A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers San Sebastian vs. Trieste for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit San Sebastian or Trieste?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Sebastian 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.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a beautiful, splendid, and outdoorsy city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Trieste

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

San Sebastian and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Sebastian or Trieste?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Sebastian. Although San Sebastian and Trieste are both popular with visitors, San Sebastian has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Sebastian is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Trieste is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. San Sebastian is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. It is also home to La Concha Bay. Trieste is popular for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is San Sebastian different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Sebastian or Trieste?

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both San Sebastian and Trieste.

San Sebastian offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Head to Castillo de la Mota for nice views and walks. Museo San Telmo offers an overview of Basque culture and Palacio de Miramar is another interesting place to visit.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Trieste. 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 San Sebastian or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Sebastian is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in San Sebastian have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It is a famed culinary capital of not just Spain, but the entire world. The city has many Michelin-starred restaurants where you can experience modern or traditional recipes prepared by world class chefs. There are also pintxo bars, food markets, and gourmet food shops, that sell local ingredients and dishes. Much of the cuisine includes seafood, but you'll also find a local twist on traditional tapas. Dining is a true experience in this town.

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 San Sebastian or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

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

San Sebastian has a large number of nightlife venues. You can expect a lively nightlife scene around town with many bars and places to hang out. Some of the best nightlife is found in and around Parte Vieja, Centro, Reyes Católicos and Gros.

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 San Sebastian or Trieste Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Trieste is not a resort destination.

San Sebastian has a few great resort options. It's both a city and a resort vacation destination with many beachside resorts that are popular during the summer months.

Trieste is not a resort destination.

Is San Sebastian or Trieste Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian attract visitors from all over. The city has three urban beaches that are a huge attraction during the summer months. For surfing and a lively atmosphere, head to the Playa de la Zurriola. The playa de la Concha is the most photographed and famous beach in town and Ondarreta is another beautiful option.

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 San Sebastian or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Trieste is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, San Sebastian 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.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Trieste?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in San Sebastian. A mix of familiar brands and locally made items make shopping a fun activity. You'll also find many artisan food shops around town where you can take home some local wine or other culinary treats.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is San Sebastian or Trieste Better for Families?

San Sebastian and Trieste are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

San Sebastian is a very kid-friendly city. This city is surprisingly family-friendly. Not only is there the beach, but there are playgrounds everywhere. There's also the fun Monte Igueldo San Sebastian Amusement Park and the San Sebastian Aquarium. You could also take a boat ride or explore the many parks and gardens around town. And, of course, there are the many ice cream shops to check out.

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.

Is San Sebastian or Trieste Better for Couples?

San Sebastian and Trieste are both high quality to visit as a couple.

San Sebastian is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its nice beaches, stunning view points, and world class restaurants, this city makes an excellent couple's destination. There are Michelin star restaurants to dine in and many parks and gardens where you can take a stroll as well.

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.

Is San Sebastian or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian. There are a number of hostels around town, and you'll find enough other backpackers looking to meet up so you'll never be lonely.

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 San Sebastian or Trieste Better for Students?

San Sebastian and Trieste are both high quality destinations for students and younger travelers.

San Sebastian is a great city to visit as a student. There are good educational programs in town, as well as nice beaches and a good student population. The locals are also welcoming and friendly.

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.

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

Trieste is notable for its public transit. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Trieste can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

San Sebastian has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town that's operated by Dbus.

Is San Sebastian or Trieste a more walkable city?

San Sebastian and Trieste both are high quality when exploring on foot.

San Sebastian is a very walkable city. It's a great city for walking, with many pedestrian areas and places where you can take a stroll along the river or seaside.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or San Sebastian?

How long in San Sebastian or Trieste?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian.

One day in San Sebastian or Trieste?

In San Sebastian, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 museums and nightlife when visiting the dynamic destination of Trieste. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in San Sebastian or Trieste?

In San Sebastian, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Sebastian has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Trieste. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in San Sebastian or Trieste?

San Sebastian 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the diverse destination of Trieste. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in San Sebastian or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Sebastian. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Sebastian. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Trieste. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

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

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Trieste?

Trieste has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian or Trieste in the Summer?

Both Trieste and San Sebastian during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, San Sebastian is cooler than Trieste. Typically, the summer temperatures in San Sebastian in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Trieste averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In Trieste, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in San Sebastian. In the summer, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Trieste. San Sebastian gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian usually gets more rain in July than Trieste. San Sebastian gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Trieste in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both San Sebastian and Trieste. Many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Trieste in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area.

In October, San Sebastian is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 16°C (60°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during autumn. San Sebastian gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Trieste. San Sebastian gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Trieste in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to San Sebastian as well as Trieste. Many visitors come to San Sebastian in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Trieste for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

San Sebastian is much warmer than Trieste in the winter. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Trieste. San Sebastian gets 85 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the winter. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in January than Trieste. San Sebastian gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Trieste in the Spring?

Both Trieste and San Sebastian are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Trieste because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, San Sebastian is around the same temperature as Trieste. Typically, the spring temperatures in San Sebastian in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Trieste averages at about 13°C (56°F).

San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during spring. San Sebastian gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. In April, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Trieste. San Sebastian gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and San Sebastian