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

Should you visit Zurich 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 Zurich 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.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, Zurich attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food. See Zurich travel costs.

Trieste

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

Zurich and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Trieste?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zurich than Trieste, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Zurich is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is known for its beaches. Zurich is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster. Trieste is popular for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Zurich different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zurich 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 Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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 Zurich or Trieste? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zurich is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

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 Zurich or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

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

Zurich has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich or Trieste Better for Music?

Zurich is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Trieste is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Zurich while you're in town. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Trieste is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Trieste Better for Beaches?

Trieste is a good destination for the beach. However, Zurich 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.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Zurich or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Zurich 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, Zurich offers plenty to see. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the 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 the Shopping Better in Zurich or Trieste?

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

Many people travel to Zurich specifically to go shopping. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Zurich or Trieste More Beautiful?

Zurich 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, Zurich attracts visitors from all around. With Lake Zurich and the mountains as a backdrop, this is a truly beautiful city.

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 Zurich or Trieste Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Trieste are very good family-friendly destinations.

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich or Trieste Better for Couples?

Zurich and Trieste both very good destinations for a couple.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

Trieste makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Zurich or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Trieste are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Plenty of budget travelers 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 Zurich or Trieste Better for Students?

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

Zurich is a very popular city for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

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

Both Zurich and Trieste offer very good public transit options.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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

Is Zurich or Trieste a more walkable city?

Zurich and Trieste both are very good when exploring on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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 Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Trieste Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Trieste?

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

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

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

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

One day in Zurich or Trieste?

In Zurich, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Zurich or Trieste?

In Zurich, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich 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 Zurich or Trieste?

Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Trieste?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Zurich. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Trieste?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 62% larger than the population of Trieste. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Trieste in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Zurich is cooler than Trieste. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°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 Zurich. In the summer, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Trieste. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Trieste in the Autumn?

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

In October, Zurich is generally cooler than Trieste. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zurich usually receives less rain than Trieste. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Trieste in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Zurich in the winter. Zurich is much colder than Trieste in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Trieste fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Trieste. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in January than Trieste. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Trieste in the Spring?

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

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

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Trieste during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives less rain than Trieste. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Zurich