Trieste travel guide

with the ÖBB railjet to Trieste

1

To Trieste by train

Since the inauguration of the 33-kilometre-long Koralm Tunnel,

Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) has provided daily direct

services from Vienna’s main station through Graz, Klagenfurt,

and Udine to Trieste Centrale. ÖBB’s state-of-the-art Railjet

trains carry passengers to the Gulf of Trieste’s coast in just

under seven hours.

This new route has not only considerably shortened travel times

but also sustainably enhanced the appeal of rail journeys within

the Alps-Adriatic area. Commuters, holidaymakers, and business

travellers all benefit from these comfortable and eco-friendly

travel options, which offer a sustainable alternative to travelling

by car or plane.


3

Ciao Trieste

Gulf of Trieste

Borgo Teresiano

Piazza Unità d’Italia

Castello di San Giusto

Coffee metropolis

Miramare Castle

Special

Imprint

Ciao Trieste

Ciao Trieste

Trieste is the capital of the autonomous region Friuli-Venezia

Giulia and has a population of around 200,000 residents. This

delightful port city, situated close to the Slovenian border,

enchants visitors with its distinctive charm. The history of Trieste

dates back to 128 BC. For several centuries, the city played a

significant role within the Habsburg Monarchy. The grand

architecture and historic landmarks stand as reminders of the

period when Trieste was a key trading hub and one of the main

bases for the Austro-Hungarian Navy. Since 1918, Trieste has

belonged to Italy, yet it continues to preserve its unique

character, shaped by a blend of various cultures, languages,

ethnic groups, and religions. Over many centuries, Trieste was

an integral part of the Habsburg Monarchy. It is regarded as a

“città mitteleuropea”, characterised by a cosmopolitan and

frequently multilingual atmosphere that reflects the splendid era

of the Habsburg Monarchy up until 1914.


6

Salone degli Incanti

Casa Chiozza

Farmacia Al Redentore

Fontana del Giano Bifronte


7

Gulf of Trieste

Gulf of Trieste

In the Gulf of Trieste, the stunning Adriatic Sea blends

seamlessly with a rich and refined history. From the captivating

Miramare Castle, standing bright and white above the crystalclear

turquoise waters, to the lively centre of the port city of

Trieste, lies one of Northern Italy’s most enchanting coastal

areas.

Along this Adriatic shoreline, visitors can stroll along the elegant

waterfront promenade, take in exceptional views of the bay, and

soak up the distinctive ambiance of a city positioned at the

crossroads of Central Europe and the Mediterranean. Trieste also

ranks among the Adriatic’s key cruise ports: contemporary cruise

liners berth directly at the impressive Piazza Unità d’Italia. The

city serves perfectly as either a departure or arrival point for

cruises. From Trieste, Vienna is easily reachable via modern ÖBB

Railjet trains. In the Gulf of Trieste, sea, culture, and lifestyle

unite in a truly remarkable way.


9

Marina San Giusto

Just a short walk from Piazza Unità d’Italia, located right in the

centre of Porto Vecchio’s historic quarter, lies Marina San

Giusto. The older section of the harbour accommodates

sailing yachts up to 15 metres (almost 50 feet) long. In

contrast, the area reserved for mega-yachts can accommodate

vessels up to 120 metres (close to 400 feet) in length.

Marina San Giusto is not only an ideal mooring location for

those seeking a marina berth for their yacht but also houses

the “Pier the Roof” fish restaurant, renowned for its exquisite

culinary offerings. During the warmer months, guests can

enjoy refreshing cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere at the

rooftop bar.

From this elevated spot, you are treated to an impressive view:

San Giusto Hill topped by its grand castle, the charming white

Miramare Castle visible on the distant horizon, and the

sparkling waters of the Adriatic Sea.


10

Acquario Marino della Città di Trieste

The Civico Acquario Marino della Città di Trieste (Civic Sea

Aquarium of the City of Trieste) is a historic treasure situated

directly on the waterfront and has remained one of the city’s

most cherished attractions since its opening in 1933. It

provides an exceptional insight into the captivating

underwater environment of the Gulf of Trieste. Located within

the delightful former Pescheria Centrale building, the

aquarium housed 30 tanks that vividly displayed the rich

marine biodiversity of the northern Adriatic Sea. The large

exhibition aquariums, which carefully represented typical

seabed habitats, were especially well-loved. The aquarium was

a popular destination for families, school groups, and all those

with an appreciation for marine life. The Acquario combined

educational initiatives, scientific research, and a strong

commitment to conserving the Adriatic Sea. Here, the

distinctive biodiversity of the local coastal region was brought

to life in a vivid manner. Since 2020, the Acquario Marino has

been closed for comprehensive renovations and upgrades.

