Just across the border from Slovenia, the port city of Trieste is the perfect stopover when travelling between Italy and Central Europe. It is a beautiful city which has been greatly influenced by its history as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The city has a range of attractions on offer including bustling town squares, impressive churches and scenic vantage points. Best of all, a large number of the attractions in Trieste are absolutely free. In this Trieste travel guide, we’ll show you the 19 best free things to do in Trieste Italy.
Plan your trip: Here are our Trieste Italy top recommendations:
Activities: book your Trieste Italy Tours with Get Your Guide.
Accommodation: we use Booking.com to find the best hotels.
Transport: TrainLine for trains and FlixBus for intercity buses.
Flights: find cheapest flights with cashback on WayAway.
Airport Lounge Access: start your holiday the right way with Priority Pass.
Travel Medical Insurance: SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is the ideal choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
Top free things to do in Trieste Italy
We love a good bargain, and there’s no better bargain than getting something for free! For ease of reference, here is our list of the top free things to do in Trieste Italy.
- Piazza Unità d’Italia
- Civico Museo della Risiera di San Sabba
- Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire
- Carso Triestino
- Barcola Beach
- Faro della Vittoria
- Molo Audace
- Riserva Naturale della Val Rosandra
- Chiesa Serbo Ortodossa di San Spiridione
- Canal Grande di Trieste
- Centrale Idrodinamica del Porto Vecchio di Trieste
- Parco del Castello di Miramare
- Citta Vecchia
- Chiesa Greco Ortodossa di San Nicolò
- Riserva Naturale Marina di Miramare
- Viale XX Settembre
- Strada Vicentina
- Trieste InfoPoint
- Monumento Foiba di Basovizza
Keep reading to find out more about each destination.
Main square in Trieste Italy: Piazza Unità d’Italia
About Piazza Unità d’Italia
Piazza Unità d’Italia (or Unity of Italy Square in English) is the main square in Trieste. Overlooking the Gulf of Trieste on the Adriatic Sea, it is the largest sea facing square in Europe. A number of important Trieste landmarks also surround the square including the town hall Palazzo del Municipio and Palazzo del Lloyd Triestino. The square also contains a number of restaurants and cafes, most notably the historic Caffè degli Specchi. In the middle of the square there is a fountain called Fontana dei Quattro Continenti (Fountain of the Four Continents). Piazza Unità d’Italia is also a popular location for concerts and events. Bands such as Green Day and Iron Maiden have held concerts here.
Why visit Piazza Unità d’Italia
Visiting the Piazza Unità d’Italia is the true heart of Trieste. This vibrant city square is a popular gathering place in the city. The square is one of the best photo spots in Trieste. Beautiful old buildings surround the square, which overlooks the sea. It has a vibrant atmosphere and is a beautiful place to visit.
How long to spend at Piazza Unità d’Italia
A quick walk through Piazza Unità d’Italia only takes five minutes, however we recommend spending half an hour to an hour enjoying the beautiful views, taking part in any events that are on and perhaps stopping for a drink at one of the cafes.
Opening hours for Piazza Unità d’Italia
This free thing to do in Trieste Italy is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend at Piazza Unità d’Italia
There are a number of shops, restaurants and cafes around the square.
Piazza Unità d’Italia address
Piazza Unità d’Italia, 34121 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: MQ29+24 Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
The only restored concentration camp in Italy: Civico Museo della Risiera di San Sabba
About the Civico Museo della Risiera di San Sabba
Civico Museo della Risiera di San Sabba was an old rice mill that became a Polizeihaftlager (police detention camp) in World War 2. It is now the only one of the four Nazi camps in Italy to become a Memorial. In 1965 it was declared a national monument.
