A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Alesund vs. Ljubljana for Food, Backpackers, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Alesund or Ljubljana?

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

Should I visit Alesund or Ljubljana? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Alesund

Alesund is a scenic, laid back, and welcoming city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a authentic, historic, and charming capital city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Alesund and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Alesund or Ljubljana?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ljubljana. Although Alesund and Ljubljana are both popular with visitors, Ljubljana has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ljubljana is more popular for its historical sights and shopping, while Alesund is known for its food. Alesund is popular for its nouveau architecture, beautiful views, and access to the fjords. Ljubljana is popular for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty. It is also home to The Ljubljana Castle.

How is Alesund different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alesund or Ljubljana?

Alesund
Ljubljana

Both Alesund and Ljubljana have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Alesund is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the Atlantic Sea-Park and the Sunnmøre Museum. Also visit the small but interesting Fisheries Museum & Ålesund Museum.

Ljubljana offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Because the city is so compact, it's easy to see the notable landmarks with an easy walk. Famous landmarks include Ljubljana Castle, the Dragon Bridge, and the Franciscan Church.


Is the Food Better in Alesund or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alesund
Ljubljana

Alesund is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Alesund. As Norway's largest fishing port, you'll find plenty of seafood offerings around town. A favorite is bacalao de noruega (dried and salted clipfish), but also make sure you try the lobster soup.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Ljubljana. The city is surrounded by nature, so there's easy access to wild fruits and vegetables. It also has a lot of locally made honey and traditional, family run restaurants. Popular dishes include local sausage, pražen krompir (a potato side dish) and Slovenian style fried chicken.

Is Alesund or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Alesund
Ljubljana

Both Alesund and Ljubljana are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alesund. There are plenty of bars around town as well as nightclubs and live music venues.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Ljubljana. Given its small size, there are a surprising number of clubs and bars in town. The city has a vibrant energy in the evening, and it's easy to travel from venue to venue on foot.

Is Alesund or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Alesund
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Alesund does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ljubljana. The old town is compact with wondering cobblestone streets and historic landmarks. At the heart of the city is Prešernov trg Square, which is where you'll find several notable buildings and nearby Central Market.

Alesund does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Alesund or Ljubljana?

Alesund
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Ljubljana is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has several shopping streets where you can find local and international fashion brands. Many people enjoy shopping for crystal and glass products in the city. Also check out the Central Market which has fresh local food products.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Alesund. There are a number of shopping streets around town including the shopping areas in Aspøya, which are known for their homemade souvenirs.

Is Alesund or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Alesund
Ljubljana

Alesund is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Ljubljana is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Alesund offers lots of family activities. There's an aquarium and several great parks including Tueneset Naturlekeplass, which is near the aquarium. There's also hiking in the area and other outdoor adventures.

Ljubljana is not the most family-friendly destination. The city has several good museums including the House of Experiments, which is only open on weekends. There are parks you can explore and it's fun to take the funicular to the castle. You can also take a boat ride which is fun for the whole family.

Is Alesund or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Alesund
Ljubljana

With fun activities for couples, both Alesund and Ljubljana make for a good place to visit.

Alesund is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful setting with spectacular views and fun restaurants. There are many great hikes in the area, and many visitors like to use this town as a base for exploring nearby places.

Ljubljana makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's one of the more under-rated cities in Europe, but there are a number of romantic activities that you can enjoy here. Explore the old town, wander through the botanical gardens, or take a boat ride along the river. All make for a nice couple's weekend.


Is Alesund or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alesund
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Alesund is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Ljubljana. Although its not as popular as many of the more well known cities, this is an affordable option that is great for backpackers and budget travelers.

Alesund is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a limited number of hostels in town so apartments may be the best option for backpackers. It's also hard to get around the region without a car.

Is Alesund or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Alesund
Ljubljana

Alesund and Ljubljana are both good destinations for students and younger travelers.

Alesund is a good city to visit for students. There's a small student population, which means that the group stays close and everyone is very welcoming. The town also makes a great base for exploring this part of Norway.

