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

Should you visit Trieste or Siena?

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 Siena 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 dynamic, energetic, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Siena

Siena is a medieval, history, and beautiful 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 Siena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Trieste or Siena?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Siena than Trieste. While Trieste is larger than Siena, Siena has more sights and attractions for tourists. Siena is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is more popular for its beaches. Siena is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace. Also, Siena is famous for Piazza del Campo. Trieste is well known for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Trieste different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Siena 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 Siena. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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 Siena? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Siena is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Siena has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

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 Siena Better for Nightlife?

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Trieste and Siena.

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.

Siena has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Trieste or Siena Better for Beaches?

Trieste is very good for its beaches. However, Siena is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Trieste to enjoy the beach. 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.

Siena is not a beach destination.

Is Trieste or Siena Better for its Old Town?

Siena 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, Siena offers plenty to see. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

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 Siena?

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

Siena has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Trieste or Siena Better for Families?

Trieste is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Trieste is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Trieste or Siena Better for Couples?

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

Siena is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

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 Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Trieste and Siena are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Trieste is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Siena. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Trieste or Siena Better for Students?

Both Trieste and Siena are superb 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 Siena. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

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

Trieste is notable for its public transit. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Trieste is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

Siena has some public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

Is Trieste or Siena a more walkable city?

Trieste and Siena are superb when it comes to walkability.

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

Siena is very walkable. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Siena or Trieste?

How long in Trieste or Siena?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Trieste or Siena to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Trieste than Siena because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Trieste, and 1-2 days is enough time in Siena.

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

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

One day in Trieste or Siena?

In Trieste, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this historic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Siena, 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 Siena?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Trieste. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Siena, 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 Siena has to offer.

Five days in Trieste or Siena?

Trieste is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Trieste. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Siena 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 Siena?

You'll find nightlife and food around the cultural destination of Trieste. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Siena. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Siena. 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Trieste and Siena, we can see that Siena 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 Siena would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Siena 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 Siena Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Trieste or Siena?

Trieste has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Siena. When comparing the sizes of Trieste and Siena, 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 Siena?

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 Siena in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Trieste as well as Siena. Many visitors come to Trieste in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Siena for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Trieste is around the same temperature as Siena. Typically, the summer temperatures in Trieste in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Siena averages at about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Siena. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Trieste this time of the year. In the summer, Trieste often gets less sunshine than Siena. Trieste gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun.

Trieste usually gets more rain in July than Siena. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Trieste or Siena in the Autumn?

Both Siena and Trieste are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Trieste for the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Siena because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Trieste is generally around the same temperature as Siena. Daily temperatures in Trieste average around 16°C (60°F), and Siena fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Trieste usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Siena during autumn. Trieste gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Trieste usually receives around the same amount of rain as Siena. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Siena receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Trieste or Siena in the Winter?

Both Siena and Trieste during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Trieste because of the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Siena this time of year.

Trieste is cooler than Siena in the winter. The daily temperature in Trieste averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Siena fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Trieste often gets less sunshine than Siena. Trieste gets 96 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun.

Trieste usually gets more rain in January than Siena. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Trieste or Siena in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Trieste and Siena. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Trieste this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Siena for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Trieste is a little warmer than Siena. Typically, the spring temperatures in Trieste in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Siena averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Siena during spring. Trieste gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Trieste usually receives more rain than Siena. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Siena and Trieste