Risiera di San Sabba was the only Nazi concentration camp in Italy equipped with a crematorium. The camp had 3 main functions – eliminating hostages (2000-5000 people are thought to have died here due to execution or succumbing to the harsh conditions), sorting prisoners into those to be deported to other camps in Germany and Poland, including Auchwitz (10,000-20,000 people transited through Risiera) and storage of goods stolen from the Jewish communities of the Adriatic coast. Most of the people that died here were members of the Resistance, including Italians, Slovenians and Croats.
Why visit Civico Museo della Risiera di San Sabba
Civico Museo della Risiera di San Sabba is a sombre reminder of the atrocities of World War 2. It is an important reminder of the past and will be particularly meaningful to those interested in history.
How long to spend at Civico Museo della Risiera di San Sabba
Allow between 30 minutes to an hour to visit this museum.
Opening hours for Civico Museo della Risiera di San Sabba
Daily: 9am-5pm
If you have money to spend in Civico Museo della Risiera di San Sabba
Rent an audio guide for 3.50 euro (price as at 2024).
Civico Museo della Risiera di San Sabba address
Via Giovanni Palatucci, 5, 34148 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: JQCQ+9M Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Hilltop Catholic church in Trieste Italy: Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire
About Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire
Trieste Cathedral or Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire is a Romanesque and Gothic style church in Trieste Italy. It stands on top of the hill of the same name. Dedicated to Saint Justus, the church has the designation of minor basilica under the Roman Catholic church.
In the 5th century, the first church was built on this site. This was replaced between the 9th and 11th centuries by two basilicas. Subsequently in the 14th century these two buildings joined to make one big basilica. That process involved removing one nave from each church and joining them together with an asymmetrical facade which included a rose window and a new bell tower. Inside the church are a number of artworks including 12th-13th century mosaics.
Why visit Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire
Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire is a grand church on a hill overlooking Trieste. It has interesting architectural features including a beautiful double wheel rose window at the entrance. The mosaics inside the church are particularly striking.
How long to spend at Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire
5-10 minutes is sufficient time to visit the church and take a few photos.
Opening hours for Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire
Monday-Friday: 8am-6:30pm
Saturday: 8am-7pm
Sunday: 9am-7:30pm
If you have money to spend in Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire
The church accepts donations.
Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire address
P.za della Cattedrale, 2, 34121 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: JQWC+JX Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Karst plateau with caves and hiking trails in Trieste Italy: Carso Triestino
About Carso Triestino
Carso Triestino (or Trieste Karst in English) is a limestone rocky plateau near Trieste. It extends all the way to the Slovenian border and is part of the broader karst plateau that covers Italy, Slovenia and Croatia. The area has many caves of various sizes as well as sinkholes. These are popular with spelunkers but some have also been used as waste disposal sites for bulky and sometimes toxic goods. Carso Triestino also has a number of hiking trails, the most popular of which is Strada Vicentina (also known as Via Napoleonica).
Why visit Carso Triestino
Carso Triestino is a great place to go to connect with nature. It’s perfect for hiking and its caves are popular with spelunkers.
How long to spend at Carso Triestino
This is a nice place to come for a few hours or even a day.
Opening hours for Carso Triestino
This free thing to do in Trieste Italy is open at all hours. However we recommend visiting it during the day.
If you have money to spend near Carso Triestino
Buy a picnic lunch to enjoy in the area.
Carso Triestino address
Galleria Carso, 34149 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: JRWJ+57 Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Best beach in Trieste Italy: Barcola Beach
About Barcola Beach Italy
Barcola Beach is a popular artificial beach near Trieste Italy. It is a rocky beach with stairs to access the water as well as access points for kayaks and other seacraft. Located in a well-to-do neighbourhood, it is popular with tourists as well as locals. There is a long paved boardwalk next to the beach dotted with kiosks selling food and drinks. Across the road are restaurants and bars set amongst pine trees. The beach is accessible by bus from the city centre of Trieste. Alternatively there is paid parking on site.
Why visit Barcola Beach Italy
Barcola Beach is the perfect beach destination in Trieste. It’s a popular place for swimming, sunbathing, kayaking and enjoying the fresh saltwater air. There’s a long boulevard along the waterfront which is a popular area for walking and jogging.
