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

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Should you visit Athens or Ljubljana?

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 Athens and Ljubljana. 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.

Athens

Athens is a energetic, historic, and ancient city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a under-rated, authentic, and historic capital city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

How is Athens different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Is Athens or Ljubljana better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Interesting museums and landmarks can be found in both Ljubljana and Athens, but many consider Athens to be a step above.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Athens has many famous sights for visitors. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Ljubljana is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Athens or Ljubljana better for Food?

Foodies will appreciated the dining options available in Athens a bit more than Ljubljana.

Eat your way through Athens, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Ljubljana area. 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 Athens or Ljubljana better for Nightlife?

Most visitors prefer the nightlife in Athens.

The nightlife in Athens is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

If you're looking for night time activities Ljubljana has a few options to choose from. 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 Athens or Ljubljana better for Shopping?

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Ljubljana both offer plenty of spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ljubljana. 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.

Is Athens or Ljubljana better for Families?

Families may find more to do in Athens than Ljubljana.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

For families, Ljubljana is not always the best place to visit. 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 Athens or Ljubljana better for Couples?

Athens and Ljubljana both fun destinations for a couple.

Athens is a good city for couples to visit. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Ljubljana is a nice destination for couples. 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 Athens or Ljubljana better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Athens and Ljubljana are fairly comparable places to visit.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Athens is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Ljubljana is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Is Athens or Ljubljana better for Students?

For students, both Athens and Ljubljana are fairly comparable places to visit.

Many students visit Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

It's common for students to 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 Athens or Ljubljana better for Public Transit?

Athens and Ljubljana both offer public transit to get you around.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Athens. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

While Ljubljana offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a city bus system.


Is Athens or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Athens and Ljubljana are similar when it comes to walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

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

Athens and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Athens
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Ljubljana
Pros
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Cons
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Athens?

How long in Athens or Ljubljana?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Athens and Ljubljana. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than Ljubljana.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Athens is 3-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Ljubljana is 1-3 days.


  • How many days in Athens or Ljubljana? Ideal Length of Stay
    Athens 3-7 
    Ljubljana 1-3

One day in Athens or Ljubljana?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Ljubljana. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to spend here.

A weekend in Athens or Ljubljana?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Ljubljana 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 Athens or Ljubljana?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ljubljana. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time here unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Athens or Ljubljana?

Athens is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Athens, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Ljubljana. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Which city is cheaper, Ljubljana or Athens?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Athens is €103, while the average daily cost in Ljubljana is €69. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Athens and Ljubljana in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Athens €51
    Ljubljana €43
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Athens €102
    Ljubljana €86

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Athens €22
    Ljubljana €17
Typical Local Transportation prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:


  • Airport Bus for Two
    €6.40
  • Metro
    €1.50
  • Metro
    €2.00
  • Metro from Airport to City Center
    €8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    €35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Athens

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

  • Private Transfer from Αthens City to Igoumenitsa Port: $1,763
  • Private Transfer from Athens City to Syvota: $1,203
  • Private City Transfer From Athens To Pilos: $970
  • Private City Transfer From Athens to Kranidi: $970
  • Transfer to Corfu from Athens including visit to Delphi: $964
  • Athens to Corfu Luxury Private Transfer: $890
  • Private Transfer to/ from Lefkada Marina to/ from Athens Airport or City Centre: $759
  • Transfer From Athens To Lefkada: $678
  • Private Transfer from Athens to Nafplio: $666
  • Transfer to Lefkada - The Safest and most Convinient way: $605
  • Delphi Private Full Day Luxury Transfers From Athens: $597
  • Private Transfer from Athens-Pireaus-ATH to Igoumenitsa-Parga-Sivota-Ioannina: $592

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ljubljana

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

  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana to Sarajevo Airport (SJJ): $1,349
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana to Milan: $758
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana to Munich: $736
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana to Split: $699
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana to airport Budapest (BUD): $673
  • Transfer from Ljubljana (airport) to Split: $659
  • Private transfer: Ljubljana to Ljubljana Airport (LJU): $622
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana to Vienna: $579
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana to Zadar: $517
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana to lake Balaton: $497
  • Ljubljana - Vienna transfer: $495
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana to Venice: $414

Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Ljubljana?

