A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bergen vs. Ljubljana for Old Town, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bergen or Ljubljana?

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

Should I visit Bergen 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.

Bergen

Bergen is a friendly, laid back, and nostalgic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a authentic, historic, and charming 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bergen and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Bergen or Ljubljana?

You'll generally find more things to do in Ljubljana than Bergen. Ljubljana is bigger than Bergen, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ljubljana is better known for its historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bergen is more popular for its small town charm. Bergen is well known for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty. Ljubljana is well known for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty. Also, Ljubljana is famous for The Ljubljana Castle.

How is Bergen different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bergen
Ljubljana

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Bergen or Ljubljana.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bergen. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

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

Bergen
Ljubljana

Both Bergen and Ljubljana offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Bergen area. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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 Bergen or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Bergen
Ljubljana

Evening events are notable in both Bergen and Ljubljana.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bergen. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

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 Bergen or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Bergen
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is notable for its historic old town charm. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

Bergen is a good destination for visiting its old town. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.


Is the Shopping Better in Bergen or Ljubljana?

Bergen
Ljubljana

Both Bergen and Ljubljana are very good shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Bergen. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

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 Bergen or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Bergen
Ljubljana

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

Bergen is a very family-friendly destination. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

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 Bergen or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Bergen
Ljubljana

Bergen is a great city for romance. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its romantic activities.

Bergen is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

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 Bergen or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bergen
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is notable for backpackers. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ljubljana is a very popular capital city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Bergen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Is Bergen or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Bergen
Ljubljana

Bergen and Ljubljana are both notable destinations for students and younger travelers.

Bergen is a good city to visit for students. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

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

Bergen
Ljubljana

Bergen 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 Bergen can move around easily with public transportation. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.

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


Is Bergen or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Bergen
Ljubljana

Bergen and Ljubljana both are very good when exploring on foot.

Bergen is a very walkable destination. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Bergen?

How long in Bergen or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ljubljana than Bergen 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 Bergen or Ljubljana? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bergen 1-3 
    Ljubljana 1-3

One day in Bergen or Ljubljana?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bergen. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bergen has to offer. 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 Bergen or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Bergen. 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.

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 Bergen or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly city of Bergen. 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.

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 Bergen or Ljubljana?

Bergen 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.

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 10-Day Tours in Norway, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.


Which place is cheaper, Ljubljana or Bergen?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bergen is $108, 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 Bergen and Ljubljana in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bergen $67
    Ljubljana $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bergen $134
    Ljubljana $116
Compare Hotels in Bergen and Ljubljana

Looking for a hotel in Bergen 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 Bergen


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: Bergen Hotel Prices and Ljubljana Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bergen $9.65
    Ljubljana $22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bergen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bergen:

  • From Private Transfer to Gudvangen: $443
  • From Private Transfer to Voss: $362
  • TRANSFER, STANDARD, 1-7 PAX: Solstrand Hotel transfer: $286
  • TRANSFER, STANDARD, 1-7 PAX: Panorama Hotel & Resort transfer: $286
  • Private Bergen Airport Transfer to or from Bergen City: $251
  • TRANSFER, LUXURY VAN 1-7 PAX: Bergen airport transfer: $233
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Airport BGO to Bergen City by Minibus: $198
  • Departure Private Transfer from Bergen City to Bergen Airport BGO by Minibus: $198
  • TRANSFER, STANDARD, 1-7 PAX: Bergen airport transfer: $192
  • TRANSFER, LUXURY VAN 1-7 PAX: Bergen city transfer: $177
  • TRANSFER, LUXURY CAR 1-3 PAX: Bergen airport transfer: $172
  • Private Transfer to Airport, City or Cruise Port: $153

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 Bergen or Ljubljana?

Prices for flights to both Ljubljana and Bergen 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
    Bergen $31
    Ljubljana $18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bergen

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bergen.

  • Guided Fishing Tour with Outdoor Cooking: $180

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.
    Bergen $16
    Ljubljana $15

Tours and Activities in Bergen

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

  • 2 Hour Private Guided Walking Tour of Bergen: $55
  • 3-Hour Private Norwegian Hiking Experience with Local Guide: $121
  • 3-Hour Private Tour Hiked through the Bergen Mountains: $148
  • Authentic Private Walking Tour of Bergen: $96
  • Bergen 3-Hour Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Bergen Cruise - Guided City & Harbor Sightseeing: $36
  • Bergen Day Tour to National Park Folgefonna and Glacier Lake: $206
  • Bergen Fjord Cruise to Alversund Streams - All year: $55
  • Bergen Fjord Cruise to Alversund Streams - All year: $55
  • Bergen Fjord Experience Aboard Viking-style Ship: $84
  • Bergen Golden Circle Fjortour by Minibus: $5.00
  • Bergen Guided Tour by Minibus (with Photo stops) & Bryggen Walk: $65

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
    Bergen $6.87
    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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bergen and Ljubljana, we can see that Bergen 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 Bergen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bergen 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 Bergen Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bergen or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 19% larger than the population of Bergen. When comparing the sizes of Bergen 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 Bergen 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 Bergen or Ljubljana in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bergen as well as Ljubljana. Many travelers come to Bergen for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bergen is much colder than Ljubljana. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bergen in July average around 15°C (58°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 22°C (72°F).

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Bergen receives a lot of rain in the summer. Bergen usually gets more rain in July than Ljubljana. Bergen gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bergen 15°C (58°F) 
    Ljubljana 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Bergen or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Bergen are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bergen in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. 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 October, Bergen is generally cooler than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Bergen average around 9°C (48°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. It's quite rainy in Bergen. In October, Bergen usually receives more rain than Ljubljana. Bergen gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Bergen or Ljubljana in the Winter?

Both Ljubljana and Bergen during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bergen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, 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. Bergen can be very cold during winter. Bergen is much warmer than Ljubljana in the winter. The daily temperature in Bergen averages around 2°C (35°F) in January, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. Bergen usually gets more rain in January than Ljubljana. Bergen gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bergen 2°C (35°F) 
    Ljubljana 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Bergen or Ljubljana in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Bergen is much colder than Ljubljana. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bergen in April average around 6°C (43°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the spring. Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Bergen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Ljubljana. Bergen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bergen 6°C (43°F) 
    Ljubljana 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Bergen

Bergen Ljubljana
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 2°C (35°F) 152 mm (6 in) 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Mar 4°C (38°F) 170 mm (6.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 98 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 114 mm (4.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 11°C (51°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Jul 15°C (58°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Sep 12°C (53°F) 283 mm (11.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 259 mm (10.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 235 mm (9.3 in) 2°C (36°F) 101 mm (4 in)