Trieste Centrale (Train Station): Departures and guide

Travel to the Trieste Centrale train station from Trieste city center

Once the home of modernist writers like James Joyce, and a thriving port which rivaled Venice for mastery of the Adriatic, the Italian city of Trieste has thrived in recent years, forging an identity that doesn't feel classically Italian, and reflects its multicultural history. Sporting a beautiful seafront location, the city has its share of impressive palaces, churches, and elite museums, as well as fine wines from the nearby countryside. Picturesque ski slopes are nearby, as well. Most people who pay the city a visit pass through the train station, Trieste Centrale, at some stage - and with good reason. It has great links to Italy and beyond. And when they do, knowing how to reach the station is absolutely essential.

What is the best way to the Trieste Centrale train station from Trieste city center?

As  its name suggests, Trieste Centrale isn't far from the center of Trieste. In fact, it's a short distance north of the harbor and the city center, so getting to rail services should prove fairly simple in most cases. The heart of the old town is Piazza della Cattedrale. From there, travelers can take bus lines one or 24, but taxis are far quicker. Buses 24 and 30 run from the Port of Trieste to the Trieste Centrale train station, bus number 17 runs from the Kleines Berlin World War Two tunnels, and buses three connects the station with the University of Trieste. Trieste Airport is some distance to the north-west. From there, the best transfer option is to take a Trenitalia train, or regular bus services from SAF.

How far is it to the Trieste Centrale train station from Trieste city center?

The Trieste Centrale train station is only two miles (three kilometers) north of the cathedral district, and less than two miles (three kilometers) from the port and most downtown attractions. This means that it's possible to walk to the station, but public transport or taxis are generally preferable. Expect buses from the cathedral to take 20-25 minutes. However, taxis are much faster, usually reaching the station in five to ten minutes. Buses from the port will take around 15 minutes while bus connections from Trieste University will reach the station in approximately 11 minutes. Trieste Airport is 25 miles (40 kilometers) north-west of the city. From there, travelers can anticipate train rides to take 30 minutes, while coaches will take 40-45 minutes - depending on traffic.

How accessible is the Trieste Centrale train station for those with limited mobility?

Trieste Centrale underwent a major renovation in 2007 and has been converted into a facility that serves those with limited mobility extremely well. Access to the station's five platforms is step-free and simple. There are disabled toilets and the ticket office is designed to suit wheelchair users as well. Moreover, Trieste is part of RFI's (the station operator) network of major stations with on-site assistance for the mobility-impaired. To take advantage of this assistance, travelers will need to book personal help 24 hours before they travel and go to the welcome desk upon arrival. When they travel to a  train from Trieste city center, wheelchair users should use buses operated by Trieste Trasporti. The buses feature lowered floors, access ramps, special onboard seats with safety belts, and wheelchair blocks. However, if travelers want to ensure the most comfortable transfer to their rail services, it's advisable to look into dedicated taxi companies for the mobility-impaired.

Local tips: the Trieste Centrale train station and points of interest

If travelers arrive at Trieste Centrale and are a little early,  there will be plenty of possibilities regarding what to do near the train station. Firstly, the Kleine Berlin tunnel complex can be found nearby to the south-east of the station. Built as air raid shelters by the Nazi occupiers in WW2, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's war-torn past. Not far off, travelers can wander by the James Joyce statue - one of the city's most famous ex-residents. The historic district is easily accessible via buses and taxis. It's worth exploring, with Roman ruins (don't miss the well-preserved theater), and elegant squares like the Piazza Unita d'Italia. If there's time, climbing to the cathedral and the Castle of San Giusto is essential. It's a little steep for the mobility-impaired, but vehicle access is available. Be sure to set aside a few extra minutes for traveling back to Trieste Centrale.