A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Strasbourg vs. Trieste for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Strasbourg or Trieste?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Strasbourg and Trieste can help you decide which place is right for you.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a historic, charming, and picturesque city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Trieste

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

Strasbourg and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Strasbourg or Trieste?

You'll generally find more things to do in Strasbourg than Trieste. Strasbourg is bigger than Trieste, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Strasbourg is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is more popular for its beaches. Strasbourg is more touristy than Trieste and is known for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses. Also, Strasbourg is famous for The Strasbourg Cathedral. Trieste is well known for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Strasbourg different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Strasbourg is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Strasbourg. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

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 Strasbourg or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Strasbourg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

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 Strasbourg or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Strasbourg and Trieste.

If you're looking for night time activities Strasbourg has a few options to choose from. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Trieste. 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 Strasbourg or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Trieste is very good for its beaches. However, Strasbourg is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Trieste to enjoy the beach. 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.

Strasbourg is not a beach destination.

Is Strasbourg or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg 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, Strasbourg offers plenty to see. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

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 the Shopping Better in Strasbourg or Trieste?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Strasbourg. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Strasbourg or Trieste Better for Families?

Trieste is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Strasbourg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Strasbourg or Trieste Better for Couples?

Both Strasbourg and Trieste are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Strasbourg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

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.

Is Strasbourg or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Strasbourg and Trieste are notable places to visit.

Strasbourg is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Strasbourg or Trieste Better for Students?

Trieste is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Trieste is very popular with students. 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.

Strasbourg is a good city to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

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

Strasbourg and Trieste both offer superb public transit to get you around.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Strasbourg. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

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

Is Strasbourg or Trieste a more walkable city?

Strasbourg and Trieste are superb when it comes to walkability.

Strasbourg is very walkable. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Strasbourg?

How long in Strasbourg or Trieste?

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

Families should spend more time in Trieste than Strasbourg. 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.

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

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

One day in Strasbourg or Trieste?

In Strasbourg, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the energetic city of Trieste, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Strasbourg or Trieste?

In Strasbourg, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Strasbourg has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Trieste, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Strasbourg or Trieste?

Strasbourg 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.

Trieste, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Strasbourg or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Strasbourg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Strasbourg. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Strasbourg or Trieste?

Strasbourg has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg or Trieste in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Strasbourg and Trieste. Many travelers come to Strasbourg for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Trieste in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Strasbourg is generally cooler than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Strasbourg average around 20°C (68°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Trieste this time of the year. In Strasbourg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Strasbourg usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during summer. Strasbourg gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Strasbourg usually receives less rain than Trieste. Strasbourg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Trieste in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Strasbourg as well as Trieste. Many visitors come to Strasbourg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Trieste for the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Strasbourg is cooler than Trieste in the autumn. The daily temperature in Strasbourg averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Strasbourg often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Strasbourg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun.

Strasbourg usually gets less rain in October than Trieste. Strasbourg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and Strasbourg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Strasbourg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Trieste because of the museums and the cuisine.

Strasbourg can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Strasbourg is much colder than Trieste. Typically, the winter temperatures in Strasbourg in January average around 2°C (35°F), and Trieste averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Strasbourg usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during winter. Strasbourg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Strasbourg usually receives less rain than Trieste. Strasbourg gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Trieste in the Spring?

Both Trieste and Strasbourg during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

In April, Strasbourg is generally cooler than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Strasbourg average around 11°C (51°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Strasbourg often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Strasbourg gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun.

Strasbourg usually gets less rain in April than Trieste. Strasbourg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Strasbourg