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

Should you visit Graz or Ljubljana?

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

Should I visit Graz or Ljubljana? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Graz

Graz is a medieval, cultural, and historical city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a under-rated, authentic, and historic 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Graz and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Graz or Ljubljana?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ljubljana. Although Graz and Ljubljana are about the same size, Ljubljana has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ljubljana is very popular for its big city activities, while Graz attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and historical sights. Graz is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. Ljubljana is famous 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.

How is Graz different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Graz 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 Graz can be an interesting and educational experience. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

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 Graz or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Graz 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 Graz. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

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 Graz or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Graz 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 Graz has something for everybody. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

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 Graz or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Graz is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its old town.

The old town of Graz is one of the most recognized in the world. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

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 Graz or Ljubljana?

If you're looking to go shopping, Graz and Ljubljana both offer plenty of very good spots.

Graz is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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 Graz or Ljubljana Better for Families?

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

Graz is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

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 Graz or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

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

Graz is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

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 Graz or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many 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.

Graz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Is Graz or Ljubljana Better for Students?

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

Graz is a great city to visit as a student. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

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

Graz is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its public transit.

Visitors to Graz can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

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

Is Graz or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

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

Graz is a very easy city to get around on foot. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore 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 Graz Worth Visiting? and Is Ljubljana Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Graz?

How long in Graz or Ljubljana?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Graz and Ljubljana. In our opinion, Graz has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Graz than Ljubljana. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Graz, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ljubljana.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Graz 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 Graz.

One day in Graz or Ljubljana?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Graz. 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.

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 Graz or Ljubljana?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Graz. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic 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 Graz or Ljubljana?

Graz 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.

The authentic 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 Christmas Market Tours in Austria, The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria, 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 Graz and Ljubljana, we can see that Graz 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 Graz would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Graz 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 Graz Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Graz or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of Graz. When comparing the sizes of Graz 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 Graz 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 Graz or Ljubljana in the Summer?

Both Ljubljana and Graz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Graz for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Graz is generally around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 23°C (73°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Ljubljana. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Graz. Graz usually receives less sunshine than Ljubljana during summer. Graz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. It's quite rainy in Graz. In July, Graz usually receives around the same amount of rain as Ljubljana. Graz gets 126 mm (5 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Graz or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Graz during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Graz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Graz is around the same temperature as Ljubljana in the autumn. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Graz often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Graz gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun.

Ljubljana gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Graz usually gets less rain in October than Ljubljana. Graz gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Graz or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Graz and Ljubljana. Most visitors come to Graz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Ljubljana can be very cold. Graz can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Graz is around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Typically, the winter temperatures in Graz in January average around 1°C (34°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 1°C (34°F).

Graz usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during winter. Graz gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Graz usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Graz gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Graz or Ljubljana in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Graz as well as Ljubljana. The spring months attract visitors to Graz because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

In April, Graz is generally around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 13°C (55°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Graz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana. Graz gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Graz usually gets less rain in April than Ljubljana. Graz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Graz