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

Should you visit Granada or Trieste?

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

Should I visit Granada 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.

Granada

Granada is a beautiful, charming, and cultural city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Trieste

Trieste is a historic, dynamic, and energetic city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and museums.

Granada and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Trieste?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Granada. Although Granada and Trieste are about the same size, Granada has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Granada is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is more popular for its beaches. Granada is more touristy than Trieste and is known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Also, Granada is famous for The Alhambra. Trieste is well known for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Granada different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Granada is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Granada has many famous sights for visitors. Many visitors head to Granada specifically to visit the famed Alhambra. The palace and fortress complex will not disappoint. The gardens are beautifully maintained and the palace is filled with intricate details. It's easy to spend hours wandering around. In addition to The Alhambra, the Granada Cathedral is also impressive to visit. If you have kids or extra time to fill, head to Parque de las Ciencias, which is the city's Science Park.

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 Granada or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Granada and Trieste both to be notable destinations.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Granada. It's a very touristy city so restaurants can be hit or miss. There are some amazing local eateries, but you'll also find a number of places with lower quality, overpriced food. Classic local dishes include Churros, Plato Alpujarreño, and Habas con Jamón. Tapas are very popular and many restaurants provide free tapas with drink orders. There are also a number of Moroccan restaurants around town.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Trieste. 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 Granada or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

Granada is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Granada has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene kicks off around 11 pm, when most people have finished up a late dinner. There's a laid-back atmosphere with pubs, live music, and dance clubs that stay open late into the night. There are several popular streets at night including Calle Elvira, Calle Reyes Católicos, and the Realejo District.

Trieste has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Granada or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Trieste is a popular place for its beaches. However, Granada 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.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Granada or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Granada is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Granada offers plenty to see. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

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 Granada or Trieste Better for Hiking?

Granada is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Granada. Ruta de Los Cahorros is a great hike about 25 minutes outside of Granada that begins in the town of Monochil. It crosses many bridges and weaves through dramatic canyons. There are places where you can wade in the water or check out a hidden waterfall. It's well worth the time and can be reached by taxi or public bus.

Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Trieste?

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

Granada has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The town is filled with souvenir shops and places to buy local items. It's fun to wander through the old town and pop into the many different shops.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Granada or Trieste Better for Families?

Trieste is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Trieste is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Granada. While the highlight of the city is the Alhambra, kids will likely enjoy exploring the shops or seeing a Flamenco show a bit more. Just outside of town is a wonderful hike, Ruta de Los Cahorros. It begins near the town of Monachil which is easily accessible by taxi or public bus. The hike goes through canyons and across bridges and its a wonderful activity for the whole family.

Is Granada or Trieste Better for Couples?

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

Granada makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It is a beautiful city that is filled with charm and history. Couples will enjoy exploring the Alhambra, taking in a Flamenco show, or sipping Sangria with tapas. The city is incredibly beautiful with stunning views and many great restaurants.

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.

Is Granada or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada 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 Granada. It's a touristy city and it's a popular destination for backpackers as well. There are plenty of hostels around town and the city has social atmosphere with many opportunities to meet other travelers.

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 Granada or Trieste Better for Students?

Both Granada and Trieste are excellent destinations for students.

Granada is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a popular study abroad destination. Accommodation for students is usually affordable and this is also a great city for integrating into the local culture. You may even end up with a Spanish roommate.

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

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

Public transit in Trieste is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

You'll find some public transit in Granada, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town that many tourists take advantage of. Taxis are also very affordable, so for many visitors, that is an easy option.

Is Granada or Trieste a more walkable city?

Granada and Trieste are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Granada is very walkable. Most of the touristy areas are easy to explore on foot, but there are some steep hills so put on your walking shoes.

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 Granada Worth Visiting? and Is Trieste Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Granada?

How long in Granada or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Granada or Trieste. In our opinion, Granada has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Granada than Trieste. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Granada or Trieste?

In Granada, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Trieste, you'll find museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Granada or Trieste?

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

In Trieste, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Trieste has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Trieste?

Granada is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Trieste 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.

A week in Granada or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Granada. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Granada. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Trieste?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Granada 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 Granada or Trieste?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Granada or Trieste in the Summer?

Both Trieste and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Granada in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Trieste for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Granada is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 25°C (77°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Trieste. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during summer. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Granada usually receives less rain than Trieste. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Granada or Trieste in the Autumn?

Both Trieste and Granada during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Trieste because of the natural beauty of the area.

Granada is a little warmer than Trieste in the autumn. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the autumn, Granada often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in October than Trieste. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Trieste in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Trieste. The winter months attract visitors to Granada 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.

In the winter, Granada is much warmer than Trieste. Typically, the winter temperatures in Granada in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Trieste averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Granada usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Granada usually receives more rain than Trieste. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Granada or Trieste in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Granada as well as Trieste. The natural beauty are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Granada is generally a little warmer than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 16°C (60°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In the spring, Granada often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in April than Trieste. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Granada