Starting with a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors revealed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor questioned about their selection. But the initial doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming town offers more than swimming. Tourists can wander through ornate public squares and stone-paved alleys lined with bustling eateries. Man-made diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and beverages with warm hospitality.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue is immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, complete with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often moved to make space to dance. Open late, the bar occasionally features live music, making for a memorable night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet getaway. Travelers can hike to the top of a hill and ascend a tall twisting platform for stunning vistas over green landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture is on display through rustic dining with hearty food and folk music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific folk artist, and the main area has several mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. Featuring three beautiful white sand coastlines, its vibrant centre is active every night with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a local feel at a fraction of the cost. The lodging offered direct access to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from nearby cities. But, this line is potentially threatened of shutting down. The trip passes over photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are urged to ride 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 Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is free, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This undiscovered area offers wide-open vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of wildlife. The trail follows along marshes bordering an estuary, where wrecks of boats lie. A walk can start at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a charming town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The trip involves constant bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent vistas. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also presents the potential for seeing animals, completing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a vibrant city takes visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along tree-lined roads flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is relaxed, frequently interrupted by local felines and chances to look back at the far-off city. The ferry back is often spent planning plans for a comeback to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a archive that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of ancient tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features detailed old maps and
