A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Trieste vs. Rome for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Trieste or Rome?

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 Rome 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 diverse, cultural, and historic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, museums, and nightlife.

Rome

Rome is a ancient, archeological, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Trieste and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Trieste or Rome?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rome than Trieste. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Rome is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Trieste attracts visitors for its beaches and historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also well known for The Colosseum. Trieste is famous for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

The Colosseum

How is Trieste different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rome 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, Rome has many famous sights for visitors. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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 Rome? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rome 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 Rome have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

The nightlife in Rome is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

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 Rome Better for Music?

Rome is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Trieste is not a live music destination.

Rome has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Trieste is not a live music destination.

Is Trieste or Rome Better for Beaches?

Trieste is a city with good options for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

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.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Trieste or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Trieste is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

Trieste offers a nice historic old town area. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Trieste or Rome?

Rome is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Rome specifically to go shopping. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Trieste or Rome Better for Families?

Both Trieste and Rome are great 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.

Rome is a very family-friendly place to visit. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

Is Trieste or Rome Better for Couples?

Both Trieste and Rome are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Couples visit Rome frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Is Trieste or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome 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 Rome, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

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 Rome Better for Students?

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

Rome is a very popular city for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

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 Rome Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Visitors in Rome can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Trieste. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

Is Trieste or Rome a more walkable city?

Rome 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 Rome. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or Trieste?

How long in Trieste or Rome?

Both Trieste and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Trieste. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Trieste, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

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

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

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

One day in Trieste or Rome?

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.

Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Rome?

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.

Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Trieste or Rome?

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

Rome is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rome has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Trieste or Rome?

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 Rome. Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Rome, we can see that Rome 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 Rome would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rome 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 Rome Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Trieste or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Trieste and Rome, 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 Rome?

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 Trieste or Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Trieste during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Trieste because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

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

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Trieste. In the summer, Trieste often gets less sunshine than Rome. Trieste gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Trieste usually gets more rain in July than Rome. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Trieste or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Trieste and Rome. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Trieste this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rome for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Trieste is cooler than Rome. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Trieste in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Rome averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. Trieste gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Trieste usually receives less rain than Rome. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Trieste or Rome in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Trieste as well as Rome. Many travelers come to Trieste for the museums and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Rome in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Trieste is generally much colder than Rome. Daily temperatures in Trieste average around 5°C (41°F), and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Trieste often gets less sunshine than Rome. Trieste gets 96 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Trieste usually gets less rain in January than Rome. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Trieste or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Trieste are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Trieste in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Rome. Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Rome during spring. Trieste gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Trieste usually receives more rain than Rome. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rome and Trieste