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

Should you visit Bucharest or Ljubljana?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bucharest and Ljubljana. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a historical, less touristy, and undiscovered city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a charming, under-rated, and authentic capital city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Ljubljana?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Ljubljana than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Ljubljana, Ljubljana has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ljubljana is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty. It is also well known for The Ljubljana Castle. Bucharest is famous for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Bucharest and Ljubljana.

Bucharest offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ljubljana. 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 Bucharest or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Bucharest and Ljubljana.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bucharest. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Ljubljana is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Bucharest or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Bucharest and Ljubljana.

Bucharest has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

If you're looking for night time activities Ljubljana has a few options to choose from. 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 Bucharest or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Ljubljana is well known for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Ljubljana Better for Families?

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

Bucharest doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

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 Bucharest or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Ljubljana is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ljubljana is well known for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ljubljana is a great capital city to visit for backpackers. 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 budget travelers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Is Bucharest or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Ljubljana is a good destination for students. However, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

Bucharest 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 Bucharest can move around easily with public transportation. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

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

Is Bucharest or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Ljubljana is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ljubljana than Bucharest 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.

One day in Bucharest or Ljubljana?

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

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

A weekend in Bucharest or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the undiscovered destination of Bucharest. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Ljubljana. 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 capital city has to offer. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the less touristy city of Bucharest. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated capital city of Ljubljana. 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.

A week in Bucharest or Ljubljana?

Bucharest 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.

Ljubljana 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Ljubljana?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Ljubljana. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Ljubljana in the Summer?

Both Ljubljana and Bucharest during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bucharest is generally around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 23°C (73°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Ljubljana, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bucharest. In the summer, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun.

Ljubljana gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bucharest usually gets less rain in July than Ljubljana. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Ljubljana. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Ljubljana in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Ljubljana. The winter months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ljubljana in the winter. The weather in Bucharest can be very cold. In the winter, Bucharest is much colder than Ljubljana. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bucharest in January average around -1°C (29°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Ljubljana. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Ljubljana in the Spring?

Both Ljubljana and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Bucharest is generally around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 12°C (54°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. In April, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Bucharest