Savoia Excelsior Palace Trieste

The Savoia Excelsior Palace is one of the grand hotels that gave the Trieste waterfront its confident, imperial look. It stands on the Riva, the seafront promenade, in the stretch between the main square and the Maritime Station, which means the sea is across the street and the city's main sights are within a short walk. The hotel belongs to the Starhotels Collezione group, which operates historic and design-led properties in Italian cities, and it is generally regarded as one of the leading addresses in town for travellers who want traditional comfort, a polished lobby and professional service. Its position suits a first visit. From the front door you can walk to Piazza Unità d'Italia in a few minutes, stroll out along the Molo Audace pier for sunset, and reach the historic cafés and the old town without needing transport. Cruise passengers who arrive at the nearby Maritime Station find it convenient, and rail travellers can reach it by a short taxi ride or bus from the central station. Rooms facing the water give the most memorable outlook, while rooms toward the back are usually quieter.

Choosing a room is the main decision. Sea-facing rooms look across the gulf and are worth requesting when you book, especially in the cooler months when the light is clear. Rooms on higher floors catch more of the view, and those at the back can be cheaper and calmer. Because this is a historic building, room sizes and layouts vary, so check the details for the category you are offered and ask for an adjoining or larger room if you travel as a family.

Bring a light jacket for the walk along the Riva, since the bora wind can make the waterfront feel cold even on sunny days.

The best way to use the hotel is as a base for walking. Start the day with a coffee at one of the historic cafés on the waterfront, spend the morning at the main square and the Grand Canal district, and keep the afternoon for the castle hill or a trip by bus to Miramare. In the evening, return to the Riva for the view and then dinner in the old town. The location also works for business travellers with meetings near the port or the city centre.

Timing and price depend on the calendar. Rates tend to rise around the Barcolana regatta in October, around Christmas and New Year, and on days when cruise ships are in port, so book early if your dates coincide. Summer is lively but warm, and spring and autumn give the best mix of mild weather and shorter queues. If you plan to arrive by air, the airport is about a half-hour drive from the city, and a taxi or shuttle to the hotel is straightforward.

Ask the hotel about parking before you drive, because central Trieste has limited-traffic zones and parking can be tight. A stay here suits couples, history lovers and anyone who wants the sea, the cafés and the main sights close by.