From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked alpine train line in France, travelers revealed their standout finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after arriving, a traveler wondered about their choice. But the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque location provides beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through ornate public squares and cobbled lanes lined with vibrant places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town offer flaky pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Vintage Tunes in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul music, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar is great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ playing just vinyl. Seating are routinely cleared to create dancing. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes features live music, making for a memorable experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene escape. Travelers are able to climb to the summit of a slope and climb a large twisting viewing tower for breathtaking views over green landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture can be felt through rustic dining with substantial food and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a renowned painter, and the main area features multiple mineral taps to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant find. Boasting three stunning sandy coastlines, its bustling center thrives nightly with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town offered a genuine experience at a much lower of the cost. A hotel offered easy access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from the region. Yet, the route is potentially threatened of shutting down. The trip passes over spectacular stone arches around the town of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Travelers are advised to see this special railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The landscape is striking, with rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This undiscovered area offers expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birds. The trail meanders along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remains of boats lie. A hike can commence at a ancient chapel, among the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The drive requires constant switchbacks to ascend the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking vistas. Travelers can access a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also presents the opportunity for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a vibrant city transports visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, guests meander along quiet lanes lined with grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, often broken by local cats and moments to stare back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is usually filled with plans for a next visit to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Housed behind a Gothic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features exquisite 16th-century cartography and
