trieste - italy

The laid back area of Fruili Venezia Giulia, abounds with nature reserves, historic and artistic gems, gastronomy and delightful wines. It also provides a springboard for so many other places, along its borders. Take time to plan your trip to gain most benefit from your options and the many unspoilt and delightful places...A second trip will no doubt be needed.Try these ideas just to get you started.

Trieste is an elegant but modest Hasburg City, with a cafe culture, canals and very few crowds. Step off the ferry boat, to wander across to the large Piazza Unita d’ Italia, flanked by imposing early 20c Austrian Palaces. Streets radiate outwards with varied architecture, inspired by the many political influences of it’s ancient origins. A Roman Amphitheatre at the foot of the hill, a 15c Castle and Cathedral with great city views, are yours when you meander to the top. A must to visit is the Caffe San Marco ( via Battisti 18 ) for it’s mouthwatering cakes, served amongst the beautiful wood panelling of its atmospheric bookshop.

Taster Tours

Piran in Slovenia is well worth the (1.25 hr ) picturesque drive along the motorway. Inform the car hire company and don’t forget the one day visa sticker or face a hefty fine. The landscape becomes more open, lush and green as it spills down to the picturesque coastal towns and villages on the way.

Piran at the end of a small pretty peninsula, has a laid back atmosphere and feels quite different from its neighbour Italy. Colourful historic buildings, red terracotta roofs, a large square, cathedral and castle, all encourage you to have a little wander. An abundance of small cafes, bars and restaurants curl around the waters edge, service is good and the food local and tasty. Take your pick from glorious sea vistas or those set in the cool and welcoming flower filled squares.

Udine prominent in the 1700’s is renowned for its grand architectural beauty and early works of Tiepolo. A bustling, atmospheric real Italian town, with Castle remains, a Baroque Cathedral and the beautiful Loggia del Lionello. The Museum of Modern and Contemporary House Cavazzini, houses a modern art collection in a most lovely 15c house. Streets are good to wander and to discover your own architectural gems. Take the train from Trieste to Ljubljana...approx 2.5 hr journey. A day trip is simple to achieve or if adventurous, why not stay over.

Time to Linger

Clamber down the winding steps of the leafy cliffside or take the lift to the waters edge. Spend time on the beach side loungers, shielded by generous parasols and the light summer breeze. Spa facilities provide another tempter for calming those weary travellers bones.

 Maybe follow the path to the fishing village of Grignano. Stroll past the same small gatherings of friendly locals who extend a cheery welcome nod, whilst busy chatting, swimming and fishing in the clear blue sea. Lots to see, the family lido bursting with life, a myriad of bobbing sailing boats and local restaurants bustling with preparations for the days activity. Time to make that table booking if you  later wish to savour some local fish, freshly caught from the sea.

The harbour wall yields yet more treasures. The boarding point for the local but stylish ferry boat, for forays to local coastal towns of Barcola, Trieste and Sistiana. A great way to see this pretty coastline with sun beaming down and breezes blowing your tousled hair. The other option is to take the number 6 bus to Trieste, busy with locals going about their daily work. Try my recommended mix and match, one way to go and the other to come back.

Walk a little furthur to the impressive Castello di Miramare, snuggled into its very own pretty cove. Built in 1860 for Archduke Maximilian of Austria and his wife Princess Charlotte. Wander the fairy-tale like castle to gain snippets of its history and then saunter to appreciate the beauty of its extensive botanical gardens. A gelato stop tucked into a leafy glade, provides the perfect place to sit and ponder, just before you wander back.