From a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a little-known mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their most memorable finds from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their decision. Yet the early doubts soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents more than swimming. Tourists may meander through ornate public squares and cobbled passageways housing vibrant places to eat. Concrete platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Places in town offer delicious pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Retro Music in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed music bar offers immense fun. The vibe is fantastic, with a DJ using only records. Seating are sometimes cleared to create space to dance. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes features live music, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a serene getaway. Guests may walk to the peak of a ski run and go up a tall wooden platform for breathtaking panoramas over verdant landscapes. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through traditional restaurants offering robust food and music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre has multiple mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Boasting three wonderful sandy coastlines, its bustling center thrives every night with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location provided a genuine feel at a a quarter of the price. A hotel offered convenient entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb journey from nearby cities. However, the route is said to be at risk of being closed. The journey passes over breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to see this unique line before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by coastline, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress established by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is free, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to stroll for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This secret world boasts wide-open vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail follows along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remains of ships can be seen. A journey can start at a ancient church, one of the oldest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in June. The drive requires constant switchbacks to ascend the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Drivers can access a mountain lake, still covered in snow, by car. The route also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A quick boat trip from a major metropolis transports people to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, explorers meander along tree-lined lanes flanked by historic houses. The feel is relaxed, often broken by resident felines and opportunities to stare back at the distant city. The trip home is usually accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this incredible retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a 14th-century building is a archive that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition features detailed 16th-century cartography and
