A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint-Tropez vs. Trieste for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Saint-Tropez or Trieste?

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

Should I visit Saint-Tropez 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.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a luxurious, glamourous, and opulent resort town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Trieste

Trieste is a historic, dynamic, and energetic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, museums, and nightlife.

Saint-Tropez and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint-Tropez or Trieste?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint-Tropez. Although Saint-Tropez and Trieste are both popular with visitors, Saint-Tropez has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint-Tropez is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is known for its museums and historical sights. Saint-Tropez is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy. It is also home to The Old Port. Trieste is popular for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

The Old Port

How is Saint-Tropez different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint-Tropez or Trieste?

Trieste is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

Trieste offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saint-Tropez or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saint-Tropez and Trieste can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Saint-Tropez. The food is all about the local flavors. You'll find plenty of local seafood as well as local organic meats, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, garlic, and truffles. Cheese is a common ingredient as well. There are many different soups and stews, and bouillabaisse is a common fish soup found in the restaurants around town. Daube is another popular stew that is made with beef. Ratatouille is a vegetable casserole that has made a name for itself both inside and outside of France. And, of course, you have to try the local salads and pastries. Because it's such a touristy area, there are many restaurants geared specifically to the tourists, many of which are overpriced.

Trieste is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Saint-Tropez or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It is a place to see and be seen, so if you're looking for A-list celebrities, glamourous yacht parties, and ritzy dance clubs, then this is your place. While the nightlife scene is filled with extravagance, there are still laid back clubs where you can sip a cocktail in style. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year.

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 Saint-Tropez or Trieste Better for Resorts?

Saint-Tropez is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Trieste is not a resort destination.

Saint-Tropez is a world class resort vacation destination. Luxury and extravagance is what this resort town is all about. If you have the money to spend, you'll have no trouble finding a glamourous villa or luxury hotel where you can relax, party, or soak up the French Riviera sun.

Trieste is not a resort destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Trieste Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Saint-Tropez is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Saint-Tropez is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The Gulf of Saint Tropez is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive along the French Riviera. There are wreck dives including the most famous, The Rubis, a submarine that is surrounded by marine life. Although you're not allowed to enter the vessel, there is still plenty to see. There are also plenty of dive spots that feature rock formations, schools of fish, and lobsters.

Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez attract visitors from all over. The beaches are frequented by celebrities, so you'll find plenty of glitz and glamour by the water. For some of the best beaches, you'll want to head a little out of town. The most famous beach in the area is Pampelonne Beach which is popular with Hollywood celebrities during the summer months. Bouillabaisse Beach is the place to go if you want to look at the yachts, but for a more natural setting head to Graniers Beach.

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 Saint-Tropez or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Trieste is a popular place for its old town. However, Saint-Tropez does not have a historic old town.

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.

Saint-Tropez does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Tropez or Trieste?

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

Many people travel to Saint-Tropez specifically to go shopping. Surrounded by luxury, shopping is a must in this glamourous resort town. There are international luxury brands as well as local designer boutiques. Whether you're looking for yachting clothes, cigars, jewelry, or perfume, this is one of the best shopping destinations along the Cote d'Azur. Art is a particularly popular item to purchase while you're in town.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Trieste Better for Families?

Saint-Tropez 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.

Saint-Tropez is an extremely popular resort town to visit for families. With great beaches, several amusement parks, waterparks, and even Marineland, there are an endless supply of activities for kids. There's also a zoo and nature reserve for wildlife enthusiasts. For adventure lovers, there are a number of different watersports to try and if the weather isn't cooperating, there are a few good museums and other indoor activities as well.

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 Saint-Tropez or Trieste Better for Couples?

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

Saint-Tropez is a great resort town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Whether you're honeymooning or taking a short getaway to the French Riviera, this is a great option for couples. You can take a stroll at sunset, relax on one of the beautiful beaches, dine on local seafood, and soak up the rich local culture. The romance and beauty of this French Riviera city make it a world class romantic destination.

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 Saint-Tropez or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint-Tropez and Trieste are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Saint-Tropez. For many backpackers it may seem cost prohibitive to visit the French Riviera, but for those with the money, it is well worth the splurge. You can save some money by staying outside of town or finding a vacation rental where you can cook meals. There are also hostels and rooms in local homes that come at a more reasonable price.

Trieste is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Saint-Tropez or Trieste Better for Students?

Trieste is a great destination for students. However, Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

Trieste is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

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

Trieste is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Trieste can get you around easily. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

While Saint-Tropez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects many parts of the area.

Is Saint-Tropez or Trieste a more walkable city?

Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez. It's easy to explore many places on foot, passing by beautiful beaches, stunning views, impressive yachts, and glamourous villas.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Saint-Tropez Worth Visiting? and Is Trieste Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Saint-Tropez?

How long in Saint-Tropez or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Saint-Tropez or Trieste. In our opinion, Saint-Tropez has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Saint-Tropez than Trieste. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez.

One day in Saint-Tropez or Trieste?

In Saint-Tropez, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Trieste, many people enjoy the food and museums that this dynamic city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Saint-Tropez or Trieste?

In Saint-Tropez, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Saint-Tropez has to offer.

Trieste is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint-Tropez or Trieste?

Saint-Tropez is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the cultural destination of Trieste. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Saint-Tropez or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint-Tropez. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Saint-Tropez. 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 place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Saint-Tropez or Trieste?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Saint-Tropez as well as Trieste. Many visitors come to Saint-Tropez in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Trieste for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Saint-Tropez is around the same temperature as Trieste. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint-Tropez in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Trieste averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Trieste. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint-Tropez this time of the year. In the summer, Saint-Tropez often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Saint-Tropez gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Saint-Tropez usually gets less rain in July than Trieste. Saint-Tropez gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or Trieste in the Autumn?

Both Trieste and Saint-Tropez are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint-Tropez for the shopping 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 October, Saint-Tropez is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Saint-Tropez average around 17°C (63°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint-Tropez. Saint-Tropez usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during autumn. Saint-Tropez gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Saint-Tropez. In October, Saint-Tropez usually receives more rain than Trieste. Saint-Tropez gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and Saint-Tropez during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Saint-Tropez because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

Saint-Tropez is much warmer than Trieste in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint-Tropez averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Saint-Tropez often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Saint-Tropez gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

Saint-Tropez usually gets more rain in January than Trieste. Saint-Tropez gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or Trieste in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint-Tropez and Trieste. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint-Tropez this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Saint-Tropez is around the same temperature as Trieste. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint-Tropez in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Trieste averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In Saint-Tropez, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint-Tropez usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during spring. Saint-Tropez gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint-Tropez usually receives less rain than Trieste. Saint-Tropez gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Saint-Tropez