A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paphos vs. Trieste for Attractions, Food, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Paphos or Trieste?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos 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.

Paphos

Paphos is a beautiful, cultural, and coastal town. With stunning beauty, Paphos attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Paphos travel costs.

Trieste

Trieste is a energetic, diverse, and cultural city. Trieste is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for beaches, museums, and nightlife. See Trieste travel costs.

Paphos and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Trieste?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paphos than Trieste, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paphos is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Also, Paphos is famous for Paphos Archaeological Park. Trieste is well known for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Paphos different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paphos 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, Paphos has many famous sights for visitors. The area is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, many of which are found at Paphos Archaeological Site. Other impressive sights include the Tombs of the Kings, the Chrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul's Pillar, Agia Paraskevi, and Paphos Fort.

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 Paphos or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paphos 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 Paphos have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Food is a huge part of the culture and family life in the area. The cuisine is influenced by the surrounding areas and you'll see similarities to Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Popular dishes include koupepia (vine leaves stuffed with a filling called gemista), souvlaki (a meat and salad filled pita), and makaronia tou fournou (a pasta dish made with halloumi and béchamel sauce).

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 Paphos or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Trieste has a better nightlife scene.

Paphos has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Most people think of history, culture, beaches, and wine, but the city also has its share of clubs and bars. It's not the party-hard beach destination that you'll find at some Mediterranean tourist areas, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs with atmosphere and style. Head to Agiou Antoniou Street for the most action.

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.

Is Paphos or Trieste Better for Resorts?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Trieste is not a resort destination.

Paphos is a world class resort vacation destination. The area is filled with all types of resorts. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families, honeymooners, or luxury vacationers. If you want to experience more of the local culture, there are also smaller boutique hotels or local apartments available.

Trieste is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Trieste Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a town with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Paphos. There are many snorkeling and dive spots that aren't far away. You'll also find a number of scuba or snorkeling excursions that you can join. The water conditions for snorkeling and diving are best during the summer months.

Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Paphos is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Many people head to the area specifically for the beaches. This region has the longest coastline of any region in Cyprus, but keep in mind that some of the best beaches are found outside of the main tourist areas. However, they most are usually accessible by city bus with many remote stretches found along the Akamas Peninsula. Within town the beaches are often rocky and pebbly.

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.

Is Paphos or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Paphos and Trieste both have notable historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Paphos to see the historical old town. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings. The area was revitalized in 2017 and there are many historical sites. It's also fun to go shopping at Kennedy Square and Makariou Avenue.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Trieste. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Trieste?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Paphos. There are outdoor markets, major shopping streets, and international fashion brands. You can pick up local souvenirs or beach gear that you may have forgotten.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Paphos or Trieste More Beautiful?

Paphos 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, Paphos attracts visitors from all around. The area is known for its world-renowned archeological ruins, stunning beaches, and beautiful outdoor setting.

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 Paphos or Trieste Better for Families?

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

Paphos is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Head to the beach or take a walk along the coastline. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the zoo, bird park, or aquarium and young thrill seekers will enjoy a day at the Aqua-park of Aphrodite. And, of course, there's also the ruins that kids can have fun exploring.

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.

Is Paphos or Trieste Better for Couples?

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

Paphos is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Honeymooners who enjoy history, nature, beaches, and culture will find it all in the area. There are stunning beaches where you can relax in the sun, world renowned archeological ruins where you can immerse yourself in a historical world, and beautiful views around every corner. There are also excellent restaurants and wine tasting opportunities that will make for a memorable trip.

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 Paphos or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos 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 Paphos. The area is generally accessible with a few good hostels and budget accommodation options sprinkled about. There are great beaches and restaurants as well as plenty of beautiful places to enjoy a walk.

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 Paphos or Trieste Better for Students?

Trieste is a great destination for students. However, Paphos is not popular with students.

Trieste is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Paphos and Trieste.

Visitors to Paphos can move around easily with public transportation. It's possible to get around by city bus to most places. Buses connect many touristy areas such as Kato Paphos, Tombs of the Kings, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Coral Bay and Paphos Center.

The public transit in Trieste can get you around easily. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

Is Paphos or Trieste a more walkable city?

Trieste is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Paphos is a somewhat walkable place. The main tourist area is Kato Paphos which is small, compact and easy to walk around, but if you want to head to areas further away then you likely won't be able to travel on foot. It's important to understand where your hotel is located if you're planning to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Paphos or Trieste. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Paphos due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

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

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

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

One day in Paphos or Trieste?

In Paphos, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town 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 Paphos or Trieste?

In Paphos, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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 Paphos or Trieste?

Paphos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paphos 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 Paphos or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Paphos. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the diverse 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Paphos and Trieste, we can see that Paphos 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 Paphos Expensive? and Is Trieste Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Trieste?

Trieste has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos 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 Paphos 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 Paphos or Trieste in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Trieste. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 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 Paphos this time of the year. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Trieste. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Trieste in the Autumn?

Both Trieste and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Paphos for 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.

Paphos is a little warmer than Trieste in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Trieste. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Trieste in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Paphos is much warmer than Trieste. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Trieste averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in January than Trieste. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Trieste in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Trieste. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Trieste because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Trieste. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Paphos