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

Should you visit Lisbon or Trieste?

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

Should I visit Lisbon 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant, stunning, and picturesque city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Trieste

Trieste is a historic, dynamic, and energetic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and museums.

Lisbon and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Trieste?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Trieste. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lisbon is more touristy than Trieste and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Trieste is famous for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Lisbon different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon 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, Lisbon has many famous sights for visitors. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class 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 Lisbon or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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 Lisbon or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

The nightlife in Lisbon is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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 Lisbon or Trieste Better for Music?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Trieste is not a live music destination.

Lisbon has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Trieste is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Trieste Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Lisbon and Trieste are nice choices.

Lisbon is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

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 Lisbon or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon 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, Lisbon offers plenty to see. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

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 Lisbon or Trieste?

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

Many people travel to Lisbon specifically to go shopping. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lisbon or Trieste Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Trieste.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Trieste is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Lisbon or Trieste Better for Couples?

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

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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 Lisbon or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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 Lisbon or Trieste Better for Students?

Both Lisbon and Trieste are excellent destinations for students.

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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

Is Lisbon or Trieste a more walkable city?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Trieste?

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

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

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

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

One day in Lisbon or Trieste?

Because Lisbon 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Trieste. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Trieste?

Because Lisbon 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Trieste?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Trieste. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Because Lisbon 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historic destination of Trieste. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Trieste?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Trieste in the Summer?

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

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Trieste in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, 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 Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Trieste. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Trieste in the Autumn?

Both Trieste and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, 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.

In the autumn, Lisbon is a little warmer than Trieste. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lisbon in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Trieste averages at about 16°C (60°F).

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

Lisbon usually gets less rain in October than Trieste. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Trieste in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Trieste. The winter months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

In January, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Trieste. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Trieste in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Trieste. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Trieste in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the spring, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in April than Trieste. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Lisbon