Travelers' Top Travel Finds of 2025: Lesser-Known Treasures Around the Globe
From a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their standout finds from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor pondered about their selection. Yet the initial doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement presents more than a swim. Visitors may meander through ornate Venetian squares and narrow passageways housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots serve up crisp pastries and beverages with genuine welcome.
Retro Sounds in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed music bar offers great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ spinning only vinyl. Furniture are sometimes moved to create dancing. Open late into the night, the bar occasionally hosts live music, guaranteeing a great evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a peaceful retreat. Guests may walk to the peak of a ski run and ascend a large twisting viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over green fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional dining with robust fare and music. A gallery showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the central spa boasts a number of mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. With three stunning sandy coastlines, its vibrant town center is active in the evenings with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location provided a genuine feel at a much lower of the price. Accommodation featured easy a path to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great day trip from the region. However, the route is said to be at risk of being closed. The trip includes photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to ride this picturesque line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable attractions and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is striking, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base built by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This undiscovered landscape offers expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail winds along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where remnants of old vessels lie. A hike can start at a 7th-century church, among the oldest in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Closed during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The journey requires many bends to ascend the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent views. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, by car. The journey also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick journey from a vibrant city takes visitors to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests meander along historic roads flanked by grand mansions. The pace is slow, with time broken by resident felines and opportunities to look back at the far-off city. The return journey is usually accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes detailed 16th-century maps and
