A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brussels vs. Trieste for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Brussels or Trieste?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Brussels and Trieste. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Brussels

Brussels is a multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Trieste

Trieste is a cultural, historic, and dynamic city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for beaches, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Trieste?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Trieste. Brussels is bigger than Trieste, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Trieste is more popular for its beaches and impressive beauty. Brussels is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Trieste is well known for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Brussels is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Trieste is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Brussels or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brussels is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Brussels has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

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 Brussels or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Brussels and Trieste.

Brussels has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

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 Brussels or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Trieste is a good destination for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Trieste offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Brussels or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Brussels is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Many visitors go to Trieste to see the historical old town. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Trieste?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Brussels specifically to go shopping. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Brussels or Trieste Better for Families?

Both Brussels and Trieste are very good family-friendly destinations.

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Trieste is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Brussels or Trieste Better for Couples?

Brussels and Trieste both very good destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

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 Brussels or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Plenty of backpackers visit Trieste. 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 Brussels or Trieste Better for Students?

Brussels and Trieste are very good places to visit for students.

Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Trieste is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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 Brussels or Trieste Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Visitors in Brussels can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Trieste. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

Is Brussels or Trieste a more walkable city?

Brussels and Trieste both are very good when exploring on foot.

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Brussels or Trieste. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Brussels due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels 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 Brussels.

One day in Brussels or Trieste?

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Brussels or Trieste?

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels 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 Brussels or Trieste?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels 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 Brussels or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Trieste, we can see that Brussels 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 Brussels would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brussels 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 Brussels Expensive? and Is Trieste Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Trieste?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Brussels 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 Brussels 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 Brussels or Trieste in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Trieste. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Trieste because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Brussels is generally cooler than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Trieste. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Trieste. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Trieste in the Autumn?

Both Trieste and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

Brussels is cooler than Trieste in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives less rain than Trieste. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and Brussels during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Trieste for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. In the winter, Brussels is much colder than Trieste. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Trieste averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Trieste. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Trieste in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Trieste. Many travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Trieste in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Brussels is generally cooler than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives less rain than Trieste. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Brussels