Embassies do the diplomacy between countries (and all the stuff consulates do), whereas consulates only do the people-centric stuff. You'll find embassies near the power center (usually the capital). Consulates are wherever there's a need and/or opportunity.
Many smaller countries use honorary consuls that take care of the consulate duties as a hobby.
alphager t1_j6mmaw1 wrote
Reply to comment by A_Fartful_Dodger in Today I learned the first overseas Consulate of the United States was in Liverpool, established in 1790! by Seahawk124
Embassies do the diplomacy between countries (and all the stuff consulates do), whereas consulates only do the people-centric stuff. You'll find embassies near the power center (usually the capital). Consulates are wherever there's a need and/or opportunity.
Many smaller countries use honorary consuls that take care of the consulate duties as a hobby.