Trieste Anti-Tourist Guide

Here’s our Trieste Anti-Tourist Guide to make sure you take the best of it while feeling like a local.

Known as one of the most important ports of the Mediterranean, Trieste has a lot to offer. Check out our Trieste Anti-Tourist Guide and get ready to start your best journey!

Immerse yourself in the unique vibe of colourful neighborhoods of the city, unique culinary scene, and a wide range of cultural events and activities.

Let’s find answers to the most important questions about traveling to Trieste to have the most amazing experience there!

How many days should I save to visit Trieste?

Tricky question! You could really spend weeks discovering all the cafes, art galleries and museums in Trieste like in many European countries. But if you are backpacking or Interrailing and your travel time is limited, a couple of days would be enough to visit all must-see spots in Trieste.

Now that this is covered, our next question is…

What are the main highlights of Trieste?

1. Trieste’s Heritage

a) Historical Monuments and Unesco sites in Trieste

Dive into the historical heritage of this city and explore from the ancient times to the new city of Trieste. If you are a fan of classical history, don’t pass by The Roman Theatre which the oldest remains of the city. Are you more of a Renaissance person? Why not wander around San Giusto? This impressive castle is covered in hidden gems ready to be explored! Explore the beautiful aleways and courtyards from Città Vecchia, with its crooked streets. Cars are rare isnide the city so explore without worries! Do you prefer a more modern vibe? Then the streets of Valmaura district will amaze you with their street art and lively neighbourhoods.

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b) Music and Festivals in Trieste

Trieste is also known for their musical events. Classical music dominates, and pop, Rock, Latin and world music will definitely find great venues here. Many regular and occasional music festivals with different kinds of music genres and are happening in Trieste and its surroundings as well. Such as the Festival di Trieste, Lighthouse of Music, TriesteLovesJazz, and many more.

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c) Clubbing in Trieste

Lyon has a very vibrant nightlife, so we get that it can be a bit overwhelming to find your spot. Don’t you worry, the city has something for every musical preference and every vibe. Our suggestion is to start your night by pre-drinks with fellow travelers at Hotello’s bar and discover the best bars in Trieste by asking the lovely staff. Our top club choices would be: MOR, Dancing Paradiso, and Round Midnight. 

2. Where to Eat in Trieste

Trieste holds special spot in any list for the best foodie destinations in Europe, we made a list with another 9 destinations here. Trietse is known for being the crossroads of four diferent cultures. It stands out for its unique and authentic scene. 

• Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try Lyon’s traditional foods like Ljubljanska (breaded pork), Calandra (veal stew comined with boiled potatoes), or Jota (beans, cabbage and pork goulash). Our top pick of traditional restaurants is Buffet Marascutti, Trattoria Nerodiseppia, and Buffet da Pepi. All of them have an authentic atmosphere and interesting history behind them.

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• Piazza Unità – this Trieste district is known for the food marekts full of traditional and world cuisines. 
• Mercato Coperto – This covered market was build to protect the food vendors from the warm sun and winds. Local people sell their products here. If you’re looking for an unique taste to add to your meals, this is the right place!

3. What to see in Trieste

For us, the best way to discover a city is by walking. Here is our list of the must-see sites in the city, such as:

• Castello di San Giusto
• Città Vecchia
• Miramare Castle
• Faro della Vittoria

 

If you have more than a couple of days in Trieste, we suggest you take the opportunity to explore its surroundings too. Trieste is close to cities such as Liubliana, Rijeka or Monfalcone easy to reach in a short trip!

Did you know that Trieste is a great spot for photography lovers? Check our Top 10 Instagrammable Spots in Trieste to fidn wehre to get the best pictures around the city!

4. Alternative places in Trieste

Now that we’ve covered the main points everyone should see in the 2 days in Trieste, here’s our bonus section with some off-the-beaten-path attractions for you:

• Canal Grande– Trieste grand canal is a beautiful area. The bridge allows for some stunning views and a great place to see the sunset!
• The Austrian Quarter – An area of the city where the Austrian influence can be seen in the arquitecture. It feels like you’re all the way in Vienna! It ends in a majestic square looking towards the sea, being Europe’s largest sea-front square.
• Grotta Gigante – this huge cave boasts to be the .biggest tourist cave in the world! The size and views inside are indeed impressive. Make sure you book in advance!
• Synagogue of Trieste – This synagogue is one of the largest built in all of Europe. Its unique as it mixes multiple arquitectural styles, making you travel trhough time each time you enter a room!

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