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

Should you visit Lucerne or Trieste?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lucerne and Trieste. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a historic, vibrant, and scenic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Trieste

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

Lucerne and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Trieste?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lucerne than Trieste. While Trieste is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lucerne is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Trieste attracts visitors for its beaches. Lucerne is more touristy than Trieste and is known for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also well known for The Chapel Bridge. Trieste is famous for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lucerne 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 Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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 Lucerne or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Lucerne and Trieste offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Lucerne is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

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 Lucerne or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

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

Lucerne has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

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 Lucerne or Trieste Better for Beaches?

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

Trieste offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Lucerne is not a beach destination.

Is Lucerne or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

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 Lucerne or Trieste?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lucerne or Trieste Better for Families?

Trieste is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Trieste. 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.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Lucerne or Trieste Better for Couples?

Lucerne and Trieste both very good destinations for a couple.

Lucerne is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Trieste is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Lucerne or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Trieste is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lucerne or Trieste Better for Students?

Trieste is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

Trieste is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Trieste. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Lucerne or Trieste a more walkable city?

Trieste is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Lucerne or Trieste. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Trieste due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lucerne, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

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

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

In Lucerne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city 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, 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 Lucerne or Trieste?

In Lucerne, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Trieste?

Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lucerne. 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 in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Trieste?

Trieste has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne 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 Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Trieste in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Trieste. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Trieste because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Lucerne is cooler than Trieste in the summer. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 21°C (70°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. In Lucerne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during summer. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Trieste. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lucerne or Trieste in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Trieste. The autumn months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

In the autumn, Lucerne is cooler than Trieste. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lucerne in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Trieste averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets less rain in October than Trieste. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Trieste for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Lucerne in the winter. In January, Lucerne is generally much colder than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 3°C (37°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during winter. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Trieste. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lucerne or Trieste in the Spring?

Both Trieste and Lucerne during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Trieste in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Lucerne is cooler than Trieste in the spring. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets less rain in April than Trieste. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Lucerne