
Muggia: The Italian secret that will win your heart forever
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Muggia: Where history meets Italian Dolce Vita
Very close to Trieste lies this small town that seems to have come straight out of a Venetian fairytale: Muggia . This charming port town is practically the last Italian outpost in Istria and a real insider tip for anyone who wants to experience an authentic Italian atmosphere away from mass tourism.
📸 A journey through the centuries
Muggia offers more than just a beautiful view:
- the narrow streets with old Venetian houses,
- the Gothic cathedral with the typical rose window,
- the charming Mandracchio , the historic fishing port with its rocking boats,
- The Castello di Muggia , small but charming, is located just above the city center and offers a magnificent view over the rooftops of the old town all the way to the sea. The Castello is now privately owned but is occasionally open for events.
- A visit to the old settlement of Muggia Vecchia is also recommended – not only because of the Romanesque church of Santa Maria Assunta , but also because of the peace and quiet, the wide view over the bay and the feeling of having been transported to another time.
🎭 Did you know that...
...Muggia is known far beyond the region for its carnival , one of the oldest and liveliest in the area? For centuries, groups in colorful costumes have paraded through the streets, celebrating with dance, music, and parodies – true to Venetian tradition. Once you've been there, you won't soon forget it!
🍷 Culinary delights with a sea view
In Muggia, Istrian customs and Venetian influences combine to create a true feast. Freshly caught seafood, homemade pasta, and the famous Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso – a local red wine grown on the hills surrounding the town. At the "Sal de Mar" restaurant, located in the former salt warehouse, you can dine in a historic setting and taste the town's salt history.
Fish dishes such as brodetto (fish soup), grilled calamari , or gnocchi with scampi are also typical. Sweet specialties such as fritole, popular during Carnival, are also part of the menu.
🏺 Between past and present
A short trip to Muggia Vecchia takes you back to the beginning: At 170 meters above sea level, the Romanesque Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta stands enthroned among the remains of the first Roman settlement. The view of the Gulf of Trieste is spectacular and free!
At the modern Porto San Rocco, you can admire yachts or relax on San Bartolomeo Beach . The city effortlessly combines 2,000 years of history with the modern Italian lifestyle.
🔱 Why Muggia is perfect for your next short trip
- Accessibility: Only 20-30 minutes from Trieste, perfect as a day trip
- Authenticity: Real Italian life
- Diversity: History, culture, nature and cuisine in a small space
- Relaxation: Leisurely pace, friendly locals, Mediterranean serenity
✨ Practical tips for your visit
Best time to travel: March to October, especially beautiful during the famous carnival in February/March or during the summer carnival.
Muggia is located just a few kilometers from Trieste and is easily accessible by ferry, bus or car :
🚤 By ferry – Relaxed across the sea
The ferry isn't just a means of transportation, it's also an experience: In about 30 minutes, the Delfino Verde takes you from the Molo dei Bersaglieri in Trieste directly to Muggia. The ferries run several times a day throughout the year. Tickets cost around €8 and can be paid directly on board. You can find the current timetable and further information here: triestetrasporti.it
Tip: Arrive at the pier early to secure a spot on deck and enjoy the coastal views.
🚌 By bus – fast and cheap
Trieste Trasporti 's bus line 20 connects Trieste with Muggia. Buses depart every 30 minutes from Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi in Trieste. Around 40 minutes later, you'll arrive in Muggia. A single ticket costs approximately €2 and can be purchased at vending machines, tobacco shops, or via the app. You can find the current timetable and further information here : triestetrasporti.it
🚗 By car – flexible travel
By car, you can reach Muggia via the SS15 or SS202 . The journey takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes , depending on traffic. There are several parking options in Muggia, including parking lots near the harbor and the old town.
Tip: Discover Muggia on your own with our scavenger hunt
Want to explore Muggia in a whole new way? Then try our digital scavenger hunt through Muggia ! With exciting puzzles, funny anecdotes, and hidden facts, you'll get to know the village in a playful and interactive way – ideal for solo explorers, couples, or families.

Buon viaggio to Muggia – where every alley tells a story!
You can find more information about Muggia on our Trieste blog well-living Trieste