How to see the Barcolana: the best viewpoints to watch the regatta

Like every year, the moment of the Barcolana in Trieste is approaching: the largest regatta in the world is ready to invade the city on Sunday 12 October 2025. For those who will not have the chance to board one of the thousands of participating boats, there is no problem: the spectacle of the Barcolana can also be experienced from land and indeed, perhaps it is even more scenic.

In fact, along the Gulf of Trieste there are many observation points capable of offering unforgettable views, and today we recommend the best ones.

Piazza Unità d’Italia: the grand finale of the Barcolana

Even though it is the finishing point of the regatta, one cannot fail to start from Piazza Unità d’Italia. The centerpiece of the Barcolana during the entire event, with stands and collateral exhibitions, the large square allows you to experience the emotion of the regatta by being at the center of the scene.

One of the best places from which to watch the Barcolana finale, which generally takes place at the Porto Vecchio Dam, is the Molo Audace which juts out towards the sea from Piazza Unità d’Italia. If you want to find a place here, however, we advise you to arrive early enough, given that this is a very popular observation point.

Barcola and the seafront: the starting line

Arriving at the Barcola seafront before the start of the regatta you have the opportunity to admire the array of sails ready to seek the wind. The starting line is one of the longest in the world and reaches as far as Miramare Castle: thousands of boats come alongside each other, in the feverish atmosphere that precedes the start of the race at 10.30.

The whole coast then remains an excellent point to see the Barcolana even in its final stretch, which involves passing right here in front after the last turn off the castle.

See the Barcolana from above: Victory Lighthouse and Monte Grisa

However, the Barcolana is perhaps even better when admired from above. To watch the regatta from an elevated position there are various possibilities: one of the most famous panoramic points is the Victory Lighthouse, which is usually open throughout the day on Barcolana. It can get crowded and it is only possible to climb to the top of the Lighthouse in turns, so it is necessary to arm yourself with a little patience but it will certainly give an unforgettable experience.

Alternatively, simply move a little further’ from the center to reach another of the best points to see the Barcolana of Trieste: the Strada Napoleonica or Vicentina. The walk already offers excellent views, but many people from Trieste walk along path no. 12 to reach the Sanctuary of Monte Grisa, in a panoramic position 300 meters above sea level. The view embraces the entire Gulf of Trieste and allows you to enjoy the view of the regatta in –relative – tranquility.

Where to sleep to see the Barcolana of Trieste

The DoubleTree by Hilton Trieste is the ideal base to participate in the Barcolana 2025, wherever you choose to watch the regatta: discover here all the packages available to plan your stay and prepare for a unique experience.