Shopping in Trieste
Welcome to Outpost Trieste! As proud locals born and raised in this city, we are here to guide you through Trieste’s hidden gems and rich cultural heritage. With firsthand knowledge and a passion for sharing the best of our territory, our team provide detailed, quality advice to ensure you experience the best of Trieste during your visit.
Historical picture of Corso Italia, Trieste’s iconic shopping street
Where are the best places to shop in Trieste?
Trieste offers diverse shopping experiences from luxury boutiques along Corso Italia to artisanal stores in the historic Ghetto district. The city center features international brands, local boutiques, and the covered market, while shopping centers like Torri d'Europa provide modern retail options. Key areas include Borgo Teresiano for fashion, Via Cavana for antiques, and Viale XX Settembre for casual shopping. Most stores in Trieste are open from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM, with some closing for lunch from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM.
If you're planning a shopping trip to Trieste and need parking advice, check out our comprehensive Parking Guide in Trieste for the best spots near the city's top shopping destinations.
Shopping in Trieste's City Center
Strolling through Trieste's city center feels like wandering through a living postcard, where elegant Habsburg architecture frames a shopper's paradise. As a local, I've watched countless visitors fall in love with our winding streets, each one hiding retail treasures waiting to be discovered. From the bustling Corso Italia, where international brands meet Italian craftsmanship, to the bohemian alleys of the Ghetto district, where time seems to stand still in antique shops and artisanal boutiques, Trieste's shopping scene is as diverse as its cultural heritage.
Each neighborhood tells its own shopping story. In the heart of Borgo Teresiano, fashionistas browse through Max Mara and H&M, while around the corner, the Mercato Coperto buzzes with locals hunting for fresh produce and authentic souvenirs. Meanwhile, the tree-lined Viale XX Settembre offers a more relaxed pace, where you can shop like a true Triestino, gelato in hand, discovering small boutiques and bookstores that have served generations of shoppers.
But first: Outpost Trieste is still growing, and we want to make this guide as helpful as possible to you. If you’ve already been shopping in Trieste, we’d love to hear about your experience: What was easy? What was frustrating? Or, if you haven’t visited yet, what concerns or questions do you have about shopping here?
That’s it—just your thoughts. No sign-ups, no costs, no hidden anything. Just a quick way to tell us what would make shopping in Trieste easier and more enjoyable for you.
We’re not a big team—we’re just locals who love our city. Your feedback can help us understand what’s missing and how we can make this guide even better.
With that said, let me guide you through the best spots to shop in our beautiful city, from hidden vintage gems to luxury flagship stores, and show you where locals really go to find their treasures.
Which are the best shopping streets in Trieste?
Trieste's prime shopping streets are Corso Italia for luxury brands, Via Cavana for artisanal shops, and Viale XX Settembre for local boutiques. Each offers unique retail experiences with distinct atmospheres.
1. Borgo Teresiano and Corso Italia
Historic picture of Trieste’s premier shopping street Corso Italia
Borgo Teresiano, with its elegant Habsburg-era architecture, is Trieste's premier fashion district. At its heart lies Corso Italia, which, together with Via San Nicolò and Piazza della Borsa, forms a sophisticated shopping triangle that hosts virtually every major fashion brand in the city.
This fashionable quarter perfectly reflects Trieste's cosmopolitan heritage as a historic Habsburg port city. Today, you'll find an impressive mix of international fashion chains, Italian luxury brands, and historic department stores. Twice a year this entire fashion district transforms into what could be considered one of the largest open-air outlets in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. During the winter sales (saldi invernali, early January) and summer sales (saldi estivi, July), the entire area becomes a city-wide outlet, with branded stores offering discounts of 30-70% on their collections. These sale periods, along with the Christmas season, are when the district becomes particularly vibrant, with most stores offering extended hours and special promotions.