Prices for flights to both Ljubljana and Athens 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
    Athens €30
    Ljubljana €13
Typical Food prices in Athens

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


  • Ice cream
    €3.00
  • Souvlaki
    €2.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Athens

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

  • Online 1hr Cooking Class: Santorini Tomato Fritters: $6.22
  • Greek Meatballs Private Online Cooking Class: $27
  • Withlocals the 10 Tastings: Athens Private Food Tour with a Local: $42
  • Online Cooking Class: Greek mini cheese pies: $45
  • Street Culture & Food Tour: $56
  • Afternoon Food Tour: $56
  • Athens walking and tasting food tour.: $60
  • 4-Hour Cooking Class with Market Visit: $69
  • Homemade Gyros cooking class and dinner in Athens for private groups: $75
  • The Classic Food Tour: $76
  • Taste of Half-Day Small Group Food Tour: $77
  • Greek Phyllo and Pie Cooking Class in Athens: $77

Typical Food prices in Ljubljana

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


  • Horsemeat Hot Dog
    €2.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ljubljana

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

  • Lunch or Dinner trip to a typical Slovenian restaurant: $40
  • Traditional Slovenian Dinner and Performance: $48
  • Bitemojo Self Guided Food Tour Ljubljana Tale of the River: $53
  • Dinner in the Dark: $75
  • Šmarna Gora: Hiking and Food Tour from Ljubljana: $79
  • Food Tour Ljubljana: $81
  • Ljubljana 4-Hour Food Tour: $86
  • Flavour of Slovenia: Very Small Group Food Tour in Ljubljana: $86
  • Cooking Class Ljubljana: $111
  • Slovenian Dinner Experience: $131
  • Food Tour - Honey, Cheese and Sausages Culinary Adventure from Ljubljana: $132
  • Ljubljana city tour and Traditional Slovenian Cooking class: $222

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Athens €28
    Ljubljana €12

Tours and Activities in Athens

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

  • "A Must-See" Anc. Epidaurus, Mycenae & Nafplion Premium Full Day Tour By Locals: $411
  • "Athens city tour": $270
  • "Private tour in Athens": $243
  • ''Tour in Athens'': $118
  • 1 Day Private Tour Corinth, Cave of Lakes at Kalavrita & Journey by Cog Railway: $264
  • 1 Day Private tour to Meteora, visit the Monasteries are lying on the cliffs.: $317
  • 1 Day Saronic Islands Cruise: $168
  • 10 Day Greek Island Tour: Mykonos, Santorini-Volcano, Crete, Delos, Knossos,: $2,457
  • 10 Day Ultimate Ancient Greece Tours Experience: $2,411
  • 10 Day to Explore the Best Historical Gems in Greece and tour in Santorini: $1,798
  • 10 Days Private Tour: North Greece: $2,706
  • 10 Days Private Tour: Peloponnese: $2,706

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)
    €8.00

Tours and Activities in Ljubljana

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

  • Alpine Lakes Tour: $100
  • Axe Throwing Experience in Ljubljana: $26
  • Beer tour of Slovenia - The Ultimate Beer Experience: $2,320
  • Beery Slovenia Tour: $182
  • Best of Ljubljana, Classical walking tour of Capital city: $22
  • Best of Piran, Portoroz, Strunjan, Izola, Koper (PRIVATE V.I.P. TOUR): $211
  • Bike Tour Ljubljana: $62
  • Bled & Bohinj Experience Tour: $144
  • Bled Lake Adventure Day Trip from Ljubljana: $90
  • Bled Lake Day Tour From Ljubljana: $90
  • Bled and Bohinj Alpine Lakes Tour from Ljubljana: $91
  • Bled and Bohinj Lake Bike Tour from Ljubljana: $214

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Athens €18
    Ljubljana €8.73

Sample the Local Flavors in Athens

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Athens:

  • Athens Walking Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $37
  • Virtual Greek Wine Tasting: $87
  • Athens Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $96
  • Wine tasting tour: $131
  • Wine Tasting and Athens Trikke Combo Tour: $133
  • The Best Winery & Tasting Tour in Nemea.Enjoy a unique all day wine tasting tour: $140
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience of Greek Awarded Wines in Athens: $148
  • Premium Wine Tour in Peloponnese -Ancient Corinthos, Nemea - the Land of Myth: $148
  • Athens Private Wine Tasting Tour - Dionysian Grapes: $149
  • Ancient Corinth & Nemea Wine Tasting (up to 15 in a Luxurious Mercedes Minibus): $151
  • Greek Private Wine Tasting: $166
  • Mercedes Private Full-Day Tour, Nafplio, Corinth Canal and Wine Tasting: $168

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)
    €6.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Ljubljana

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ljubljana:

  • Pub Crawl Ljubljana: $20
  • Wine Tasting, Slovenian Wine Story: $49
  • Wine Tasting Ljubljana: $56
  • Wine tasting: $56
  • Ljubljana Small-Group Wine Tasting Experience: $58
  • Ljubljana Wine tour: $81
  • Vipava Valley wine tasting experience: $98
  • Wine Tour: Half-Day Tour: $139
  • Medieval Ptuj and Maribor Private Day Trip with Wine Tasting from Ljubljana or Bled: $145
  • Vipava valley wine tour TuamV: $158
  • Wine Tours in Slovenia: $174
  • Maribor Exclusive Wine Tour: $175

About these numbers

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Ljubljana, we can see that Athens is more expensive. And not only is Ljubljana much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ljubljana would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ljubljana 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 Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens than you might in Ljubljana.

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Athens vs. Ljubljana Travel Comparison

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