From a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, travelers revealed their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, one visitor questioned about their decision. Yet the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location offers beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and narrow alleys filled with vibrant places to eat. Man-made diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town provide delicious pastries and drinks with friendly service.
Classic Sounds in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue offers a lot of fun. The vibe is terrific, with a DJ using only vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to make dance floor. Operating late, the bar occasionally has performances, making for a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful escape. Guests can hike to the peak of a hill and ascend a large spiral viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over lush landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic cuisine serving hearty fare and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre features multiple spring water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. Boasting multiple stunning sandy coastlines, its lively centre is active in the evenings with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a local feel at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation provided easy a path to the sea and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from nearby cities. Yet, this service is reportedly under threat of closure. The journey includes photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to experience this unique line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable attractions and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is attractive, characterized by coastline, woods, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can hike for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered area offers wide-open vistas, seals offshore, and an array of wildlife. The path meanders along marshes flanking an estuary, where remains of boats can be seen. A hike can begin at a 7th-century church, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The trip requires many turns to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the chance for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a vibrant metropolis transports people to a peaceful island. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers walk along quiet lanes featuring beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, frequently paused by resident felines and opportunities to stare back at the distant city. The trip home is usually accompanied by plans for a next visit to this incredible sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Housed behind a historic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses thousands of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
