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

Should you visit Dublin or Ljubljana?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Dublin or Ljubljana, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Dublin

Dublin is a laid-back, friendly, and welcoming city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

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.

Dublin and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dublin or Ljubljana?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dublin than Ljubljana. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Dublin is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and music, while Ljubljana attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Dublin is more touristy than Ljubljana and is popular for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. It is also well known for The Guinness Storehouse. Ljubljana is famous for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty.

How is Dublin different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dublin 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 Dublin can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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 Dublin or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Dublin and Ljubljana.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Dublin. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

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 Dublin or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

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

Dublin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

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 Dublin or Ljubljana Better for Music?

Dublin is a great city for live music. However, Ljubljana is not a live music destination.

Dublin has a thriving music scene. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Ljubljana is not a live music destination.

Is Dublin or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Dublin and Ljubljana both have superb historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Dublin to see the historical old town. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Dublin or Ljubljana?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Ljubljana and Dublin.

Dublin is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Ljubljana. The city has several shopping streets where you can find local and international fashion brands. Many people enjoy shopping for crystal and glass products in the city. Also check out the Central Market which has fresh local food products.

Is Dublin or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Dublin is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. However, Ljubljana is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Dublin is a very family-friendly destination. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

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 Dublin or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

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

Dublin is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway 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.

Is Dublin or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin and Ljubljana are superb places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dublin is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Is Dublin or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Dublin and Ljubljana are nice places to visit for students.

Dublin is popular with students. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

It's common for students to 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.

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

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

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

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

Is Dublin or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

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

Dublin is a very easy city to get around on foot. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or Ljubljana?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dublin and Ljubljana. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dublin than in Ljubljana. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Dublin, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ljubljana.

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

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

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

One day in Dublin or Ljubljana?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Dublin. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Ljubljana. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Dublin or Ljubljana?

You'll find live music and food around the friendly destination of Dublin. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Ljubljana is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Dublin or Ljubljana?

You'll find food and shopping around the fun city of Dublin. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ljubljana. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Dublin or Ljubljana?

Dublin 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Ljubljana. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland, 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 Dublin and Ljubljana, we can see that Dublin 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 Dublin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dublin 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 Dublin Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dublin or Ljubljana?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Ljubljana. When comparing the sizes of Dublin 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 Dublin 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 Dublin or Ljubljana in the Summer?

Both Ljubljana and Dublin during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Dublin because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

In July, Dublin is generally cooler than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 16°C (60°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Ljubljana, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Ljubljana. Dublin gets 166 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. Dublin usually gets less rain in July than Ljubljana. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dublin and Ljubljana. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Dublin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Dublin is cooler than Ljubljana in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Ljubljana during autumn. Dublin gets 97 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, Dublin usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dublin or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dublin as well as Ljubljana. Many travelers come to Dublin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ljubljana can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Dublin is much warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dublin in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Dublin often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Dublin gets 56 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets less rain in January than Ljubljana. Dublin gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or Ljubljana in the Spring?

Both Ljubljana and Dublin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Dublin in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Dublin is generally cooler than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 8°C (47°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Dublin usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana during spring. Dublin gets 157 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, Dublin usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Dublin gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Dublin