4 Best Hotels in Trieste, The Veneto and Friuli–Venezia Giulia

Bang smack in regal Piazza Unità d'Italia, this grande dame of a hotel is beautifully furnished in Venetian Renaissance style, with dark-wood antiques, rich carpets, and plush fabrics. In the basement, below sea level, is one of northern Italy's most impressive indoor pool-spa complexes: it's reminiscent of ancient Roman baths. On the ground floor is Harry's Restaurant and there are a few smart apartments, especially handy for families. Suffice it to say this place has come a long way since its original incarnation as a 19th-century dockers' café.

Set on gorgeous, verdant grounds with stunning sea views, this cliff-top hotel—a villa with a modern annex—offers a mix of traditional and minimalist rooms, many with private balconies. The restaurant, Le Terrazze, features a mare e terra (sea and land) menu and a lovely terrace above the sea, where breakfasters can linger before heading down to the Riviera bathing area.

There's plenty of architectural character mixed with contemporary, artsy warmth in the guest rooms of this central, 18th-century building, while the nearby annex offers four spacious apartments. Public areas include a small patio enclosed by Roman walls; the cozy breakfast room is a wonderful spot to share in the owner's passion for coffee, tea, and tisane (infusions) from around the world. 

The former home of James Joyce is a real gem of a hotel—with stylish, unfussy traditional decor and a just-out-of-town location that's convenient for both local sightseeing and trips into the Karst mountains. Beyond the grand lobby, there's a handsome wood-filled breakfast area and a lovely little library and lounge with funky armchairs. The latter is perfect for relaxing with Ulysses or one of the weighty design tomes. Many of the spacious rooms have gorgeous parquet flooring, elegant furnishings, and tasteful artwork.