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

Should you visit Bern or Ljubljana?

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

Should I visit Bern 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.

Bern

Bern is a cultural, historic, and charming city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. 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.

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


Is there more to do in Bern or Ljubljana?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ljubljana than Bern, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Ljubljana is more popular for its big city activities, while Bern is known for its museums and impressive beauty. Bern is popular for its well-preserved old town and its reputation as the home of the Lindt chocolate factory. 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 Bern different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bern
Ljubljana

Bern is a great 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 Bern can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with architecture and charming character. While you're in town make sure you visit the Einstein Museum, the Clock Tower, and the Bern Cathedral.

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 Bern or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bern
Ljubljana

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Bern and Ljubljana.

Bern offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city has cozy cafes, high end fine dining, traditional eateries, and modern venues.

Ljubljana has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Bern or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Bern
Ljubljana

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

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bern. There are bars, Irish pubs, and clubs around town.

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 Bern or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Bern
Ljubljana

It's fun to wander around the very good old towns in both Bern and Ljubljana.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bern. The charming old town is filled with quaint alleys and sandstone buildings. It's a compact area that flows down a hill to the River Aare.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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 Bern or Ljubljana?

Bern
Ljubljana

Both Bern and Ljubljana are very good shopping destinations.

Bern is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The old town is filled with boutique shops and unique markets. The main shopping streets are Spitalgasse and Marktgasse and popular items to buy include jewelry, art, and watches.

Ljubljana is well-known for its shopping. 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 Bern or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Bern
Ljubljana

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

Bern is a very family-friendly destination. This charming town has riverside parks and pools, a zoo, a waterpark, and kid-friendly museums that the whole family can enjoy. You can also visit nearby Gurten, a mountain with tobogganing, concerts, and a mini ski resort.

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 Bern or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Bern
Ljubljana

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

Bern is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With charming restaurants, a beautiful rose garden, and nice hotels and spas, this town makes a beautiful romantic getaway.

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 Bern or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bern
Ljubljana

Both Bern and Ljubljana are very good destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Bern. Like most of Switzerland, prices are a bit high, but there are some hostels and free activities that backpackers and budget travelers can enjoy.

Many backpackers 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 Bern or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Bern
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a popular place for students. However, Bern is not popular with students.

Ljubljana is a good capital 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.

Bern is not popular with students.

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

Bern
Ljubljana

Bern 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 Bern can move around easily with public transportation. There are trams and buses that run around town.

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


Is Bern or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Bern
Ljubljana

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

Bern is very walkable. It's fun to explore the old town on foot. It is compact enough to that you can see all of the highlights in a few hours.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Bern?

How long in Bern or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Bern or Ljubljana?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bern. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bern 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 Bern or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Bern. 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 city has to offer. This 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 Bern or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful city of Bern. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming 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 Bern or Ljubljana?

Bern 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 under-rated 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Switzerland, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Switzerland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.


Which place is cheaper, Ljubljana or Bern?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bern is $254, while the average daily cost in Ljubljana is $94. 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 Bern and Ljubljana in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bern $164
    Ljubljana $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bern $328
    Ljubljana $118
Compare Hotels in Bern and Ljubljana

Looking for a hotel in Bern 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 Bern


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: Bern Hotel Prices and Ljubljana Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bern $34
    Ljubljana $23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bern

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bern:

  • Private Transfer From Bern to Zurich, English Speaking Driver: $229
  • Private Transfer From Bern To Basel With a 2 Hour Stop in Olten: $215
  • Private Direct Transfer From Bern to Basel: $171

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 from Kranj to Ljubljana Airport (LJU): $55
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Kranj: $56
  • Departure Private Transfer Ljubljana City to Ljubljana Airport by Business Car: $66
  • Ljubljana to Ljubljana Airport (LJU) - Departure Private Transfer: $69
  • Private transfer from Kamnik to Ljubljana city: $71
  • Private transfer from Kamnik to airport Ljubljana: $75
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Kamnik : $75
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Kranj: $89
  • Private transfer Ljubljana Airport to Ljubljana - round trip: $104

Is it cheaper to fly into Bern or Ljubljana?

