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

Should you visit Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a less touristy, undiscovered, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Trieste

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

Bucharest and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Trieste?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bucharest than Trieste, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bucharest is more popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Trieste is known for its beaches and impressive beauty. Bucharest is popular for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. It is also home to The Palace of Parliament. Trieste is popular for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Bucharest different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Bucharest offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

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 Bucharest or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Bucharest and Trieste.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bucharest. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Trieste is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Bucharest or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

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

Bucharest has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

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 Bucharest or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Trieste is a good destination for the beache. However, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Is Bucharest or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the good old town areas in both Bucharest and Trieste.

Many people head to Bucharest to see the old town. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

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 Bucharest or Trieste?

Bucharest is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bucharest or Trieste Better for Families?

Trieste is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Trieste Better for Couples?

Trieste is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Trieste frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Plenty of budget travelers 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 Bucharest or Trieste Better for Students?

Trieste is well known for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Many students visit Trieste. 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.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

Is Bucharest 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 Bucharest and Trieste.

The public transit in Bucharest can get you around easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Trieste offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

Is Bucharest or Trieste a more walkable city?

Trieste is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Bucharest or Trieste. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Trieste due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Trieste than Bucharest 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 Trieste.

One day in Bucharest or Trieste?

In Bucharest, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

You'll find food and museums around the city of Trieste. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Trieste?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Trieste. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Trieste?

Bucharest is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the dynamic city of Trieste. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bucharest. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Trieste is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Trieste?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Trieste in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Trieste. Most visitors come to Bucharest 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 the summer, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Trieste. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bucharest in July average around 23°C (73°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 Bucharest this time of the year. In the summer, Bucharest often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in July than Trieste. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Trieste in the Autumn?

Both Trieste and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Bucharest 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.

In October, Bucharest is generally cooler than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 13°C (55°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Trieste. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Trieste in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Bucharest in the winter. Bucharest is much colder than Trieste in the winter. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around -1°C (29°F) in January, and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Trieste. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Trieste in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Trieste. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bucharest in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Trieste averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Trieste. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Bucharest