EXCURSIONES EN TIERRA

Admire the beauty of Trieste during a panoramic driving tour that will bring you to the gorgeous gardens of Miramare Castle. You can't help but notice the architectural impact of the past Venetian and Austrian rule as you pass highlights such as the Canal Grande, the Roman Theatre and the Piazza Unita d'Italia, which is said to be the largest seaside square in Europe. The piazza lies directly below the hilltop Cathedral of San Giusto, a landmark since the 14th century. A bit farther up the coast, you will stop at Miramare Castle, which was constructed on a rocky promontory in 1860 as a retirement residence for Austrian Archduke Maximilian. Although the site was originally devoid of vegetation, Maximilian ordered the grounds to be transformed into a botanical wonderland. As you will see, the gardens are still inspirational. You might reflect on their natural beauty while transferring to the Trieste Airport.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Settle in for a relaxing and immensely panoramic drive through Trieste.
• Meander through the gardens and grounds of seaside Miramare Castle.
• Make the most of your day before transferring to the airport in Trieste.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Discover two architecturally rich Italian seaports with distinct Venetian influences just minutes from the border of Slovenia. While walking through the Old Town of often-conquered Trieste, the guide will elaborate on the city's history, which will seem particularly relevant as you explore the 14th-century Cathedral of San Giusto and the ruins of the medieval complex that surrounds it. You might also view the Canal Grande, a waterway lined with centuries-old palazzi much like the canals in Venice. No wonder - a Venetian designed the Trieste canal in the mid-1700s. Nearby, you will find the little town of Muggia. The Venetian Republic began controlling this fishing village in the 1400s and left an indelible mark, as did Austria. As you stroll the narrow streets of Old Town on your own, be sure to look for Muggia Castle, which is now the private residence of a Muggia-born sculptor. Afterwards, you will transfer to the airport in Venice.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Enjoy a walking tour through the Old Town of Trieste, parts of which look like Venice.
• Spend free time in Muggia, whose architecture reflects its past Venetian and Austrian rule.
• Make the most of your day before transferring to the Venice airport.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Spend free time enjoying the beautiful and spectacularly colorful islands of Burano before transferring to the Venice airport. While cruising the lagoon on the way to Burano, you will drop off your luggage at the airport, allowing you to more easily meander about the four islands that comprise Burano. The most striking feature of Burano is its patchwork of small brightly colored houses. The different hues were supposedly chosen so fishermen could spot their homes through the fog that often blankets the islands in the winter. Regardless of the origin of the colors, the setting is a delight to explore on your own. Burano is also known for its traditional lacework, which you will find in the many shops lining the canals. For a deeper appreciation of the history of lace-making, browse the Museum of Lace. If you wish to see a Rococo masterpiece by the 18th-century painter Tiepolo, drop by the San Martino church.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Take in the sights while cruising the Venetian lagoon to and from the islands of Burano.
• Admire the bold, brightly colored homes throughout Burano.
• Enjoy a leisurely walk along Burano’s picturesque canals, where you may shop if you wish.
• Make the most of your day before transferring to the Venice airport.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.