A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Palermo vs. Trieste for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Palermo or Trieste?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Palermo and Trieste can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Palermo

Palermo is a diverse, dynamic, and fun city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Trieste

Trieste is a diverse, cultural, and historic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Palermo and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Trieste?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palermo than Trieste. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Palermo is very popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Trieste attracts visitors for its historical sights. Palermo is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also well known for The Cathedral. Trieste is famous for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Palermo different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Palermo or Trieste.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Palermo. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

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 Palermo or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Palermo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

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 Palermo or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

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

Palermo has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

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 Palermo or Trieste Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a city 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 Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Palermo is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

The beaches at Palermo attract visitors from all over. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

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.

Is Palermo or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Trieste is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Trieste offers a nice historic old town area. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Trieste?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Palermo or Trieste Better for Families?

Both Palermo and Trieste are great to visit with kids.

Palermo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

Trieste is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Palermo or Trieste Better for Couples?

Trieste is a well-known place for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Palermo or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Trieste are nice destinations for backpackers.

Palermo is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

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 Palermo or Trieste Better for Students?

Trieste is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

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

Trieste is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Palermo or Trieste a more walkable city?

Palermo and Trieste both are great when exploring on foot.

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Palermo 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 Palermo, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

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

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

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

One day in Palermo or Trieste?

In Palermo, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Palermo or Trieste?

In Palermo, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Palermo 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 Palermo or Trieste?

Palermo is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Palermo or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Palermo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Palermo 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 Palermo Expensive? and Is Trieste Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Trieste?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Palermo 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 Palermo 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 Palermo or Trieste in the Summer?

Both Trieste and Palermo during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Palermo because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

Palermo is around the same temperature as Trieste in the summer. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Trieste fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Trieste, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the summer, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in July than Trieste. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Trieste in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Trieste. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Trieste for the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Palermo is a little warmer than Trieste. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palermo in October average around 20°C (67°F), and Trieste averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during autumn. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Palermo usually receives less rain than Trieste. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palermo or Trieste in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Trieste. Many travelers come to Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Trieste in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in January than Trieste. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Trieste in the Spring?

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

Palermo is around the same temperature as Trieste in the spring. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during spring. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palermo usually receives less rain than Trieste. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Palermo