From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their standout finds from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their selection. Yet the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This charming settlement offers beyond just swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and narrow passageways filled with bustling eateries. Man-made diving platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town provide flaky pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar at times features live bands, ensuring a great evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful escape. Travelers are able to climb to the summit of a hill and climb a tall twisting viewing tower for stunning vistas over lush landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants with hearty food and music. A museum showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area boasts a number of mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. With several stunning white sand beaches, its bustling center is active nightly with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town offered a genuine feel at a much lower of the price. The lodging provided easy entry to the beach and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great day trip from a nearby city. But, the route is potentially under threat of being closed. The journey features photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to see this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with coastline, forests, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress built by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This hidden area boasts wide-open views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of wildlife. The coast path winds along marshes flanking an estuary, where remains of old vessels lie. A hike can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive features numerous switchbacks to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent vistas. Travelers can access a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The drive also includes the chance for seeing animals, completing the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A quick journey from a vibrant metropolis takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors meander along quiet lanes featuring beautiful homes. The feel is relaxed, often broken by resident cats and chances to gaze back at the far-off city. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a next visit to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a historic building is a archive that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds a vast collection of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
