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

Should you visit Bonn or Ljubljana?

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

Should I visit Bonn 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.

Bonn

Bonn is a outdoorsy, lively, and cultural city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a under-rated, authentic, and historic capital city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Bonn 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 Bonn or Ljubljana?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Ljubljana than Bonn. While Bonn is larger than Ljubljana, Ljubljana has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Ljubljana is more popular for its big city activities and impressive beauty, while Bonn is known for its museums and quaint atmosphere. Bonn is popular for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. 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 Bonn different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bonn
Ljubljana

Bonn 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 Bonn can be an interesting and educational experience. Some of the most popular museums include Haus der Geschichte (history), Beethoven's House, and Kunstmuseum Bonn (art). For architecture check out the Old Town Hall and Bonn Minster. Other landmarks include Poppelsdorf Palace and Schloss Drachenburg.

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 Bonn or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bonn
Ljubljana

Both Bonn and Ljubljana offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bonn. Like much of the food in Germany, you'll find local dishes are hearty and filling. Potatoes and meats are popular ingredients, as are milk, butter, and vegetables. For local flavors try the Rhenish Sauerbraten (veal stew), Reibekuchen (German pancakes), or Christmas Sausages.

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 Bonn or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Ljubljana

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Bonn and Ljubljana.

If you're looking for night time activities Bonn has a few options to choose from. There are bars and nightclubs around town but even more popular are the cultural events that the city hosts. If nightlife is important to you, try to visit during one of the festivals around town.

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 Bonn or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Ljubljana

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bonn. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming shops. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

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 Bonn or Ljubljana?

Bonn
Ljubljana

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bonn. A mix of local shops and major chains make shopping fun and easy. Whether you're interested in souvenir gifts or a new outfit, there are countless stores around town.

Ljubljana is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 Bonn or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Bonn
Ljubljana

Bonn is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. However, Ljubljana is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Bonn is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Just outside of the town is the Haribo factory outlet store where you can pick up a number of sweet treats and spend some time exploring with the kids. Another favorite activity for the whole family is a trip to nearby Phantasialand. This is one of the best amusement parks in Germany and it has many rides for teens and younger kids alike. In town, you'll find playgrounds and kid-friendly museums. Kids will also love a visit to Schloss Drachenburg Castle.

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 Bonn or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Bonn
Ljubljana

With fun activities for couples, both Bonn and Ljubljana make for a good place to visit.

Bonn is a nice destination for couples. Churches, architecture, and botanical gardens all make this a great couples destination. You can take a cruise down the Rhein or enjoy a meal at one of the best restaurants.

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 Bonn or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Ljubljana

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

Ljubljana is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Bonn is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers skip this town, so its a good option for travelers who want to get off the beaten backpacker trail. There are affordable hotels and hostels around town as well as restaurants where you can pick up something cheap to eat.

Is Bonn or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Bonn
Ljubljana

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

Bonn is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a very international vibe and you'll likely run into people speaking English around town. Job opportunities in the area are good and there are schools that attract students from around the globe.

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

Bonn
Ljubljana

Bonn 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 Bonn can move around easily with public transportation. There is a light rail system that includes 9 lines and 64 stations. There are also buses around town. Bonn is connected to the region by convenient commuter trains so it's possible to visit as a day trip.

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


Is Bonn or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Bonn
Ljubljana

Bonn and Ljubljana are very good when it comes to walkability.

Bonn is very walkable. The compact old town is easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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

One day in Bonn or Ljubljana?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Bonn. 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 Bonn or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Bonn. 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 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 Bonn or Ljubljana?

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


Which place is cheaper, Ljubljana or Bonn?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bonn is €154, while the average daily cost in Ljubljana is €86. 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 Bonn and Ljubljana in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bonn 85
    Ljubljana 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bonn 170
    Ljubljana 108
Compare Hotels in Bonn and Ljubljana

Looking for a hotel in Bonn 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 Bonn


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: Bonn Hotel Prices and Ljubljana Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn 23
    Ljubljana 21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bonn

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

  • Bonn hotels Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) - Departure Private Transfer: $55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ljubljana

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

  • Private Transfer from Budapest to Ljubljana: $524
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana to Rovinj: $492
  • Guided Truffle Hunting Tour with Hotel Transfers: $374
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana city to Ptuj: $288
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Pohorje: $286
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Koper: $267
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana city to Bovec: $266
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Krško: $257
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Maribor: $256
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana city to Maribor: $254
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana city to Piran: $246
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Ilirska Bistrica: $239

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Ljubljana?

Prices for flights to both Ljubljana and Bonn 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
    Bonn 49
    Ljubljana 17

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:

  • 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.
    Bonn 34
    Ljubljana 14

Tours and Activities in Bonn

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

  • Autumn tours with a live guide: $20
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $120
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $51
  • Bonn Crime-Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bonn Musikerviertel Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bonn Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $222
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bonn Self Guided City Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $11
  • Bonn Walking Tour (In the footsteps of Ludwig Van Beethoven): $321
  • Bonn and Bad Godesberg hop-on hop-off tour in a double-decker bus: $22
  • 1.5-Hour River Cruise on the Rhine: $20

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.

  • Škocjan Caves, Rakov Škocjan & Marshes Tour (Slovenian underground): $152
  • 2 Hour Guided Walking Tour in Ljubljana: $57
  • 4 Hours Private Ljubljana Walking Tour: $164
  • 4-hour Bike Tour Ljubljana: $86
  • 8-Hour Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj and Waterfall Savica Tour: $87
  • Axe Throwing Experience in Ljubljana: $36
  • BEER WAY Alpine Beer Tasting & Outdoors Tour: $134
  • Best of Private tour with Ljubljana born guide: $160
  • Broken Bones Gin Experience: $37
  • City Tour of Ljubljana: $175
  • Discover the land of green gold - Private tour from Ljubljana: $279
  • E-bike tour Bled: $131

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn 23
    Ljubljana 11

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:

  • 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 Bonn and Ljubljana, we can see that Bonn 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 Bonn would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bonn 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 Bonn Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bonn or Ljubljana?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Ljubljana. When comparing the sizes of Bonn 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 Bonn 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 Bonn or Ljubljana in the Summer?

Both Ljubljana and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bonn for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Bonn is cooler than Ljubljana in the summer. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Ljubljana. Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Ljubljana during summer. Bonn gets 191 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, Bonn usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Ljubljana 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Bonn during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bonn in the autumn for the shopping scene. 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, Bonn is cooler than Ljubljana. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bonn in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Bonn often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana. Bonn gets 109 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. Bonn usually gets less rain in October than Ljubljana. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Ljubljana 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Ljubljana. Most visitors come to Bonn 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. Bonn can be very cold during winter. In January, Bonn is generally much warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 3°C (37°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Bonn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana during winter. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bonn usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Bonn or Ljubljana in the Spring?

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

Bonn is cooler than Ljubljana in the spring. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Ljubljana. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Bonn usually gets less rain in April than Ljubljana. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Ljubljana 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Bonn

Bonn Ljubljana
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 98 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 22°C (71°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 101 mm (4 in)