Panoramic Trieste and Miramare Castle

Panoramic Trieste and Miramare Castle Set off for a half-day of discovery in one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Embrace Trieste and see for yourself a place which enchants visitors with history, architecture and annual events as you make your way to visit the extraordinary Miramare Castle. Trieste is a city at the crossroads and was only returned to Italy in 1954. An important port town that has been passed through the possession of the Romans, Venetians, the powerful Hapsburg monarchy (who lavished it with money), and the Germans during WWII. Between land and sea, war and peace, this special place has carved out a unique and vibrant culture that sits somewhere between Austrian, Italian, and Slovenian influences. The Austrian architecture, cafe culture, and seaside views have attracted writers and artists for decades, including luminaries like Italo Svevo, James Joyce and Sigmund Freud. Today, Trieste is the capital of the region Friuli-Venezia Giulia, one of the richest in all of Italy, and continues to enchant travelers looking for an off-the-grid destination filled with history, art, and unique cuisine. After a walking tour of central Trieste, you will next drive through the city and the surrounds to make your way to Miramare Castle. Located on the tip of a promontory perched between cliffs and overlooking the sea, the Castello Miramare is only 5km outside of the city. The Castle provides beautiful views from its wrap-around balcony and is surrounded by a beautiful park with 54 acres of gardens that contain valuable botanical species. This noble residence was commissioned by Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian of Habsburg and his wife Charlotte and was built between 1855 and 1860. The restless Archduke was known for his vanity and wealth and inside you'll find testaments to this with portraits hung in nearly every room, different dining rooms for winter and summer and a throne room that was never used. The Archduke was executed in Mexico after trying to establish himself as its monarch during one of the more outlandish empire-building adventures of the 19th century. Ironically, he was well-liked by almost everyone who knew him. Your tour of the castle includes entrance fee and an audio-guide.