August 11th 2024.
Have you ever heard of Trieste? It may not be as famous as Florence or Tuscany, but this unique border town is definitely worth adding to your travel list. Located on the top of the Adriatic Sea, Trieste offers a perfect combination of aperitifs at sundown, quaint streets, and warm Italian sunshine.
Surrounded by Slovenia, Trieste is a melting-pot of different cultures. Its local dialect is a mix of Italian, Austrian-German, Croatian, and Greek. Despite being a little forgotten in the past, Trieste has recently gained popularity with travelers, thanks to its thriving foodie and arts scene. Even the cool hotel chain, 25hours, is planning to open a location in Trieste next year.
According to one TripAdvisor reviewer, Trieste is a stunning place to visit both during the day and at night. It never feels crowded or overrun, making it the perfect destination for a peaceful holiday. The Financial Times even called it the "comeback kid," so if you want to stay ahead of the curve, here's everything you need to know about this hidden gem in Italy.
Getting to Trieste is easy, as the city has its own airport just a 40-minute car ride from the city center. You can book a direct flight from the UK with prices as low as £48 return in May and £132 in August. The only downside is that the flights currently only depart from Stansted Airport, with one flight scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Trieste has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and colder winters. The best time to visit is from June to September, with temperatures reaching highs of 30°C in July. Keep in mind that the area can be affected by the Bora, a strong wind from the mountains. But the locals actually love it, as it sparks intense emotions and adds to the unique charm of the city.
When it comes to accommodations, traveling in the shoulder season of May or October can be a good idea to find better deals. A 3* hotel rated "very good" or above on Booking.com starts at around £94 per night in September, compared to just £70 in May 2025.
There are plenty of things to do in Trieste, including visiting the abandoned petrol station turned cultural center, Stazione Rogers. You can also stroll through the historic center, filled with independent shops and charming cafes. Don't miss the top cultural attractions like the cathedral and Piazza Unità d'Italia, the largest square overlooking the sea in Europe.
Trieste is proud of its literary heritage, as James Joyce once lived here while writing Ulysses. You can visit the Joyce museum or the Literature Trieste Museum, set to open this year. For a relaxing day, head to a bookshop and enjoy some reading with a coffee.
For stunning views, check out Faro della Vittoria, a lighthouse open to the public. And if you have enough time, take a day trip to Slovenia and visit Lake Bled, less than an hour's drive away.
Don't expect to only eat pizza and pasta in Trieste. The influences of its surrounding nations have had a big impact on the local cuisine. Buffets are a popular tradition, with cured meats, smoked sausages, and cheese being some of the most common dishes. Jota, a Slovenian soup, is also a must-try, and seafood lovers will be delighted by the fresh catch of the day. Don't forget to try the famous grappa, or opt for a delicious coffee from the city's most famous brand, Illy.
According to Budget My Trip, you can expect to spend around £88 per day on food, drink, and activities in Trieste. Trattoria alla Sorgente, a local seafood restaurant, lists its price range as £22-£44 per person, while Buffet Da Pepi, serving customers since 1897, offers a mixed charcuterie platter for just €8 per person. Most attractions are also affordable, with many of them being free, such as the Miramare Castle, which costs only €12 to visit.
So what are you waiting for? Trieste is waiting to be discovered and it's the perfect holiday destination for those looking for a unique and authentic Italian experience.
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