How long to spend at Barcola Beach Italy
This free thing to do in Trieste Italy is a great place to spend a few hours.
Opening hours for Barcola Beach Italy
This free thing to do in Trieste Italy is open at all hours. However we recommend visiting it during the day. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset.
If you have money to spend in Barcola Beach Italy
Buy a gelato from one of the gelato stands lining the beach. Across the road from the beach there is a row of restaurants, bars and cafes to enjoy. If you feel like something more active, you can rent a kayak or a boat bike.
Barcola Beach Italy address
Lungomare Benedetto Croce, 34136 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: MPQW+43 Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Best views in Trieste Italy: Faro della Vittoria Trieste Italy
About Faro della Vittoria Trieste Italy
Faro della Vittoria (or Victory Lighthouse in English, also known as Vittoria Light) is an active lighthouse in Trieste Italy. At a height of 68 metres (223 feet) it is the 10th tallest lighthouse in the world (as at 2024). This stone tower is adorned with a bronze statue of winged Victory on top. It was built in 1927. The light is an electrical light. There are 285 stairs to the top of the lighthouse and there is also a small free elevator to the top. There are 20 minute guided tours at 3pm.
Why visit Faro della Vittoria Trieste Italy
Faro della Vittoria is a beautiful lighthouse with the best views of Trieste.
How long to spend at Faro della Vittoria Trieste Italy
Tours are limited to 15 minutes. Keep in mind that this is a popular attraction with limited space inside, so queues can take an hour or two if you get there at a busy time.
Opening hours for Faro della Vittoria Trieste Italy
April, May, June, September:
Monday-Thursday: Closed
Friday: 3pm-7pm
Saturday-Sunday: 10am-1pm, 3pm-7pm
July and August:
Monday-Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday-Sunday: 10am-1pm, 3pm-7pm
October (except 7th-9th):
Monday-Thursday: Closed
Friday: 3pm-6pm
Saturday-Sunday: 10am-1pm, 3pm-6pm
November (1st-4th): 9:30am-4:30pm
Special openings:
April 18 and 25, June 2, August 15: 10am-7pm
Note – the last entry is 30 minutes before closing.
If you have money to spend near Faro della Vittoria Trieste Italy
There are some cafes nearby.
Faro della Vittoria Trieste Italy address
Str. del Friuli, 141, 34136 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: MQG4+7Q Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Scenic pier in Trieste Italy: Molo Audace
About Molo Audace Trieste Italy
Molo Audace (or Audace Pier in English) is a pier close to the city centre in Trieste. It has beautiful views over the Gulf of Trieste and the Alps can be seen in the distance. Turning to look back at the city there are charming city views with all of the old historic buildings.
The bridge has a length of 246 metres (807 feet). It was first built between 1743 and 1751 and has been lengthened over time. The pier was originally named San Carlo pier. However it changed its name to Molo Audace after the destroyer ship Audace, which was the first ship of the Italian Royal Navy to dock here after the end of World War I. Currently, the pier is rarely used as a dock for ships apart from special events like La Barcolana.
Why visit Molo Audace Trieste Italy
Molo Audace is a scenic place to come for a walk and enjoy the water views. It has some of the best sunset views in Trieste.
How long to spend at Molo Audace Trieste Italy
You can easily walk around the pier in 5-10 minutes. However it’s a nice place to spend half an hour to an hour sitting and enjoying the view.
Opening hours for Molo Audace Trieste Italy
This free thing to do in Trieste Italy is open at all hours. However we recommend visiting it during the day. It is particularly nice at sunset.
If you have money to spend in Molo Audace Trieste Italy
Buy some take away food to enjoy on the pier.
