A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bordeaux vs. Trieste for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Bordeaux or Trieste?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Bordeaux or Trieste? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a charming, romantic, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Trieste

Trieste is a historic, dynamic, and energetic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, museums, and nightlife.

Bordeaux and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Trieste?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bordeaux than Trieste, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bordeaux is more popular for its food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is known for its beaches. Bordeaux is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also home to Cathédrale Saint-André. Trieste is popular for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Bordeaux different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Trieste and Bordeaux. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bordeaux or Trieste?

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Bordeaux and Trieste.

Bordeaux offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Trieste. Because Trieste was part of Austria for such a long stretch of time, you'll find that it looks different from many Italian cities. This is also evident in the different architectural and historic monuments around town. Major landmarks and sights include Piazza dell'Unità d'Italia, which is the largest square in the old part of the city, Miramare Castle, San Giusto Castle, Museum Riseria di San Sabba, and the Cathedral of San Giusto.

Is the Food Better in Bordeaux or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bordeaux is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Bordeaux have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

Trieste offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. It's hard to pinpoint exactly how to categorize the local cuisine. It's been influenced by the city's Austro-Hungarian past and you'll find Austrian, Slovenian, and even Croatian flavors. The food scene is often overlooked for more famous Italian cities, but that doesn't mean there's not a lot to enjoy. Make sure you try jota (a bean, potato, and sauerkraut stew), calandraca (a salted meat stew), and gulasch alla triestina (a local twist on goulash. The city is also a coffee capital in Italy.

Is Bordeaux or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Bordeaux or Trieste has a better nightlife scene.

Bordeaux has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

If you're looking for night time activities Trieste has a few options to choose from. While it's not known as a party destination, there is a laid-back nightlife scene that usually involves a late night enjoying drinks at a local bar with friends. Many establishments blur the café and bar concepts, but you'll find a number of lively bars west of Piazza Unità in the trendy Cavana neighborhood. There always seems to be something new in the area worth checking out.

Is Bordeaux or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Trieste is a popular place for the beache. However, Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Trieste is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches tend to be pebbly, but they are a nice way to experience the sea. Locals still refer to it as "bathing" in the sea, a throwback to years past. The most common beach to visit is Ausonia, which is at the bottom of the Rive past the port of Sacchetta. Nearby are La Lanterna, also called Pedocin. This area still separates men and women in the bathing areas.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Is Bordeaux or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the good old towns in both Bordeaux and Trieste.

Many people head to Bordeaux to see the old town. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Trieste has an old town worth visiting. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Trieste?

Bordeaux is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bordeaux. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bordeaux or Trieste Better for Families?

Trieste is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Trieste is a very kid-friendly city. The caves, adventure parks, and interactive museums all make for a fun family vacation. Make sure you check out Grotta Gigante, which will impress kids and adults alike. The Museum of Natural History has a collection of fossils that any dinosaur lover will appreciate, and Trieste Adventure Park is filled with ropes courses and ziplines. Finally, a visit to Miramare Castle will spark every child's imagination.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Bordeaux or Trieste Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Bordeaux and Trieste make for a excellent place to visit.

Couples visit Bordeaux frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Trieste is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Visit the castles, cathedrals, and historic monuments, experience the atmosphere of the city's historic center, people watch in one of the grand piazzas, and watch the city light up at night. There are so many romantic sides to this cultural Italian city.

Is Bordeaux or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bordeaux and Trieste are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Trieste is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's often overlooked for more popular Italian city's but there is still a lot that this under-rated city has to offer. You'll also find hostels for every budget and a youthful energy that will bring the city to life.

Is Bordeaux or Trieste Better for Students?

Bordeaux and Trieste are excellent places to visit for students.

Bordeaux is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

Trieste is very popular with students. Italy attracts students from around the globe and this city is no exception. The city's diverse population and unique cultural opportunities make it a great place to study abroad or immerse yourself in university life.

Is Bordeaux or Trieste Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bordeaux and Trieste.

Public transit in Bordeaux can get you to some places easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Trieste. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

Is Bordeaux or Trieste a more walkable city?

Bordeaux and Trieste both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Bordeaux is a very walkable city. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

Trieste is a very walkable destination. It's a hilly city, but it's also very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting? and Is Trieste Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Bordeaux or Trieste. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bordeaux due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Bordeaux, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

Families should spend more time in Trieste than Bordeaux. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Trieste, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bordeaux than Trieste. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bordeaux that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bordeaux than Trieste if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bordeaux.

One day in Bordeaux or Trieste?

In Bordeaux, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Trieste offers nightlife and food. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Bordeaux or Trieste?

In Bordeaux, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bordeaux has to offer.

Trieste is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Trieste, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Bordeaux or Trieste?

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bordeaux has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Trieste is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Bordeaux or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bordeaux. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Trieste is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bordeaux and Trieste, we can see that Bordeaux is more expensive. And not only is Trieste much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Trieste would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Trieste and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Bordeaux would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bordeaux than you might in Trieste.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bordeaux Expensive? and Is Trieste Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Trieste?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 42% larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Bordeaux and Trieste, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Bordeaux or Trieste?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Trieste in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bordeaux as well as Trieste. Many visitors come to Bordeaux in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Trieste for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Bordeaux is cooler than Trieste. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bordeaux in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Trieste averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Trieste. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bordeaux this time of the year. In the summer, Bordeaux often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste. Bordeaux gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets less rain in July than Trieste. Bordeaux gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Trieste in the Autumn?

Both Trieste and Bordeaux are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bordeaux for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Trieste because of the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Bordeaux is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Bordeaux average around 14°C (58°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Bordeaux usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste during autumn. Bordeaux gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bordeaux usually receives around the same amount of rain as Trieste. Bordeaux gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and Bordeaux during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

Bordeaux is a little warmer than Trieste in the winter. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Bordeaux often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Bordeaux gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. Bordeaux usually gets more rain in January than Trieste. Bordeaux gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Trieste in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bordeaux and Trieste. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bordeaux is cooler than Trieste. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bordeaux in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Trieste averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Bordeaux usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste during spring. Bordeaux gets 190 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bordeaux usually receives less rain than Trieste. Bordeaux gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Bordeaux