Trieste is a fantastic place for wine lovers. Its unique location at the crossroads of Italy, Slovenia, and Austria means you get an eclectic mix of wine traditions and stunning scenery. Whether you’re interested in learning about Prosecco in its hometown or exploring Slovenia’s Istrian wines, Trieste offers a range of experiences that make the most of its rich wine heritage. One standout is the Prosecco Origins Wine Experience, which takes you to the very villages where this bubbly was born. With views of the Gulf of Trieste and personalized small-group attention, it’s a favorite for those wanting an authentic taste of local tradition.
If you’re keen on exploring beyond Italy’s borders, the Experience Slovenian Coastline with Wine Tasting from Trieste offers a scenic day trip to charming Slovenian towns with wonderful wine tastings. For a deeper dive into Italy’s wine regions, the Collio: Cividale Del Friuli and Wine Tastings from Trieste combines UNESCO World Heritage sites with top-notch wine tasting. And for something more traditional, the Food and Wine tasting experience in Trieste traditional farmhouse Osmiza introduces you to local wines and foods in a genuine rural setting. Below, we’ll walk through each tour to help you decide which fits your taste and schedule best.
1. Prosecco Origins Wine Experience
At number 1 on our list, the Prosecco Origins Wine Experience takes you straight to the villages where prosecco was first made. This 2 to 3-hour small-group tour explores the narrow streets and terraced vineyards of Contovello and Prosecco. Your guide shares insights into the history and traditions of prosecco, giving you an authentic sense of how this sparkling wine came to be. You’ll sample traditionally-produced sparkling wines and regional foods, all with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Trieste and the Adriatic Sea.
What sets this tour apart is its intimate setting—small groups mean you get personalized attention and a chance to ask questions. Highlights include visiting the old village of Contovello and discovering the countryside of the Karst Plateau. The reviews are glowing, with travelers praising the host’s storytelling and the high quality of wines and foods. One person notes, “Wines were delicious,” and another calls it “a must-do for anyone visiting the region.” The price of around $64 per person offers excellent value for a unique, authentic experience.
Bottom Line: This is perfect for wine enthusiasts who want to enjoy Prosecco’s roots while enjoying stunning views and regional snacks. It’s a short, sweet, and highly personal experience.
2. Experience Slovenian Coastline with Wine Tasting from Trieste
Next, number 2 on our list is the Experience Slovenian Coastline with Wine Tasting from Trieste. This 6 to 7-hour tour is perfect for those wanting to explore Slovenia’s coastal towns and sample local wines. It includes door-to-door transport from your Trieste hotel, which makes for a relaxed day. You’ll visit Koper, Izola, and Piran—each offering unique sights and a chance to walk through historic old towns—before ending in Portorož, home to some of Slovenia’s best wines.
The highlight is the wine tasting in Marezige, a village in Slovenian Istria, where you’ll sample up to three different varietals in a scenic countryside setting. Travelers rave about the guide’s local knowledge and the beautiful weather. One reviewer says, “Enriching experience that brought us through the Slovenian coast with a skilled local guide.” The tour combines sightseeing, cultural insights, and wine tasting for a solid value at about $180.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in combining cultural exploration with wine tasting in a comfortable, guided day trip. It’s a scenic and laid-back way to experience Slovenia’s coastal charm and wine.
3. Collio: Cividale Del Friuli and Wine Tastings from Trieste
Number 3 is the Collio: Cividale Del Friuli and Wine Tastings from Trieste, offering a full day of Italian wine and history. This tour, priced at approximately $156, combines a visit to the UNESCO-listed town of Cividale del Friuli with a tour of the Collio wine region. The day kicks off with a scenic two-hour drive through rolling vineyards on 1500 hectares of land renowned for its top-quality wines and lush landscapes.
You’ll explore Cividale, founded by Julius Caesar in 53 BC, and learn about its deep historical roots. Then, you’ll visit a local winery for a tasting, where the guide emphasizes the region’s exceptional wines and their pairing with local cheeses and meats. During reviews, travelers mention that Dejan, their guide, was “fantastic,” with a “delicious wine tasting experience” and a chance to learn about the area’s history.
Bottom Line: This tour is well-suited for history and wine lovers who want a comprehensive day, combining cultural sites with premium tastings and scenic views. It’s particularly good if you want a seamless, hassle-free experience.
4. Food and Wine Tasting Experience in Trieste Traditional Farmhouse Osmiza
Last but not least, the Food and Wine Tasting Experience in Trieste Traditional Farmhouse Osmiza offers an authentic taste of local rural traditions. This 3-hour tour, costing around $543 per person, takes you out of the city to visit carefully chosen osmizas—local farms where wine and food are made and enjoyed on-site. You’ll learn about this 18th-century tradition of selling homemade wines and foods, then taste local varieties like Terrano, Vitovska, and Malvasia paired with cured meats, cheeses, and eggs.
The tour begins in Piazza dell’Unita d’Italia before heading into the countryside, where you’ll stop at farms to sample regional specialties. The guide provides detailed explanations of the tradition’s history and the significance of each product. Reviews, though limited, praise the tour for its authentic experience and high-quality local wines.
Bottom Line: Best suited for wine connoisseurs and those eager to experience rural Italian traditions firsthand. The premium price reflects the special access and in-depth experience.
$543.42 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Wine Tour in Trieste
When choosing between these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a quick dive into Prosecco’s roots, number 1 is unbeatable. If you want a longer, scenic day with Slovenia’s coast, number 2 offers a relaxed cultural exploration. For those eager to combine history and wine, number 3 delivers. And if you’re after a deep dive into local rural traditions, number 4 is the way to go, especially if you’re comfortable with a higher price point.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the Prosecco Origins Wine Experience and the Slovenian coast trip, to secure your spot. Remember to consider your fitness level and how much walking or driving you’re comfortable with, especially on the longer tours.
In summary, Trieste offers a broad spectrum of wine experiences—from sparkling Prosecco to Slovenian coastal wines, Italian regional varieties, and rural osmizas. Whether you’re looking for a short, personalized tasting or a full-day cultural journey, there’s something here to satisfy your wine curiosity. For most travelers, combining a couple of these tours—like the Prosecco Origins with a scenic Slovenian coast day—makes for an unforgettable trip. Don’t wait too long to book, as these tours fill up quickly, especially in peak season.