Molo Audace Trieste Italy address
34121 Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Plus Code: MQ38+25 Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Nature reserve near Trieste Italy: Riserva Naturale della Val Rosandra
About Riserva Naturale della Val Rosandra Trieste Italy
Riserva Naturale della Val Rosandra (or Val Rosandra Nature Reserve in English) is a nature reserve near Trieste that spans over 746 hectares. The Rosandra river runs through the reserve and features a 36 metre high waterfall. Interestingly, the two sides of the valley have very distinct climates. One side has a warm Mediterranean climate whereas the other has a cooler subalpine continental climate.
The reserve is rich in floral and fauna. The area has plenty of rock formations and caves, which makes it a popular destination for rock climbers and spelunkers. It also includes a number of historical features such as the remains of a Roman aqueduct as well as an abandoned railway which has been converted into a cycle and pedestrian path. The area was also home to mills from the salt and spice trade between the 13th and 20th centuries.
Why visit Riserva Naturale della Val Rosandra Trieste Italy
Riserva Naturale della Val Rosandra is a great place to come to connect with nature. It is perfect for hiking and is also very popular with rock climbers and spelunkers. In particular there is a rock climbing school that was founded by famous Italian mountain climber Emilio Comici.
How long to spend at Riserva Naturale della Val Rosandra Trieste Italy
This is a great day trip from Trieste Italy.
Opening hours for Riserva Naturale della Val Rosandra Trieste Italy
This free thing to do in Trieste Italy is open at all hours. The visitor centre is open from 9am-5pm on weekends and holidays.
If you have money to spend near Riserva Naturale della Val Rosandra Trieste Italy
There are plans to put a bookshop in the visitor centre. A number of activities are available in the reserve including guided excursions, horse riding and mountain climbing.
Riserva Naturale della Val Rosandra Trieste Italy address
34018 San Dorligo della Valle, Province of Trieste, Italy
Plus Code: JV99+V7 San Dorligo della Valle, Province of Trieste, Italy
Serbian Orthodox church in Trieste Italy: Chiesa Serbo Ortodossa di San Spiridione Trieste Italy
About Chiesa Serbo Ortodossa di San Spiridione Trieste Italy
Chiesa Serbo Ortodossa di San Spiridione (or Serbian Orthodox Church of Saint Spyridon in English) is a Serbian Orthodox church in Trieste. It was designed by Italian architect Carlo Maciachini and completed in 1885. An 18th century church previously stood at this site. This is a Neo-Byzantine style church with a dome and four bell towers. The interior of the church is richly decorated with imitation mosaic oil paintings as well as silver and gold iconostasis. Four icons are particularly notable – those of San Spiridione, Madonna with Child, Christ the King, the Annunciation. Also featuring in the church are three alters and a large silver lamp which was donated by the Russian Grand Duke Paolo Petrovich Romanov.
Why visit Chiesa Serbo Ortodossa di San Spiridione Trieste Italy
Chiesa Serbo Ortodossa di San Spiridione is an ornate church both inside and out. It is a great example of an Eastern Orthodox church and well worth visiting for its beautiful architecture and stunning interior.
How long to spend at Chiesa Serbo Ortodossa di San Spiridione Trieste Italy
5-10 minutes is sufficient time to visit the church and take a few photos.
Opening hours for Chiesa Serbo Ortodossa di San Spiridione Trieste Italy
Tuesday-Saturday: 8:30am-12:30pm, 5pm-8pm
Sunday: 8:30am-12:30pm
Monday: Closed
If you have money to spend near Chiesa Serbo Ortodossa di San Spiridione Trieste Italy
The church accepts donations.
Chiesa Serbo Ortodossa di San Spiridione Trieste Italy address
Via Spiridione, 9, 34122 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: MQ2F+H8 Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Canal to the heart of Trieste Italy: Canal Grande di Trieste Italy
About Canal Grande di Trieste Italy
Canal Grande di Trieste (or The Grand Canal in English) is a canal that runs right into the heart of the city of Trieste. Previously this area was a salt marsh, but the canal was built to facilitate easy transport of goods to the centre of the city. The canal was built between 1754 and 1756 by Matteo Pirona. At the beginning of the 20th century there were three movable bridges over the canal – Ponte Rosso (Red Bridge), Ponte Verde (Green Bridge) and Ponte Bianco (White Bridge). These bridges were named after the colours they were originally painted. However now there are two fixed masonry bridges plus a pedestrian walkway. On one of the bridges is a statue of Irish novelist James Joyce, who lived in Trieste.
