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

Should you visit Istanbul or Trieste?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Trieste, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a diverse, beautiful, and high-energy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Trieste

Trieste is a energetic, diverse, and cultural city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Istanbul and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Trieste?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Trieste. Istanbul is bigger than Trieste, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is more popular for its beaches. Istanbul is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Trieste is well known for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Istanbul different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul 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, Istanbul has many famous sights for visitors. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

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 Istanbul or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Istanbul 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 Istanbul have been singled out for their culinary prowess. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

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 Istanbul or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

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

Istanbul has a large number of nightlife venues. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu 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 Istanbul or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Trieste is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Trieste has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul 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, Istanbul offers plenty to see. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area 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 Istanbul or Trieste?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Istanbul. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Istanbul or Trieste Better for Families?

Istanbul and Trieste are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Istanbul is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

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 Istanbul or Trieste Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Trieste are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Istanbul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

Trieste makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Istanbul or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Istanbul, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

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 Istanbul or Trieste Better for Students?

Istanbul and Trieste are both high quality destinations for students and younger travelers.

Istanbul is a great city to visit as a student. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

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

Istanbul 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 Istanbul can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

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

Is Istanbul or Trieste a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Trieste both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Istanbul is very walkable. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

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 Istanbul Worth Visiting? and Is Trieste Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Istanbul or Trieste. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Istanbul due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

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

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

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

One day in Istanbul or Trieste?

Because Istanbul 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. 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 Istanbul or Trieste?

Because Istanbul 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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 Istanbul or Trieste?

Istanbul 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 Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Trieste?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul 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 Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Trieste in the Summer?

Both Trieste and Istanbul during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Trieste, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Istanbul. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Trieste. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Trieste in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Trieste. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Trieste in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area.

Istanbul is around the same temperature as Trieste in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Trieste. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Trieste in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Trieste. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Trieste for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Istanbul is a little warmer than Trieste. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Trieste averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Trieste. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Trieste in the Spring?

Both Trieste and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Trieste because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Trieste. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Istanbul