Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Italy’s new ferry service will connect Trieste to popular Croatian and Slovenian coastal destinations, offering a sustainable, scenic, and convenient travel option this summer.
This summer, a new ferry service will link the charming Italian port city of Trieste with some of Croatia’s most renowned coastal destinations, offering a convenient and scenic travel option.
The new route, launching on June 26, will make it easier than ever for both locals and tourists to travel between Italy and Croatia. Connecting Trieste to several iconic spots along the Adriatic coast, the service will run until September 1, with stops in Piran, Poreč, Rovinj, and Mali Lošinj on the island of Lošinj.
Designed to provide a sustainable alternative to car travel during the busy summer months, the ferry service aims to reduce traffic congestion. After a public tender failed in December 2024, the regional government initiated negotiations, ultimately awarding the contract to Liberty Lines, who had previously operated the service until 2023.
The new three-year deal, valued at approximately 4.5 million euros (£3.7 million), guarantees the continuation of international ferry connections between Trieste and the northern Adriatic. The agreement covers the summer seasons from 2025 to 2027, with an option to extend through 2028.
Cristina Amirante, the Head of Infrastructure and Territory for Friuli Venezia Giulia, confirmed the announcement, noting that the project is in line with the region’s efforts to improve sustainable transportation options.
The ferry will operate daily, except Tuesdays, from Pier IV in Trieste. The routes will include Trieste–Piran–Poreč–Rovinj (return); Trieste–Rovinj–Mali Lošinj (return); Trieste–Poreč–Piran–Trieste; and Trieste–Piran–Rovinj–Trieste.
With a capacity of over 180 passengers, each ferry will offer indoor seating and space for at least 10 bicycles, promoting eco-friendly travel options.
The tradition of ferry connections between Trieste and Istria dates back to 1963, when the motor vessel Edra made regular stops at all the major towns along the western Istrian coast. This service continued until the early 1990s, with the last regular passenger ferry, Dionea, ceasing operations in 1990.
Trieste, named Italy’s “most underrated city” last September, is often overlooked by tourists. Nestled just east of Venice, close to the Slovenian border, it boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, rivaling Rome but without the overwhelming crowds. The capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, is only 62 miles away, and Trieste itself only became part of Italy in the 20th century.
Visitors can explore the ancient Roman Amphitheater and take a hike to the Castle of Saint Giusto, which offers panoramic views of the city. The Piazza Unita d’Italia, Europe’s largest seaside square, is the heart of Trieste, filled with beautiful historical buildings and an ideal spot to enjoy the city’s delicious cuisine.
Known as the “coffee capital” of the Mediterranean, Trieste is home to the largest coffee port in the region. The city’s love affair with coffee dates back to 1719, when it became a tax-free port under Austro-Hungarian rule, facilitating trade with the Ottoman Empire. Since then, Trieste has been a major supplier of coffee beans to cafes across Europe, including those in Vienna. Coffee consumption in Trieste is double the Italian average, with many local cafes offering their own exclusive blends.
