A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cork vs. Ljubljana for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Cork 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 Cork 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.

Cork

Cork is a seaside, youthful, and energetic 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 authentic, historic, and charming capital city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cork 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Cork or Ljubljana?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ljubljana than Cork, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Ljubljana is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty, while Cork is known for its museums, food, and nightlife. Cork is popular for its friendly personality, its thriving art scene and its local craft beer. 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 Cork different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cork
Ljubljana

Cork 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 Cork can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historic sights and landmarks. Most notable is the Blarney Castle and Blarney Stone, but also make sure you check out St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, the Cork Public Museum, Cork City Gaol Heritage Centre, and St. Anne's Church.

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 Cork or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cork
Ljubljana

Cork is a great city 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 Cork. You'll find charming seaside cafes and award winning restaurants. Also make sure you check out the English Market, which is among the best in Ireland.

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 Cork or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Cork
Ljubljana

Cork is a great city for nightlife. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Cork has something for everybody. It's a university city, so you'll find plenty of students, bars, clubs, and cheap beer. Many pubs also have live music with everything from rock to Irish folk music.

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 Cork or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Cork
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is notable for its historic old town. However, Cork does not have a historic old town.

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.

Cork does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cork or Ljubljana?

Cork
Ljubljana

Both Cork and Ljubljana are high quality shopping destinations.

Cork is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It offers a mix of high street shops and boutique vendors. Head to St. Patrick’s Street for some of the city's best shopping. Also check out Opera Lane and Oliver Plunkett Street.

Ljubljana is well-known for its shopping. 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 Cork or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Cork
Ljubljana

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

Cork offers lots of family activities. For a bit of outside time, head to Fota Wildlife Park, Regional Park Ballincollig, or Inchydoney Beach. Kids will also enjoy exploring Cork City Gaol which is a heritage museum, or the Toy Soldier Factory. And of course, there's the Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone.

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 Cork or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Cork
Ljubljana

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

Cork is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Visiting Blarney Castle is a highlight, but you can also wander along the river or do the Ballycotton Cliff Walk. There are also several gardens to explore or small theaters where you can see a play.

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 Cork or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cork
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is notable for backpackers. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Ljubljana. 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 Cork. There are plenty of hostels as well as a large student population and an active nightlife.

Is Cork or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Cork
Ljubljana

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

Cork is a great city to visit as a student. It's a university town with many students and plenty to do. The city plays host to many international students.

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

Cork
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a capital city with good options for its public transit. However, Cork is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Cork. In town you'll find bus service but if you want to explore anywhere else in the county you really need your own vehicle.


Is Cork or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Cork
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is notable for its walkability. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Cork is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is compact and easy enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Cork?

How long in Cork or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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

One day in Cork or Ljubljana?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Cork. 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 Cork or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the youthful city of Cork. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated 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 Cork or Ljubljana?

Cork 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.

The charming 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.


Which place is cheaper, Ljubljana or Cork?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cork is €101, 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 Cork and Ljubljana in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cork 60
    Ljubljana 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cork 120
    Ljubljana 108
Compare Hotels in Cork and Ljubljana

Looking for a hotel in Cork 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 Cork


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: Cork Hotel Prices and Ljubljana Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cork 16
    Ljubljana 21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ljubljana

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

  • Airport Transfer to/from Ljubljana Station: $13
  • Private Transfer from Brnik Airport to Ljubljana Centre: $28
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Ljubljana City: $46
  • Private transfer Ljubljana Airport from & to Ljubljana City: $52
  • Private Transfer from Kranj to Ljubljana Airport (LJU): $55
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Kranj: $55
  • Ljubljana-Airport Ljubljana. Private transfer.Price per car.: $63
  • Departure Private Transfer Ljubljana City to Ljubljana Airport by Business Car: $66
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Koper Port: $68
  • Ljubljana to Ljubljana Airport (LJU) - Departure Private Transfer: $69
  • Private transfer from Kamnik to airport Ljubljana: $74
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Kamnik : $74

Is it cheaper to fly into Cork or Ljubljana?

Prices for flights to both Ljubljana and Cork 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
    Cork 30
    Ljubljana 17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cork

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cork.

  • Hysterical Histories, Comedic Dinner Theater Show: $53
  • Hysterical Histories Cork Dinner Theatre Show: $57
  • Historic Cork Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65

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.
    Cork 9.29
    Ljubljana 14

Tours and Activities in Cork

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Cork are as follows:

  • Blarney Castle Tour from Cork including Cobh: $60
  • Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Including The Wild Altanic Way: $53
  • Cliffs of Moher and More: Full-Day Tour from Cork: $52
  • Coastal Foraging and Folklore Tour: $55
  • Cork City Cycle Tour - Experience the beautiful and historic City by bike: $51
  • Cork City Gaol Admission Ticket: $14
  • Cork City Hop On/Off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Cork Culinary Tour: $128
  • Cork Culinary Tour: $142
  • Cork Delicious Donut Adventure by Underground Donut Tour: $65
  • Cork Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Cork Holiday Donut Adventure by Underground Donut Tour: $65

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
    Cork 13
    Ljubljana 11

Sample the Local Flavors in Cork

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cork:

  • Clonakilty Distillery Tour & Classic Whiskey Tasting: $22
  • Cork City: Rebel City Distillery Tour: $27
  • Rebel City Distillery Tour: $27
  • Midleton Distillery Tour with Whiskey Tasting: $32
  • Midleton Distillery Experience & Whiskey Tasting -Home of Jameson: $33
  • Whiskey Cocktail Making Class at Midleton Distillery: $64
  • Cork Irish Whiskey Cocktail Making Class at Midleton Distillery : $65
  • Midleton Distillery Behind the Scenes Tour & Tasting: $80
  • Blarney Castle Cork City and Jameson Distillery Semi Private Tour: $196
  • Private Cork City Tour, Kinsale and Jameson Distillery: $254

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


Which is Bigger, Cork or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Cork. When comparing the sizes of Cork 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 Cork 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 Cork or Ljubljana in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cork as well as Ljubljana. Most visitors come to Cork for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Cork is cooler than Ljubljana in the summer. The daily temperature in Cork averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. In the summer, Cork often gets less sunshine than Ljubljana. Cork gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Cork usually gets less rain in July than Ljubljana. Cork gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cork 16°C (60°F) 
    Ljubljana 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Cork or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Cork are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Cork because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, 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.

In the autumn, Cork is cooler than Ljubljana. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cork in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Cork usually receives less sunshine than Ljubljana during autumn. Cork gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. In October, Cork usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Cork gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cork 11°C (52°F) 
    Ljubljana 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Cork or Ljubljana in the Winter?

Both Ljubljana and Cork during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cork this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ljubljana. In January, Cork is generally much warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Cork average around 6°C (43°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Cork often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Cork gets 60 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cork. Cork usually gets more rain in January than Ljubljana. Cork gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cork 6°C (43°F) 
    Ljubljana 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Cork or Ljubljana in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cork and Ljubljana. Many travelers come to Cork for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Cork is cooler than Ljubljana in the spring. The daily temperature in Cork averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Cork usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana during spring. Cork gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun in the spring.

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Cork usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Cork gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cork 9°C (48°F) 
    Ljubljana 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Cork

Cork Ljubljana
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 98 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 101 mm (4 in) 2°C (36°F) 101 mm (4 in)