From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten mountain railway in France, travelers revealed their standout finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after stepping off the bus, a traveler questioned about their selection. Yet the early doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location presents more than a swim. Tourists can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and narrow lanes lined with bustling places to eat. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer crisp pastries and beverages with warm hospitality.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For lovers of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue offers great enjoyment. The ambiance is terrific, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are often pushed aside to create dancing. Open late, the bar at times features performances, guaranteeing a fantastic evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful escape. Guests may walk to the top of a ski run and climb a tall spiral platform for breathtaking views over green pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional dining with hearty food and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre features several medicinal taps to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent choice. Featuring multiple stunning white sand shores, its lively town center comes alive every night with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location delivered a local experience at a fraction of the price. Accommodation provided convenient entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from a nearby city. However, this line is said to be under threat of being closed. The trip passes over breathtaking viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are advised to ride this picturesque railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is attractive, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This hidden landscape boasts sweeping vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of wildlife. The trail meanders along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where remnants of ships can be seen. A journey can start at a very old church, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The drive involves many bends to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking vistas. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The drive also presents the chance for wildlife sightings, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis transports visitors to a car-free island. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along quiet streets lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, with time broken by local cats and chances to stare back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is usually accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this special place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a historic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses numerous of magnificent tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection showcases gorgeous old cartography and