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

Should you visit Valencia or Trieste?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Trieste, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Valencia

Valencia is a coastal, cultural, and historic coastal city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Trieste

Trieste is a energetic, diverse, and cultural city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, museums, and nightlife.

Valencia and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Trieste?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Valencia than Trieste, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Valencia is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). It is also home to La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Trieste is popular for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Valencia different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Trieste and Valencia. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Valencia or Trieste?

Valencia 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 Valencia. The city is famous for its architecture and culture. Most of the main attractions are concentrated in Ciutat Vella and can be easily accessed on foot. Notable landmarks include La Lonja de Seda, Catedral de València, and Plaza de la Virgen. There are also several world class museums including Oceanogràfic de València and La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències de València.

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 Valencia or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Valencia 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 Valencia have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city is famous as the birthplace of paella, which is one of Spain's most famous dishes. Beyond the paella, there are a number of other amazing traditional dishes. Fideuà is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. All i pebre is an eel and potato dish and clóchinas are tiny local mussels. For dessert make sure you try the flan de calabaza, which is pumpkin flavored. Many restaurants also have tapas that can be shared. Restaurants in the old town are charming and delicious, but out by the beaches the quality isn't as good.

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 Valencia or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

Valencia 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 Valencia is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Dinner starts late, so you can expect the nightlife to pick up even later. During the summer there are all night terrace parties and year round you'll find nightclubs filled from evening to dawn. If all night raves aren't really your thing, you'll also find plenty of local bars where you can hang out with friends in a more relaxed setting. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something for everyone.

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 Valencia or Trieste Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Trieste is not a resort destination.

Valencia has a few great resort options. You can choose between staying near the old town (Ciutat Vella) or out by the beach. One of the best beach areas is El Cabanyal. It's still close enough in to be well connected by public transit but offers a great coastal vibe as well.

Trieste is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Both Valencia and Trieste have good beaches worth visiting.

Valencia has a beach worth visiting. There are several urban beaches in town that are accessible by public transit. Many offer surprisingly long stretches of sand with wide beaches and plenty of activity. The beaches can get crowded during the summer months, but they are generally large enough to accommodate the crowds. La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular because of its proximity to the city. El Saler Beach is further out and popular with the locals and Port Saplaya is a colorful area with shopping and beaches.

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.

Is Valencia or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Valencia 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, Valencia offers plenty to see. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

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 Valencia or Trieste Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for its hiking trails. However, Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Valencia. Most people miss out on the beautiful hikes through the nearby countryside, but if you venture out of town you can enjoy some beautiful walking trails. Many run along the coastline or pass through rolling hills. There is varied landscape in the area with pine forests, orange groves, and vineyards all common.

Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Trieste?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Valencia. As the third largest city in Spain, you'll find most designer brands around town. The main shopping street is Calle Colon where you'll find the well-known European brands mixed in with the lesser-known Spanish brands. For a more local experience head to Mercado Central where you'll find local produce, colorful seafood, and a unique foodie vibe.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Valencia or Trieste Better for Families?

Valencia and Trieste are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Valencia is a very kid-friendly coastal city. The city has some kid-friendly museums, an impressive zoo, and the largest aquarium in Europe (with its own dolphin show). Head to the Science Museum or simply wander around the museum complex. There are water activities and a beautiful futuristic style that attracts families and influencers with its photogenic atmosphere. There are also countless playgrounds of all sizes around town and a number of parks and outdoor spaces where kids can run around. There's a city park that runs through town and has playgrounds and bike trails. You can also spend a fun-filled day at the beach.

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.

Is Valencia or Trieste Better for Couples?

Valencia and Trieste are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Valencia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city is filled with interesting culture, beautiful weather, and delightful cuisine. There are sandy beaches and luxury hotels that will make for an amazing romantic getaway. There are also many beautiful gardens and charming neighborhoods that you can explore. Couples can split a paella and sip sangrias in one of the many charming restaurants around town.

Trieste is a great coastal city if you're traveling as 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.

Is Valencia or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia 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 Valencia. It's often overlooked for more popular destinations, but this city has plenty to offer in the form of affordable accommodation and food as well as interesting sights.

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 Valencia or Trieste Better for Students?

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

Valencia is a very popular coastal city for students. The city is young and vibrant with a lot of culture and beautiful neighborhoods. It's also well connected to the rest of Spain with a convenient central train station.

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

Trieste is well known for its public transit. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Trieste has some very good public transit options. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

While Valencia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit is available in the form of buses and a tram/metro system but the system isn't as comprehensive as it could be and much of the city is surprisingly dependent on cars.

Is Valencia or Trieste a more walkable city?

Valencia and Trieste both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Valencia is a very walkable coastal city. Walking is the best way to explore many parts of the city and you can walk from one side of the Ciutat Vella to the other in about 20 minutes. This area is where you'll find most of the city's main attractions. There are other neighborhoods that are a bit less pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Valencia or Trieste. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Trieste due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Valencia, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

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

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

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

One day in Valencia or Trieste?

Because Valencia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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.

A weekend in Valencia or Trieste?

Because Valencia 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. 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 Valencia has to offer.

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.

Five days in Valencia or Trieste?

Valencia 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.

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.

A week in Valencia or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valencia. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Valencia. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Trieste?

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

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 Valencia or Trieste in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Trieste. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Valencia this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Valencia is around the same temperature as Trieste. Typically, the summer temperatures in Valencia in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Trieste averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Trieste. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In the summer, Valencia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in July than Trieste. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Trieste in the Autumn?

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

In October, Valencia is generally a little warmer than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 19°C (66°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

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

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

Should I visit Valencia or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and Valencia during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Valencia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Trieste for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Valencia is much warmer than Trieste in the winter. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Trieste. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Trieste in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Trieste. Most visitors come to Valencia for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Trieste because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Valencia is a little warmer than Trieste. Typically, the spring temperatures in Valencia in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Trieste averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives less rain than Trieste. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Valencia