey involves constant switchbacks to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, directly. The drive also presents the potential for spotting bears, adding to the memorable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A short ferry ride from a major city transports visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, explorers meander along historic streets flanked by historic houses. The feel is slow, frequently interrupted by resident felines and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is often accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Housed behind a Gothic building is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of magnificent volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features exquisite 16th-century maps and
