From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, travelers disclosed their standout finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after arriving, an explorer questioned about their choice. But the early suspicions rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town presents beyond just swimming. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and narrow passageways filled with vibrant eateries. Man-made platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and refreshments with genuine hospitality.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated club promises immense fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Seating are routinely pushed aside to make space to dance. Staying open late into the night, the bar at times has live bands, ensuring a fantastic evening.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a peaceful retreat. Guests can hike to the summit of a hill and climb a large twisting platform for stunning panoramas over lush pastures. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage is on display through rustic restaurants with hearty fare and music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the central spa boasts several spring taps to try.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful choice. Boasting multiple stunning white sand beaches, its lively center comes alive every night with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location delivered a more authentic feel at a much lower of the price. A hotel offered easy entry to the shore and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from nearby cities. However, this line is said to be under threat of shutting down. The journey includes breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to see this special line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, with coastline, woods, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can walk for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This secret area offers wide-open vistas, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path winds along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of boats are visible. A walk can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the most ancient in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip involves numerous switchbacks to navigate the steep southern section of the Carpathians, providing excellent vistas. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, often covered in snow, by car. The journey also includes the potential for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A short boat trip from a major city transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along historic streets flanked by grand mansions. The rhythm is leisurely, with time interrupted by resident cats and moments to gaze back at the far-off city. The return journey is often filled with ideas for a comeback to this unique place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition includes gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
