A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Trieste vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Trieste or Florence?

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 Florence 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 energetic, diverse, and cultural city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Trieste and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Trieste or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Florence than Trieste, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Florence is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is known for its beaches. Florence is more touristy than Trieste and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also home to The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Trieste is popular for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Trieste different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Florence has many famous sights for visitors. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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 Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence 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 Florence have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Trieste and Florence.

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.

Florence has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Trieste or Florence Better for Beaches?

Trieste is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Trieste or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence 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, Florence offers plenty to see. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

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 Florence?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Trieste or Florence Better for Families?

Trieste is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Trieste or Florence Better for Couples?

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

Florence is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence 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 Florence, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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 Florence Better for Students?

Florence is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Florence is a very popular city for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Many students visit 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.

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

Public transit in Trieste can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Trieste or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence 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 Florence. Most people explore the city 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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Trieste?

How long in Trieste or Florence?

Both Trieste and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Trieste. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Trieste, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

One day in Trieste or Florence?

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.

In Florence, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Trieste or Florence?

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.

In Florence, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Florence has to offer.

Five days in Trieste or Florence?

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.

Florence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Florence has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Trieste or Florence?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. In Florence, you'll find museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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

Which is Bigger, Trieste or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Trieste and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Trieste and Florence. Most visitors come to Trieste for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Florence because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Trieste is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Trieste average around 24°C (75°F), and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Florence this time of the year. In Trieste, it's very sunny this time of the year. Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Florence during summer. Trieste gets 288 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Trieste usually receives more rain than Florence. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Trieste or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Trieste as well as Florence. The autumn months attract visitors to Trieste because of the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

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

In the autumn, Trieste often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Florence. Trieste gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Trieste usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Trieste or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence and Trieste are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Trieste this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Trieste is cooler than Florence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Trieste in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Florence averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Florence during winter. Trieste gets 96 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Trieste usually receives more rain than Florence. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Trieste or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Trieste during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Trieste is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Trieste average around 13°C (56°F), and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Trieste often gets less sunshine than Florence. Trieste gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Trieste usually gets more rain in April than Florence. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Trieste