From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their most memorable discoveries from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after stepping off the bus, one visitor questioned about their decision. But the first doubts quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque location offers beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through beautiful piazzas and cobbled passageways lined with bustling eateries. Concrete jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Places in town provide crisp pastries and refreshments with genuine hospitality.
Vintage Tunes in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar is a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, with a DJ using only vinyl records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Open late, the bar occasionally features live bands, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a serene retreat. Guests may walk to the summit of a ski run and ascend a giant twisting lookout for breathtaking vistas over verdant landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic restaurants with substantial dishes and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa features several medicinal water sources to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. Boasting several stunning pristine beaches, its bustling town center is active nightly with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a more authentic feel at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation offered convenient entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from the region. But, the route is said to be at risk of closure. The trip includes photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to ride this picturesque line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is free, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This undiscovered landscape offers wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birds. The coast path follows along estuarine next to an estuary, where remnants of ships lie. A walk can commence at a very old place of worship, among the oldest in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Closed during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The drive features numerous bends to navigate the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, still covered in snow, directly. The journey also offers the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A short journey from a major city transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along tree-lined streets featuring beautiful homes. The rhythm is relaxed, frequently interrupted by resident felines and moments to look back at the far-off city. The trip home is often spent planning ideas for a next visit to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and
