Trieste, Italy

Trieste isn’t your typical Italian city—and that’s exactly what makes it so intriguing. Perched on the northeastern edge of Italy, where the Adriatic meets Central Europe, Trieste is a fascinating blend of Italian elegance, Austro-Hungarian grandeur, and Slavic influence. It’s a place where you can sip espresso in a Viennese-style café, stroll past neoclassical palaces, and watch the sun dip below the horizon from a stunning seaside promenade—all in the same afternoon.

This port city has long been a crossroads of cultures, and you can feel it in its architecture, its food, and its atmosphere. The grand Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of the largest sea-facing squares in Europe, is the city’s heart, surrounded by ornate buildings that reflect Trieste’s rich past. Just steps away, the charming Canal Grande is lined with colorful buildings and waterfront cafés, perfect for a leisurely aperitivo.

Trieste’s history runs deep. The Castello di Miramare, a fairytale-like castle perched on the cliffs just outside the city, offers sweeping views of the Adriatic and a glimpse into Habsburg opulence. Meanwhile, the Risiera di San Sabba, a former Nazi concentration camp, serves as a sobering reminder of the city’s World War II past. For something even more ancient, explore the Roman Theatre, a relic of Trieste’s days as a key Roman settlement.

And then there’s the coffee. Trieste is Italy’s coffee capital, home to the iconic Illy brand and a deep-rooted café culture unlike anywhere else in the country. Whether you’re ordering a classic nero (espresso) or a local favorite like capo in B, drinking coffee in Trieste is an experience in itself.

The city’s unique position on the border also makes its cuisine something special. Traditional Italian dishes meet Austro-Hungarian and Slavic influences, resulting in a menu that ranges from fresh seafood and pasta to goulash and strudel.

Trieste is the kind of place that defies expectations. It’s elegant yet unpretentious, historic yet full of life, and undeniably unique. For travelers looking for something different—a coastal escape with a rich, multicultural soul—Trieste is the perfect destination.