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

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.

Athens and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Ljubljana?

You'll generally find more things to do in Athens than Ljubljana. Athens is bigger than Ljubljana, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Athens is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Ljubljana is more popular for its shopping. Athens is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Also, Athens is famous for The Acropolis. Ljubljana is well known for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Athens is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Athens from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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 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 Athens or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is renowned 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.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Athens is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

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 Athens or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Athens is renowned for nightlife. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for nightlife and partying.

Athens is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Athens or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Athens is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its old town.

The old town of Athens is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Ljubljana is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Athens is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. However, Ljubljana is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Athens is a very family-friendly destination. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

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 Athens or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Athens and Ljubljana both notable 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?

Athens is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Athens. 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?

Athens is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for students.

Athens is a great city to visit as a student. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Ljubljana is a good city to visit for students. 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? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its public transit.

Visitors to Athens can move around easily with public transportation. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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

Is Athens or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Athens and Ljubljana are great 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.

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

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 in Ljubljana. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ljubljana.

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

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

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

One day in Athens or Ljubljana?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Ljubljana?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 charming 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.

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.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Athens Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Ljubljana?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Ljubljana. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens or Ljubljana?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Ljubljana in the Summer?

Both Ljubljana and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Athens in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Athens is a little warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Ljubljana. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Athens during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Athens is generally a little warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun.

Ljubljana gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Athens usually gets less rain in October than Ljubljana. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Ljubljana. The winter months attract visitors to Athens because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ljubljana in the winter. Athens is much warmer than Ljubljana in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Athens usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Ljubljana in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Athens as well as Ljubljana. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Athens is a little warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the spring, Athens often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Athens usually gets less rain in April than Ljubljana. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Athens