A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Taormina vs. Trieste for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Taormina or Trieste?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Taormina and Trieste can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Taormina

Taormina is a opulent, historic, and beautiful town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Trieste

Trieste is a diverse, cultural, and historic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Taormina and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Taormina or Trieste?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Taormina. Although Taormina and Trieste are popular destinations, Taormina has more sights and attractions for tourists. Taormina is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Trieste attracts visitors for its historical sights. Taormina is more touristy than Trieste and is known for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. It is also well known for The Greek Theater. Trieste is famous for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Taormina different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Trieste and Taormina.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Taormina. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.

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 Taormina or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Taormina has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

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 Taormina or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

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

Taormina has a large number of nightlife venues. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.

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 Taormina or Trieste Better for Resorts?

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

In Taormina, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Trieste is not a resort destination.

Is Taormina or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Both Taormina and Trieste are considered to be nice beach destinations.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Taormina. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

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 Taormina or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Trieste is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Taormina does not have a historic old town.

Trieste has an old town worth visiting. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

Taormina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Taormina or Trieste?

Taormina is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Taormina has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Taormina or Trieste Better for Families?

Trieste is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.

Is Taormina or Trieste Better for Couples?

Both Taormina and Trieste are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Taormina is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

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 Taormina or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Trieste is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Taormina is not known for backpackers.

Trieste is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Taormina is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't many hostels around town and you won't find a large backpacker crowd here. The town has the feel of an exclusive resort community with high end resorts more common than anything else.

Is Taormina or Trieste Better for Students?

Trieste is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not popular with students.

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.

Taormina is not popular with students.

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

Trieste is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Trieste. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

Taormina has a few public transit options. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the town.

Is Taormina or Trieste a more walkable city?

Taormina and Trieste are great when it comes to walkability.

Taormina is a very walkable destination. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Taormina?

How long in Taormina or Trieste?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Trieste than Taormina 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 Trieste.

One day in Taormina or Trieste?

Taormina is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Trieste offers nightlife and food. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Taormina or Trieste?

Taormina might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Taormina has to offer.

Trieste is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Trieste, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Taormina or Trieste?

Taormina 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.

Trieste is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Taormina or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taormina. Since Taormina is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Taormina and Trieste, we can see that Taormina 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 Taormina Expensive? and Is Trieste Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Taormina or Trieste?

Trieste has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Taormina. When comparing the sizes of Taormina 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 Taormina 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 Taormina or Trieste in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Taormina and Trieste. The summer months attract visitors to Taormina because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

Taormina is a little warmer than Trieste in the summer. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Trieste fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Trieste this time of the year. In Taormina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Taormina usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during summer. Taormina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Taormina usually receives less rain than Trieste. Taormina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Taormina or Trieste in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Taormina as well as Trieste. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Taormina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Trieste for the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Taormina is a little warmer than Trieste. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Taormina in October average around 21°C (69°F), and Trieste averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Taormina often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Taormina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun.

Taormina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Taormina usually gets more rain in October than Trieste. Taormina gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Taormina or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and Taormina are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Taormina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Trieste in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

In January, Taormina is generally much warmer than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 13°C (55°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Taormina usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during winter. Taormina gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Taormina usually receives around the same amount of rain as Trieste. Taormina gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Taormina or Trieste in the Spring?

Both Trieste and Taormina during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Taormina in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Trieste for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Taormina is a little warmer than Trieste in the spring. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Taormina. In the spring, Taormina often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Taormina gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun.

Taormina usually gets less rain in April than Trieste. Taormina gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Taormina