A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thessaloniki vs. Trieste for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Trieste?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a high energy, bustling, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Trieste

Trieste is a historic, dynamic, and energetic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Trieste?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than Trieste, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Thessaloniki is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Trieste is known for its beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Trieste and is known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also home to The Monument of Rotonda. Trieste is popular for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Thessaloniki different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

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 Thessaloniki or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Thessaloniki has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

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 Thessaloniki or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

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

Thessaloniki has a large number of nightlife venues. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

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 Thessaloniki or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Trieste is a popular place for the beache. However, Thessaloniki is lacking in options for the beach.

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.

The beach in Thessaloniki is worth checking out. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Is Thessaloniki or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Trieste. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Trieste?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Thessaloniki. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Trieste Better for Families?

Trieste is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Trieste is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thessaloniki. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

Is Thessaloniki or Trieste Better for Couples?

Trieste is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Thessaloniki is a good city for couples to visit. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.

Is Thessaloniki or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Thessaloniki or Trieste Better for Students?

Both Thessaloniki and Trieste are excellent destinations for students.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

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.

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

Trieste is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Thessaloniki, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

Is Thessaloniki or Trieste a more walkable city?

Trieste is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable city. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Trieste?

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

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

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

One day in Thessaloniki or Trieste?

In Thessaloniki, you'll find nightlife and food. This city 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 cultural 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 Thessaloniki or Trieste?

In Thessaloniki, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Trieste?

Thessaloniki is a great place to explore. 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 diverse 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 Thessaloniki or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Thessaloniki. 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 Tours for Seniors to Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Trieste?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 68% larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Trieste in the Summer?

Both Trieste and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, 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, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Trieste. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thessaloniki in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Trieste averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Trieste. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Trieste. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Trieste in the Autumn?

Both Trieste and Thessaloniki during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Trieste because of the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 16°C (61°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Trieste. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Trieste in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Trieste. The winter months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Trieste in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Trieste. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Trieste in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Trieste. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Trieste. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Thessaloniki