A day in Gorizia, the European Capital of Culture 2025

A city rich in history, suspended between Italy and Slovenia, Gorizia shares with nearby Trieste the unique charm of a border town. Named European Capital of Culture 2025, it’s an ideal destination for a day trip from Trieste thanks to a historic center that invites visitors to immerse themselves in history – from medieval times to the modern era. Start your visit from some of its most iconic sites: here are the ones you can’t miss.

Piazza della Transalpina

A powerful symbol of both division and unity, Piazza della Transalpina is a great starting point for exploring Gorizia. This is where, in 1906, the Transalpina railway station was inaugurated linking Vienna to Trieste. At the end of the Second World War, the state border between Italy and Slovenia was drawn right through the square. Though less famous than Berlin’s, a wall was erected here that separated not only Eastern and Western Europe, but entire families for decades.

Although Yugoslavia began to dissolve in the 1990s, the wall was only officially dismantled in 2004, with Slovenia’s entry into the European Union. Today, the border is still marked by a metal plaque running through the square, offering visitors the unique experience of standing with one foot in each country.

The Castle of Gorizia

Another landmark that embodies the city’s history is Gorizia’s medieval castle, which overlooks the town from above. Built in the 11th century, the castle now houses a Museum of the Middle Ages and offers breathtaking views of the old town and the surrounding landscape including Slovenia. Visitors can walk along the ancient paths and explore the charming “castle village,” the city’s historic core, which has preserved its timeless atmosphere.

If you have extra time or encounter bad weather, don’t miss the nearby complex of Provincial Museums. This unique network includes a Pinacoteca (art gallery), a Museum of the Great War, a Fashion Museum, and an Archaeological Museum.

Piazza Vittoria and Via Rastello

While Piazza della Transalpina lies at the edge of the city – geographically and symbolically – Piazza Vittoria sits at the foot of the castle hill and marks the heart of the historic center. Known in Slovenian as Travnik (meaning “meadow”), this area was an open green space until the 18th century, when the impressive Church of Sant’Ignazio was built. Since then, the square with its beautiful Fountain of Neptune has remained a central gathering place.

From here, a small gate once led out into the countryside through what is now Via Rastello. The oldest street in Gorizia still features many historic buildings that once housed artisan workshops. Today, it is home to shops and cafés: another essential stop during your visit to the city.

The European Capital of Culture 2025 events

As European Capital of Culture for 2025, Gorizia – together with Nova Gorica – is hosting a wide range of cultural events that make this year an especially exciting time to visit. For updates, be sure to check the official website GO! 2025 or ask us at the reception of the DoubleTree by Hilton Trieste.