Plenty of students visit Ljubljana. If you're looking for a unique study abroad opportunity, the University of Ljubljana offers an excellent academic experience in a a lively small city with easy access to nature.

Is Alesund or Ljubljana Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alesund
Ljubljana

Both Alesund and Ljubljana offer good public transit options.

Alesund has a few public transit options. There is a public bus system around town.

Ljubljana has some public transit options. There is a city bus system.


Is Alesund or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Alesund
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Ljubljana is very walkable. It is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Alesund is a somewhat walkable place. The city center can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Alesund Worth Visiting? and Is Ljubljana Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Alesund?

How long in Alesund or Ljubljana?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Alesund and Ljubljana. In our opinion, Ljubljana has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Ljubljana than Alesund. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Alesund, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ljubljana.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ljubljana than Alesund 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 Ljubljana.


  • How many days in Alesund or Ljubljana? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alesund 2-3 
    Ljubljana 1-3

One day in Alesund or Ljubljana?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Alesund. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Ljubljana, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This capital city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Alesund or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the scenic destination of Alesund. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Ljubljana, 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 Ljubljana has to offer.


Five days in Alesund or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming city of Alesund. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Ljubljana 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.

A week in Alesund or Ljubljana?

Alesund is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Norway, The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.


Which place is cheaper, Ljubljana or Alesund?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Alesund is $99, while the average daily cost in Ljubljana is $93. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Alesund and Ljubljana in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alesund $53
    Ljubljana $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alesund $106
    Ljubljana $116
Compare Hotels in Alesund and Ljubljana

Looking for a hotel in Alesund or Ljubljana? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Alesund


Hotels in Ljubljana


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Ljubljana Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alesund $25
    Ljubljana $22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alesund

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Alesund:

  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Geiranger Port: $185
  • Aalesund Private Transfer from Aalesund city centre to Aalesund airport: $135
  • Aalesund Private Transfer from Aalesund (AES) Airport to City centre: $135
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer To and From Airport in Ålesund: $71
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Vigra Airport (AES) to Olden Port: $64
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Olden Cruise Port: $60
  • Alesund to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES)-Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Molde Cruise Port: $58
  • Private Transfer from Molde Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $37
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ljubljana

Also for Ljubljana, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport Transfer to/from Ljubljana Station: $13
  • Private Transfer from Brnik Airport to Ljubljana Centre: $28
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Ljubljana City: $46
  • Private transfer Ljubljana Airport from & to Ljubljana City: $52
  • Private Transfer from Kranj to Ljubljana Airport (LJU): $55
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Kranj: $55
  • Ljubljana-Airport Ljubljana. Private transfer.Price per car.: $63
  • Departure Private Transfer Ljubljana City to Ljubljana Airport by Business Car: $66
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Koper Port: $68
  • Ljubljana to Ljubljana Airport (LJU) - Departure Private Transfer: $69
  • Private transfer from Kamnik to airport Ljubljana: $74
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Kamnik : $74

Is it cheaper to fly into Alesund or Ljubljana?

Prices for flights to both Ljubljana and Alesund change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Alesund $30
    Ljubljana $18

Typical Food Prices in Ljubljana

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Ljubljana:


  • Horsemeat Hot Dog
    $2.14

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ljubljana

For Ljubljana, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Slovenia: Belokranjska Pogača Cooking Class: $53
  • Cooking class; Traditional sLOVEnian štrukelj: $64
  • Traditional Slovenian Dinner and Show: $64
  • sLOVEnian Strukelj Traditional Cooking Class: $66
  • Traditional Slovenian Dinner and Performance: $74
  • Flavour of Slovenia: Very Small Group Food Tour in Ljubljana: $82
  • Dinner in the Dark: $86
  • 3-Hour Food Tour: $91
  • Dinner in the Dark: $106
  • Šmarna Gora: Hiking and Food Tour from Ljubljana: $128
  • The 10 Tastings of Ljubljana Private Food Tour : $210

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alesund $16
    Ljubljana $15

Tours and Activities in Alesund

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Alesund are as follows:

