A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Santiago de Compostela vs. Trieste for Attractions, Old Town, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Santiago de Compostela or Trieste?

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

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela 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.

Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a religious, inspirational, and iconic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

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.

Santiago de Compostela and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santiago de Compostela or Trieste?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Santiago de Compostela than Trieste. While Trieste is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Trieste is known for its beaches. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its classic old town, its Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and its significance as the culmination point for the Camino de Santiago. It is also home to the Cathedral of Santiago. Trieste is popular for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Santiago de Compostela different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santiago de Compostela or Trieste?

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Santiago de Compostela has many famous sights for visitors. The iconic Cathedral of Santiago has long attracted pilgrims and travelers from around Europe and the world. The spectacular sight includes a museum and the crypt and tomb of Saint James. Another interesting sight in town is the former hostel for pilgrims, the Hostal de los Reyes Católicos. Also make sure you visit Plaza del Obradoiro and the Galician Center of Contemporary Art.

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 Santiago de Compostela or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Santiago de Compostela has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Galician food has plenty of fresh seafood, lots of local beef, and regional vegetables that are seasonal and locally grown. Make sure you try the polbo á feira (boiled octopus), pimientos de padrón (fried green peppers), and steamed mussels.

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 Santiago de Compostela or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

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

Santiago de Compostela has a large number of nightlife venues. As a university city, much of the nightlife is created by the student population. You'll find a lot of bars around Rúa de Santiago de Chile and Rúa de San Pedro de Mezonzo as well as along Rúa do Franco.

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 Santiago de Compostela or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Trieste is a popular place for the beache. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

Trieste is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Santiago de Compostela offers plenty to see. The old town reflects the city's importance in the Christian religion. There are Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings that draw Christian pilgrims from around the world.

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 Santiago de Compostela or Trieste Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Around Santiago de Compostela visitors will find world-class hiking trails. This small city is the culmination point for the famed Camino de Santiago. The 780 kilometer route is followed by pilgrims and travelers who seek enlightenment or adventure. Hikers travel both independently or as part of organized tours.

Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santiago de Compostela or Trieste?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Santiago de Compostela. There are local markets, souvenir shops, and boutiques where you can buy items to commemorate the completion of your hike or your visit to town.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Trieste Better for Families?

Trieste is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Trieste is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Santiago de Compostela offers lots of family activities. The city has a sightseeing train as well as parks and playgrounds that kids can enjoy. A visit to the Museum of the Galician People is also fascinating for the whole family. Visiting the colorful markets around town is fun as well.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Trieste Better for Couples?

Trieste is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Santiago de Compostela is a good city for couples to visit. The cobblestone streets and beautiful gardens make this a nice place for a couple's getaway. There are viewpoints that look out over the town as well as interesting buildings and great architecture.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santiago de Compostela 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 Santiago de Compostela. Backpackers hiking the Camino del Santiago will be rewarded with a beautiful city and many nice sights. There are plenty of hostels around town where backpackers can meet other travelers and swap stories.

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 Santiago de Compostela or Trieste Better for Students?

Trieste is well known for students. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Santiago de Compostela. It's a small city with many students during the week, but on weekends it quiets down as many students leave town.

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

Trieste is well known for its public transit. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Trieste has some very good public transit options. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

While Santiago de Compostela offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town that are operated by Tralusa.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Trieste a more walkable city?

Santiago de Compostela and Trieste both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Santiago de Compostela is a very walkable city. Many visitors reach the city on foot by doing the pilgrimage of the Camino del Santiago. The city itself and small and fairly walkable as well.

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 Santiago de Compostela Worth Visiting? and Is Trieste Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Santiago de Compostela?

How long in Santiago de Compostela or Trieste?

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

Families should spend more time in Trieste than Santiago de Compostela. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santiago de Compostela 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 Santiago de Compostela.

One day in Santiago de Compostela or Trieste?

In Santiago de Compostela, 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.

The city of Trieste offers museums and nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Santiago de Compostela or Trieste?

In Santiago de Compostela, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santiago de Compostela has to offer.

The historic destination of Trieste offers nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Santiago de Compostela or Trieste?

Santiago de Compostela 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Trieste. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Santiago de Compostela or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santiago de Compostela. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Santiago de Compostela. 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.

Trieste is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Santiago de Compostela 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 Santiago de Compostela Expensive? and Is Trieste Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Santiago de Compostela or Trieste?

Trieste has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Santiago de Compostela 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 Santiago de Compostela 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 Santiago de Compostela or Trieste in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Santiago de Compostela as well as Trieste. Many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Trieste for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Santiago de Compostela is cooler than Trieste. Typically, the summer temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in July average around 19°C (66°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 Santiago de Compostela this time of the year. In the summer, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Santiago de Compostela gets 248 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Santiago de Compostela usually gets less rain in July than Trieste. Santiago de Compostela gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Trieste in the Autumn?

Both Trieste and Santiago de Compostela are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking trails, 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, Santiago de Compostela is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Santiago de Compostela average around 16°C (61°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Santiago de Compostela usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste during autumn. Santiago de Compostela gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Santiago de Compostela. In October, Santiago de Compostela usually receives more rain than Trieste. Santiago de Compostela gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and Santiago de Compostela during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

Santiago de Compostela is much warmer than Trieste in the winter. The daily temperature in Santiago de Compostela averages around 11°C (51°F) in January, and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Santiago de Compostela often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste. Santiago de Compostela gets 103 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Santiago de Compostela. Santiago de Compostela usually gets more rain in January than Trieste. Santiago de Compostela gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Trieste in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Santiago de Compostela and Trieste. The natural beauty are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Santiago de Compostela is around the same temperature as Trieste. Typically, the spring temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Trieste averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Santiago de Compostela usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste during spring. Santiago de Compostela gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Santiago de Compostela usually receives around the same amount of rain as Trieste. Santiago de Compostela gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Santiago de Compostela