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

Should you visit Toulon 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 Toulon and Trieste can help you decide which place is right for you.

Toulon

Toulon is a off-the-beaten-path, real world, and industrial port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Trieste

Trieste is a dynamic, energetic, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Toulon and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Toulon or Trieste?

You'll generally find more things to do in Toulon than Trieste. Toulon is bigger than Trieste, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Toulon is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and shopping, while Trieste is more popular for its historical sights. Toulon is well known for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers. Also, Toulon is famous for The Old Town. Trieste is well known for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Toulon different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Toulon and Trieste have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Toulon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

Trieste offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Toulon or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Toulon and Trieste can be an enjoyable experience.

Toulon offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Trieste has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Toulon or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

Both Toulon and Trieste are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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 Toulon or Trieste Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Toulon or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Toulon and Trieste are notable choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Toulon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Trieste has a beach worth visiting. 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 Toulon or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Trieste is very good for its historic old town. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its old town.

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.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Is the Shopping Better in Toulon or Trieste?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Toulon. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Toulon or Trieste Better for Families?

Trieste is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Trieste is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Toulon is a family-friendly port city. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Toulon or Trieste Better for Couples?

Trieste is a well-known place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Toulon or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Toulon and Trieste are notable destinations for backpackers.

Toulon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

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 Toulon or Trieste Better for Students?

Trieste is a well-known place for students. However, Toulon is not popular with 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.

Toulon is not popular with students.

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

Trieste is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Trieste is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

Toulon has some public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

Is Toulon or Trieste a more walkable city?

Toulon and Trieste both are superb when exploring on foot.

Toulon is very walkable. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Toulon?

How long in Toulon or Trieste?

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

Families should spend more time in Trieste than Toulon. 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 Toulon. 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 Trieste than Toulon 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 Toulon or Trieste?

In Toulon, you'll find nightlife and food. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Trieste. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Toulon or Trieste?

In Toulon, 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 Toulon has to offer.

Trieste is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Toulon or Trieste?

Toulon 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Trieste. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Toulon or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Toulon. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Toulon. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Trieste. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to France, The Best Budget Tours to France, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Toulon or Trieste?

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 42% larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Toulon 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 Toulon 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 Toulon or Trieste in the Summer?

Both Trieste and Toulon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Toulon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Trieste in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Toulon is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Toulon average around 24°C (75°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Trieste, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Toulon. In the summer, Toulon often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Toulon gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Toulon usually gets less rain in July than Trieste. Toulon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulon or Trieste in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulon and Trieste. Many visitors come to Toulon 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.

Toulon is around the same temperature as Trieste in the autumn. The daily temperature in Toulon averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Toulon usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during autumn. Toulon gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Toulon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Trieste. Toulon gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Toulon or Trieste in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Toulon as well as Trieste. Most visitors come to Toulon 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.

In the winter, Toulon is a little warmer than Trieste. Typically, the winter temperatures in Toulon in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Trieste averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Toulon often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Toulon gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

Toulon usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Trieste. Toulon gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulon or Trieste in the Spring?

Both Trieste and Toulon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Toulon because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

In April, Toulon is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Toulon average around 13°C (56°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. Toulon usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during spring. Toulon gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Toulon usually receives less rain than Trieste. Toulon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Toulon