Prices for flights to both Ljubljana and Bern 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
    Bern $61
    Ljubljana $18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bern

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

  • Bern Food Market: Brunch & Local Food Tour: $63

Typical Food Prices in Ljubljana

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


  • Horsemeat Hot Dog
    $2.18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ljubljana

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

  • Cooking class; Traditional sLOVEnian štrukelj: $59
  • Traditional Slovenian Dinner and Show: $65
  • Traditional Slovenian Dinner and Performance: $75
  • Flavour of Slovenia: Very Small Group Food Tour in Ljubljana: $82
  • Dinner in the Dark: $87
  • 3-Hour Food Tour: $92
  • Dinner in the Dark: $108
  • Šmarna Gora: Hiking and Food Tour from Ljubljana: $130
  • The 10 Tastings of Ljubljana Private Food Tour : $212
  • Private Food Tour With Guide and 10 Tastings: $219

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bern $34
    Ljubljana $16

Tours and Activities in Bern

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

  • 007 Elegance:Exclusive Private Tour to Schilthorn from Bern: $638
  • Alpine Heights: Small Group Tour to Jungfraujoch from Bern: $603
  • Beautiful Bern's Old Town: Self Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Bern : Highlights & Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $81
  • Bern : Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide (Private tour): $59
  • Bern Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour: $7.06
  • Bern Highlights Small-Group Walking Tour with a Local: $158
  • Bern Historical UNESCO Old Town Private Tour: $164
  • Bern Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $61
  • Bern Old City Walking Tour: $468
  • Bern Old Town - Private Historic Walking Tour: $542
  • Bern Private Walking Tour: $339

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)
    $8.71

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: $3.26
  • Romantic Old Town Self-guided Discovery Tour: $6.41
  • Ljubljana City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.52
  • From Swamp to State: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Ljubljana: $6.99
  • Ljubljana:Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.06
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Castle Entry Ticket with Optional Funicular Ride: $13
  • Ljubljana Castle: Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • House of Illusions Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Virtual Reality Gaming Experience Ljubljana: $18
  • Green Adventure City Discovery Game: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bern $27
    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)
    $6.53

Sample the Local Flavors in Ljubljana

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ljubljana:

  • Wine Tasting Ljubljana: $60
  • 2-Hour Interactive Wine Tasting Experience in Ljubljana: $64
  • BEER WAY Kamnik Beer Tasting & Brewery Tour: $84
  • Food & Wine tour with a Sommelier: $94
  • Food & Wine Tour Ljubljana - Local Foodie Adventure in Slovenia: $98
  • Food and Wine Tasting with a Sommelier: $106
  • Private Family-Owned Vineyard Wine Tasting Trip: $147
  • From Ljubjana: Slovenian Wine Tour: $194
  • Wine Tours in Slovenia: $219
  • Wine Tours Slovenia: $219
  • Wine Tour Slovenia: $263


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


Which is Bigger, Bern or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bern. When comparing the sizes of Bern 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 Bern 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 Bern or Ljubljana in the Summer?

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

Bern is around the same temperature as Ljubljana in the summer. The daily temperature in Bern averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bern this time of the year. In the summer, Bern often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana. Bern gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Bern usually gets less rain in July than Ljubljana. Bern gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bern 21°C (70°F) 
    Ljubljana 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Bern or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Bern are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bern in the autumn for 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, Bern is around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bern in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Bern usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during autumn. Bern gets 126 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. In October, Bern usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Bern gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bern 13°C (55°F) 
    Ljubljana 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Bern or Ljubljana in the Winter?

Both Ljubljana and Bern during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bern 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. Bern can be very cold during winter. In January, Bern is generally much warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Bern average around 3°C (37°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Bern often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Bern gets 65 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun.

Bern usually gets less rain in January than Ljubljana. Bern gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Bern or Ljubljana in the Spring?

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

Bern is around the same temperature as Ljubljana in the spring. The daily temperature in Bern averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Bern usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana during spring. Bern gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun in the spring.

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Bern usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Bern gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bern 11°C (52°F) 
    Ljubljana 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Bern

Bern Ljubljana
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 51 mm (2 in) 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 98 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 76 mm (3 in) 17°C (62°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Aug 20°C (69°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 18°C (65°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Dec 4°C (38°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (36°F) 101 mm (4 in)