Readers' Top Travel Finds of 2025: Hidden Gems Around the Globe
Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors revealed their standout finds from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their decision. However the first hesitations quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This delightful settlement presents more than swimming. Guests may meander through beautiful public squares and stone-paved passageways filled with bustling eateries. Concrete platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Local spots offer flaky pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Classic Music in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated venue promises immense fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning just vinyl records. Seating are routinely cleared to allow for dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times features live music, making for a great evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet retreat. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a hill and ascend a large spiral lookout for magnificent views over verdant fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants serving hearty fare and music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific painter, and the main area has a number of mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent discovery. With several wonderful pristine coastlines, its vibrant centre thrives nightly with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town delivered a genuine feel at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel provided easy access to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from the region. However, this service is potentially threatened of shutting down. The trip passes over breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Tourists are advised to ride this picturesque railway soon.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring shores, woods, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is without charge, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This secret landscape boasts wide-open vistas, seals offshore, and an profusion of wildlife. The coast path meanders along estuarine bordering an estuary, where wrecks of boats are visible. A journey can begin at a ancient place of worship, among the most ancient in England, and finish in a quaint town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Closed during winter, it typically opens in June. The journey involves constant turns to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking views. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also includes the chance for spotting bears, completing the memorable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A short ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis takes people to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined roads flanked by historic houses. The feel is relaxed, often interrupted by resident cats and opportunities to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is usually filled with ideas for a next visit to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a historic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses numerous of rare books, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features exquisite old cartography and
