Trieste guide: top things to see and do in one day

Are you planning a trip to northern Italy? In this Trieste travel guide, we’ll take you through one of the country’s lesser-known gems, sharing everything from must-see attractions to dining recommendations and practical tips to make the most of your visit.

It’s frustrating that my region, Friuli Venezia Giulia, is not well-known outside of Italy—or even within it. This area is stunning, with delicious food, a rich cultural heritage, and a landscape that ranges from beautiful coastlines to majestic mountains. So, why is it overlooked? Maybe it's a hidden paradise meant for the lucky few. But I'm here to change that narrative, starting with Trieste!

Exploring Trieste: A Cultural Melting Pot

Trieste is a unique city, located just a stone's throw from Slovenia and Croatia. Once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, it has a distinct identity that blends Italian, Slavic, and Germanic influences. This city embodies the essence of cultural fusion, making it a vibrant destination.

As you stroll through Trieste, you’ll notice its special atmosphere. The city has attracted great artists and writers, such as James Joyce and Ernest Hemingway, who found inspiration in its unique charm. From the powerful bora winds to its elegant architecture, Trieste captures the imagination. It’s a city of contrasts, where elegance meets a sense of casual neglect, making it truly one-of-a-kind.

⭐ Tip: If you're short on time, consider hopping on a bus with an audio guide that will take you to the main attractions. You can find more information here.

What to Do in Trieste in a Day

Even if you only have a day to explore Trieste, you can capture its spirit and leave wanting more. Here are the top attractions to include in your itinerary:

1. Miramare Castle

No visit to Trieste is complete without experiencing the breathtaking Miramare Castle. Its stunning white façade contrasts beautifully with the deep blue of the Adriatic Sea and the lush greenery of the surrounding park. Built between 1856 and 1860 for Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg and his wife Charlotte of Belgium, the castle is steeped in history and legend.

One popular tale warns that anyone who lives in the castle will meet an untimely demise. Maximilian himself accepted the crown of Mexico only to face a tragic end, which adds a layer of intrigue to this beautiful site. Admission is €13.50, but many visitors prefer to enjoy the surrounding gardens and views instead of touring the interior.

How to Get to Miramare Castle

Getting to the castle is straightforward. You can take a train from Udine, but instead of disembarking at Trieste, hop off at the previous stop, Miramare. It’s a pleasant 10-15 minute walk to the castle. From Trieste, take bus 6, which costs €1.5, and purchase your ticket at any newsstand.

2. Risiera di San Sabba

Next, we suggest visiting the Risiera di San Sabba, the only Nazi concentration camp in Italy. While this visit may be unsettling, it's a crucial part of Trieste's history. Here, political prisoners and Jews were detained before being sent to forced labor camps or extermination centers. It is estimated that between 3,000 and 5,000 victims were brutally killed here.

The camp had an infamous crematorium, the only one in Italy, where the bodies were disposed of, leaving no trace of the horrors that occurred. Today, the site has been transformed into a memorial, featuring exhibition spaces that recount the chilling events of that era.

Distinction Between Concentration and Extermination Camps

It’s essential to clarify that while the Risiera had a crematorium, it was not an extermination camp. The primary distinction lies in the fact that extermination camps were designed solely for the purpose of mass murder.

⭐ Entrance to the Risiera di San Sabba is free, though donations are encouraged to support the museum.

How to Get to Risiera di San Sabba

To reach the Risiera from Miramare Castle, take bus 6 to the central station and switch to buses 8 or 10. If driving, the address is Via Giovanni Palatucci, 5.

3. Exploring Trieste's Historic Center

Trieste's historic center is a beautiful area that reflects the glory of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Its unique blend of Italian, Central European, and Slav influences creates a distinctive atmosphere.

Don't miss the Piazza Unità d’Italia, which opens to the sea, and stroll along Molo Audace and the Canal Grande, some of the city's most picturesque spots. Nearby, you can also visit the Orthodox Church of San Spiridione and the grand Trieste Cathedral.

Key Highlights in the Historic Center

• Trieste Cathedral: A stunning example of Romanesque architecture.
• Ancient Roman Theatre: A glimpse into the city’s rich history.
• Castle of San Giusto: Offering panoramic views of the city.
• Jewish Synagogue: The largest in Italy, showcasing the city's diverse heritage.
• Libreria Antiquaria Umberto Saba: A charming antiquarian bookstore worth exploring.

4. Historic and Literary Cafés in Trieste

Trieste is known for its historic cafés, which are a treat for coffee lovers and literature enthusiasts alike. Writers like James Joyce and Italo Svevo frequented these spots, drawing inspiration from their surroundings.

Some must-visit cafés include:

• Caffé San Marco: A beautiful café with a rich history, complete with a bookstore and Wi-Fi. (Via Cesare Battisti 18)
• Caffè degli Specchi: A meeting place for the city's elite, located in Piazza Unità d’Italia.
• Caffé Tommaseo: The oldest café in town, dating back to 1830.
• Caffé Stella Polare: Once a dance hall, it hosts a nostalgic ambiance.

5. Ride the Opicina Tram

For a unique experience, ride the historic Opicina Tram. This charming wooden tram offers breathtaking views as it ascends. At one point, it transforms into a funicular, navigating a steep incline of 25%!

Catch the tram at Piazza Oberdan. The ticket price is the same as the bus fare (€1.5). Note: The tram is currently out of service but is expected to resume operations in 2023.

More Things to Do in Trieste

To round out your exploration of Trieste, consider these additional recommendations:

• For those with limited time, a tourist bus can efficiently take you to key attractions.
• Visit an Osmiza to enjoy homemade food and local wines—these family-run eateries are located in the Carso area.
• Explore Grotta Gigante, an impressive cave nearby.
• Plan a trip to the charming island of Grado and the historical site of Aquileia.
• Consider an excursion to the Carso region or combine your visit with a day trip to Slovenia, visiting Ljubljana and Lake Bled.

Practical Guide for Visiting Trieste

Here are some practical tips to help you navigate your visit to Trieste effectively:

Where to Eat in Trieste

Don’t miss out on local culinary delights. Here are some beloved spots among Triestini:

• Buffet da Pepi: Famous for its boiled meats, it offers a classic sandwich with porzina (pork) that is a must-try. (Via della Cassa di Risparmio, 3)
• Fora per Fora: Enjoy traditional dishes like Jota soup, gnocchi, and goulash at affordable prices (5-10€). (Via Armando Diaz, 9)
• La Bomboniera: A delightful pastry shop known for local sweets like putizza and strucoli. (Via Trenta Ottobre 3)
• Viale XX Settembre: A budget-friendly area filled with casual dining options.

How to Get to Trieste

We arrived by train from Udine, a one-hour journey. Trieste is well-connected to various parts of Italy. For more information, visit Trenitalia.

To reach the city center from the airport, you can take bus Line 51 (costing €4.05 and taking about an hour) or a regional train (around €4.4, no reservation needed, taking 30 minutes). Check schedules on Trenitalia's website.

We hope this Trieste travel guide helps you plan your visit and gives you insights into what to see and do in this captivating city in just one day.