While Italy remains a top choice for British tourists, with popular spots like Rome, Venice, and Milan often taking centre stage, a lesser-known gem is waiting to be discovered.
Tucked away in northeast Italy, Trieste, the capital of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, boasts a unique charm that’s often overlooked. Situated a mere five miles from Slovenia, Trieste nestles comfortably between its neighbour and the Adriatic Sea, showcasing a picturesque coastline and breathtaking canals.
One of its crown jewels is the Piazza Unità d’Italia, or Unity of Italy Square, which proudly stands as one of Europe’s largest seafront squares. Dating back to the 19th century, this historic spot highlights Trieste’s significance as a major seaport during the Austrian-Hungarian Empire’s reign.
The area is dotted with stunning castles, including the majestic Miramare Castle, perched dramatically on a cliffside, built between 1856 and 1860 for Archduke Maximilian, Emperor Franz Josef’s brother. While the city’s Castle of San Giusto took over two centuries to build.
Travel blogger Nik Kennett visited Trieste with wife Allie in 2021. The couple found the city a “refreshing break” from the crowds of bigger Italian destinations, reports the Express.
On their Away Together YouTube channel, Nik said: “Italy is fabulous and while you should absolutely visit the heavy hitters like Rome and Venice, there are plenty of other cities that don’t typically meet the standard Italy travel itinerary but are lovely and worth considering. Trieste is one of those destinations.”
“We visited in 2021 and it provided a refreshing break from the crowds we’d experienced in other Italian cities. With its unique past as an Austrian-Hungarian port, Trieste blends Austrian, Hungarian and Slovenian influences giving it a distinctive character that feels not just Italian.”
“Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of Europe’s largest seafront squares, offers a perfect spot to relax while enjoying views of the Adriatic.”
Trieste is a city brimming with attractions, including a Roman theatre nestled at the base of San Giusto hill and Grotta Gigante, the world’s largest tourist cave. Known as Italy’s coffee capital, Trieste is home to the historic Caffè San Marco, a favourite haunt for literary figures like James Joyce.
The nearby Barcola, blessed with its own microclimate, has been a coveted living spot since ancient times. Its urban beaches are popular among Trieste locals for sunbathing and swimming.
Trieste Airport has direct links to the United Kingdom with flights leaving from Stansted Airport. A direct flight can take just over two hours.
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