TRIESTE , ITALY
Just a two-hour drive from Venice , the relatively undiscovered city of Trieste poses an enticing option for travellers seeking the authentic allure of old Italy .
This charming city will surprise and delight you as one of Italy ’ s most cosmopolitan and multicultural cities .
For centuries the place was at the crossroads of history , as the main port of the Austrian empire , and its window to the world , until it became part of Italy only in the 20th century . Many of the grand Trieste monuments are from that era , and the city you can visit today is this unique blend of different cultures and influences .
The main square of Trieste , Piazza Unità d ’ Italia , is where you will find the city ’ s most spectacular architecture . It offers many lovely cafes to sit and do some people-watching while soaking up the ambience . The Canal Grande and Trieste ’ s picturesque waterfront is one of the best places in the city for a leisure stroll , while for history and sightseeing , there are many castles nearby , including Castello di Duino , Castello di Miramare , and Castello di Muggia .
Due to its proximity , the city can easily be your base for a few days , commuting between bustling Venice by day and returning to the more peaceful and relaxed seaside and historic centre of Trieste in the afternoon and evenings . Best of all , you can easily combine Italy with its neighbouring countries with Trieste as your transit point — the city is a mere stone ’ s throw from the border with Slovenia , and the country ’ s great wine regions are right on your doorstep ( more on that to follow ).
Trieste has popped into focus within the last few years as more and more cruise ships are moved from docking in Venice , so it is best to discover this gem before the crowds .
VIPAVA VALLEY , SLOVENIA
With a stunning setting between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea , the lush Vipava Valley is undoubtedly one of Europe ’ s best-hidden gems ( for now !). With its gorgeous rolling green hills and vineyards , you could easily mistake this for Tuscany at first glance . And in fact , this area is an untapped marvel for wine lovers with a wide variety of cellars to discover — the Vipava Valley has always been known as a wine-growing region , and for centuries wine growing has been deep-rooted in this tiny piece of Slovenia .
The valley boasts views from every angle of the high karst plateaus , and you ’ ll find pleasant little Vipava Valley villages and towns to explore . Cycling and hiking are , naturally , very popular in the area all year round , with many guided tours that include pit stops where you can taste the Vipava Valley ’ s culinary treasures .
Much of the country of Slovenia remains blissfully off the beaten path . While exploring the Vipava Valley , you can visit neighbouring Brda or the Karst or find adventures in the Alpine mountain tops .
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