The canal is surrounded by a number of prominent buildings, including palaces and churches. There are also a number of squares surrounding the canal. There are sometimes markets in the adjoining squares.
Why visit Canal Grande di Trieste Italy
Canal Grande di Trieste is a beautiful area to walk around. The canal is surrounded by gorgeous buildings and popular cafes, bars and restaurants. It has a great atmosphere and also hosts a number of events throughout the year.
How long to spend at Canal Grande di Trieste Italy
5-10 minutes is enough time to walk around the Canal Grande di Trieste. However we’re recommend allowing an hour or two if you want to take time to enjoy the atmosphere and the view as well as get something to eat at one of the nearby restaurants.
Opening hours for Canal Grande di Trieste Italy
This free thing to do in Trieste Italy is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend at Canal Grande di Trieste Italy
There are plenty of shops and restaurants near the canal. It’s a great place to get a coffee or enjoy an Aperol Spritz.
Canal Grande di Trieste Italy address
Piazza Sant’Antonio Nuovo, 34122 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: MQ2C+WJ Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Power station museum in Trieste Italy: Centrale Idrodinamica del Porto Vecchio di Trieste
About Centrale Idrodinamica del Porto Vecchio di Trieste
Centrale Idrodinamica del Porto Vecchio di Trieste (or Central Hydrodynamics of the Old Port of Trieste in English) was one of the first Hydrodynamic Power Stations in the world. It was designed by Trieste engineer Luigi Buzzi and built between 1887 and 1890. It subsequently commenced operations in 1891. The plant had a 40 metre (131 feet) high chimney and two towers. Pressurised water from the plant travelled through over 6km of underground pipes to transmit mechanical energy to the cranes and freight elevators of the port. It was the energy centre for the whole Old Port. In 1913 the plant was expanded to include a substation. It continued to operate until 1988 and is now a museum and exhibition space.
Why visit Centrale Idrodinamica del Porto Vecchio di Trieste
Centrale Idrodinamica del Porto Vecchio di Trieste is a beautifully restored Hydrodynamic Power Station which provides an interesting insight into industrial technology and architecture in the 19th century. It shows an aspect of the history of Trieste. There are also some great exhibitions on at this site from time to time.
How long to spend at Centrale Idrodinamica del Porto Vecchio di Trieste
Allow around an hour.
Opening hours for Centrale Idrodinamica del Porto Vecchio di Trieste
Friday-Sunday and holidays: 10am-6pm*
*Please opening times may vary, please contact them directly in advance or check with the tourist information centre (InfoPoint) if you want to visit.
If you have money to spend at Centrale Idrodinamica del Porto Vecchio di Trieste
Go to an exhibition at the Centrale Idrodinamica del Porto Vecchio di Trieste.
Centrale Idrodinamica del Porto Vecchio di Trieste address
P. Franco Vecchio, 1, 34136 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: MQ86+QH Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Castle park in Trieste Italy: Parco del Castello di Miramare
About Parco del Castello di Miramare
Parco del Castello di Miramare (or Miramare Castle Park in English) is a sprawling 22 hectare park overlooking the Gulf of Trieste. The park contains an English garden, an Italian garden as well as a variety of plants from around the world. There are also walking paths and monuments throughout the park. In the middle of the park is a grand building that was originally home to the Archduke of Austria. The castle was used as a school for Nazi officers during the German occupation of Trieste in 1943. The building was subsequently used by New Zealand, English and then US troops. It is currently a museum.