Following several delays, its reopening is now anticipated in

2027.


11


12

Eataly

Housed in the historic Antico Magazzino Vini, a former wine

storage building dating back to 1902, you will find a

comprehensive range of Italian gastronomic treasures. Eataly

Trieste serves as a lively centre for Italian food culture located

right on the waterfront – an essential destination for anyone

who values premium-quality cuisine, genuine products, and

the distinctive atmosphere of Trieste. Multiple restaurants and

bars highlight the rich variety of Italian culinary traditions.

Moreover, a spacious market presents an array of excellent

Italian specialties: fresh pasta, cheeses from artisanal

producers, salami, olive oils, wines (including selections from

nearby Friuli and Slovenia), bread, confectionery, and much

more. For those eager to explore the art of Italian cooking

further, Eataly frequently hosts cooking workshops. Whether

you are stopping by for a quick coffee with a sea view,

purchasing regional delicacies to enjoy at home, or savouring

a relaxed meal, Eataly Trieste perfectly blends the city’s

maritime charm with a dedication to outstanding food.


13

Borgo Teresiano

© trieststorica.it

Trieste 1844

This carefully designed historical map from the "Atlante

Geografico dell'Italia" depicts the topographical layout of

Trieste during the 19th century.

It clearly displays the city's growth, highlighting the

contrast between the structured street pattern of Borgo

Teresiano and the narrow, winding lanes of the old town

and San Giusto Hill.

The harbour facilities, including both the Old and New

Hospitals situated on the bay, are distinctly shown.

In the mid-1700s, Empress Maria Theresa ordered the

development of Borgo Teresiano. Today, this area,

together with Borgo Giuseppino, Barriera Nuova, San

Vito, and Città Vecchia, constitutes District 4

(Circoscrizione IV).


15

Canal Grande di Trieste

The Canal Grande in Trieste – a Venetian treasure nestled

in the lively centre of this bustling port city. Constructed

between 1754 and 1766, this charming waterway

originally functioned as a gateway for trading vessels.

Nowadays, it radiates an authentic lagoon charm within

the Habsburg Borgo Teresiano district. Graceful palazzi,

vividly painted boats, and welcoming cafés adorn its

shores, while neoclassical frontages and the splendid

Church of Sant’Antonio Nuovo are softly mirrored in the

calm waters. Whether illuminated by the golden hues of

sunset or the gentle glow of evening lights, the

atmosphere here is always relaxing. At the Ponte Rosso, a

statue honours the Irish author James Joyce, who spent

many years living in Trieste. Opposite the bridge, since

2023, visitors have been welcomed by a monument

shaped like a giant Maria Theresa coin.


16

James Joyce

„Moneta“

James Joyce was often spotted at different locations around Trieste,

including the Berlitz School and Piazza Ponterosso, a place where he

once resided and where his bronze statue is presently located.

The striking monument shaped like a Maria Theresa Thaler pays

tribute to the Austrian Empress, recognizing her significant role in

the advancement of Trieste.

Obelisco di Vetro

Josef Ressel

The glass obelisk located in Piazza Carlo Goldini honours those who

suffered under totalitarian regimes. Close by stands the Scala dei

Giganti, a grand staircase ascending to San Giusto Hill.

Josef Ressel, known as the inventor of the ship's propeller, worked

as a forestry officer and was also an inventor. Early in 1821, he was

entrusted with overseeing the reforestation efforts in the karst area.


