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

Should you visit Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne 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.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a medieval, historical, and fairytale town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a historic, charming, and under-rated 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Carcassonne and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Carcassonne or Ljubljana?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ljubljana. Although Carcassonne and Ljubljana are both popular with visitors, Ljubljana has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ljubljana is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Carcassonne is known for its museums, food, and small town charm. Carcassonne is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle. 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 Carcassonne different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Carcassonne
Ljubljana

Carcassonne is a great town 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 Carcassonne can be an interesting and educational experience. The town is filled with medieval sights including the Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and the Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carcassonne
Ljubljana

Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne. There are a number of local restaurants that serve regional specialties such as cassoulet. You can spend a few hours exploring the castle and then grab a delicious bite to eat.

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 Carcassonne or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Carcassonne
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a good destination for nightlife. However, Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Carcassonne or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Carcassonne
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a very popular place for its historic old town. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

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.

Many people head to Carcassonne to see the old town. The medieval walled city is seeped in history and filled with atmosphere. Cars are not allowed in town.


Is the Shopping Better in Carcassonne or Ljubljana?

Carcassonne
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a very popular place for shopping. However, Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Carcassonne or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Carcassonne
Ljubljana

Carcassonne is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Ljubljana is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Carcassonne offers lots of family activities. Kids who love castles will enjoy wandering the maze of rooms and getting lost in the medieval atmosphere.

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 Carcassonne or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Carcassonne
Ljubljana

Carcassonne and Ljubljana both good destinations for a couple.

Carcassonne is a nice destination for couples. It's a medieval city with an impressive castle and walled fortifications. It's a uniquely European sight that is great for couples who enjoy history.

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 Carcassonne or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Carcassonne
Ljubljana

Carcassonne and Ljubljana are both great destinations for backpackers.

Carcassonne is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

Ljubljana is a great town 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.

Is Carcassonne or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Carcassonne
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Carcassonne is not popular with students.

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.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.

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

Carcassonne
Ljubljana

Visitors will find good public transit in both Carcassonne and Ljubljana.

Carcassonne has some public transit options. You can reach the town by train from Dijon, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, or Bordeaux and many people visit the town as a day trip.

You'll find some public transit in Ljubljana, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a city bus system.


Is Carcassonne or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Carcassonne
Ljubljana

Carcassonne is renowned for its walkability. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its high level of walkability.

Carcassonne is a very easy town to get around on foot. Cars aren't allowed in the medieval city so it's best to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Carcassonne?

How long in Carcassonne or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

One day in Carcassonne or Ljubljana?

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic capital city of Ljubljana. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this capital city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Carcassonne or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums and food around the medieval destination of Carcassonne. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the authentic destination of Ljubljana. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This capital city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Carcassonne or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the fairytale town of Carcassonne. 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.

The historic capital city of Ljubljana offers shopping and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Carcassonne or Ljubljana?

Carcassonne 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ljubljana. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.


Which place is cheaper, Ljubljana or Carcassonne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Carcassonne is €106, 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 Carcassonne and Ljubljana in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Carcassonne 61
    Ljubljana 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Carcassonne 122
    Ljubljana 108
Compare Hotels in Carcassonne and Ljubljana

Looking for a hotel in Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne


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: Carcassonne Hotel Prices and Ljubljana Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Carcassonne 7.14
    Ljubljana 21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ljubljana

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

  • Slovenian Coast E-Bike Tour with Transfer from Ljubljana: $148
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Velenje: $163
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Slovenj Gradec: $212
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Sežana (Casino Safir): $205
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Kranj: $89
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Krško: $257
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Koper: $267
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Kamnik : $74
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Jesenice: $145
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Ilirska Bistrica: $239
  • Private transfer from Sežana (Casino Safir) to Ljubljana city: $174
  • Private transfer from Postojna to Ljubljana city: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Carcassonne or Ljubljana?

Prices for flights to both Ljubljana and Carcassonne 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
    Carcassonne 39
    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.
    Carcassonne 14
    Ljubljana 14

Tours and Activities in Carcassonne

For Carcassonne, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • A Self-Guided Tour of Carcassonne’s Ancient Basilica: $20
  • Best of Cathar Country: Full-Day Private Tour.: $207
  • Carcassonne 's Medieval Walls: A Self-Guided Tour: $20
  • Carcassonne Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour : $201
  • Castle and Ramparts Entry Ticket: $12
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Fortress Walking Tour: $171
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.42
  • Medieval Walls Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $20
  • Photoshoot Experience: $160
  • Private Walking Tour with Cité de Carcassonne: $187

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
    Carcassonne 13
    Ljubljana 11

Sample the Local Flavors in Carcassonne

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Carcassonne:

  • Wine tour Cathar country: $471

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


Which is Bigger, Carcassonne or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne or Ljubljana in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Carcassonne and Ljubljana. Many visitors come to Carcassonne in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Ljubljana in the summer. The daily temperature in Carcassonne averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ljubljana this time of the year. In Carcassonne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Carcassonne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana during summer. Carcassonne gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun in the summer.

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Carcassonne gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F) 
    Ljubljana 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Carcassonne or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Carcassonne as well as Ljubljana. Most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, 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.

In the autumn, Carcassonne is a little warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Carcassonne in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Carcassonne often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Carcassonne gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Carcassonne usually gets less rain in October than Ljubljana. Carcassonne gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F) 
    Ljubljana 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Carcassonne or Ljubljana in the Winter?

Both Ljubljana and Carcassonne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, 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. In January, Carcassonne is generally much warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Carcassonne average around 8°C (47°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Carcassonne usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during winter. Carcassonne gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Carcassonne gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F) 
    Ljubljana 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Carcassonne or Ljubljana in the Spring?

Both Ljubljana and Carcassonne during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Carcassonne is a little warmer than Ljubljana in the spring. The daily temperature in Carcassonne averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Carcassonne often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Carcassonne gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun.

Ljubljana gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Carcassonne usually gets less rain in April than Ljubljana. Carcassonne gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F) 
    Ljubljana 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Carcassonne

Carcassonne Ljubljana
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Mar 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 98 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 22°C (72°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 22°C (71°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 101 mm (4 in)