Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known alpine railway in France, travelers have shared their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their choice. But the first hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This charming town offers beyond just a swim. Tourists can wander through ornate piazzas and cobbled alleys lined with busy seafood restaurants. Concrete platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town provide delicious pastries and drinks with friendly service.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ spinning only records. Seating are sometimes cleared to allow for space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times hosts performances, ensuring a memorable night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Travelers are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and go up a large twisting lookout for stunning views over lush pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture is on display through rustic restaurants with robust fare and folk music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the central spa features multiple mineral taps to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent find. With several wonderful sandy shores, its vibrant centre comes alive every night with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a more authentic feel at a much lower of the price. The lodging provided direct access to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb journey from nearby cities. But, the route is said to be at risk of being closed. The ride features photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Tourists are advised to ride this unique line while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A historical location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base established by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This secret landscape offers sweeping views, marine life in the water, and an array of birds. The coast path meanders along marshes flanking an river mouth, where remains of old vessels are visible. A walk can commence at a very old place of worship, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The drive involves numerous bends to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking vistas. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the potential for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A quick journey from a major city takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy is replaced for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along quiet streets featuring beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, with time paused by friendly cats and chances to gaze back at the distant mainland. The trip home is usually spent planning ideas for a comeback to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Located behind a Gothic church is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds a vast collection of rare books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