Why visit Parco del Castello di Miramare
Parco del Castello di Miramare is a gorgeous park surrounding a 19th century castle. It’s a scenic place to walk around and has a peaceful atmosphere.
How long to spend at Parco del Castello di Miramare
The park is a great place to spend an hour or two.
Opening hours for Parco del Castello di Miramare
Daily: 8am-7pm
If you have money to spend near Parco del Castello di Miramare
Entry to the castle is 12 euro (price as at 2024). There is also a cafe in the park.
Parco del Castello di Miramare address
V.le Miramare, 34151 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: PP37+8H Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Old Town of Trieste Italy: Citta Vecchia
About Citta Vecchia
Citta Vecchia is the Old Town neighbourhood and historic centre of Trieste. It is in the IV District, between Cavana, San Giusto and the ancient Jewish ghetto. The area includes a number of churches and parks as well as a Roman theatre, an arch and a number of other landmarks. Most streets in this area are pedestrian streets.
Why visit Citta Vecchia
Citta Vecchia is a lovely neighbourhood in Trieste. It is a great area to walk around and explore. The Roman amphitheatre is a particularly interesting landmark in the old town area.
How long to spend at Citta Vecchia
We recommend spending a couple of hours exploring Citta Vecchia.
Opening hours for Citta Vecchia
This free thing to do in Trieste Italy is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend in Citta Vecchia
There are a number of shops, restaurants and other attractions in Citta Vecchia.
Citta Vecchia address
34121 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: JQX8+9R Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Greek Orthodox church in Trieste Italy: Chiesa Greco Ortodossa di San Nicolò
About Chiesa Greco Ortodossa di San Nicolò Trieste Italy
Chiesa Greco Ortodossa di San Nicolò (or Greek Orthodox Church of San Nicolò dei Greci in English) is an 18th century Byzantine style Greek Orthodox church in Trieste Italy. It is also known as the Greek Orthodox Church of San Nicholas and Most Holy Trinity. The facade was redesigned and embellished between 1819 and 1821 by Austrian classical architect Matteo Pertsch. Two bell towers are now prominent features on the outside of the church.
The inside of the church is divided into 3 sections – the presbytery with three small apses, the nave and finally two balconies. Gold and silver iconostasis adorn the interior of the church. The floor of the church is marble with black and white chequered squares.
Why visit Chiesa Greco Ortodossa di San Nicolò Trieste Italy
Chiesa Greco Ortodossa di San Nicolò is a beautiful church overlooking the Old Port at Trieste. It has an attractive neoclassical facade and an ornate interior. It is a lovely building to look at and to get a few photos.
How long to spend at Chiesa Greco Ortodossa di San Nicolò Trieste Italy
5-10 minutes is sufficient time to visit the church and take a few photos.
Opening hours for Chiesa Greco Ortodossa di San Nicolò Trieste Italy
Monday-Saturday: 9am-12:30pm, 3:30pm-7:30pm
Sunday: 9am-12:30pm
If you have money to spend at Chiesa Greco Ortodossa di San Nicolò Trieste Italy
The church accepts donations.
Chiesa Greco Ortodossa di San Nicolò Trieste Italy address
Piazza Niccolo Tommaseo, 34121 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: MQ29+JQ Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Marine reserve near Trieste Italy: Riserva Naturale Marina di Miramare
About Riserva Naturale Marina di Miramare
Riserva Naturale Marina di Miramare, also known as Miramare Marine Nature Reserve and AMP (Marine Protected Area) Miramare, is a marine park in the Gulf of Trieste. It was Italy’s first ever marine park. It is also classified as a Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Interest (ASPIM). The area spans over 120 hectares and covers 1.8km of coastline. The area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. There are a number of activities available in the reserve including snorkelling, diving, educational experiences and camps.
Why visit Riserva Naturale Marina di Miramare
Riserva Naturale Marina di Miramare is a great place to be amongst nature. The area is rich in biodiversity and marine life. It is also a peaceful place to go for a walk and enjoy water views.
