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

Should you visit Bari 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 Bari 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.

Bari

Bari is a authentic, local, and cultural port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. 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.

Bari and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bari or Ljubljana?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bari than Ljubljana. Bari is bigger than Ljubljana, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bari is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and beaches, while Ljubljana is more popular for its shopping and impressive beauty. Ljubljana is more touristy than Bari and is known for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty. Bari is well known for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. Also, Bari is famous for San Nicola.

How is Bari different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bari can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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 Bari or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bari 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, Bari is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

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 Bari or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Bari is a great port city for nightlife. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Bari has something for everybody. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

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 Bari or Ljubljana Better for Beaches?

Bari is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Bari has a beach worth visiting. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Is Bari or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the great old town areas in both Bari and Ljubljana.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Bari or Ljubljana?

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

Bari is a great destination for shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Bari or Ljubljana Better for Families?

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

Bari is a very family-friendly destination. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

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 Bari or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Bari and Ljubljana both notable destinations for a couple.

Bari is a good port city for couples to visit. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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 Bari or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Bari and Ljubljana are great places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

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.

Is Bari or Ljubljana Better for Students?

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

Bari is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Ljubljana is a good port 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 Bari or Ljubljana Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bari and Ljubljana both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Bari offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

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

Is Bari or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Bari and Ljubljana are great when it comes to walkability.

Bari is a very walkable destination. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Bari?

How long in Bari or Ljubljana?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bari and Ljubljana. In our opinion, Bari has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Bari than Ljubljana. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Bari or Ljubljana?

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Bari. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bari has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Ljubljana. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bari or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Bari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Ljubljana is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bari or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural port city of Bari. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Ljubljana. This capital city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bari or Ljubljana?

Bari is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

The historic capital city of Ljubljana offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Italy, The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy, 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 Bari and Ljubljana, we can see that Bari 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 Bari would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bari 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 Bari Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bari or Ljubljana?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Ljubljana. When comparing the sizes of Bari 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 Bari 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 Bari or Ljubljana in the Summer?

Both Ljubljana and Bari are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bari in the summer for the beaches, 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, Bari is a little warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bari in July average around 25°C (76°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 Bari. Bari usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during summer. Bari gets 336 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, Bari usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Bari gets 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bari or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Bari during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, 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, Bari is generally a little warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Bari average around 18°C (65°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Bari often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Bari gets 178 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. Bari usually gets less rain in October than Ljubljana. Bari gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bari or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bari and Ljubljana. The winter months attract visitors to Bari because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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. Bari is much warmer than Ljubljana in the winter. The daily temperature in Bari averages around 10°C (49°F) in January, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Bari usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during winter. Bari gets 110 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bari usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Bari gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bari or Ljubljana in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Bari is a little warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bari in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari this time of the year. In the spring, Bari often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Bari gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Bari usually gets less rain in April than Ljubljana. Bari gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Bari