Trieste Old Town rests in a seaside Italian city renowned for its border town culture, with Slovenian and Austro-Hungarian influences. Stroll along pedestrian streets to discover historic sites amid other attractions, including a spectacular waterfront.

The city’s regal main square is Piazza Unità d’Italia. One side looking out toward the sparkling water of the Adriatic Sea is lined with magnificent buildings such as the Viennese-designed Palazzo del Governo. Have coffee at historic Caffè degli Specchi, founded in 1839.

Teatro Romano, or the Roman Theatre, rests in the heart of Old Town just steps from the piazza. Notice remnants of the original seating and the stage area. Nearby, see the Arco di Riccardo (Arch of Richard), a picturesque Roman gate. For modern entertainment, book tickets for a show at Teatro Miela or Teatro Lirico Giuseppe Verdi. The latter hosts opera and ballet and was built between 1798 and 1801 to resemble Milan’s La Scala.

Once the economic center of the city, Piazza della Borsa is where you’ll see beautiful examples of neoclassical buildings, along with the Old Stock Exchange. Visit fascinating museums including Museo d’Arte Orientale, which features Asian art, and Museo Revoltella, with modern and contemporary art.

Stroll around and stop for a while to appreciate views of the iconic Canal Grande di Trieste. Palazzo Gopcevich rests on its banks and houses the Civico Museo Teatrale Carlo Schmidl, documenting the history of performing arts in Trieste. For panoramic views over the city and the Gulf of Trieste, climb up to Castello di San Giusto. The triangular fortress built by the Austrian Empire rests beside the San Giusto Cathedral.

Trieste Old Town is a walker’s dream, so you’ll easily be able to see the attractions on foot. To get to Trieste, fly to Trieste Airport for a 30-minute drive or bus ride to the old town.