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

Should you visit Cesis 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 Cesis 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.

Cesis

Cesis is a traditional, quaint, and small town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

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.

Cesis and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Cesis or Ljubljana?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ljubljana. Although Cesis and Ljubljana are popular destinations, Ljubljana has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ljubljana is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cesis attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Ljubljana is more touristy than Cesis 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. Cesis is famous for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

How is Cesis different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cesis
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a capital city with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cesis or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cesis
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a capital city with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a capital city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is well known for its old town. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

Ljubljana is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

The old town area in Cesis is worth visiting. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.


Is Cesis or Ljubljana Better for Hiking?

Cesis
Ljubljana

Cesis is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Cesis has hiking trails worth exploring. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Ljubljana?

Cesis
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cesis or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Cesis
Ljubljana

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

Cesis offers lots of family activities. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

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 Cesis or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Cesis
Ljubljana

Both Cesis and Ljubljana are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cesis makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

Ljubljana is a good town for couples to visit. 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 Cesis or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cesis
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is well known for backpackers. Also, Cesis 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 backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

Is Cesis or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Cesis
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a capital city with good options for students. However, Cesis 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.

Cesis is not popular with students.


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

Cesis
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a capital city with good options for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Cesis
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Cesis 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.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Ljubljana?

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

Couples should spend more time in Ljubljana than Cesis. 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 Cesis 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 Cesis or Ljubljana? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    Ljubljana 1-3

One day in Cesis or Ljubljana?

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

In Ljubljana, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.


A weekend in Cesis or Ljubljana?

Cesis is a small town where visitors enjoy the . 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ljubljana. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Cesis or Ljubljana?

Cesis 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. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Ljubljana is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Ljubljana. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cesis or Ljubljana?

Cesis 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Ljubljana. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


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


Which place is cheaper, Ljubljana or Cesis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cesis is €108, 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 Cesis and Ljubljana in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis 47
    Ljubljana 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis 94
    Ljubljana 108
Compare Hotels in Cesis and Ljubljana

Looking for a hotel in Cesis 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 Cesis


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: Ljubljana Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cesis 30
    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 Cesis or Ljubljana?

Prices for flights to both Ljubljana and Cesis 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
    Cesis 41
    Ljubljana 17
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

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


  • Lunch in town for two
    6.67

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.
    Cesis 16
    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
    Cesis 17
    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 Cesis and Ljubljana, we can see that Cesis 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 Cesis would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cesis 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 Cesis Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cesis or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis 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 Cesis 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 Cesis or Ljubljana in the Summer?

Both Ljubljana and Cesis during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cesis for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cesis is generally cooler than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around 17°C (63°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Ljubljana gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cesis usually gets less rain in July than Ljubljana. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cesis 17°C (63°F) 
    Ljubljana 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Ljubljana. The autumn months attract visitors to Cesis because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

Cesis is much colder than Ljubljana in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 7°C (45°F) in October, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Cesis usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cesis 7°C (45°F) 
    Ljubljana 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Ljubljana. The cuisine are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ljubljana. It's quite cold in Cesis in the winter. In the winter, Cesis is much colder than Ljubljana. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cesis in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 1°C (34°F).

Cesis usually gets less rain in January than Ljubljana. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cesis -5°C (23°F) 
    Ljubljana 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Ljubljana in the Spring?

Both Ljubljana and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cesis for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Cesis is generally much colder than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around 5°C (42°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. In April, Cesis usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cesis 5°C (42°F) 
    Ljubljana 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Cesis

Cesis Ljubljana
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 98 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 18°C (65°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 101 mm (4 in)