interviews: Nina Vaclavikova
On a mild mid-March weekend in Trieste, lines outside gelaterias have already begun to reappear. With spring sunlight warming the city’s elegant piazzas, locals are once again doing what they have always done here: strolling, chatting, and holding a cup or cone of gelato.
But many are noticing that the small ritual now costs a little more.
Just ten years ago, one scoop of gelato in Trieste — the capital of Friuli Venezia Giulia — could cost as little as one euro, making it one of the best bargains in Italy. Today, in 2026, a single scoop can reach €2.50 in some shops across the city center.
Curious about whether the price hike has changed habits, we spent the weekend wandering downtown, from busy squares to quieter side streets, asking gelato lovers a simple question: Are they still indulging the way they used to?
For many, the answer is yes — even if they notice the difference.
“I remember when it was one euro,” said Martina, a university student waiting outside a gelateria with friends. “Now when they say €2.30 for one scoop, I definitely notice. But I still get it.”
Gelato has long been one of Italy’s most democratic pleasures — a quick treat enjoyed while strolling through the city rather than sitting at a restaurant table. In Trieste, where daily walks along the waterfront and through historic squares are a way of life, the tradition runs deep.
Behind the counter, however, gelato makers say their costs have steadily climbed. Milk, sugar, pistachios, fruit and electricity are all more expensive than they were a decade ago.
“Everything has gone up,” said Thomas Biondi, who owns Oggi Gelato shop in via Battisti “We tried to keep prices low for as long as possible.”
Some locals say they now buy gelato a little less frequently. Others simply accept the higher price as part of changing times.
“For me it’s still worth it,” said Giorgio, a retired teacher enjoying a small cup of hazelnut. “Gelato is happiness.”
And judging by the crowds strolling through downtown this weekend, many people in Trieste seem to agree. Even at €2.50 a scoop, the city’s favorite treat is still melting quickly in the spring sun.
