This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Trieste.
Trieste is situated in the far northwestern corner of Italy in the region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, which borders Slovenia and Austria. It is a former Habsburg city and this influence is apparent from the architectural styles of its more recent buildings, its cuisine, and in its spirit. Trieste has the relaxed atmosphere of somewhere like Vienna, rather than the hustle and bustle of Rome or Naples. The Habsburgs developed Trieste as their empire's southern port, as it was the most northerly place to land cargoes from the Mediterranean; however, after World War I, Italy absorbed Trieste into its territory and had other bigger and more conveniently situated ports to use instead.
The city's main square is the dazzling Piazza Unita Italia, which is bound on three sides by magnificent edifices constructed in the late nineteenth century, from which proudly hang Italian "tricolores." The final side is open with views onto the Adriatic. A walk along the seafront gives the best view of the beautiful facades of some of Trieste's grandest buildings, including the Bank of Italy and the Teatro Verdi. It is hardly surprising that the citizens of Trieste choose this route for the evening passegiata (a ritual night-time walk) on warm evenings. On the Corsa Italia, a shoppers' paradise, designer stores abound and.well-heeled Italians tow along immaculately groomed pugs as they deliberate over expensive handbags and shoes.
The Revoltella is the city's main museum, a Viennese-style palazzo, in which are displayed nineteenth-century furniture and paintings of Trieste. In an adjoining palace there is a collection of more recent works.
Trieste’s position means that it’s a popular stopping point for travelers going to and from Slovenia and Croatia. There are few conventional hostels in Trieste but there are several "affittacamere," which are basic rooms to rent in old-style apartments. Some have additional cooking facilities, which can be used by guests.
Written by local enthusiast for Trieste hostels
Fiona Thompson
