HOW TO GET TO TRIESTE
BY PLANE, TRAIN AND CAR
Tucked into Italy’s northeastern corner, Trieste is a city like no other, where Italian elegance meets Central European charm and Slavic flair. Despite its slightly off-the-beaten-path location, getting to Trieste is surprisingly easy thanks to its excellent connectivity, regardless of your preferred mode of travel.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to get to Trieste by plane, train, and car, with tips to help you travel stress-free.
By Plane
Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport (TRS)
Located in Ronchi dei Legionari, approximately 30 minutes/33 km (20 miles) from the city center, this airport offers direct connections to major Italian cities like Rome and Milan, as well as European hubs such as Munich, Frankfurt, and London (depending on seasonality and airlines). Budget carriers and traditional airlines operate from here, so it’s worth comparing options; travelers can either catch direct flights or choose connecting options from major hubs.
How to get from the airport to Trieste city center:
• Train: A pedestrian bridge connects the terminal directly to Trieste Airport train station. From there, regional trains reach Trieste Centrale in about 30–35 minutes.
• Bus: The APT 51 shuttle runs every 30 minutes, taking about 55 minutes to reach the city.
• Taxi or car rental: Taxis are available outside the arrivals area, and multiple car rental companies operate onsite if you plan to explore beyond the city.
TIP: Check also Venice Marco Polo (VCE) and Ljubljana (LJU) airports, both are within 1.5–2.5 hours by car and may offer more flight options.
By Train
Trieste Centrale Railway Station:
Trieste Centrale is the main railway station, located just a few minutes’ walk from the city center and the seafront. It’s part of the Italian high-speed network and offers:
• Direct trains from Venice (2h), Milan (4.5h), Bologna, and Rome (up to 6h).
• International routes to Austria (Villach and Vienna) and Slovenia (Ljubljana and Divača), making Trieste a great base for exploring Central Europe.
Trains are frequent, comfortable, and often scenic, especially the line from Venice, which hugs the Adriatic coast. You can book your journey in advance via Trenitalia or Italo for high-speed options.
TIP: If you’re traveling with luggage, the station has storage lockers and nearby cafes to rest before check-in.
By Car
If you prefer flexibility, driving to Trieste is a great option, especially if you’re planning day trips to the Karst Plateau, Slovenia, or Croatia. The A4 highway connects Trieste with Venice and Milan, while the RA13 links the city to the Slovenian border and beyond.
• Parking in Trieste: The city center has several underground car parks (Park San Giusto and Saba Silos), but street parking is limited and often paid.
• ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones): Like many Italian cities, Trieste has pedestrian zones and restrictions in place, make sure your accommodation provides info or a permit if needed.
TIP: If you’re renting a car, check cross-border policies. Trieste is less than 10 km from Slovenia, and many travelers combine destinations.
If you want to know how to move around the city, check out Public Transport in Trieste.
No matter how you travel, Trieste is more accessible than you might think. Flights, fast trains, and scenic drives all lead to this beautiful coastal city, where your Adriatic adventure begins, and each mode of transport offers its own advantages, ensuring that your journey to this captivating city is smooth and enjoyable. Choose the option that fits your schedule and travel style, and let Trieste welcome you with its unique charm.