HOW TO HANDLE EMERGENCIES
IN TRIESTE
HOSPITALS AND PHARMACIES
While Trieste is generally a safe and relaxed city, emergencies can happen when you least expect them. Whether it’s a minor injury, a medical concern, or the need for a pharmacy late at night, knowing what to do and where to go can bring peace of mind during your trip. This guide covers everything you need to know about healthcare access, pharmacies, and emergency numbers in Trieste.
Emergency Numbers and Services
If you’re facing an emergency in Trieste, dial 112, the EU-wide emergency number. You’ll reach a multilingual operator who can dispatch police, medical help, or fire services depending on your needs.
English is generally spoken at emergency centers, especially at hospitals and dispatch units.
Tip: calling the number is free and it works even on phones with no Sim, or blocked.
Hospitals in Trieste
Trieste has a well-developed public healthcare system with high-quality care and multiple facilities:
• Ospedale Maggiore – Located in the city center. Offers emergency services, general medicine, and specialist care. The ER ("pronto soccorso") is open from 8:00am to 7:30pm.
Address: Piazza dell'Ospitale, 1
• Ospedale di Cattinara – The city’s largest hospital complex, equipped with trauma units, surgery departments, and an emergency room open at night.
Address: Strada di Fiume, 447
• Ospedale Burlo – The children hospital. People under 18 are usually treated there, as are expecting mothers.
Address: Via dell’Istria, 65/1
Pharmacies in Trieste
Pharmacies in Italy are called “Farmacia” and are easy to recognize thanks to their bright green cross signs. Most are open from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM, Monday to Saturday.
• For 24-hour or late-night emergencies, check the window of any pharmacy for the “farmacia di turno” (on-duty pharmacy), which rotates daily.
A few central pharmacies to note:
• Farmacia Neri – Via Dante Alighieri, 7
• Farmacia al Corso – Corso Italia, 14
• Farmacia ai Due Mori – Capo Di Piazza Santin, 2
Pharmacists in Trieste are knowledgeable and often speak basic English. They can help with minor ailments, prescription refills, and medical advice.
Tips for Travelers
• Carry ID and your medical documents when visiting a hospital.
• If you take regular medication, bring a translated prescription just in case you lose it.
• For mental health concerns, Trieste is internationally known for its progressive psychiatric care model, with walk-in support centers and clinics available.
Emergencies can be stressful, but Trieste’s reliable healthcare system and well-connected pharmacies ensure you’re in good hands. Keep the emergency numbers saved in your phone, learn to spot the green cross for pharmacies, and you’ll be well prepared for anything that might come your way.