A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Flam vs. Ljubljana for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Flam 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 Flam 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.

Flam

Flam is a beautiful, natural, and breathtaking village. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food and hiking.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a under-rated, authentic, and historic 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Flam 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
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
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
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Flam or Ljubljana?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ljubljana. Although Flam and Ljubljana are both popular with visitors, Ljubljana has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ljubljana is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Flam is known for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Flam is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its beautiful fjords and natural beauty as well as its popularity as a cruise ship port. 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 Flam different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Flam
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Flam is not known for its sights and museums.

Ljubljana is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Flam offers a few options for museum-goers. Hiking and natural beauty is why you visit this area, but there is the Flam Railway Museum that you can visit as well.


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

Flam
Ljubljana

Flam is a great village 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 Flam. Local restaurants make use of seasonal ingredients and local fish and meat. You'll also find many berries and a local goat cheese at many restaurants as well.

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 Flam or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Flam
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a good destination for nightlife. However, Flam is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Ljubljana has a few options to choose from. Given its small size, there are a surprising number of clubs and bars in town. The city has a vibrant energy in the evening, and it's easy to travel from venue to venue on foot.

Most people don't head to Flam specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Most people visit as a day trip, so you won't find a huge nightlife scene in this small town. There are some local bars and breweries around town though.

Is Flam or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Flam
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a great capital city for its historic old town. However, Flam does not have a historic 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.

Flam does not have a historic old town.


Is Flam or Ljubljana Better for Hiking?

Flam
Ljubljana

Flam is a great village for hiking. However, Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Flam for the hiking trails. There are many great hikes just outside of town that are varied in length and challenge level. Both tourists and locals enjoy hiking in the area, so you'll get some of the best advice on where to go from any locals that you meet. Popular trails include the Flåmsdalen hike from Myrdal to Flam and the hike to Brekkefossen Waterfall.

Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Flam or Ljubljana?

Flam
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a great capital city for shopping. However, Flam is not known for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Flam has some nice offerings. There are some shopping centers and malls near town where you can grab anything you may have forgotten.

Is Flam or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Flam
Ljubljana

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

Flam is a very family-friendly destination. The fjords and mountain beauty make this a great place for a family adventure. Myrkdalen is also just 45 minutes away by car and it's filled with many mountain activities.

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 Flam or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Flam
Ljubljana

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

Flam is a great village if you're traveling as a couple. Stunning natural beauty and dramatic fjords make this a great romantic destination. Couples who enjoy hiking and explore nature will enjoy days in this special place.

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 Flam or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Flam
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a great capital city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for backpackers.

Ljubljana is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Although its not as popular as many of the more well known cities, this is an affordable option that is great for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Flam. There are a few hostels in the area that help keeps prices more affordable for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Flam or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Flam
Ljubljana

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

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.

Flam is not popular with students.


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

Flam
Ljubljana

Flam and Ljubljana both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Flam offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a local bus service through the area.

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

Is Flam or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Flam
Ljubljana

Flam and Ljubljana are great when it comes to walkability.

Flam is very walkable. There are many great walks in the area.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Flam?

How long in Flam or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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

One day in Flam or Ljubljana?

Even though Flam is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Flam 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 Flam or Ljubljana?

Flam is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer. This village 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 Flam or Ljubljana?

Flam 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. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic 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 Flam or Ljubljana?

Flam is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 historic 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 Adventure Tours to Norway, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Norway, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.


Which place is cheaper, Ljubljana or Flam?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Flam is $111, while the average daily cost in Ljubljana is $93. 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 Flam and Ljubljana in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Flam $58
    Ljubljana $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Flam $116
    Ljubljana $116
Compare Hotels in Flam and Ljubljana

Looking for a hotel in Flam 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 Flam


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.
    Flam $17
    Ljubljana $22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ljubljana

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

  • Private Transfer from Budapest to Ljubljana: $524
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana to Rovinj: $492
  • Guided Truffle Hunting Tour with Hotel Transfers: $374
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana city to Ptuj: $288
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Pohorje: $286
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Koper: $267
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana city to Bovec: $266
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Krško: $257
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Maribor: $256
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana city to Maribor: $254
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana city to Piran: $246
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Ilirska Bistrica: $239

Is it cheaper to fly into Flam or Ljubljana?

Prices for flights to both Ljubljana and Flam 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
    Flam $36
    Ljubljana $18

Typical Food Prices in Ljubljana

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Ljubljana:


  • Horsemeat Hot Dog
    $2.14

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.
    Flam $17
    Ljubljana $15

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)
    $8.57

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
    Flam $3.68
    Ljubljana $12

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)
    $6.43

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


Which is Bigger, Flam or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 510 times larger than the population of Flam. When comparing the sizes of Flam 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 Flam 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 Flam or Ljubljana in the Summer?

Both Ljubljana and Flam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Flam in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Flam is much colder than Ljubljana in the summer. The daily temperature in Flam averages around 15°C (58°F) in July, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. It's quite rainy in Flam. In July, Flam usually receives more rain than Ljubljana. Flam gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Flam 15°C (58°F) 
    Ljubljana 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Flam or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Flam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Flam for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, 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, Flam is cooler than Ljubljana. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Flam in October average around 9°C (48°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Ljubljana gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Flam. Flam usually gets more rain in October than Ljubljana. Flam gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Flam 9°C (48°F) 
    Ljubljana 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Flam or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Flam and Ljubljana. The winter months attract visitors to Flam because of the shopping scene 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. The weather in Flam can be very cold. In January, Flam is generally much warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Flam average around 2°C (35°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Flam gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Flam usually receives more rain than Ljubljana. Flam gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Flam 2°C (35°F) 
    Ljubljana 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Flam or Ljubljana in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Flam as well as Ljubljana. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Flam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Flam is much colder than Ljubljana in the spring. The daily temperature in Flam averages around 6°C (43°F) in April, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Flam receives a lot of rain in the spring. Flam usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Ljubljana. Flam gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Flam 6°C (43°F) 
    Ljubljana 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Flam

Flam Ljubljana
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 2°C (35°F) 152 mm (6 in) 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Mar 4°C (38°F) 170 mm (6.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 98 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 114 mm (4.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 11°C (51°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Jul 15°C (58°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Sep 12°C (53°F) 283 mm (11.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 259 mm (10.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 235 mm (9.3 in) 2°C (36°F) 101 mm (4 in)