17

Piazza Vittorio Veneto

The square was designed in the 18th century as part of

the expansion of Borgo Teresiano. Originally, it was

named Piazza della Dogana, after the Palazzo della

Dogana, which housed the Austro-Hungarian

administration and dominated the area. Towards the

close of the 19th century, the existing structures were

torn down to make space for a grand post office

building. From that point onward, the square became

known as Piazza delle Poste. It received its present name

in 1919. At the heart of the square stands the impressive

Triton Fountain. To the west lies the post office building,

which now contains the Museo postale e telegrafico della

Mitteleuropa (Postal and Telegraph Museum of Central

Europe). Directly opposite is the Palazzo delle Ferrovie

dello Stato (Palace of the State Railways), formerly the

headquarters of the State Railways, representing the

significance of rail transport in Italy.


18

Museo Telegrafico e Postale della Mitteleuropa

The museum, located within a section of the historic Palazzo delle

Poste in Trieste, clearly showcases the evolution of the postal

service from the mid-1800s up to modern times. Special attention

is given to the era of Austrian governance in Friuli-Venezia Giulia.

The display is organised into multiple segments dedicated to

different aspects of the postal system.

Palazzo delle Ferrovie dello Stato

The palace was constructed during 1894 to 1895. Originally

designed to accommodate the Lloyd shipping company, it was

soon repurposed as an office building, initially for the Austrian

State Railways and subsequently for the Italian Ferrovie dello

Stato. Presently, there are proposals to transform the structure into

a combination of a hotel, residential apartments, and retail spaces.


19

Piazza della Borsa

Following Piazza Unità d’Italia, Piazza della Borsa is

regarded as Trieste’s elegant second living room – a lively

square rich in history and character. Since the 18th

century, this square has served as the economic centre of

Trieste: the striking neoclassical Palazzo della Borsa

Vecchia, which currently houses the Chamber of

Commerce, stands like an ancient temple overlooking the

square, symbolising its illustrious past as a prominent

trading hub. Surrounded by splendid buildings from three

distinct centuries – including the charming Liberty-style

façade of Casa Bartoli and the former Palazzo Dreher –

the triangular plaza buzzes with activity, hosting

numerous cafés and fashionable boutiques. The Fontana

del Nettuno, dating back to 1755, together with the

statue of Leopold I, adds a grand and dignified

atmosphere to the area.


20

Casa Bartoli

La Fontana del Nettuno

Casa Bartoli, constructed from 1905 to 1906 following the plans of

the renowned architect Max Fabiani, stands as one of the most

remarkable representations of Art Nouveau architecture in Trieste.

The Neptune Fountain is located in the Piazza della Borsa. Crafted in

1750 by Giovanni Mazzoleni, this sculpture emphasises the city’s

significance as a major port.

Meridiana interattiva

Imperatore Leopoldo I

The historic sundial, measuring 12 metres in length and positioned

on the ground before the Palazzo della Borsa, was crafted in 1820

by Antonio Sebastianutti.

The remarkable Leopold Column was constructed to honour the

1660 visit of Leopold I, Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire.


21

Piazza Unità d’Italia

Palazzo del Municipio

The landmark structure of Piazza Unità d'Italia was erected from

1873 to 1875, showcasing the eclectic design of architect

Giuseppe Bruni. Bronze statues named Micheze and Jacheze

indicate the time on the main façade featuring a clock tower. This

building provides a striking finale to Europe’s largest square that

opens onto the sea.

Palazzo della Luogotenenza austriaca

The Palazzo was constructed from 1901 to 1905 following the

designs of the Viennese architect Emil Artmann. It stands as one

of the most striking structures on the square. Initially, it functioned

as the official home of the Imperial and Royal Governor's Office of

the Austrian Littoral. Today, the Palazzo della Prefettura acts as the

distinguished seat of the Trieste Prefecture.


23

Fontana dei Quattro Continenti

The Fountain of the Four Continents was sculpted by Giovanni

Battista Mazzoleni from 1751 to 1754. The fountain features

allegorical representations of the four continents recognised at

that period: Europe, Asia, Africa, and America, alongside their

principal rivers. These figures symbolise Trieste’s significance as a

free port under Habsburg governance.

Palazzo Stratti & Palazzo Modello

The Palazzo Stratti, constructed in 1839 in the Neoclassical style,

was designed by the architect Antonio Buttazzoni for the Greek

trader Nicolò Stratti. It is home to the renowned Caffè degli

Specchi. Between 1871 and 1872, the Palazzo Modello was

erected based on Giuseppe Bruni’s designs and acted as a stylistic

reference for the 19th-century renovation of the square.


