The DoubleTree by Hilton Trieste is a luxury 4-star hotel in the fascinating capital of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. Its magnificent architecture has become an attraction in itself, making it one of the best hotels in Trieste. After staying here for three relaxing nights, I’ve written this guide to help you prepare ahead of your stay. From its location to facilities, types of guest rooms and nearby attractions – here’s everything you need to know.
At once cozy, luxurious and convenient, the DoubleTree by Hilton Trieste occupies the former HQ of the RAS insurance company in Piazza della Repubblica. Its central location provides the perfect starting point for exploring this fascinating city.
Following extensive renovation, the interiors are a delicate balance between the nostalgic glamour of the city’s golden era and the contemporary vibe given by modern design elements. You’ll find an elegant café, a wellness and gym area, a fine-dining restaurant, and an incredibly warm welcome.
Location
The DoubleTree by Hilton Trieste is located on Piazza della Repubblica, a central square that got its name after Trieste officially became part of Italy. It’s in the heart of Borgo Teresiano, the historical neighbourhood commissioned by the Empress Maria Theresa of Austria in the mid-1700s to become one of the first examples of modern urban planning.
From here, you’re just a few minutes walk from the grand Piazza Unità d’Italia and all the city’s main sights and best things to do in Trieste.
A historic building
With a famous Hilton welcome cookie in hand, I explored my new home. The hotel sits inside a marvellous historic building dating from the early 1900s when Trieste was one of the largest cities of the Hapsburg Empire and a prosperous trading hub. It was erected to serve as the headquarters of the insurance company RAS (now Allianz). Today, this architectural jewel is protected by the Italian Cultural Heritage department.
The sumptuousness of the facade transitions harmoniously through to the interiors, which play with the palace’s history by teaming original features like frescoed ceilings and decorated woodwork with contemporary design pieces. Eye-catching details include gorgeous chandeliers, a magnificent stairway, and a grand fountain depicting Neptune and three lions that welcome guests at the entrance.
Guest rooms
Spread across four floors linked by the first elevator ever built in the city, the hotel’s 125 rooms and suites boast high ceilings and large windows that instantly make the space bright and airy. The overall look is elegant and welcoming, with design elements and bespoke furniture blending in with original features like the fishbone parquet floors and the magnificent chandeliers. Chic earthy tones and rich fabrics complete the look, while beds dressed in crisp linen ensure a good night’s sleep.
Presidential Suite
Decorated with white marble and dark wood, the bathrooms come with either a tub or a walk-in shower, complimentary toiletries, bathrobes and slippers. Minibars, LCD TVs, espresso machines, and an iron with an ironing board are standard in all rooms. The ultimate splurge is the Presidential Suite with a unique angular shape and lovely city views.
Facilities and amenities
Thoughtful details abound at the DoubleTree by Hilton Trieste, starting from the fragrant chocolate chip cookie guests are treated to upon arrival – a signature Hilton welcome.
For a bit of pampering, a wellness area on the fourth floor helps relax the mind and body with a wide range of massages and treatments. Facilities include a sauna, Turkish bath and emotional showers. Fitness fans will love the 24/7 gym equipped with everything from treadmills to elliptical bikes. The two times that I used the gym, it was either empty or there where one or two people across both rooms.
There’s also a multifunctional congress centre comprising five meeting rooms of different shapes and sizes, with a capacity of up to 90 attendees. Two of them – Sala delle Sedute and Sala Riserva del Segretario – boast beautiful period furnishings.
Food & drink
Days at the DoubleTree by Hilton Trieste begin with an exquisite breakfast at Novecento, the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant, featuring an abundant choice of fresh produce, from pastries to seasonal fruits. There is even a large cheese wheel with an assortment of Italian cheeses and a granita machine – something which I’ve never seen in a hotel before.
Beautifully presented dishes inspired by the sea and local traditions are served at lunch and dinner. Ingredients are seasonal and locally sourced to ensure an authentic culinary experience, and the menu also features international dishes. The wine list is excellent, with an exciting selection of local and international labels.
On the hotel’s first floor, the Berlam Coffee Tea & Cocktail is an elegant spot for a drink or a light meal. Named after the family of architects who designed the building, it has become a highlight of Trieste’s café scene thanks to its impressive aesthetics. Its gold coffered ceilings, marble columns, and historic seating evoke Trieste’s international and cosmopolitan spirit, transporting you back to the city’s imperial past.
Don’t feel like going out? You can access the room service menu via your TV and place your order using your room phone. My only critisim is the lack of vegetarian options. The menu is already limited but as a vegetarian where was only one main vegetarian meal.
How to get to the DoubleTree by Hilton Trieste
Guests arriving by air can easily reach the hotel with a 30-minute taxi ride or a bus G51 from Trieste airport. For those landing in Venice, it’s an hour-and-a-half journey. Both Trieste’s central train station and bus terminal are just a 10-minute walk away.
Several local buses stop right out the front of the hotel in Piazza della Repubblica, where the hotel is. For example, there’s line 9 that goes to the seafront near Ausonia Beach Club and line 10 to San Giusto Castle. This was so convenient. I can’t tell you how much of a difference this made during my time visiting Trieste and all the running around I was doing creating my Trieste travel guide.
If you’re arriving by car, parking is available for an extra fee. Transfers can also be arranged through the hotel’s limousine service or simply to order a taxi.
Nearby attractions
Among the many hotels in Trieste, the DoubleTree by Hilton is ideally placed to explore the city and experience the best things to do in Trieste. Its home, Piazza della Repubblica, is a 10-minute walk from the famous Piazza Unità d’Italia and the magnificent historical sites all around it. The other jewel of Trieste, the Miramare Castle, can be reached with a 20-minute scenic drive along the coast.
For sun-drenched relaxation by the sea, you can get to the Ausonia beach club or the famous El Pedocin beach with a quick taxi ride. A 5-minute walk from the hotel is Piazza Oberdan, where buses leave for the Giant’s Cave, one of the city’s most famous attractions. If you’re curious about all the great things you can do in Trieste, read my guide here.
For business travellers, the hotel is within a short driving distance of the major business hubs, including the Trieste Fiera and Stazione Marittima congress centres.
Ready to live a memorable experience in Trieste?
Click here to check availability at book your stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton now
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