Globetrotters' Favorite Travel Finds of 2025: Lesser-Known Treasures Across the World
From a Venice-like Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their most memorable discoveries from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. Yet the early doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town offers more than a swim. Visitors can wander through ornate public squares and stone-paved alleys housing vibrant eateries. Concrete diving platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and drinks with genuine hospitality.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated music bar promises immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ using only vinyl records. Furniture are routinely cleared to create dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar at times hosts live music, ensuring a fantastic experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a serene retreat. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and climb a giant twisting lookout for magnificent vistas over lush fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic cuisine offering robust food and music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area has multiple mineral water sources to try.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. With three stunning sandy coastlines, its vibrant center thrives in the evenings with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a local experience at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation offered easy entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from the region. Yet, the route is said to be threatened of shutting down. The ride features photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to ride this special railway while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This secret area provides expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birds. The trail meanders along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A hike can begin at a ancient church, among the earliest in England, and finish in a charming town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in June. The trip features numerous switchbacks to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible scenery. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The drive also offers the opportunity for seeing animals, completing the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant city transports people to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined lanes lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is leisurely, with time interrupted by local cats and opportunities to look back at the distant city. The return journey is often accompanied by ideas for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Housed behind a historic building is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of rare books, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases exquisite Renaissance-era maps and