Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a little-known alpine railway in France, travelers have shared their most memorable discoveries from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their selection. However the first suspicions quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town presents beyond just a swim. Tourists can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and narrow passageways housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Nearby establishments offer flaky pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For aficionados of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized music bar offers immense fun. The atmosphere is terrific, with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are often pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times features live bands, ensuring a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene retreat. Travelers can hike to the peak of a hill and climb a large twisting viewing tower for breathtaking views over lush pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional restaurants with robust food and folk music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a noted painter, and the central spa has a number of medicinal water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. Boasting several stunning sandy beaches, its bustling center is active nightly with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot delivered a more authentic feel at a much lower of the price. The lodging offered easy access to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from nearby cities. However, the route is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The journey features photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to ride this unique railway soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, featuring coastline, forests, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost built by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can walk for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This undiscovered area provides sweeping vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The path follows along marshes bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A journey can begin at a ancient place of worship, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive features many switchbacks to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the opportunity for seeing animals, enhancing the memorable experience.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief journey from a vibrant city transports travelers to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors walk along historic lanes featuring grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, with time interrupted by friendly felines and opportunities to gaze back at the far-off city. The return journey is often accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a 14th-century building is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of rare volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases gorgeous old maps and