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

Should you visit Trieste or Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo 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's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and museums.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a historical, cultural, and beautiful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Trieste and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Trieste or Sarajevo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sarajevo than Trieste, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Sarajevo is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is known for its beaches. Trieste is popular for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage. Sarajevo is popular for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. It is also home to The Old Town.

How is Trieste different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo. The sights in the city reflect its history and culture. Famous places to visit include Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, Kovači Memorial Cemetery, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.

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 Sarajevo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.

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 Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Sarajevo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.

Is Trieste or Sarajevo Better for Beaches?

Trieste is a good destination for the beache. However, Sarajevo is not a beach destination.

Trieste offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Sarajevo is not a beach destination.

Is Trieste or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Sarajevo 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, Sarajevo offers plenty to see. The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

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 Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Sarajevo is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Around Sarajevo visitors will find world-class hiking trails. If you have a way to get out of town, you'll be rewarded with a natural beauty that is untouched and pristine - a rare find in Europe. There are a number of popular trails that are popular with locals and tourists alike. While landmines remain a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas, if you stay on marked trails, they pose no real threat.

Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Trieste or Sarajevo?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Sarajevo. This city offers a unique opportunity to shop for traditional hand-crafted good in the old town. The goods are handmade and reflect the city's long running history as a center for trade. Popular items for purchase include coffee sets, jewelry, and handmade carpets.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Trieste or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Trieste is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options 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.

Sarajevo doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Older kids will really benefit from the history and cultural lessons that coincide with a visit to this beautiful city. There are also some fun activities that they can enjoy including a zoo, an indoor play area, and an amusement park not far outside of town.

Is Trieste or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Trieste is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for couples.

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.

Sarajevo is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Romance isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sarajevo, but the city has amazing food and world class cultural sights that will make for a truly rewarding trip.

Is Trieste or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo. This city is among the most culturally captivating places in Europe. Although it's often overlooked by tourists and backpackers, the affordability, stunning beauty, and unique personality make it a truly amazing place to visit.

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 Sarajevo Better for Students?

Trieste is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find very good public transit in both Trieste and Sarajevo.

Trieste offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Sarajevo. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

Is Trieste or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Trieste is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the touristy areas in the central part of the city are walkable, but there are also some sights outside of town that you will need a taxi to visit.

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

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Trieste?

How long in Trieste or Sarajevo?

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

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

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

One day in Trieste or Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This 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 Sarajevo?

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

Five days in Trieste or Sarajevo?

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.

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sarajevo. 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 Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Trieste and Sarajevo, we can see that Trieste is more expensive. And not only is Sarajevo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sarajevo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sarajevo 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 Trieste would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Trieste than you might in Sarajevo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Trieste Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Trieste or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Trieste and Sarajevo, 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 Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo in the Summer?

Both Sarajevo and Trieste are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Trieste this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Trieste is generally around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Trieste average around 24°C (75°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It's quite sunny in Sarajevo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Trieste. Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during summer. Trieste gets 288 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Trieste usually receives more rain than Sarajevo. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Trieste or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

Both Sarajevo and Trieste during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Trieste for the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Trieste is around the same temperature as Sarajevo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Trieste averages around 16°C (60°F) in October, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

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

Sarajevo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Trieste usually gets less rain in October than Sarajevo. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Trieste or Sarajevo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Trieste and Sarajevo. Many visitors come to Trieste in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Trieste is cooler than Sarajevo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Trieste in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during winter. Trieste gets 96 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun in the winter.

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Trieste usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Trieste or Sarajevo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Trieste as well as Sarajevo. Most visitors come to Trieste for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Sarajevo because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Trieste is generally around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Trieste average around 13°C (56°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Trieste often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo. Trieste gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Trieste usually gets less rain in April than Sarajevo. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Trieste