Trieste is a city located in the northeastern part of Italy. It was once a significant and influential hub of politics, literature, music, art, and culture under the rule of the Austrian-Hungarian empire. However, its prominence declined towards the end of the 20th century, and today, Trieste is often overlooked as tourists flock to larger Italian cities like Rome and Milan. Despite this, Trieste remains a charming and underrated city, boasting a serene and lovely atmosphere reminiscent of Eastern Europe, numerous pubs and cafes, stunning architecture, and a beautiful view of the sea. For a time, it was even home to renowned Irish writer James Joyce.
Trieste is the most cosmopolitan city in the region, balancing a rich history as the "Little Vienna on the Sea" with its modern, international identity. A trip to Trieste is a journey through the city's history, literature, and art, from its Roman roots to its medieval marvels, and up to its Habsburg grandeur. The city's architectural wealth is impressive, with Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, Eclectic, and Baroque styles coexisting harmoniously alongside Roman ruins, 18th-century buildings, and Hapsburg-style structures.
Coffee is a staple product of Trieste. Since the 18th century, it has been a Free Port for coffee importation, making the port of Trieste the most significant in the Mediterranean for coffee trade. The beans that arrive here are destined not only for local coffee roasters but also for those worldwide. Moreover, coffee in Trieste is intertwined with literature. The city is home to numerous literary cafes—historic establishments with a retro charm—frequented by poets and writers such as James Joyce, Italo Svevo, and Umberto Saba.