24

Palazzo del Lloyd Triestino

The palace was constructed from 1880 to 1883 by the Viennese

architect Heinrich von Ferstel, showcasing an eclectic architectural

style. Initially, it functioned as the headquarters of the Austro-

Hungarian private steamship company (Lloyd Austriaco, later

known as Lloyd Triestino). Presently, it accommodates the

administrative offices of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region.

Palazzo Pitteri & Grand Hotel Duchi d’Aosta

The Palazzo Pitteri, constructed in the 18th century, holds the

distinction of being the oldest palace on Piazza Unità d’Italia. The

building was regarded as an outstanding example of modern

architecture of its time. Adjacent to the Palazzo Pitteri is the Grand

Hotel Duchi d’Aosta. On this very location, a hospice existed as

early as the 14th century, which hosted many notable guests.


25

Molo Audace

Following the conclusion

of the First World War,

the Italian destroyer

Audace arrived at this

pier in Trieste on 3

November 1918. In

honour of this important

occasion, the pier was

later named Audace.

Walking from Piazza Unità d’Italia straight towards the sea,

you will come across two sculptures created by the artist

Fiorenzo Bacci. The first sculpture portrays a soldier ascending

a staircase – representing the arrival of this military unit in the

Julian city. The second statue, called "The Girls of Trieste,"

features two women seated on a wall, sewing the Italian

tricolour.


26


For visitors who consider the

a s c e n t t o t h e c a s t l e t o o

exhausting, a convenient option

exists to reach San Giusto Hill: Bus

number 24 stops directly beside

San Giusto Cathedral. Even

though the bus operates just

every 40 minutes, it remains

u n q u e s t i o n a b l y t h e m o s t

enjoyable means of getting there.


The Château de San Giusto stands prominently atop the

hill sharing its name, overlooking the city and providing

breathtaking views of Trieste, the Gulf of Trieste, and the

Karst hinterland.

Its history dates back to the Bronze Age, when a

prehistoric fortified settlement (castelliere) was

established on this location; subsequently, the hill served

as a significant hub for the Roman settlement of Tergeste

and also contained an early Christian basilica.

Beginning in 1468, the Habsburgs under Frederick III

constructed a fortified residence for the imperial captain.

By 1636, this had been developed into an impressive

triangular fortress featuring three bastions, including the

Venetian round bastion dating from 1508/09.


28

Via the Scala dei Giganti

Starting from Piazza Carlo Goldoni, proceed along Via Silvio

Pellico until you reach the Scala dei Giganti, commonly called

the Staircase of the Giants. This name derives from its 252

steps, notable for their unusually steep ascent.

On your way towards the castle, you will come across the

Fontana di Montuzza, also referred to as the Fontana di San

Giusto. This fountain was constructed in 1938 to mark Benito

Mussolini’s visit to Trieste.

A further flight of steps leads to the Monumento ai Caduti di

Trieste, a memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives in

the First World War. It was officially opened in 1936 with

King Victor Emmanuel III in attendance.

The entire walk to Castello di San Giusto along this path

covers roughly 650 metres and typically takes around 15

minutes.


29

Via the Via della Cattedrale

Starting from Via del Teatro Romano, you arrive at the striking

Scalinata delle Medaglie d’Oro (Gold Medal Staircase), named

to honour those awarded the Gold Medal for Bravery, Italy’s

most prestigious military honour. This stairway leads directly

to the Baroque-style church of Santa Maria Maggiore.

After passing the church, you have the opportunity to visit the

Arco di Riccardo, an ancient arch constructed around 33 BC.

From this point, the route ascends further to reach the Punto

Panoramico del Parco (Garden Viewpoint).

The final part of the climb towards the castle follows a treelined

avenue straight to the Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire.

It is advisable to wear sturdy shoes for this walk, as the

ground is quite uneven.

The distance from here to Castello di San Giusto along this

path is roughly 500 metres and typically takes about 10

minutes to complete.


30

Basilica cattedrale di San Giusto Martire

The Basilica Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire, Trieste’s

cathedral, proudly crowns the hill sharing its name.

