A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Palma de Mallorca vs. Trieste for Nightlife, Beaches, Food, and Families

Should you visit Palma de Mallorca or Trieste?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a stunning, cultural, and historic island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Trieste

Trieste is a energetic, diverse, and cultural city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and museums.

Palma de Mallorca and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palma de Mallorca or Trieste?

You'll generally find more things to do in Palma de Mallorca than Trieste. Palma de Mallorca is bigger than Trieste, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Palma de Mallorca is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is more popular for its museums. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Trieste and is known for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. Also, Palma de Mallorca is famous for the turquoise water and white sand beaches. Trieste is well known for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

The turquoise water and white sand beaches

How is Palma de Mallorca different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palma de Mallorca or Trieste?

Trieste is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Palma de Mallorca or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Palma de Mallorca has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Trieste Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Trieste is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Palma de Mallorca while you're in town. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Trieste is not a live music destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Trieste Better for Resorts?

Palma de Mallorca is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Trieste is not a resort destination.

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Trieste is not a resort destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Trieste Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palma de Mallorca is a island 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 Palma de Mallorca. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Palma de Mallorca is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Palma de Mallorca and Trieste both have notable historical old towns that attract visitors.

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for visiting its old town. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Many people head to Trieste to see the old town. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Trieste Better for Hiking?

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for its hiking trails. However, Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Palma de Mallorca. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palma de Mallorca or Trieste?

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for its shopping areas. However, Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Palma de Mallorca has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Trieste Better for Families?

Palma de Mallorca and Trieste are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Palma de Mallorca is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

Trieste is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Trieste Better for Couples?

Trieste is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Palma de Mallorca makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palma de Mallorca is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Palma de Mallorca. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Trieste Better for Students?

Trieste is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

Trieste is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

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

Trieste is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Visitors to Trieste can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

You'll find some public transit in Palma de Mallorca, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Trieste a more walkable city?

Trieste is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a somewhat walkable place. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting? and Is Trieste Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Palma de Mallorca?

How long in Palma de Mallorca or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Palma de Mallorca or Trieste. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Palma de Mallorca due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Palma de Mallorca, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca.

One day in Palma de Mallorca or Trieste?

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Trieste, there's plenty to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Palma de Mallorca or Trieste?

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With food and museums around the cultural city of Trieste, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Palma de Mallorca or Trieste?

Palma de Mallorca is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Palma de Mallorca has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the energetic destination of Trieste. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Palma de Mallorca or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palma de Mallorca. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Palma de Mallorca. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Trieste is a popular choice for travelers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 2-Week Tours in Spain, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Palma de Mallorca or Trieste?

Palma de Mallorca has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca or Trieste in the Summer?

Both Trieste and Palma de Mallorca are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palma de Mallorca this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palma de Mallorca is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Palma de Mallorca average around 24°C (76°F), 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 Palma de Mallorca. Palma de Mallorca usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during summer. Palma de Mallorca gets 334 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Trieste. Palma de Mallorca gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Trieste in the Autumn?

Both Trieste and Palma de Mallorca during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Palma de Mallorca for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Trieste in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area.

Palma de Mallorca is a little warmer than Trieste in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palma de Mallorca averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Palma de Mallorca. In the autumn, Palma de Mallorca often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Palma de Mallorca gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun.

Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in October than Trieste. Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca or Trieste in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palma de Mallorca and Trieste. Many visitors come to Palma de Mallorca in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Trieste for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Palma de Mallorca is much warmer than Trieste. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palma de Mallorca in January average around 11°C (52°F), and Trieste averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Palma de Mallorca usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during winter. Palma de Mallorca gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Trieste. Palma de Mallorca gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Trieste in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palma de Mallorca as well as Trieste. Most visitors come to Palma de Mallorca for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Trieste because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Palma de Mallorca is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Palma de Mallorca average around 14°C (57°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palma de Mallorca this time of the year. In the spring, Palma de Mallorca often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Palma de Mallorca gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun.

Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in April than Trieste. Palma de Mallorca gets 46 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 Palma de Mallorca