The area is particularly convenient for shoppers, with most major retailers concentrated in three main zones:
Corso Italia: The district's backbone, home to luxury brands like Max Mara and Falconeri, alongside international favorites such as H&M and Gap. The historic Coin department store, housed in an elegant palazzo, serves as a shopping landmark.
Piazza della Borsa: This beautiful square and its immediate surroundings host many fashion-forward brands like Desigual, Doppelgänger, and several Calzedonia group stores (Intimissimi, Tezenis).
Via San Nicolò: A sophisticated shopping street featuring Zara's flagship store and numerous Italian fashion boutiques.
What makes this district especially shopper-friendly is that many major retailers here maintain continuous opening hours (no lunch break) and Sunday opening - particularly useful for visitors. The area's larger stores like Coin, Stefanel, and Zara stay open until 8 PM, offering extended shopping opportunities.
For a complete list of all major fashion stores in this area, including detailed opening hours, locations, and which stores are open during lunch hours or Sundays, check out our comprehensive Guide to Major Fashion Stores in Trieste.
The district's shopping experience is enhanced by its beautiful setting - historic buildings, elegant arcades, and the nearby Canal Grande offers a truly picturesque sight, perfect for a coffee break at one of Trieste’s historic cafés. During the holiday season, the streets come alive with the magical glow of Christmas markets, making shopping here a festive treat.
2. Ghetto and Cavana
Cavana, Trieste’s Old Town and popular shopping destination for antique and artisanal product lovers
Venturing from Corso Italia into the Ghetto and Cavana districts feels like discovering a hidden gem. These neighborhoods, once rich in history and now revived with modern flair, offer a mix of antique shops, vintage boutiques, and contemporary artisan stores.
In the Ghetto, you’ll find rigatterie (second-hand stores) and antique markets teeming with unique finds. Every third Sunday of the month, this area hosts a lively flea market, perfect for those hunting for one-of-a-kind treasures.
Moving into Via Cavana, the charm deepens. This area is known for its artisanal shops selling handmade jewelry, bespoke leather goods, and local art. Each piece you buy here carries a story, making it more than just a souvenir—it’s a piece of Trieste itself.
3. Viale XX Settembre
Viale XX Settembre, Trieste’s tree-lined shopping avenue
For a more relaxed shopping experience, head to Viale XX Settembre, a tree-lined avenue filled with small shops, bookstores, and quaint boutiques. This pedestrian-friendly street is a favorite among locals for its laid-back atmosphere and variety of stores.
On sunny days, the avenue is a hub of activity, with people browsing for jewelry, fashion, and gifts, or simply enjoying a gelato from one of the many ice cream parlors. Viale XX Settembre offers a blend of traditional Italian shopping with the warmth of a local neighborhood, making it a must-visit.
What Are the Best Shops in Trieste?
Trieste's retail landscape offers an intriguing mix of international fashion and local character. While the city has many major Italian and international fashion brand stores (almost all concentrated in the Borgo Teresiano and Corso Italia area - here you can find our detailed guide to All Fashion Brand Stores in Trieste, complete with store locations and opening hours), what truly sets Trieste apart are its historic and specialty shops that embody the city's unique cultural heritage.
Walking through Trieste's elegant streets, you'll discover establishments like Drogheria Toso, a 1906 apothecary shop that still maintains its original wooden furnishings, and Enoteca Bischoff, a 240-year-old wine merchant that showcases the region's finest wines. Danieli, another historic gem, truly embodies Trieste's international mercantile spirit through its carefully curated selection of global delicacies.
The city's shopping scene goes beyond the familiar branded stores to offer unique specialty shops like Trieste's only hat shop Outpost Trieste, Tipicamente Triestino for authentic local souvenirs, and the vibrant Mercato Coperto for fresh local produce. These establishments, rather than the international fashion chains you can find in any major city, are what make shopping in Trieste a truly memorable experience.