During the 14th century, the two earlier churches, Santa

Maria and San Giusto, were unified, and a new nave was

constructed. This nave is distinguished by a ceiling shaped

like the keel of a ship. The refurbishment also introduced

a sandstone façade and a rose window crafted from karst

marble.

The cathedral is home to 13th-century Byzantine mosaics

and remarkable frescoes, which contribute to its

distinctive architectural character. Within, visitors find

gleaming golden mosaics in the apses, the tomb of

Trieste’s patron saint San Giusto, and an important

collection of Romanesque art – creating a serene and

contemplative environment.


31


32

Coffee metropolis

During the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Trieste stood out as a

significant free port and international gateway, thriving as a

bustling hub for the coffee trade. Large quantities of raw coffee

beans arrived in the city, leaving a strong and enduring mark.

Austrian-style coffee houses such as Caffè Tommaseo

(established between 1825 and 1830), Caffè degli Specchi, and

the renowned Caffè San Marco (founded in 1914) introduced

Viennese coffee traditions to the coastal region: refined

interiors, newspapers, spirited intellectual debates, and

naturally, the celebrated "Melange." These cafés served not

only as social venues but also as cultural salons of their era,

frequented by writers like Italo Svevo, Umberto Saba, and

James Joyce, who lived, conversed, and produced their literary

works there. Even now, coffee in Trieste embodies a way of life

and a sense of identity: with around 1,500 cups consumed per

person annually, the city holds the highest per capita coffee

consumption worldwide and is recognised as the undisputed

coffee capital. The traditional coffee houses act as living

connections to the Austro-Hungarian heritage—spaces where

time appears to slow down and a well-made espresso

continues to be cherished as a small yet meaningful part of

cultural legacy.


34

Antico Caffè San Marco

The Antico Café represents the quintessential literary café inspired

by the Vienna Secession movement. Since it first opened its doors

in 1914, notable visitors have included distinguished figures like

James Joyce, Italo Svevo, Umberto Saba, and Claudio Magris. At a

certain period, this venue also functioned as a covert hub for

creating forged passports used by patriots opposing Austrian rule.

Caffè degli Specchi

The "Mirror Café" is situated right on Piazza Unità d'Italia and is

commonly known as the "salon of Trieste“. At this location, visitors

can savour not only outstanding coffee in the lively centre of the

square but also premium cocktails. Since its establishment in 1839,

the café has served as a favoured gathering spot for notable

personalities including James Joyce, Franz Kafka, and Rainer Maria

Rilke.


35

Caffè Pasticceria Pirona

Pirona, established in 1900, is recognised as a site of notable

literary importance, with claims that James Joyce started writing

"Ulysses" within its walls. Most notably, the Pirona café and

confectionery has become a landmark in Trieste, renowned for its

classic Viennese cakes and pastries.

© Kaethe17

Caffè Stella Polare

The Berlitz School, where James Joyce once taught, was situated

close by – to him, the Stella Polare felt like a well-known, everyday

café. Even after many restorations, the Stella Polare has preserved

its Belle Époque elegance up to the present day.


36

Caffè Tergesteo

The café was established in 1863 and soon turned into a key

gathering spot for the intellectual community of Trieste. The poet

Umberto Saba paid tribute to the Tergesteo with a line in his

Canzoniere.

Caffè Tommaseo

Tommaseo, established in 1830, holds the title of the city’s longestrunning

café. The neoclassical design of its interior adds a unique

elegance to the establishment. In 1845, it became the first café in

Trieste to serve ice cream, and the building was also one of the

earliest to feature gas lighting.


37

Caffè Urbanis

The route from Piazza Unità d’Italia to Piazza della Borsa passes by

Café Urbanis. In the warmer seasons, visitors appreciate cooling

beverages served alongside ample complimentary nibbles.

Trieste Café Dictionary

Nero

A standard espresso served in the traditional small cup, known as a

tazzina.

Nero in B

Espresso presented in a glass (B stands for bicchiere, meaning

glass); this version is often slightly larger and visually more

appealing.

Deca

A decaffeinated espresso served in a cup.

Deca in B

Decaffeinated espresso offered in a glass.

Capo

An espresso macchiato with a small amount of milk foam, served in

a cup; it resembles a small cappuccino but contains considerably

less milk.