How long to spend at Riserva Naturale Marina di Miramare
Riserva Naturale Marina di Miramare is a great day trip from Trieste.
Opening hours for Riserva Naturale Marina di Miramare
This free thing to do in Trieste Italy is open at all hours. However we recommend visiting during the day.
If you have money to spend near Riserva Naturale Marina di Miramare
There are a number of activities available at the reserve including snorkelling and diving. There’s also a museum.
Riserva Naturale Marina di Miramare address
V.le Miramare, 345, 34151 Grignano TS, Italy
Plus Code: PP27+P2 Grignano, Province of Trieste, Italy
Popular pedestrian street in Trieste Italy: Viale XX Settembre
About Viale XX Settembre
Viale XX Settembre is a popular street in Trieste which is filled with shops, restaurants, cinemas and clubs. It is a beautiful tree-lined street and part of it is pedestrianised. It also goes by the name Via dell’Acquedotto, due to the aqueduct that ran through here and still lies below the concrete. The street spans over a kilometre, and is a popular walking area and gathering spot.
Why visit Viale XX Settembre
Viale XX Settembre is a great place to walk around and has a lively atmosphere. The abundance of shops and eateries along this street make it a popular spot to visit in Trieste.
How long to spend at Viale XX Settembre
You could easily spend a few hours at Viale XX Settembre.
Opening hours for Viale XX Settembre
This free thing to do in Trieste Italy is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend near Viale XX Settembre
There are plenty of shops and eateries along Viale XX Settembre.
Viale XX Settembre address
Viale XX Settembre, 34126 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: MQ3P+6G Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Scenic walkway in Trieste Italy: Strada Vicentina
About Strada Vicentina
Strada Vicentina (also known as the Napoleonic Road) is a walking trail which spans around 3.7km (2.3 miles) from the obelisk at Villa Opicina to Borgo San Nazario car park in Prosecco. The path can be walked or cycled and it is accessible by car, bus or tram. The walking path traces its way along the edge of karst mountains with views over the Gulf of Trieste. The path includes many panoramic lookout points as well as an outdoor rock climbing area nearby.
Why visit Strada Vicentina
This beautiful walking trail has gorgeous ocean views which makes for great photos. It’s a fairly level path, making it perfect for families and those with mobility issues.
How long to spend at Strada Vicentina
Allow 1.5-2 hours for the scenic Trieste Italy free thing to do.
Opening hours for Strada Vicentina
This free thing to do in Trieste Italy is open at all hours. However it’s best visited during the day.
If you have money to spend near Strada Vicentina
Take a ride on the scenic Trieste–Opicina tramway. This is a hybrid tram/funicular service. The service was suspended in 2016 following an accident. It was due to reopen in 2022 but is still closed as at 2024. There is also a cafe near the tram stop.
Strada Vicentina address
Strada Napoleonica, 34151 Opicina TS, Italy
Plus Code: MPVW+6P Villa Opicina, Province of Trieste, Italy
Useful first stop in Trieste Italy: Trieste InfoPoint
About Trieste InfoPoint
There are 2 different tourist information centres or InfoPoints around Trieste. Inside, there is a service counter with very knowledge and attentive staff that speak both Italian and English. They have free maps and a good selection of brochures about the area.
Why visit Trieste InfoPoint
Trieste InfoPoint is a fantastic resource for discovering what to do in the area. The staff very friendly and helpful. They also speak English. They have tonnes of information, maps and brochures.
How long to spend at Trieste InfoPoint
10-15 minutes is enough time to get all the information you need about the area.
Opening hours for Trieste InfoPoint
Monday-Saturday Piazza Unità d’Italia InfoPoint: 9am-6pm
Sunday Piazza Unità d’Italia InfoPoint: 9am-1pm
Tuesday-Sunday Piazza della Cattedrale: 10am-5pm
Monday Piazza della Cattedrale: Closed
Hours may differ slightly between InfoPoint centres.
