Excursions to nearby Italy

Italy – the land of cappuccino, romance and fashion. Picturesque cultural and historic landmarks, delicious food, exquisite wine, gracious women and football! Take advantage of all this and more in the neighbouring Italy!

Best excursion destinations – Fresh excursion destination recommendations are always welcome!

The romantic city of Venice is one of the most beautiful locations in Italy and lies nested in a lagoon, on small islands separated by canals. Venice is famous for its romantic bridges, splendid architecture, narrow streets, luxurious palaces, churches and museums. Houses on wooden piles amid the sea, town squares brimming with pigeons, small bridges and the gondola invoke in Venice a romantic atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for couples.

Take the catamaran from Piran and voyage on an unforgettable excursion to Venice! During the comfortable voyage with the catamaran towards the most beautiful floating city in the world, listen to the short outline of the rich history of Venice, the capital of the once "La Serenissima". After arriving at the Venice port of San Basilio, you can undertake the exploration of landmarks of this one-of-a-kind city located along the north-west coast of the Adriatic either on foot or by boat. During lunchtime, head to one of the many restaurants and enjoy local delicacies in a romantic atmosphere. After lunch, continue by taking the gondola through the city's most secret spots as well as the most famous canal (Canal Grande). Enjoy Venice!

Immediately nearby Trieste lies the magnificent Miramare Castle, which is undoubtedly worth a visit. Miramare Castle was built based on plans by Austrian architect Carl Junker and commissioned by Austrian Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian and his wife Charlotte of Belgium during the second half of the 19^thcentury.

This idyllic castle by the sea, which from afar seems like something out of fantasy, has been arranged into a museum. Surrounded by mighty walls, the castle would defend from invaders while its every inch is decorated with various coats-of-arms and spectacular lamps.

Walk inside the castle and don't forget about the meticulously-kept gardens surrounding it; let romance take its course and enjoy the unparalleled view of the Gulf of Trieste. 

Trieste is more than just a shopping spot. Walk the streets, mingle with the locals, treat yourself to a "capo" (capuccino in a cup) and experience the true pulse of the city.

In Trieste, James Joyce would often enjoy his breakfast on the streets, while Napoleon spent the night... Why not investigate this beautiful city?

Want to avoid heavy traffic and the search for a vacant parking spot? Then take the tram from Villa Opicina towards the centre of Trieste. This famous tram has connected Trieste and Villa Opicina since 1902. The five kilometre tram route from Villa Opicina towards Trieste descends by 340m, and its steepest parts give of the vibe of a funicular.

Visitors should not miss the main square known as Piazza dell’Unità d’Italia offering an unobstructed vista of the sea and which is surrounded by the city's most beautiful architecture. Thecity and its vicinity is also littered with Roman remains – mention-worthy is the well-preserved Roman theatre under St. Justus' Hill. Don't forget to visit Canal Grande and the famous main pier by the sea.

The island of Grado, Slovene Gradež, is accessible by road and is part of the Grado Lagune. Grado is also known as the city of sun and roses.

The centre of Grado is closed for traffic, making it even more romantic and visitor-friendly. Also worth mentioning is the shallow three kilometre sand beach. It might not exactly be the first choice of swimming enthusiasts, but makes for an excellent maritime playground.

Grado can be an attractive excursion point for anybody who wants to spend their spare time outdoors and in an active manner. Take your bicycles along the cycling route towards the nearby Aquileia, which was once one of the largest and richest Roman cities and has been included in the Unesco World Heritage list.

For those looking for more excitement, why not test your kiting skills? Because of the shallow and calm sea, the Grado beach is the perfect site both for complete beginners as well as intermediate kiters.