CHARMING OLD-WORLD ELEGANCE
LOCATION
Encircled by regal palaces, the Piazza Unità d’Italia is extremely unique and represents the epicentre of Trieste’s rich history and political heart. During the Habsburg Monarchy, it was simply known as the ‘Big Square’ (Piazza Grande), as it is one of the six biggest city squares in all of Italy. In 1873 a hotel sprang up on the square, and at the time certainly nobody would have thought that it would go on to become an icon of Trieste’s hotel offer. The hotel was recently fully renovated, but the design team managed to keep the spirit of its era intact, for this is what separates it from other hotels in the city. The hotel is walking distance from main city attractions and is run by the Benvenuti family, who work with a lot of passion and attention to detail. The hotel stands as a reminder of the past and at the same time an embodiment of this Adriatic city’s unflagging spirit.
ACCESSIBILITY
Trieste is easily accessible and has excellent motorway and railway connections, as well as one of the most famous ports in the world. Air accessibility is getting better every year and more and more airlines are starting to fly from the Ronchi del Legionari airport, 40 kilometres from Trieste. If that doesn’t cut it there is also an airport in Venice, located 150 kilometres from the city. The hotel is positioned in the very centre of Trieste, so it’s best that you leave parking to the hotel staff or find a nearby parking spot. Public transport in the city is quite smooth and modern. Probably the single greatest thing about the hotel is its location, as you are always just a few steps away from all the main tourist attractions.
COLD APPETIZER - Architecture and Aesthetics
The Varnoli Palace was built by architects E. Geiringer and G. Righetti in 1873, when it replaced the former Ostarie Grande and fell into the hands of Assicurazioni Generali insurance company. The company turned it into Hotel Duchi d’Aosta, which was renamed to Hotel Vanoli in 1908. After the second world war, the building was completely renovated and nostalgically renamed Grand Hotel Duchi d’Aosta. The architecture of the hotel borrows from a very late-renaissance style and has become a trademark of Trieste. After its last renovation, the façade of the building regained some of its former glitz and the mighty Corinthian pillars finally became noticeable. Inside the hotel, attention to detail and sophisticated furniture make you feel like you are one with the spirit of this mighty city. The style of Grand Hotel Duchi is best described with the words vintage and elegant.
WARM APPETIZER - Personnel and cuisine
As in any true hotel institution, the staff in Grand Hotel Duchi is welcoming, professional and where you want them to be at all times. From this perspective, the hotel can easily rival some of the biggest names in the regional hotel world and always justify its reputation. Breakfast is included in the overnight and offers a wide selection of freshly baked pastry, yoghurts, natural juices and, of course, the world-famous Trieste coffee. Harry’s hotel restaurant is solid, but you won’t have trouble finding culinary adventures for your congress guests throughout the city. We recommend a visit to the legendary Harry’s bar, a great way to finish off the day. The Mikeze & Jakeze Bistro also offers some great Mediterranean cuisine at reasonable prices.
MAIN DISH - The hotel's congress services
A stunning design and antique pieces create a romantic ambiance in the rooms, which aren’t the biggest, but comfortable nonetheless. The fact that they were able to portray the spirit of time when the hotel was built with the interior design and a clever selection of furniture is quite special. The above-average bathroom also surprises with its excellent cosmetics. There is a smaller hall for events, part of Harry’s restaurant with views of the Piazza dell’Unita. Weather permitting, you can also use the hotel terrace, probably the most exclusive boutique conference space in Trieste, which is also very popular among wedding planners.
DESSERT – Extras
Trieste has become one of the most important coffee ports in Europe, so no wonder that the numerous coffee shops in Trieste always smell of freshly roasted coffee and tell the story of its rich history. These cafes are places where great writers and poets used to spend their free time and where lovers of good coffee can now enjoy a cup of their own.
FLOP – NEGATIVE SURPRISES
The only downside of the hotel could be problems with finding a parking spot, but that’s easily outweighed by being directly in the city centre.
TOP – POSITIVE SURPRISES
Thermairum Magnum is an intimate spa that follows the roman tradition of well-being. Visiting the spa can be a nice end to your stressful day.
OVERALL IMPRESSION AND CREDIBILITY
One can easily say Grand Hotel Duchi D’Aosta is one of the reasons why taking time to visit Trieste is always worth it. It’s basically a city institution, where numerous crowned heads and celebrities, including the notorious Giacomo Casanova, used to reside. It’s also not a classical congress hotel, but more of a boutique hotel suitable for smaller incentive groups. The cherry on top is provided by the excellent staff, amazing details at every corner and an overall kindness that will always make you feel welcome stepping into the lobby.
RESULTS | AVERAGE SCORE |
---|---|
1. LOCATION | 4.98 |
2. ACCESSIBILITY | 4.53 |
3. FIRST IMPRESSION | 4.78 |
4. LOBBY | 4.56 |
5. EMPLOYEE ATTITUDE | 4.69 |
6. RECEPTION | 4.70 |
7. HOTEL ROOM | 4.56 |
8. HOTEL BED | 4.91 |
9. BATHROOM AND RESTROOM | 4.63 |
10. HOTEL BREAKFAST | 4.74 |
11. BARS AND RESTAURANTS | 4.91 |
12. CONGRESS HALL | 4.32 |
13. ADDITIONAL OFFER | 4.71 |
TOTAL: | 4.69 |