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

Should you visit Hydra or Trieste?

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

Should I visit Hydra 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.

Hydra

Hydra is a accessible, quaint, and picturesque island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Trieste

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

Hydra and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Trieste?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hydra than Trieste, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hydra is better known for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is more popular for its nightlife. Hydra is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Also, Hydra is famous for The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Trieste is well known for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Hydra different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hydra 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 Hydra. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

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 Hydra or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Hydra offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

Trieste has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Hydra or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

Trieste is a popular place for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Hydra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

Is Hydra or Trieste Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a island with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Trieste is not a resort destination.

Hydra has a few great resort options. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Trieste is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Trieste Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a island with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Trieste Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Hydra and Trieste are notable choices.

Hydra is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Many people head to Trieste to enjoy the beach. 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.

Is Hydra or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Hydra 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.

Hydra is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its atmosphere.

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 Hydra or Trieste Better for Hiking?

Hydra 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 Hydra. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Trieste?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Hydra. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hydra or Trieste Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Trieste.

Hydra is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

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 Hydra or Trieste Better for Couples?

Hydra is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Hydra is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

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 Hydra or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Trieste is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

Is Hydra or Trieste Better for Students?

Trieste is a great destination for students. However, Hydra is not popular with students.

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.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Trieste is a great destination for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

Is Hydra or Trieste a more walkable city?

Hydra is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hydra. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Trieste?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Trieste than Hydra 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 Hydra or Trieste?

Hydra is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Trieste, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this cultural destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Hydra or Trieste?

Hydra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hydra has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Trieste. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Hydra or Trieste?

Hydra 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Trieste. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hydra or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. Since Hydra is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the dynamic destination of Trieste. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Hydra and Trieste, we can see that Trieste is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Trieste?

Trieste has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra 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 Hydra 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 Hydra or Trieste in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Trieste. Many visitors come to Hydra in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Trieste for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 27°C (81°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 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 Hydra this time of the year. In the summer, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in July than Trieste. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Trieste in the Autumn?

Both Trieste and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hydra for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, 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.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hydra usually receives less rain than Trieste. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and Hydra during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Hydra 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, Hydra is much warmer than Trieste. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hydra in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Trieste averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in January than Trieste. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Trieste in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Trieste. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Trieste. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Hydra