Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their standout encounters from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler questioned about their selection. Yet the first doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming location offers more than a swim. Tourists can wander through beautiful public squares and cobbled alleys filled with bustling eateries. Man-made diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Vintage Tunes in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, featuring a DJ using only records. Seating are often cleared to allow for dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times features live bands, ensuring a fantastic experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful getaway. Visitors can hike to the peak of a ski run and go up a large wooden platform for breathtaking vistas over verdant fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional restaurants offering hearty fare and music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the central spa features several mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent discovery. Featuring three beautiful white sand beaches, its bustling center is active nightly with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot delivered a more authentic feel at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation provided easy access to the beach and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect journey from the region. However, this service is reportedly at risk of closure. The trip features spectacular viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to ride this unique railway while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, featuring shores, woods, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This undiscovered landscape offers wide-open views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The path winds along estuarine flanking an estuary, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A hike can commence at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip features many turns to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering incredible vistas. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The journey also includes the opportunity for seeing animals, completing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A short journey from a vibrant metropolis transports people to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, explorers walk along quiet streets flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is relaxed, often broken by friendly felines and opportunities to look back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Located behind a historic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of ancient books, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
