La dolce vita triestina

A trip to Italy is balm for the soul: This country has a certain magic whether it has to do with the food, the incredibly rich culture or simply their la dolce vita way of life. About Trieste I have a lot of childhood memories (thanks to some relatives who live there) – however I didn’t come back for many many years. Therefore I was excited to see the city with my grown-up eyes together with my beloved friend with whom I already explored Venice and Grado.

1. Trieste centre and seaport

Trieste – close to the Slovenian border and tightly connected with Austrian history – is so much more than Italy only: It’s an interesting mix of cultures where you can have some of Italy’s best coffee with Austrian pastry, where the architecture resembles Venice and Vienna, where the sea meets the (Karst) mountains. Often overlooked by visitors thanks to more popular names like Venice, Rome or Tuscany – Trieste should be on your list if you’re looking for a beautiful, not overrun city destination.

The main square – piazza unità d’Italia – supposed to be one of the most beautiful piazzas of Italy and yes, it’s pretty impressive!

I love old facades and storefronts and Trieste has plenty of them!

We spent the mornings and evenings at the picturesque Canal Grande, another landmark of Trieste. Lots and cafés and restaurants kept us in the mood 😉

It’s a shame that Vienna has no sea access… The atmosphere by the pier while sunset is quite something!

2. Opicina

There used to be an old tramway which climbed up the hill to Opicina from where you’ll get a great view over Trieste and the Gulf. Unfortunately the service of the tram has been suspended and it’s unclear when it will operate again (there’s a bus however).

3. Muggia

If you’re looking for a half day escape, nearby Muggia – a quaint Venetian style town is the perfect place and easily reached by an picturesque ferry ride (alternatively there are buses too). Our personal highlight was dinner at Scheriani (in the middle of the hills surrounded by vineyards and olive trees – and if this isn’t enough – sea view!) however you’ll need a car to get there.

Ham, speck, salami – all the good stuff o_O

4. Where to stay

We stayed at Ponterosso Suite, a comfortable Bed & Breakfast right in the heart of Trieste and the perfect base to explore the city! Breakfast is optional but you’ll find plenty of cafés and restaurants in close proximity. Parking is available for an extra fee. You can book the hotel here.

5. Useful information

• Trieste has a small airport but the connection is probably best by bus or train. From Vienna or Munich it takes around 5 hours by car, from Venice only 2 hours. As a port city, many (car) ferries and cruise ships also arrive in Trieste.
• Most attractions are in walking distance, however Trieste has an extensive bus network and local ferries that take you to Muggia and Sistiana for instance. You’ll find more information here.

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Further readings:

Castles by the sea – Miramare and Duino

La dolce vita fiorentina