UNUSUAL THINGS TO DO IN TRIESTE
THAT MOST TOURISTS MISS
Trieste is known for its grand piazzas and Miramare Castle, but the city hides plenty of quirky and lesser-known attractions. If you want to discover the city beyond the usual itinerary, here are some unusual things to do in Trieste.
1. Descend into Kleine Berlin
Beneath Trieste lies a labyrinth of WWII tunnels known as Kleine Berlin. Guided tours are sometimes available, and they offer a unique glimpse into the city’s wartime past.
Read more about Fascist & WWII History in Trieste: Key Sites and Events.
2. Discover Literary Trieste
Trieste was home to writers like James Joyce, Italo Svevo, and Umberto Saba. Instead of just reading about them, explore the literary cafés they frequented, such as Caffè San Marco, where the atmosphere feels frozen in time.
Check out Famous Writers and Poets of Trieste: Joyce, Svevo & More.
3. Take the Napoleonica Trail
Far from the city center, the Napoleonica Path is a local favorite. This easy walking route gives you sweeping views over Trieste and is popular with climbers who practice on the limestone cliffs along the way.
4. Visit the Victory Lighthouse (Faro della Vittoria)
Unlike many lighthouses, this one is open to visitors on certain days. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the gulf and learn about its role as both a monument and a beacon.
5. Explore the Carso Caves
The Karst Plateau surrounding Trieste is full of caves, some open to the public. The most famous is the Grotta Gigante, one of the largest tourist caves in the world, but there are also smaller, less crowded ones worth exploring.
Going off the beaten path in Trieste allows you to see a more authentic side of the city. From secret tunnels and panoramic trails to literary cafés and hidden caves, these unusual experiences show you that Trieste is full of surprises.