Capo in B

The classic coffee of Trieste! This espresso macchiato is traditionally

served in a small glass and topped with a layer of milk foam. It is

the city’s most renowned and beloved coffee. Compared to a

regular macchiato, it is much creamier, yet has less milk than a

cappuccino.

Capo deca in B

Decaffeinated macchiato served in a glass.

Goccia or Gocciato

An espresso with just a tiny drop of milk foam at the centre—

subtly referred to as "macchiato," it is almost pure espresso with a

delicate touch of milk.

Caffèlatte or Caffelatte

What is called a cappuccino elsewhere: an espresso combined with

a generous amount of hot milk and milk foam; typically served in a

larger cup.

Capo in B tanta

Capo in B with an extra thick layer of foam (tanta means plenty).

Capo in B special

A cappuccino in B topped with cocoa powder (sometimes also

called "tanta special," meaning lots of milk foam plus cocoa).

Additional variations:

Capo chiaro in B

With more milk, resulting in a lighter flavour.

Capo scuro in B

With less milk, producing a stronger, darker taste.

Capo deca

A decaffeinated macchiato served in a cup.


38

Miramare Castle

Castelletto di Miramare

This delightful "little castle" in an eclectic style was

constructed between 1856 and 1860 within the grounds

of Miramare Castle in Trieste. It served as a temporary

home for Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg and Princess

Charlotte of Belgium from 1859 to 1860, during the

completion of their main residence. Though smaller, it is

equally enchanting as its grander neighbour and provides

stunning panoramic views over the Gulf of Trieste and the

charming harbour of Grignano.

The carefully restored castle is now accessible to visitors.

On the ground floor, you will discover a small museum

displaying personal keepsakes of the couple, alongside

the Flemish Room, the Moorish Room, and an exquisite

collection of porcelain.


40

Castello di Miramar

Miramare Castle in Trieste is the renowned white fairytale

fortress located on the Adriatic shoreline. Between

1856 and 1860, Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg

commissioned this enchanting residence for himself and

Carlotta. Perched impressively on a cliff, the castle

commands views over the Gulf of Trieste. Built in an

eclectic manner using Istrian stone, the castle, with its

towers, arcades, and original interiors, radiates genuine

Habsburg sophistication. Of special interest are

Maximilian's study and Carlotta's bedroom, both

intimately connected to the castle’s history.

Set within a 22-hectare park abundant with exotic flora, it

stands as one of the region’s favourite attractions. The

gardens, offering distinctive views of the sea, invite

guests to enjoy magical walks and create lasting

photographic memories.


41


42

Take the bus to Miramar

Bus route 6 operates between Piazzale Gioberti and Grignano

(Miramare). The trip lasts around 30 minutes. During the summer

months in particular, the buses, which serve multiple beach stops

en route, tend to be quite full.

© Andrzej Otrębski

By boat to Miramar

The summer ferry route connecting Trieste, Barcola, Grignano,

and Sistiana arrives close to Miramare Castle. The trip lasts around

40 minutes. The ferry departs from Molo Bersaglieri, located right

on the Riva Nazario Sauro, just a short walk from Piazza Unità

d’Italia.

Starting from the bus stop or the ferry terminal, you will

need to walk approximately 750 metres to reach

Miramare Castle. The gently ascending trail leads up the

hill and provides a stunning panorama of Grignano Bay

and the harbour. The precise route can be found via the

Google Maps link.


43

Massimiliano d’Austria Imperatore del Messico

Maximilian of Habsburg, younger sibling to Emperor

Franz Joseph I, together with Princess Charlotte of

Belgium, daughter of King Leopold I, established their

residence in Trieste.

Encouraged by Napoleon III and Mexican conservative

factions, they accepted the imperial throne of Mexico in

1864: Maximilian assumed the title Emperor Maximilian I,

while Charlotte became Empress Carlota—a hopeful

vision of progress and liberal values that quickly

deteriorated into a grim ordeal.

As republican forces led by Juárez gained dominance,

Maximilian was executed in Querétaro in 1867. In despair

and seeking support from Europe, Charlotte suffered a

mental collapse and lived in isolation until her passing in

1927.