  • Ålesund Round Trip – A Great Kayak Adventure: $186
  • Ålesund Sightseeing and Viking Saga Islands: $102
  • Ålesund Two Hour Walking City Tour: $42
  • 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off Audio-Guided Tour in Alesund : $42
  • 3 Hour Guided Food Walk Tour in Alesund, Norway: $111
  • Alesund Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour: $125
  • City Sightseeing Alesund Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $45
  • E-bike And Hiking Tour In Ålesund: $140
  • Fjord Paddle in Hellesylt - Half Day Kayaking Tour: $121
  • Fjordcruise Ålesund Geirangerfjord T/R: $163
  • Hellesylt Sightseeing Boat Geirangerfjord: $55
  • Molde and Atlantic Ocean Road Audio Tour: $64

Typical Entertainment Prices in Ljubljana

For Ljubljana, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Castle Tower Entrance (for 2)
    $8.57

Tours and Activities in Ljubljana

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Ljubljana.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Romantic Old Town Self-guided Discovery Tour: $6.31
  • Ljubljana City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Ljubljana:Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • From Swamp to State: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Ljubljana: $6.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Castle Entry Ticket with Optional Funicular Ride: $13
  • Ljubljana Castle: Entrance Ticket: $13
  • House of Illusions Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Virtual Reality Gaming Experience Ljubljana: $17
  • Tour of the Festive Decorations: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alesund $12
    Ljubljana $12

Typical Alcohol Prices in Ljubljana

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Ljubljana are as follows:


  • Drinks at a Sidewalk Cafe (for 2)
    $6.43

Sample the Local Flavors in Ljubljana

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ljubljana:

  • Craft brewery tour and beer tasting, Tour the Brew, Tekotnik : $28
  • Wine Tasting Ljubljana: $59
  • 2-Hour Interactive Wine Tasting Experience in Ljubljana: $63
  • BEER WAY Kamnik Beer Tasting & Brewery Tour: $83
  • Food & Wine tour with a Sommelier: $93
  • Food & Wine Tour Ljubljana - Local Foodie Adventure in Slovenia: $97
  • From Ljubjana: Slovenian Wine Tour: $191
  • Wine Tours in Slovenia: $217
  • Wine Tour Slovenia: $261
  • Truffle Hunting & Wine Tasting In Istria (private V.i.p. Tour): $263


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


Which is Bigger, Alesund or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Alesund. When comparing the sizes of Alesund and Ljubljana, 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 Alesund or Ljubljana?

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 Alesund or Ljubljana in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Alesund as well as Ljubljana. Many travelers come to Alesund for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Alesund is much colder than Ljubljana in the summer. The daily temperature in Alesund averages around 12°C (54°F) in July, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Alesund usually gets less rain in July than Ljubljana. Alesund gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Alesund 12°C (54°F) 
    Ljubljana 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Alesund or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Alesund are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Alesund in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Alesund is cooler than Ljubljana. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Alesund in October average around 9°C (48°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 13°C (56°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. It's quite rainy in Alesund. In October, Alesund usually receives more rain than Ljubljana. Alesund gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alesund 9°C (48°F) 
    Ljubljana 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Alesund or Ljubljana in the Winter?

Both Ljubljana and Alesund during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Alesund for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Ljubljana can be very cold. Alesund can be very cold during winter. In January, Alesund is generally much warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Alesund average around 3°C (37°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Alesund. Alesund usually gets more rain in January than Ljubljana. Alesund gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alesund 3°C (37°F) 
    Ljubljana 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Alesund or Ljubljana in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Alesund and Ljubljana. The spring months attract visitors to Alesund because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

The weather in Alesund can be very cold. Alesund is much colder than Ljubljana in the spring. The daily temperature in Alesund averages around 5°C (40°F) in April, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Alesund usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Alesund gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alesund 5°C (40°F) 
    Ljubljana 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Alesund

Alesund Ljubljana
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 131 mm (5.2 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Mar 3°C (38°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 98 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 5°C (40°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Jun 11°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Jul 12°C (54°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 112 mm (4.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 188 mm (7.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 187 mm (7.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Dec 4°C (38°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 2°C (36°F) 101 mm (4 in)