If you have money to spend in Trieste InfoPoint
You can buy an FVG (Friuli Venezia Giulia) Card at InfoPoint, which provides free entry to a number of attractions around Trieste as well as discounts and special offers. The 48 hour FVG card costs 30 euro and the 1 week FVG card costs 45 euro (prices as at 2024). For more information see this website: https://www.discover-trieste.it/code/16917/FVG-Card
Audio guides can also be purchased at the InfoPoint centres.
Trieste InfoPoint addresses
P.za della Cattedrale, 3, 34131 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: JQWF+W6 Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Piazza Unità d’Italia, 4b, 34121 Trieste TS, Italy
JQX8+WV Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
National monument in Trieste Italy: Monumento Foiba di Basovizza
About Monumento Foiba di Basovizza
Monumento Foiba di Basovizza is a National Monument in remembrance of those that died in the foibe massacres or as a result of deportation to Yugoslavian concentration camps between 1943 and 1945. The site is an old coal mine which was used as an execution site. The victims were mainly Italian civilians and military personnel and the executions were perpetrated by Tito’s Yugoslav communist partisans. It is thought that around ten thousand people died at the hands of the Yugoslav partisans and their bodies were thrown into natural sinkholes in the area, known as foibe.
The main monument is a large concrete slab and there are also a number of smaller monuments scattered around the site. A small building, the ‘documentation centre’ has some photo and text panels with information displayed in Italian.
Why visit Monumento Foiba di Basovizza
Monumento Foiba di Basovizza is a sobering reminder of a dark chapter in this area’s history.
How long to spend at Monumento Foiba di Basovizza
15 minutes to half an hour is sufficient time to spend at this monument.
Opening hours for Monumento Foiba di Basovizza
This free thing to do in Trieste Italy is open at all hours. The ‘documentation centre’ area is open from 10am to 2pm.
If you have money to spend at Monumento Foiba di Basovizza
You can purchase a small book written by students for 1 euro (price as at 2019).
Monumento Foiba di Basovizza address
Basovizza, 34149 Trieste TS, Italy
Plus Code: JVM7+PJ Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy
Train to Trieste Italy
Trains are a cheap and efficient way to get to Trieste Italy. Trieste has 1 train station – Trieste Centrale railway station.
We recommend using the app and website TrainLine to book intercity train tickets in Italy. This is the app we used. We found it very easy to use with great functionality. Another great feature is that you can see days ahead to see what times of the day were the cheapest rates.
Where to stay in Trieste Italy
We recommend the following accommodation in Trieste Italy:
- Best 3 star hotel in Trieste Italy – 9 Stanze Boutique Rooms provide clean, stylish and spacious rooms in a central location in Trieste. The staff are friendly and helpful and provide great restaurant recommendations. This hotel also has a great view of Piazza della Borsa and the beds are very comfortable.
- Best 4 star hotel in Trieste Italy – Seven Historical Suites is a gorgeous property set in a historical building. The rooms are modern and elegantly decorated. The staff provide an outstanding level of service and the amenities are high quality with many thoughtful touches. Furthermore the hotel is in a convenient location right in the heart of Trieste.
- Best 5 star hotel in Trieste Italy – Grand Hotel Duchi d’Aosta is a luxurious and historic hotel in a prime position in Trieste. The staff are very professional and there is a two Michelin star restaurant on-site.
Trieste Italy Blogs
For more information on Trieste, check out our Trieste Destination Guide.
Italy Blogs
You can find our Italy travel blogs below.
19 Best FREE Things To Do in Trieste Italy (with map)
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15 Best FREE Things To Do in Verona Italy (with map)
17 Best FREE Things To Do in Milan Italy (with map)
15 Best FREE Things To Do in Genoa Italy (with map)
12 Best FREE Things To Do in Sanremo Italy (with map)
Trieste Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Venice Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Verona Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Milan Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Genoa Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Sanremo Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
14 Most Surprising Things About Visiting Italy!
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