From a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a little-known mountain railway in France, travelers have shared their most memorable finds from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their decision. However the early hesitations quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town offers beyond just a swim. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled alleys filled with vibrant eateries. Concrete diving platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Nearby establishments provide flaky pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized venue promises a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, featuring a DJ spinning just records. Chairs and tables are sometimes moved to make dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times has live bands, making for a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet escape. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a hill and ascend a large wooden platform for stunning panoramas over lush pastures. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic restaurants with robust food and folk music. A museum showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the central spa features a number of mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant choice. Boasting several stunning sandy coastlines, its vibrant center comes alive in the evenings with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a local atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. A hotel offered direct access to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey 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 superb day trip from nearby cities. However, the route is reportedly threatened of being closed. The trip passes over breathtaking viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Tourists are encouraged to see this special line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is attractive, characterized by coastline, forests, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost constructed by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This undiscovered area boasts expansive vistas, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birds. The path meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where remains of ships lie. A walk can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically opens in June. The drive involves constant switchbacks to ascend the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking views. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The journey also includes the potential for seeing animals, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a vibrant metropolis transports visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined streets flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, often interrupted by friendly cats and opportunities to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is usually spent planning ideas for a comeback to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a historic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses a vast collection of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display features gorgeous old cartography and
