Ontdek Friuli met je eigen gids / Discover Friuli with your own guide / Scopri il Friuli con la tua guida privata /
Entdecken Sie Friaul mit Ihrer eigenen Fremdenführerin
Trieste, the biggest city in the region's smallest province - join me for a guided tour.
The province of Trieste
WHAT TO VISIT IN TRIESTE AND ITS SURROUNDINGS?
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DISCOVER TRIESTE AND THE KARST LANDSCAPE
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Trieste, Italy's smallest province, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. After World War I, it became part of Italy, having been under Habsburg rule for centuries. Following World War II, a large portion of the province was ceded to Yugoslavia, leaving Trieste as Italy's smallest province today.
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This compact region boasts the rugged Karst landscape, known for its limestone formations, hidden caves, and breathtaking views of the Adriatic. Nature lovers can explore the "Grotta Gigante", one of the world's largest accessible caves, or enjoy scenic hikes on the Napoleon Trail above Trieste and in the Nature Reserve Val Rosandra.
THE BEAUTY OF TRIESTE AND ITS CASTLES
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Trieste itself, often called "Little Vienna by the Sea," enchants visitors with its Habsburg-era architecture and lively piazzas. Beyond the city, the castles of Duino and Miramare are must-sees, both perched on cliffs overlooking the Adriatic. From Duino, follow the Rilke Trail - Sentiero di Rilke -, a spectacular path running high along the cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.
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A VENETIAN TOUCH IN MUGGIA
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If you can't visit Venice, head to Muggia, a quaint fishing village just 30 minutes by boat or bus from Trieste. Its Venetian-style alleys and harbor make it feel like a small, peaceful version of Venice. As the last Italian town before Slovenia, it’s the perfect spot to end your exploration of the province.
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Trieste and its surroundings combine cultural richness and natural beauty, making it a destination that truly has something for everyone.
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GUIDED TOUR OF TRIESTE
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Trieste, known as the "Little Vienna by the Sea," combines Italian charm with Austrian elegance. Its neoclassical buildings and grand streets reflect its history as Austria's most important free port, attracting people from across Central Europe.
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Nestled in the eastern corner of Friuli Venezia Giulia, near the borders of Slovenia, Croatia, and Austria, Trieste is a multicultural city with a unique blend of cultures. A walk through the historic center reveals its rich past, from Piazza Unità d’Italia, Europe’s largest square by the sea, to landmarks like the Grand Canal, San Giusto Castle and Cathedral, and the Roman Theater.
Discover historic cafés like Caffè San Marco, explore the old Jewish Ghetto, or admire stunning views from the Karst hills. Trieste’s mix of history, architecture, and coastal beauty makes it an unforgettable destination.
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Ready to explore this gem of the Adriatic? Let me guide you through its fascinating streets and stories! Continue reading
GUIDED TOUR OF CASTELLO MIRAMARE
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This stunning white fairytale castle takes its name from its breathtaking location—Miramare, meaning "overlooking the sea."
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Built in the mid-19th century, the castle was the dream residence of Habsburg Archduke Maximilian of Austria. He enjoyed several happy years here with his wife, Charlotte, a Belgian princess. However, their love story met a tragic end when Maximilian was sent to Mexico to become Emperor and was executed by Republican forces.
The castle also hosted visits from Maximilian's sister-in-law, the famous Empress Sissi, wife of Emperor Franz Joseph, who cherished its serene beauty.
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Would you like to explore this magical place and its lush gardens with me?
GUIDED TOUR OF CASTELLO DUINO
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Duino is home to not one, but two castles, both perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the sea. However, their stories are quite different. The "younger" castle dates back to the 15th century and is still intact, while its "older brother," built 400 years earlier, remains only as a ruin.
In the early 20th century, the 15th-century castle became a hub for intellectuals and artists, hosted by the noble Thurn and Taxis family. Among its famous guests was the poet Rainer Maria Rilke, who found inspiration here for his work.
Close to the castle, you’ll find the Sentiero Rilke, a scenic 2 km hiking trail. The path runs high along the limestone cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the Gulf of Trieste.
​Would you like to discover the history and beauty of Castello Duino and its surroundings with me? Continue reading
GUIDED TOUR OF MUGGIA
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Muggia, the last port town in northeastern Italy, sits just a stone's throw from the Slovenian border. Strolling through its narrow calli—reminiscent of Venice—truly feels like stepping into the famed lagoon city. This resemblance is no coincidence: in 1420, Muggia came under the protection of Venice and the Lion of Saint Mark.
With its charming fishing port, winding alleys leading to a hilltop castle, a cozy historic center, and an abundance of excellent seafood restaurants, Muggia is a hidden gem well worth exploring.
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Would you like to uncover the secrets of this "little sister of Venice" with me?
Which places are easily to combine in just one day?
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Trieste & Castello Miramare
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Trieste & Castello di Duino
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Trieste & hike on the 'Sentiero Rilke' path that starts in Duino or Sistiana.
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Trieste & pebble beach of Sistiana
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Trieste & hike through the Val Rosandra valley
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Trieste & go (by boat) to Muggia
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Trieste & Opicina to hike on the Napoleon path