A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers London vs. Trieste for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit London or Trieste?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between London and Trieste can help you decide which place is right for you.

London

London is a global, international, and historic 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 theater, nightlife, and live music.

Trieste

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

London and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Trieste?

Tourists will generally find more to do in London than Trieste. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. London is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Trieste attracts visitors for its beaches and historical sights. London is more touristy than Trieste and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also well known for Big Ben. Trieste is famous for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

Big Ben

How is London different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

London 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, London has many famous sights for visitors. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

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 London or Trieste Better for Theater?

London is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Trieste is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in London that are not to be missed. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Trieste is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in London or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

London is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

London has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

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 London or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

London 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 London is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

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 London or Trieste Better for Music?

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

London has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Trieste is not a live music destination.

Is London or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Trieste is very good for the beach. However, London is not a beach destination.

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.

London is not a beach destination.

Is London or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Trieste is very good for its historic old town charm. However, London does not have a historic old town.

Trieste has an old town worth visiting. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

London does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Trieste?

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

Many people travel to London specifically to go shopping. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is London or Trieste Better for Christmas?

London is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Trieste does not offer Christmas activities.

London offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Trieste does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Trieste Better for Christmas Markets?

London is an unbeatable place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Trieste does not offer Christmas markets.

People travel from around the world to visit the Christmas markets in London. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Trieste does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Trieste Better for Families?

London is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

London is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

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 London or Trieste Better for Couples?

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

London is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

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 London or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London 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 London, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

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 London or Trieste Better for Students?

London is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

London is a very popular city for students. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

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.

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

London 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 London can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

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

Is London or Trieste a more walkable city?

London 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 London. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or London?

How long in London or Trieste?

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

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

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

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

One day in London or Trieste?

Because London is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 London or Trieste?

Because London 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. 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 London or Trieste?

London is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that London 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 London or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in London. Because London is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, London or Trieste?

London has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of London 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 London 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 London or Trieste in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Trieste. Many travelers come to London for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Trieste in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

London is cooler than Trieste in the summer. The daily temperature in London averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Trieste fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Trieste this time of the year. London usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during summer. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, London usually receives less rain than Trieste. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit London or Trieste in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to London as well as Trieste. Many visitors come to London in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Trieste for the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, London is cooler than Trieste. Typically, the autumn temperatures in London in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Trieste averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, London often gets less sunshine than Trieste. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in October than Trieste. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and London are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to London for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Trieste because of the museums and the cuisine.

London can be very cold during winter. In January, London is generally cooler than Trieste. Daily temperatures in London average around 4°C (40°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

London usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during winter. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, London usually receives less rain than Trieste. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit London or Trieste in the Spring?

Both Trieste and London during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to London because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

London is cooler than Trieste in the spring. The daily temperature in London averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, London often gets less sunshine than Trieste. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in April than Trieste. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Trieste and London