Each store tells a story, each purchase becomes a memory, and every shop owner serves as a guardian of traditions that have shaped this remarkable city. Whether you're interested in historic establishments, fashion boutiques, local specialty shops, authentic souvenirs, or antique treasures, Trieste has something special to offer. For an in-depth look at all of Trieste's must-visit stores, from centuries-old merchants to contemporary artisans, check out our complete guide to The Best Shops in Trieste →
Let me take you on a journey through some of the most extraordinary shopping destinations that make Trieste truly special.
1. Best shop to experience Trieste’s soul: Danieli
Danieli: a shop reflecting Trieste’s international merchantile spirit
Step into Danieli, and you'll immediately understand why this isn't just another candy store. The air is thick with the aroma of fine chocolates and exotic teas, while its shelves hold treasures from across the globe. I often find myself lingering here, watching as customers discover their own slice of paradise among the 200 varieties of confetti or rare cocoa from South America.
What makes this place truly magical is its setting in the former Bar Moncenisio, where artists once gathered to share ideas over coffee. Today, as you browse through ginger from Australia or sip on carefully selected teas, you're participating in a tradition of international trade, taste and refinement that has defined Trieste for generations.
Read more about Danieli here →
2. Best hat shop in Trieste: Outpost Trieste
Outpost Trieste: reviving Trieste’s hat shop tradition
In Trieste, elegance never goes out of style. So, since you are visiting our city, why not step into our very own hat shop, Outpost Trieste? As Trieste's only dedicated hat shop, we've revived a tradition that once saw hat makers dotting every corner of this sophisticated port city. Here, in our carefully curated space in Piazza della Borsa, we're not just selling hats – we're preserving a piece of Trieste's sartorial soul.
Every hat in our collection tells a story: from breezy summer panama hats that whisper tales of Adriatic adventures to robust winter fedoras that seem to capture the essence of the Bora wind itself. Our walls are lined with pieces that bridge the gap between practical necessity and timeless style, each one carefully chosen to reflect the sophisticated spirit of our city.
Read more about Outpost Trieste here →
3. Best historic shop in Trieste: Drogheria Toso
Drogheria Toso: one of Trieste’s historic shop
Pushing open the door of Drogheria Toso feels like stepping through a portal to 1906. The ivory-colored wooden cabinets stretch toward the ceiling, their countless drawers holding secrets from a bygone era. The scent of loose spices mingles with Marsiglia soap, creating an atmosphere that no modern store could replicate.
Here, among the green and red clays, decorators' pigments, and impossibly rare ostrich feather dusters, you'll find yourself touching, smelling, and experiencing shopping as it was meant to be – personal, authentic, and unhurried. The Kosmina family continues to write new chapters in this store's history while preserving its soul exactly as Vittorio Toso intended over a century ago.
Read more about Drogheria Toso here →
4. Best wine shop in Trieste: Enoteca Bishoff
Enoteca Bischoff: one of Trieste’s oldest wine shops
To enter Enoteca Bischoff is to step into a cathedral of wine, where every bottle has a tale to tell. Founded in 1777, this isn't just one of the oldest wine shops in Trieste – it's a living testament to the city's golden age as a Free Port. The discovery of Malaga Stravecchio bottles from the 1800s in their cellar speaks volumes about the depth of history contained within these walls.
Among the 2,500 Italian labels and rare international vintages, you might find yourself lost in conversation with their passionate sommeliers, who treat each bottle with the reverence it deserves. Whether you're seeking an 18th-century Madeira or a contemporary Italian masterpiece, you're not just buying wine – you're becoming part of a story that spans centuries.
Read more about Enoteca Bischoff here →
5. Best souvenir shop in Trieste: Tipicamente Triestino
Tipicamente Triestino: Trieste’s best souvenir shop
There's something magical about a store created by people who truly understand a city's essence. Emanuela and Donata, former tour guides turned shop owners, have poured their love for Trieste into every corner of Tipicamente Triestino. Their mission is simple: to showcase the city’s artistic and culinary treasures, connecting tourists and locals to the region’s vibrant heritage. Their carefully curated collection transforms local pride into tangible treasures – from typical Triestine products and souvenirs of the city to artisanal wines that capture the spirit of the region.
