Readers' Top Travel Discoveries of This Year: Secret Spots Around the Globe

Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked alpine train line in France, visitors disclosed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.

A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline

Shortly after arriving, one visitor wondered about their selection. But the first hesitations quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming location offers beyond just a swim. Tourists may meander through beautiful Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes lined with vibrant eateries. Concrete jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Places in town offer flaky pastries and beverages with genuine hospitality.

Classic Sounds in Germany's Capital

For fans of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul music, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue offers a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, complete with a DJ using just vinyl records. Chairs and tables are sometimes moved to create space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally features live music, ensuring a fantastic night out.

Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town

Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful getaway. Travelers can hike to the summit of a hill and go up a giant twisting lookout for stunning views over verdant fields. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture can be experienced through rustic restaurants offering substantial food and traditional music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a noted folk artist, and the central spa has several medicinal water sources to sample.

Sardinian Seaside Treasure

The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Featuring three stunning white sand coastlines, its vibrant center comes alive nightly with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town delivered a genuine experience at a a quarter of the price. A hotel provided convenient entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.

A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France

Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from nearby cities. But, the route is reportedly threatened of shutting down. The trip includes photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Tourists are urged to see this unique line soon.

Archipelago History in the Baltic

The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, with rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and subsequently demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is without charge, with a ticket for the information center.

Coastal Tranquility in England

One can walk for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This secret area boasts sweeping views, seals offshore, and an abundance of birds. The trail follows along estuarine bordering an estuary, where wrecks of ships are visible. A journey can begin at a 7th-century church, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a charming town with pubs, museums, and wineries.

Engineering Feat in Romania

Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually reopens in June. The drive features constant bends to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing incredible vistas. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, by car. The route also presents the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.

Island Escape Close to a Metropolis

A brief ferry ride from a major metropolis transports people to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers meander along quiet roads lined with historic houses. The rhythm is relaxed, frequently interrupted by friendly felines and moments to stare back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is often accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this unique place.

Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France

Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a historic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains thousands of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes gorgeous old maps and