From a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor pondered about their decision. Yet the first suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement presents beyond just a swim. Tourists may meander through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved alleys lined with vibrant eateries. Concrete platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and drinks with friendly service.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul music, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ using exclusively records. Seating are sometimes moved to allow for space to dance. Staying open late, the bar sometimes hosts live bands, making for a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a peaceful getaway. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a hill and climb a large spiral viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over verdant fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic cuisine with robust dishes and music. A museum showcases the work of a noted painter, and the main area boasts a number of mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. With multiple wonderful sandy beaches, its bustling centre is active in the evenings with residents. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town offered a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the price. A hotel featured convenient access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from nearby cities. However, this line is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The ride includes breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Tourists are urged to ride this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is striking, with shores, forests, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This hidden landscape offers wide-open vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path winds along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where remains of ships lie. A hike can start at a very old chapel, among the earliest in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in early summer. The journey features many turns to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a bustling city transports people to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined roads lined with beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, frequently broken by local felines and opportunities to look back at the distant mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a future return to this special sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Located behind a 14th-century church is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition features exquisite old cartography and