Read more about Tipicamente Triestino here →
6. Best historic market in Trieste: the Mercato Coperto
Trieste’s Mercato Coperto
The Mercato Coperto holds a special place in the heart of the Triestini. Built in 1936 as a gift to the city's resilient female street vendors, this Art Deco masterpiece continues to pulse with energy and authenticity. The ground floor bustles with vendors offering the freshest local produce, while the upper level surprises with fashion boutiques and artisanal crafts.
As you wander through the market's triangular layout, beneath its magnificent glass windows, you're experiencing shopping as the Triestini do – with passion, discernment, and a deep appreciation for quality. The helical ramp, inspired by Turin's Fiat Lingotto factory, serves as a reminder that even in commerce, Trieste never forgot to embrace architectural beauty. And if you want to know more about this historic shoppic landmark, read more about it here.
A Perfect Shopping Break: Discover Trieste's Historic Cafés
No visit to Trieste is complete without experiencing its historic cafés, which are more than just places to enjoy coffee—they are cultural landmarks that reflect the city’s storied past. From the grandeur of Caffè degli Specchi to the intellectual legacy of Caffè Tommaseo.
Each café has its own story, whether it’s the literary heritage of Antico Caffè San Marco, the Liberty-style elegance of Antico Caffè Torinese, or the vibrant cultural scene at Caffè Stella Polare. These venues are perfect for taking a break from shopping while immersing yourself in Trieste’s unique blend of history and culture.
To learn more about these incredible cafés, read our full article: Exploring the Historical Cafés of Trieste.
Where Can You Find Supermarkets in Trieste?
If you’re planning a visit to Trieste and want to experience the city like a local—or simply stock up on Italian delicacies—its supermarkets are the perfect place to sttock up on groceries. From high-quality local produce to affordable essentials, Trieste’s supermarkets cater to a variety of needs, whether you're looking for a quick snack, fresh groceries or specialty products.
Here’s an overview of the most popular supermarkets in Trieste, along with practical tips to make your shopping experience seamless. To make your shopping easier, we’ve also included a detailed map of Trieste’s major supermarkets, showcasing their locations and proximity to key areas like the city center, train station, and shopping districts. This way, you can quickly locate the most convenient option for your needs.
Best Supermarkets in Trieste
1. PAM
What to Expect: A popular choice among locals, PAM offers a wide range of Italian products, from fresh pasta and cheese to high-quality olive oil and wine. It’s perfect for tourists seeking authentic Italian groceries at reasonable prices.
Locations: Multiple outlets across the city, marked in green on the map.
2. Coop
What to Expect: A well-stocked supermarket with a focus on local and sustainable products. Coop is great for finding organic goods, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
Locations: Multiple outlets across the city, marked in red on the map.
3. Eurospin
What to Expect: Budget-friendly and widely loved for its competitive prices, Eurospin offers great deals on both local and imported goods.
Locations: Multiple outlets across the city, marked in blue on the map.
4. Despar
What to Expect: A premium supermarket chain offering high-quality deli products, fresh seafood, and an excellent selection of Italian wines and cheeses.
Locations: Multiple outlets across the city, marked in orange on the map.
5. Conad
What to Expect: Known for their convenience and competitive prices, Conad stores often feature in-house bakeries, deli counters, and a variety of local and international products, making them ideal for quick grocery runs or stocking up on authentic Italian ingredients.
Locations: Multiple outlets across the city, marked in yellow on the map.
When to Shop in Trieste: Shop Opening Hours, Sales, Markets and Special Events
Trieste is a city that loves to celebrate, and its shopping scene reflects this spirit through both its daily rhythms and special events throughout the year. From the traditional lunch breaks observed by charming boutiques to the extended hours during festive seasons, shopping in Trieste follows patterns deeply rooted in local culture. This connection to tradition extends to the city's vibrant calendar of shopping events - from festive markets that light up the streets to antique fairs and unique artisan showcases. Whether you're planning a regular shopping day or timing your visit to coincide with special events, here's your complete guide to when to shop in Trieste.
