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

Should you visit Trieste or Dubrovnik?

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 Dubrovnik 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 historic, dynamic, and energetic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a coastal, historic, and charming coastal town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Trieste and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Trieste or Dubrovnik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Trieste and Dubrovnik are popular destinations, Dubrovnik has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Trieste and is known for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows. It is also well known for The Old Town Walls. Trieste is famous for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Trieste different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.

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 Dubrovnik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta dishes.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Trieste and Dubrovnik.

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.

Dubrovnik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.

Is Trieste or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

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

In Dubrovnik, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.

Trieste is not a resort destination.

Is Trieste or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.

Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Trieste or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Both Trieste and Dubrovnik 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.

Dubrovnik offers a nice beach destination. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.

Is Trieste or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik 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, Dubrovnik offers plenty to see. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming atmosphere.

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 Trieste or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dubrovnik. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.

Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Trieste or Dubrovnik?

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

Dubrovnik has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Trieste or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Both Trieste and Dubrovnik are excellent 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.

Dubrovnik is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.

Is Trieste or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Dubrovnik is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Dubrovnik is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

Couples visit Trieste frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Trieste or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Dubrovnik, as it is a very popular coastal town for budget travelers. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town 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 Trieste or Dubrovnik Better for Students?

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

Trieste is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

Is Trieste or Dubrovnik 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, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its public transit.

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

Dubrovnik has a few public transit options. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Trieste or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Dubrovnik is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Dubrovnik. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Trieste?

How long in Trieste or Dubrovnik?

In either Trieste or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Trieste because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Trieste, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

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

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

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

One day in Trieste or Dubrovnik?

You'll find food and museums around the city of Trieste. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dubrovnik, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This coastal town 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 Dubrovnik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Trieste. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Dubrovnik, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Dubrovnik has to offer.

Five days in Trieste or Dubrovnik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the dynamic city of Trieste. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Dubrovnik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubrovnik has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Trieste or Dubrovnik?

Trieste is a popular choice for travelers. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubrovnik. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dubrovnik. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Trieste or Dubrovnik?

Trieste has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Trieste and Dubrovnik, 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 Dubrovnik?

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 Dubrovnik in the Summer?

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

Trieste is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the summer. The daily temperature in Trieste averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

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

Should I visit Trieste or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Trieste is cooler than Dubrovnik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Trieste in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Trieste usually gets less rain in October than Dubrovnik. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Trieste or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

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

In January, Trieste is generally much colder than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Trieste average around 5°C (41°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In January, Trieste usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Trieste or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

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

Trieste is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the spring. The daily temperature in Trieste averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Trieste usually gets less rain in April than Dubrovnik. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Trieste