From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, travelers disclosed their most unforgettable discoveries from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, a traveler wondered about their decision. However the initial doubts quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque settlement presents beyond just a swim. Tourists can wander through ornate piazzas and stone-paved lanes lined with busy seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots offer flaky pastries and beverages with genuine hospitality.
Classic Tunes in Berlin
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, with a DJ playing only vinyl records. Seating are often moved to allow for space to dance. Staying open late into the night, the bar occasionally has live bands, making for a great experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Travelers can hike to the peak of a hill and go up a giant twisting lookout for magnificent vistas over verdant fields. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional dining serving robust food and music. A gallery displays the work of a noted painter, and the main area has multiple mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. Boasting three stunning white sand beaches, its lively town center is active in the evenings with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a more authentic feel at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel featured convenient entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from the region. Yet, this line is said to be threatened of being closed. The ride passes over breathtaking viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to ride this unique line before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in England
It is possible to stroll for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This undiscovered landscape boasts expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birds. The coast path winds along marshes flanking an river mouth, where remains of old vessels lie. A walk can begin at a ancient church, among the oldest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The drive features many switchbacks to ascend the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent views. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the potential for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief journey from a major metropolis transports visitors to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, guests stroll along quiet lanes featuring grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, frequently paused by local felines and moments to look back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a comeback to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a historic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses thousands of magnificent tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The display showcases gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
