A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Venice vs. Trieste for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Venice or Trieste?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Venice and Trieste can help you decide which place is right for you.

Venice

Venice is a historic, beautiful, and romantic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Trieste

Trieste is a dynamic, energetic, and diverse city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Venice and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Venice or Trieste?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Venice than Trieste. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Venice is very popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Trieste attracts visitors for its nightlife and beaches. Venice is more touristy than Trieste and is known for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also well known for St. Mark's Basilica. Trieste is famous for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Venice different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Venice 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, Venice has many famous sights for visitors. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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 Venice or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Venice and Trieste both to be nice destinations.

Venice is becoming an appealing option for foodies. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

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 Venice or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

Trieste is very good for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Trieste has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Venice or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Trieste is very good for the beach. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is Venice or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Venice 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, Venice offers plenty to see. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

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 Venice or Trieste?

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

Many people travel to Venice specifically to go shopping. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Venice or Trieste Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Venice or Trieste.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Venice. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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.

Is Venice or Trieste Better for Couples?

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

Venice is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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 Venice or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Venice 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 Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

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 Venice or Trieste Better for Students?

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

Venice is a very popular city for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

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

Venice 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 Venice can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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

Is Venice or Trieste a more walkable city?

Venice 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 Venice. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Venice?

How long in Venice or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Venice or Trieste. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Venice due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Venice, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

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

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

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

One day in Venice or Trieste?

In Venice, you'll find museums 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Trieste. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Venice or Trieste?

In Venice, 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 Venice has to offer.

Trieste is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Venice or Trieste?

Venice 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 Venice has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Trieste. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Venice or Trieste?

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

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historic destination of Trieste. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Venice or Trieste?

Venice has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Venice 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 Venice or Trieste?

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 Venice or Trieste in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Venice and Trieste. Many travelers come to Venice for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Trieste in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Venice is around the same temperature as Trieste in the summer. The daily temperature in Venice averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Trieste fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Trieste this time of the year. In Venice, it's very sunny this time of the year. Venice usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste during summer. Venice gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Venice usually receives less rain than Trieste. Venice gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Venice or Trieste in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Venice as well as Trieste. Many visitors come to Venice in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Trieste for the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Venice is cooler than Trieste. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Venice in October average around 14°C (57°F), and Trieste averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Venice often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Venice gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets less rain in October than Trieste. Venice gets 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and Venice are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Venice for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Trieste because of the museums and the cuisine.

Venice can be very cold during winter. In January, Venice is generally much colder than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 3°C (37°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Venice usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during winter. Venice gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Venice usually receives less rain than Trieste. Venice gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Venice or Trieste in the Spring?

Both Trieste and Venice during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Venice because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

Venice is around the same temperature as Trieste in the spring. The daily temperature in Venice averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Venice often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Venice gets 154 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets less rain in April than Trieste. Venice gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Venice