The coast of Friuli Venezia Giulia is particularly easy to explore by sea in the summer of 2026. New and existing ferry connections link the region's most popular beach and lagoon destinations, from Trieste to Grado and Lignano Sabbiadoro, as well as Duino-Aurisina, Sistiana, Muggia, Marano Lagunare, and Aquileia.
This creates a maritime mobility network along the roughly 130-kilometer coastline, bringing visitors to beaches, lagoons, seaside resorts, nature areas, and cultural sites without the stress of traffic jams or parking. Bicycles can also be brought aboard on many routes, making the combination of boat and bike especially appealing.
New sea routes from Trieste
In addition to existing connections, new direct routes are launching this season. Ships now run between Trieste and Lignano Sabbiadoro, between Trieste and Duino-Aurisina, and between Trieste and Sistiana, significantly expanding the network along the coast .
Departing from Trieste by boat, travelers can reach the Bay of Sistiana, Miramare Castle, Castello di Duino, and Marina Julia near Monfalcone, among other destinations. Heading east, the route continues to Muggia, whose Venetian-influenced old town ranks among the most charming places in the region.
The well-known seaside resorts of Grado and Lignano Sabbiadoro are also accessible via the Gulf of Trieste. From there, further opportunities open up to discover the region's lagoon landscapes, including toward Marano Lagunare or the UNESCO archaeological site of Aquileia.
From Trieste to Barcola, Grignano, and Sistiana
Through October 4, the Delfino Verde boat service calls at some of Trieste's most popular seaside spots, including Barcola with its famous "Topolini," the characteristic bathing platforms along the water's edge, as well as Grignano. From the pier in Grignano, a promenade leads directly to MiramareCastle. On view there through November 1 is the exhibition "Una sfinge l'attrae. Maximilian von Habsburg und die ägyptischen Sammlungen zwischen Triest und Wien."
Another stop is "Porto Vecchio – Porto Vivo." The former port district is one of Trieste's major urban development projects, blending industrial heritage with new public spaces. Year-round service is also available by boat from Trieste to Muggia .
Sistiana, Duino, and Monfalcone
The Trieste – Sistiana – Duino-Aurisina – Monfalcone line operates from May 31 through September 20. A new stop in Duino-Aurisina has been added this season. From the marina, visitors can reach Castello di Duino, which is currently hosting an exhibition featuring seven installations made from LEGO® bricks.
The works draw on personalities and events from the castle's history, which has been in the possession of the della Torre e Tasso family for more than 400 years. Also new this season is the direct connection from Trieste to the Bay of Sistiana. Hikers will find the Rilke Path a rewarding option there, linking Duino-Aurisina and Sistiana and forming part of the Alpe-Adria-Trail.
By boat to Grado and Lignano Sabbiadoro
Through October 4, the Trieste – Grado – Lignano route connects the region's major seaside resorts directly. The first stop from Trieste is Grado. The island town is increasingly focusing on culture and wellness alongside its beaches and lagoon.
Two new museums are dedicated to Grado's history, spirituality, and maritime identity: the Municipal Museum of the Cathedral Treasury and the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology of the Upper Adriatic. Also new is the redesigned seawater thermal baths complex, offering fitness and spa areas, beauty treatments, swimming pools, sun terraces, relaxation zones and services such as cryotherapy.
The route continues by boat to Lignano Sabbiadoro. The resort is known for its eight-kilometer beach and a large pine forest with more than 1.2 million trees. Outdoor activities such as SUP yoga, Metabolic Walking, forest bathing, and Nordic Walking in the water round out the destination's tourist offerings.
Lagoon routes to Marano Lagunare and Aquileia
The motor vessels Saturno and Santa Maria are back on the water this season as well. They offer trips through canals, lagoons, and traditional fishing landscapes, including from Lignano Sabbiadoro to Grado and onward to Marano Lagunare.
Particularly appealing is the connection between Grado and Aquileia. The UNESCO site can be reached by water, making it a unique destination on any lagoon itinerary. Aquileia ranks among the most significant archaeological sites in northern Italy, combining Roman history with early Christian cultural heritage.
Boat & Bike: Combining Ferry and Bicycle
An important part of the offering is the combination of boat travel and cycling. Bicycles can be brought on board on numerous routes. In Grado especially, a bicycle is the ideal way to explore the surroundings, from the historic center along lagoon paths to international cycling routes. The FVG1 Alpe Adria cycling path runs from Grado all the way to Tarvisio. Running parallel to it, the FVG2 Adriabike cycling route connects the coast with the hinterland, linking Grado with nature reserves such as Valle Cavanata and the mouth of the Isonzo river, Isola della Cona.
Cycling also plays a major role in Lignano Sabbiadoro. Approximately 75 kilometers of bike paths wind along lagoon canals, reed beds, and river landscapes. A detour to the nature reserve at the mouth of the Stella river is well worth the trip.
Through November 1, the X River ferry service, Across the River Tagliamento, is once again in operation. It connects Lignano Sabbiadoro with Bibione in just a few minutes. Bicycles are welcome on board here as well, offering a practical and scenic way to cross the Tagliamento river.