Why Trieste Should Be on Your Italy Itinerary
I lived in Trieste for two years, and to this day it remains one of my favorite cities in Italy.
If you're traveling through northern Italy or Slovenia, make sure to spend at least a couple of days here. Trieste is unlike any other Italian city. You can feel the blend of Italian, Austrian, and Balkan influences everywhere—from the architecture to the food and the overall atmosphere.
In a single day, you can explore a Roman theatre, the medieval San Giusto Castle, historic churches, elegant Austro-Hungarian neighborhoods, and then find yourself by the sea. This unique mix of cultures and centuries is what makes the city so special.
The local cuisine deserves a trip on its own. Alongside fresh seafood and fish, you'll find plenty of dishes with Austrian and Slavic roots. Don't miss the traditional Triestine buffets like Buffet da Pepi, Buffet Siora Rosa, or Buffet da Gildo—they're part of the city's history, not just places to eat.
My favorite summer spot is Barcola. There are no sandy beaches here, which I actually love because the water feels incredibly clear and clean. The coastline is framed by green hills and pine trees, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon swimming, relaxing in the shade, watching sailboats drift by, and grabbing an Aperol Spritz, fried seafood, or a quick snack from one of the many kiosks.
And of course, there's Miramare Castle with its beautiful gardens overlooking the Adriatic. If you're into outdoor activities, you'll also find scenic cycling routes, sailing, paddleboarding, and plenty of ways to enjoy the sea.
And finally, here are my favorite gelato spots:
· Marco – near the Roman Theatre.
· Oggi Gelato – on Viale XX Settembre.
· Gelateria Natura – near Villa Revoltella.
For me, Trieste is one of those places people visit for a day... and then start looking for a reason to come back.