Getting ashore
The Trieste Maritime Station is in the Customs port, in the heart of the city. It serves cruise ships and short-distance ferries to Slovenia and Croatia. The centre is directly across the street.
Watch-outs
Trieste is windy, especially the bora wind from the north-east, which can be strong in winter. Keep hold of hats and bags on the waterfront. Museums often close on Mondays.
Piazza Unità d'Italia
The square opens onto the sea and is one of the largest seafront squares in Europe. The Municipio, the Palazzo del Governo and the cafés are around it. It is the best place to start a walk.
Old town and the coffee houses
The old town has the Roman theatre, the Cathedral of San Giusto and the Canal Grande. Trieste is known for its historic coffee houses, such as Caffè San Marco, which is a good stop for a coffee and a pastry.
Miramare Castle
Miramare Castle is a white castle on the coast, north of the city, built for the Archduke Maximilian. The park and the sea views are the highlight. Bus or taxi is the easiest way there.
Karst and Slovenia
The Karst plateau above the city has walks, the Grotta Gigante cave and the Carso wine region. Slovenia is a short drive away, and Piran and Lipica are popular day trips.
Food & shopping
Trieste is known for its coffee, Austrian-influenced pastries and seafood. Restaurants near the old town and the canal are good value. Shops close in the afternoon on some days.
Money & connectivity
The currency is the euro. Cards are accepted in most places, and ATMs are common in the centre.
Accessibility & mobility
The maritime station and the Piazza Unità are flat and step-free. The old town and the cathedral involve steep lanes and steps. Miramare Castle has level paths in the park. Ask your operator about step access for the Karst excursions.