44

Special

Arco di Riccardo

The Arco di Riccardo (Richard's Arch) is thought to have

been one of the Roman gates of the city of Trieste. It was

constructed during the rule of Emperor Octavian

Augustus, around 33 to 32 BC. However, some accounts

propose that it served as one of the entrances to the

sanctuary dedicated to the Magna Mater. According to

local legend, the arch derives its name from Richard the

Lionheart, who is said to have been held captive in Trieste

after returning from the Holy Land.

Archaeological research and historical records provide

varying interpretations regarding the exact purpose and

importance of the arch, yet it is clear that it held a key

position within the urban structure of Trieste.


46

Teatro Verdi Trieste

Since 1801, the Teatro Verdi in Trieste has stood as the

city’s iconic opera venue. Created by Gian Antonio Selva,

the architect behind Venice’s celebrated La Fenice opera

house, it ranks among Italy’s oldest opera houses still in

active use.

Its refined neoclassical frontage on Piazza Verdi and the

stunning red and gold auditorium, which accommodates

around 1,300 guests, enchant every visitor. Experience

exceptional Verdi operas, symphony performances, and

the famous operetta festival – a true expression of Italian

fervour! Beyond its splendid decoration, the Teatro Verdi

is equipped with cutting-edge technology, supporting

both traditional and contemporary productions.

A must-see attraction in Trieste: a blend of history, superb

acoustics, and enchantment by the seaside.


48

Politeama Rossetti

The Politeama Rossetti stands as the lively cultural centre

of Trieste – it is the city’s largest theatre and serves as the

home of the Teatro Stabile del Friuli Venezia Giulia.

Constructed in 1878 in a refined eclectic architectural

style, the spacious Sala Principale (also referred to as the

Sala Assicurazioni Generali) offers seating for more than

1,500 visitors. This venue provides an ideal environment

for prominent events, ranging from gripping plays and

enchanting musicals and ballets to international concerts

and dance performances. The photograph captures a

guest appearance by the Imperial and Royal Vienna

Regimental Band IR4.

The delightful, more intimate Sala Bartoli enhances the

programme with smaller-scale productions of

contemporary drama and experimental art – fostering a

unique bond between performers and audience.


49

Municipal Museums in Trieste

On the first Sunday of each month, a variety of cultural

venues in Trieste open their doors to visitors free of

charge. Among these are the Revoltella Museum, San

Giusto Castle, the Carlo Schmidl Theatre Museum, the

Diego de Henriquez Museum (dedicated to the War of

Peace), and the Natural History Museum.

In contrast, the following museums offer free entry

throughout the entire year: the Maritime Museum, the

Museum of Oriental Art, the Sartorio Museum, the J.J.

Winckelmann Museum of Antiquities, the Risiera di San

Sabba, the Basovizza Foiba Documentation Center, the

Risorgimento Museum and the Oberdan Shrine, the LETS

Trieste Literary Centre, the Petrarchesco Piccolomineo

Museum, as well as temporary exhibitions held at

Warehouse 26.


50

Scala di Via Ciamician

The Scala di Via Ciamician, commonly referred to as Scala

Ciamician, ranks among Trieste’s most remarkable and

picture-perfect stairways.

This steep and charming staircase, formerly called Via

degli Armeni, ascends from the historic heart of the city

to the Colle di San Vito. It provides stunning panoramas

of the Gulf of Trieste, the terracotta rooftops of the old

town, and the shimmering sea beyond. Both

photographers and casual visitors cherish this scenic

outlook. Nestled in a tranquil, authentic spot close to the

Cavana district and just a short walk from the city centre,

the staircase captures the essence of Trieste’s distinctive

“scontrosa grazia”—a rugged yet enchanting elegance.

It is truly a hidden treasure for anyone eager to discover

Trieste’s romantic and windswept character.


51

Nazario Sauro

Nazario Sauro (1880–1916) was an Italian irredentist and

seafarer. He was born in Capodistria, a town currently

called Koper in Slovenia, which at that time belonged to

Austria-Hungary.

He showed his commitment to his homeland by defecting

to the Italian Navy in 1915. In the following year, he was

apprehended while carrying out sabotage and was later

executed in Pula.

Nazario Sauro is recognised as one of the foremost

martyrs of the First World War.

Especially in areas that were formerly under Austria-

Hungarian rule, Nazario Sauro is seen as a symbol of

defiance and unity with Italy.


