Trieste hotels

Hotels in Trieste

Widely considered one of the world's most underrated cities, Trieste is a prosperous sea-port overlooking the pristine waters of the Adriatic. Trieste does things its own way, following its own rhythms. This comes from being a frontier city, bordered by Slovenia and buffeted by the ferocious local wind known – somewhat affectionately – as the bora. Tucked away in Italy's North-East corner, the city is a glorious cacophony of ethnic influences. You'll discover a community defined by a chatty and inclusive hospitality, fuelled no doubt by Trieste's legendary coffee. Trieste hotels exemplify Trieste's charm, offering local knowledge and accommodation that suits all budgets.

Canals and cafés

Take a stroll along Trieste's extensive canal network, rivalled only by Venice. Explore the city's proud sea-faring heritage on the Grande Canal, in the heart of Trieste. Among the scenic delights of rustic boats bobbing lazily on the canals, you can enjoy splendid waterfront walks and sample some of Trieste's finest Viennese-style coffeehouses. Sit back, inhale the alluring aromas of fresh coffee and experience the faded romance of Caffee Tommaseo.

The city's bustling life is sustained by its eclectic mix of cultures. First among them is, of course, Italian and you will find no greater expression of Italian vitality than at the Piazza dell'Unita d'Italia. A grand piazza that vies with St Marks in Venice for aesthetic beauty and elegance, the space opens out onto the sea, giving wonderful views across the expanse of the Adriatic.

Churches and culture

The Piazza also illustrates the power of the once great multi-cultural empire of the Austro-Hungarians. Elsewhere, the sublime Serbian Orthodox cathedral also provides an atmospheric example of the city's diversity. You'll find further highlights of this ethnic mix at the Greek Orthodox church of St. Nicholas, with its superb wooden iconography, and the local Jewish Synagogue is one of the largest in Europe.

If you're after some vintage Italian landmarks, look no further than Trieste Cathedral, offering a serene ambiance to contemplate the beauty of its Romanesque interior and the stunning Gothic rose window.

A night at the opera

In Trieste, a simple light aperitif can develop into a heady experience of the city's vibrant nightlife. The Cavana area is a trendy part of town with a selection of cool bars and chic restaurants. If you're after more high-brow exploits, the Lirico Giuseppe Verdi Theatre offers magnificent operatic thrills.

To walk off all the excitement of the night before, delving into the depths of the Grotta Gigante –among the largest caves in the world and big enough to contain St Peters' in Rome – is certain to provide an eye-popping spectacle. Alternatively, you can scale the heights of the San Giusto hill. Along with the impressive San Giusto castle, the summit offers superb views of Trieste, her glorious harbour and the breathtaking Adriatic. From this vantage point you will surely agree that this beguiling city, with its boisterous charm and independent spirit, is one of Europe's unsung masterpieces.