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

Should you visit Bressanone or Ljubljana?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bressanone and Ljubljana can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bressanone

Bressanone is a idyllic, charming, and quaint town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a charming, under-rated, and authentic 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bressanone and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
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 Bressanone or Ljubljana?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ljubljana than Bressanone, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ljubljana is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bressanone is more popular for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Bressanone is well known for its charming old town and its idyllic setting. 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 Bressanone different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bressanone
Ljubljana

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bressanone. Most visitors simply enjoy soaking up the town's atmosphere, but sights around town include The Royal Palace, the cathedral, and Franzenfeste Fortress.

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 Bressanone or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bressanone
Ljubljana

Bressanone is a great town 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Bressanone. Despite its small size, there are many family run restaurants that make use of ingredients from local farms. The town also hosts a few culinary festivals throughout the year.

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 Bressanone or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Bressanone
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a capital city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Bressanone is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

Ljubljana has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Bressanone doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small town with some quaint bars and pubs where you can enjoy a beer and chat with other visitors.

Is Bressanone or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Bressanone
Ljubljana

Both Bressanone and Ljubljana have high quality historic old towns worth visiting.

Bressanone is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The cathedral and beautiful old buildings make this a charming place to explore.

There are many historical things to see 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 Bressanone or Ljubljana Better for Hiking?

Bressanone
Ljubljana

Bressanone is a great town for hiking. However, Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Bressanone for the hiking trails. There's a huge variety of hikes in the surrounding countryside. You can walk alongside the river, head into the foothills, or explore the nearby vineyards.

Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bressanone or Ljubljana?

Bressanone
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Bressanone is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Bressanone. The medieval streets are lined with family-owned shops, boutique clothing stores, and other unique local shopping opportunities.

Is Bressanone or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Bressanone
Ljubljana

Most people don't think of either Bressanone or Ljubljana as a family destination.

Bressanone doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. It's a great town to take a lunch break. The kids will enjoy wandering the alley-like streets. There's a river through town and great views of the Alps.

For families, Ljubljana is not always the best place to visit. 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 Bressanone or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Bressanone
Ljubljana

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

Bressanone is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This charming town is seeped in romance. The quaint streets and surrounding mountain setting make this an idyllic place to take a romantic trip.

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 Bressanone or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bressanone
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Bressanone is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bressanone. There's a couple of hostels and cheaper guesthouses in town, so backpackers can enjoy a few days in this picturesque alpine town.

Is Bressanone or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Bressanone
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a capital city with good options for students. However, Bressanone is not popular with students.

Ljubljana is popular with 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.

Bressanone is not popular with students.


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

Bressanone
Ljubljana

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bressanone and Ljubljana.

You'll find some public transit in Bressanone, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

While Ljubljana offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a city bus system.

Is Bressanone or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Bressanone
Ljubljana

Bressanone and Ljubljana both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Bressanone is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and small enough 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 Bressanone Worth Visiting? and Is Ljubljana Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Bressanone?

How long in Bressanone or Ljubljana?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bressanone and Ljubljana. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Ljubljana than in Bressanone. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Bressanone, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ljubljana.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ljubljana than Bressanone 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 Bressanone or Ljubljana? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bressanone 1-2 
    Ljubljana 1-3

One day in Bressanone or Ljubljana?

Even though Bressanone is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bressanone has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and nightlife around the under-rated capital city of Ljubljana, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ljubljana, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Bressanone or Ljubljana?

Bressanone is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Ljubljana, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this capital city.

Five days in Bressanone or Ljubljana?

Bressanone is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

Ljubljana, a popular capital city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Bressanone or Ljubljana?

Bressanone 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.

Ljubljana is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.


Which place is cheaper, Ljubljana or Bressanone?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bressanone is €138, 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 Bressanone and Ljubljana in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bressanone 72
    Ljubljana 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bressanone 144
    Ljubljana 108
Compare Hotels in Bressanone and Ljubljana

Looking for a hotel in Bressanone 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 Bressanone


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: Bressanone Hotel Prices and Ljubljana Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ljubljana

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

  • Departure Private Transfer Ljubljana City to Ljubljana Airport by Business Car: $66
  • E-bike experience between vineyards of Goriška Brda - transfer from Ljubljana: $148
  • Ljubljana Airport Private Transfer : $104
  • Ljubljana Airport to Moravske Toplice-Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • Ljubljana to Ljubljana Airport (LJU) - Departure Private Transfer: $69
  • Ljubljana-Airport Ljubljana. Private transfer.Price per car.: $63
  • Ljubljana-Zagreb. Private transfer.Price per car: $216
  • Airport Transfer to/from Ljubljana Station: $13
  • Guided Truffle Hunting Tour with Hotel Transfers: $374
  • Private Transfer from Brnik Airport to Ljubljana Centre: $28
  • Private Transfer from Budapest to Ljubljana: $524
  • Private Transfer from Celje to Ljubljana Airport (LJU): $214

Is it cheaper to fly into Bressanone or Ljubljana?

Prices for flights to both Ljubljana and Bressanone 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
    Bressanone 47
    Ljubljana 17
Typical Food Prices in Bressanone

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Bressanone:


  • Gelato
    2.20

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.
    Bressanone 20
    Ljubljana 14

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.

  • 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
    Bressanone 26
    Ljubljana 11
Typical Alcohol Prices in Bressanone

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Bressanone:


  • 1/2 Litre of wine
    9.00
  • 2 Glasses of Wine
    7.00

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


Which is Bigger, Bressanone or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Bressanone. When comparing the sizes of Bressanone 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.