52

Parrocchia di Santa Maria Maggiore

The Baroque Catholic parish church of Santa Maria

Maggiore was constructed in the 17th century by the

Jesuit community in Trieste. Since 1922, the Franciscan

Order has been responsible for the care of this church. Its

interior is remarkable for its lavish stucco work and

Baroque paintings.

Of special interest are the grand high altar and the many

side altars dedicated to various saints, which provide

visitors with insight into the religious art of that period.

The church’s design is equally notable, featuring a

harmonious combination of Neoclassical and Baroque

styles that give the building a stately presence.

Additionally, musical performances are regularly hosted

within its walls.


53


54

Teatro Romano di Trieste

The theatre was constructed near the close of the 1st

century. At that period, the stage was positioned directly

along the seafront. It served as the venue for theatrical

performances. The semicircular auditorium was

segmented into four wedge-shaped sections by stairways.

The Roman Theatre of Trieste had the capacity to hold

roughly 3,500 to 6,000 spectators. It is thought that the

theatre was destroyed by the Lombards in 568 during

their invasion of Trieste. For numerous centuries, the

theatre’s remains remained concealed beneath the

medieval city walls and neighbouring buildings. In 1938,

the theatre was uncovered amid a major urban

redevelopment initiative. Today, the remnants of the

Roman Theatre of Trieste stand as an important

archaeological site.


55

Tram di Opicina

The tram route connecting Trieste and Opicina was

inaugurated in 1902. Operations were halted following

an accident in 2016 and only resumed in 2025. Since

there is no exact information available yet regarding the

tram’s service in 2026, it is advisable to consult the official

website for the most current updates. Should the tram

not be in service, a replacement bus will be provided.

The line extends just over 5 kilometres and ascends

approximately 340 metres in height. Because of the steep

incline, part of the route is operated as a cable-driven

section. On this portion, the tram receives assistance from

a pusher when travelling uphill and is carefully controlled

on the descent using a funicular railway car.


56

Obelisco di Opicina

Passengers alighting at the Obelisco station can take the chance to

view the obelisk honouring Austrian Emperor Franz I. Starting

here, a scenic stroll offering stunning vistas unfolds along the

Vicentine or Napoleonic Road. The journey to Prosecco covers

slightly more than 5 kilometres.

Strada Napoleonica

The street’s name is derived from a legend suggesting that

Napoleon’s troops were the first to traverse it. Yet, it is more

probable that the name originates from the engineer Vicenti, who

oversaw its planning. From Prosecco, a public bus is available to

return you to the city centre.


57

Imprint

Route overview

OBB Nightjet and

OBB Nightjet Partner

Experience the OBB trains in 360°.

IT15_Triest_EN © 2026 (Vers. 26.0)

The team

This e-book was made possible through the kind support of the

regional tourist offices and the OBB. German proofreading and

editorial: Martin Andergassen.

References

Text, videos and photos by Rudolf J. Strutz unless otherwise

stated. Timetables and travel information: OBB.

Assistance from AI

Artificial intelligence applications are occasionally employed for

image editing, including the elimination of undesirable

components. Additionally, AI tools can enhance the clarity of

images and diminish background noise.

OBB railnet

The travel guides are also available free of charge on the OBB

online entertainment and internet portal railnet, which is

installed on all railjets, nightjets (NG) and cityjets.

Copyright

This book was licensed under the Creative Commons License.

Conditions of use: attribution, non-commercial, no editing and

distribution under the same conditions only as a complete

work! The use of individual photos and text is not permitted.

This eBook is available free of charge.

Links

All links provided are current at the time of publication of this e-

book. Links to tickets usually lead directly to the exhibition

location. For tickets and timetables, local public transportation

services are linked.

Logos and company names

All logos and company names are used for information

purposes only; any use outside of this e-book must be approved

by the copyright holders.

with the OBB to Trieste

60

SCOTTY mobile shows the

timetables for all public

transport and helps you plan

your travel route.

Book your trip online or view

the current timetable online and

directly on your mobile phone.

AuVi Photos & eBooks

Rudolf Strutz

Hasengasse 33/25

1100 Vienna

ebooks@oebb-ebooks.at

with the OBB to Trieste

61

Trieste travel guide

Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!

Delete template?

Save as template ?