A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Trieste vs. Bari for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Trieste or Bari?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Trieste and Bari 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.

Trieste

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

Bari

Bari is a cultural, authentic, and local port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Trieste and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Trieste or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bari than Trieste. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bari is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Trieste attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Trieste is famous for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage. Bari is famous for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. It is also well known for San Nicola.

How is Trieste different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bari 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 Bari. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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 Trieste or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bari is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Bari have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

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 Trieste or Bari Better for Nightlife?

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

Bari has a large number of nightlife venues. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

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 Trieste or Bari Better for Beaches?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Trieste. 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.

Bari offers a nice beach destination. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Is Trieste or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Bari is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Bari is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

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 Trieste or Bari?

Bari is a port city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bari has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Trieste or Bari Better for Families?

Both Trieste and Bari are very good to visit with kids.

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.

Bari is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

Is Trieste or Bari Better for Couples?

Trieste is a great city for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Trieste is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Trieste or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bari 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 Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

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 Trieste or Bari Better for Students?

Both Trieste and Bari are very good destinations for 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.

Many students visit Bari. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Is Trieste or Bari 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, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

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

Bari has a few public transit options. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Trieste or Bari a more walkable city?

Trieste and Bari are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Bari is very walkable. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Trieste?

How long in Trieste or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Trieste and Bari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Trieste than in Bari. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Trieste, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

Families should spend more time in Bari than Trieste. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bari, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

One day in Trieste or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Trieste. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Bari, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the 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.

A weekend in Trieste or Bari?

Trieste is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Bari, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bari has to offer.

Five days in Trieste or Bari?

You'll find food and museums around the cultural destination of Trieste. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bari 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.

A week in Trieste or Bari?

The dynamic city of Trieste offers museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bari. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bari. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, The Best Contiki Tours to Italy, The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome.

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

Which is Bigger, Trieste or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 50% larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Trieste and Bari, 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 Trieste or Bari?

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 Trieste or Bari in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Trieste and Bari. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Trieste this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Trieste is around the same temperature as Bari in the summer. The daily temperature in Trieste averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari this time of the year. In Trieste, it's very sunny this time of the year. Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Bari during summer. Trieste gets 288 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Trieste usually receives more rain than Bari. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Trieste or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Trieste as well as Bari. Many travelers come to Trieste for the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Bari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Trieste is cooler than Bari. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Trieste in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Bari averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Trieste often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Trieste gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Trieste usually gets more rain in October than Bari. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Trieste or Bari in the Winter?

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

In January, Trieste is generally much colder than Bari. Daily temperatures in Trieste average around 5°C (41°F), and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Bari during winter. Trieste gets 96 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Trieste usually receives more rain than Bari. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Trieste or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Trieste during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Trieste for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bari because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Trieste is around the same temperature as Bari in the spring. The daily temperature in Trieste averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Trieste often gets less sunshine than Bari. Trieste gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

Trieste usually gets more rain in April than Bari. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Trieste