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

Should you visit Vilnius or Trieste?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Vilnius and Trieste. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Vilnius

Vilnius is a undiscovered, authentic, and historic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Trieste

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

Vilnius and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Trieste?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vilnius than Trieste, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Vilnius is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is known for its beaches. Vilnius is popular for its authentic old town and long running history. It is also home to Gediminas Castle Tower. Trieste is popular for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Vilnius different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Vilnius and Trieste.

Vilnius offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has fascinating museums relating to Soviet times. These include the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights and the Lithuanian Diaspora Art Museum. Other notable sights include the Three Crosses Monument and the St. Anne's and Bernardine Church Complex.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Trieste. 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 Vilnius or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Vilnius and Trieste can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Vilnius. The food is hearty with plenty of meat and potatoes. There are also soups and herring dishes as well as great desserts. Popular dishes in the area include cepelinai (meat filled potato dumplings), kibinai (a pastry), and potato pancakes.

Trieste is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Vilnius or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Vilnius has a large number of nightlife venues. The large student population is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene. You'll find most of the activity centered around three streets - Vilniaus, Islandijos and Vokiečių. These areas have a number of bars and clubs, and they draw the biggest crowds.

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 Vilnius or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Trieste is a good destination for the beache. However, Vilnius 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.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Vilnius is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with history, architecture, and churches. It's also where you'll find Vilnius University. At the heart of the area is Pilies Gatve (Castle Street), which has shopping, cafes, and restaurants.

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 Vilnius or Trieste?

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

Vilnius has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. For quaint shops, head to old town, particularly around Pilies Gatve. The city also has an open air market, Kalvarijų Turgus, that is popular on Saturdays. There are also a few shopping malls around town.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Vilnius or Trieste Better for Families?

Trieste is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Trieste is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Vilnius is a family-friendly city. The city has a number of historic sights, but once your kids have had their fill, you can head to one of the outdoor or indoor play areas in the city center. There's also a toy museum and an Energy and Technology Museum that kids will enjoy. After a busy day, make sure you grab some ice cream to lift everyone's spirits.

Is Vilnius or Trieste Better for Couples?

Trieste is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Trieste is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Vilnius is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with viewpoints, from hill tops to towers, where you can enjoy romantic views over the landscape. You can also dine in a local restaurant or enjoy a picnic in one of the outdoor settings.

Is Vilnius or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius 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 Vilnius. For backpackers who want to escape the crowds, this off-the-beaten path European capital is a great option. It has history, charm, and an authenticity that is hard to find in a more touristy area. It's also an affordable city, with hostels and plenty of cheap places to eat.

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 Vilnius or Trieste Better for Students?

Trieste is notable for students. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Vilnius. The city is small but charming with a number of places where international students can study. It's an affordable city with a lively atmosphere and an authenticate and genuine personality.

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

Trieste is notable for its public transit. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Vilnius has some public transit options. Bus and trolleybuses are available.

Is Vilnius or Trieste a more walkable city?

Trieste is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Vilnius is a somewhat walkable city. The old town is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Vilnius or Trieste. In our opinion, Trieste has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Trieste than Vilnius. In general, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Trieste?

In Vilnius, 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.

In Trieste, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Vilnius or Trieste?

In Vilnius, 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 Vilnius has to offer.

In Trieste, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Trieste has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Trieste?

Vilnius 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 great place to explore. 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 Vilnius or Trieste?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Trieste. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Trieste. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vilnius, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Lithuania, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Vilnius and Trieste, we can see that Trieste is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Trieste?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius 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 Vilnius 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 Vilnius or Trieste in the Summer?

Both Trieste and Vilnius during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Trieste because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Vilnius is cooler than Trieste. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vilnius in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Trieste averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In Trieste, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Vilnius. In the summer, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Trieste. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Trieste in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Trieste. The autumn months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

In October, Vilnius is generally much colder than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 8°C (46°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Trieste. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vilnius or Trieste in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Trieste. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Trieste for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Vilnius in the winter. Vilnius is much colder than Trieste in the winter. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in January than Trieste. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Trieste in the Spring?

Both Trieste and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Trieste in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Vilnius is much colder than Trieste. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vilnius in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Trieste averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Trieste. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Vilnius