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

Should you visit Budapest 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 Budapest and Trieste can help you decide which place is right for you.

Budapest

Budapest is a historic, authentic, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Budapest attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Budapest travel costs.

Trieste

Trieste is a dynamic, energetic, and diverse city. Trieste is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Trieste travel costs.

Budapest and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Budapest or Trieste?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Budapest than Trieste, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Budapest is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is known for its food and beaches. Budapest is more touristy than Trieste and is known for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Hungarian Parliament Building. Trieste is popular for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Budapest different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Budapest 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 Budapest. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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 Budapest or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Trieste is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Trieste has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Budapest or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

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

Budapest has a large number of nightlife venues. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

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 Budapest or Trieste Better for Beaches?

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

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Budapest or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Budapest 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.

Budapest is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

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 Budapest or Trieste?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Budapest or Trieste More Beautiful?

Budapest is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Budapest attracts visitors from all around. Set against the river, the city has beautiful buildings and nice parks.

Trieste is a gorgeous place to visit. It may not top most traveler's lists, but the city has its own old town and relaxed, pebbly beaches.

Is Budapest or Trieste Better for Families?

Trieste is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Budapest or Trieste Better for Couples?

Both Budapest and Trieste are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Budapest is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience 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.

Is Budapest or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Budapest, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

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 Budapest or Trieste Better for Students?

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

Budapest is a very popular city for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

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

Budapest 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 Budapest can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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

Is Budapest or Trieste a more walkable city?

Budapest 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 Budapest. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Budapest?

How long in Budapest or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Budapest or Trieste. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Budapest due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Budapest, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

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

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

One day in Budapest or Trieste?

Because Budapest 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 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 Budapest or Trieste?

Because Budapest 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 Budapest 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 Budapest or Trieste?

Budapest 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 Budapest has to offer. 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 Budapest or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Budapest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Budapest. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Budapest, The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Budapest and Trieste, we can see that Trieste is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Budapest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Budapest 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 Budapest.

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

Which is Bigger, Budapest or Trieste?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Budapest 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 Budapest 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 Budapest or Trieste in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Budapest is cooler than Trieste. Typically, the summer temperatures in Budapest in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Trieste averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Trieste this time of the year. In Budapest, it's very sunny this time of the year. Budapest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste during summer. Budapest gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Budapest usually receives less rain than Trieste. Budapest gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Budapest or Trieste in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Budapest as well as Trieste. Many visitors come to Budapest in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, 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 October, Budapest is generally cooler than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around 12°C (53°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Budapest gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets less rain in October than Trieste. Budapest gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and Budapest are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Budapest 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.

Budapest can be very cold during winter. Budapest is much colder than Trieste in the winter. The daily temperature in Budapest averages around -1°C (31°F) in January, and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during winter. Budapest gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Budapest usually receives less rain than Trieste. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Budapest or Trieste in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Budapest is cooler than Trieste. Typically, the spring temperatures in Budapest in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Trieste averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Budapest often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste. Budapest gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets less rain in April than Trieste. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Budapest