1. Shop Opening Hours in Trieste
Planning your shopping in Trieste means discovering the city's unique retail rhythms. Most city center shops operate Monday to Saturday from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM. While smaller independent boutiques often observe the traditional "pausa pranzo" (lunch break) from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM, larger stores like Coin Excelsior and OVS, as well as most fashion retailers along Corso Italia and Via San Nicolò, stay open continuously throughout the day.
Don't let Sunday discourage you from exploring Trieste's vibrant shopping scene! Many shops in the city center, especially along the main shopping streets, welcome visitors on Sundays. The historic center is particularly lively during special shopping seasons like Christmas and sale periods, when shops open their doors from around 10:00 AM, creating a delightful shopping atmosphere in Trieste's beautiful streets. Shopping centers like Torri d'Europa, Il Giulia, and Montedoro Designer Outlet also offer reliable Sunday shopping hours from 9:00 or 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM.
For a special treat, visit during "La Notte dei Saldi," Trieste's enchanting shopping night on the first Saturday after summer sales begin in July, when stores remain open until 10:00 PM and the historic center transforms into a festive shopping destination.
For detailed information about shopping hours, including holiday schedules and seasonal variations, check out our complete Shop Opening Hours in Trieste guide →
2. Seasonal Sales in Trieste: The Best Time for Deals
La Notte dei Saldi: Trieste's special shopping night
Seasonal Sales are a major highlight in Trieste's shopping calendar. The city's boutiques and shopping centers offer discounts of up to 70% during winter and summer sales, making these periods ideal for bargain hunters.
Winter Sales: Start around Epiphany (January 6th) and run until early March.
Summer Sales: Begin in early July and last through September.
A unique feature of Trieste's summer sales is "La Notte dei Saldi" - a special shopping night held on the first Saturday after summer sales begin. During this enchanting evening, shops throughout the city center remain open until 10:00 PM, and the main shopping streets are closed to traffic after 7:00 PM. The historic center transforms into a vibrant pedestrian zone where shoppers can stroll through the elegant streets while enjoying special discounts and promotions. It's more than just a shopping event - it's a celebration of Trieste's retail culture, where locals and visitors alike enjoy the warm summer evening, making it as much a social occasion as it is a shopping opportunity.
Pro Tip: For the best sales experience, explore Corso Italia for designer brands and international retailers. Don't miss La Notte dei Saldi in July for a unique shopping experience in the heart of historic Trieste. For year-round deals, Palmanova Outlet Village is worth the short trip from the city.
3. Trieste’s Christmas Markets: A Festive Wonderland
Trieste’s traditional Christmas markets
During the holiday season, Trieste transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets dotting the city. The main market stretches through the Borgo Teresiano district, where wooden stalls line the streets, selling festive decorations, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal treats.
What to Expect: Warm mulled wine, traditional sweets, and unique gifts that make perfect souvenirs.
Where: Borgo Teresiano, Canale Grande, and Piazza Sant’Antonio.
When: From early December until Christmas Eve.
Don’t Miss: The twinkling lights reflecting off the Canale Grande, creating a magical shopping atmosphere.
4. Barbacan Produce: A Showcase of Local Talent
For those seeking artisanal goods and creative finds, the Barbacan Produce market is a must-visit. Held several times a year in the Barbacan Square, this event highlights the work of young artists, designers, and craftsmen from Trieste and beyond.
What to Expect: Unique handmade jewelry, custom artwork, sustainable fashion, and innovative designs.
Where: Piazza Barbacan, in the Cavana district.
When: Held five times a year, dates vary.
Don’t Miss: The vibrant atmosphere and one-of-a-kind items that reflect the city’s artistic spirit.
5. Trieste’s Antique Market: A Treasure Hunter’s Dream
Trieste’s monthly Antique Market is a haven for collectors and vintage lovers. Held on the third Sunday of every month near Piazza Unità, this event offers a mix of antiques, retro furniture, and quirky curiosities.
What to Expect: Vintage postcards, antique jewelry, rare books, and historical memorabilia.
Where: Behind Piazza Unità d’Italia.
When: Third Sunday of every month (second Sunday in October during the Barcolana regatta).
Don’t Miss: The chance to uncover a hidden gem or a unique piece of history.
6. Mercati Rionali: Weekly Local Markets in Trieste
Beyond the major events, Trieste hosts weekly rionali markets in various neighborhoods, offering fresh produce, local goods, and clothing at unbeatable prices. These markets provide a glimpse into daily life in Trieste and are perfect for discovering hidden gems.
Notable Markets:
Mercato Ortofrutticolo: Riva Ottaviano Augusto, Tuesday to Saturday mornings.
Mercato Campagna Amica: Piazza Goldoni, every Saturday.
Shopping Centers in Trieste
If you're looking for an all-in-one shopping experience, Trieste’s shopping centers offer modern convenience alongside diverse retail options. Whether you're after the latest fashion, cutting-edge electronics, or a place to relax and dine, these shopping hubs cater to every need.
Here’s a quick guide to the top shopping centers in Trieste, including the renowned Palmanova Outlet Village. For those looking for a more complete, detailed, and comprehensive guide, check out our in-depth article on Trieste's shopping centers here →
1. Torri d’Europa Shopping Center
The Torri d’Europa shopping center in Trieste
A Vibrant Urban Mall
Located a few kilometers from the city center, Torri d’Europa is one of Trieste’s most popular shopping destinations. Its wide variety of stores, eateries, and services makes it a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike.
What You’ll Find:
Over 40 shops, including popular brands like Calzedonia, Geox, OVS, Sephora, and Pittarello.
A food court offering Italian and international cuisines.
Entertainment options, including a children’s play area.
Practical Info:
Location: Via Bartolomeo d'Alviano, 23.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
For a complete guide on the Torri d’Europa shopping center click here →
2. Montedoro Shopping Center
The Montedoro shopping center in Trieste
A Modern Hub Near the City
Just a short drive from Trieste, Montedoro offers a modern shopping environment with free parking and a range of retail and entertainment options. It’s an excellent destination for families and those looking for a full-day outing.
What You’ll Find:
Stores like Media World (electronics), Calzedonia, and several fashion outlets.
A cinema and dining options for all tastes.
Practical Info:
Location: Via Flavia di Stramare, 119.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM.
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
For a complete guide on the Montedoro shopping center click here →
3. Il Giulia Shopping Center
The Il Giulia shopping center in Trieste
Local Charm in the Heart of Trieste
Situated closer to residential neighborhoods, Il Giulia offers a relaxed shopping experience perfect for everyday needs and quick errands.
What You’ll Find:
Affordable fashion at OVS, local boutiques, and household essentials.
A cozy atmosphere, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Practical Info:
Location: Via Giulia, 75/3.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily.
For a complete guide on the Il Giulia shopping center click here →
4. Palmanova Outlet Village Shopping Center
The Palmanova Outlet Village shopping center
A Shopper’s Paradise Outside Trieste
For those willing to venture 50 km outside the city, Palmanova Outlet Village offers unbeatable discounts and a premium shopping experience.
What You’ll Find:
Over 90 stores featuring brands like Nike, Adidas, Calvin Klein, Benetton, and Marina Militare.
A charming setting that blends retail with relaxation.
Why Visit:
Combine your shopping trip with a visit to the historic, star-shaped town of Palmanova.
Practical Info:
Location: SP126 Km 1.6, 33041 Aiello del Friuli UD
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily, including Sundays and holidays.
For a complete guide on the Palmanova Outlet Village shopping center click here →