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

Should you visit Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a energetic, lively, and charming town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a under-rated, authentic, and historic capital city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Heidelberg and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heidelberg or Ljubljana?

You'll generally find more things to do in Ljubljana than Heidelberg. Ljubljana is bigger than Heidelberg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ljubljana is better known for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Heidelberg is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Heidelberg is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. Ljubljana is well known for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty. Also, Ljubljana is famous for The Ljubljana Castle.

How is Heidelberg different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ljubljana is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ljubljana. 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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Heidelberg is a great town 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 Heidelberg. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

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 Heidelberg or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Heidelberg has something for everybody. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

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 Heidelberg or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg is one of the most recognized in the world. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

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 Heidelberg or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana is a great capital city for its shopping areas. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

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.

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Is Heidelberg or Ljubljana Better for Families?

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

Heidelberg offers lots of family activities. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and 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 Heidelberg or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

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

Heidelberg is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great 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 Heidelberg or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Heidelberg and Ljubljana are great places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

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.

Is Heidelberg or Ljubljana Better for Students?

For students, both Heidelberg and Ljubljana are notable places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Heidelberg. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Ljubljana is a good town 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 Heidelberg or Ljubljana Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Heidelberg is a great town 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 Heidelberg can move around easily with public transportation. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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

Is Heidelberg or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Heidelberg and Ljubljana are great when it comes to walkability.

Heidelberg is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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

One day in Heidelberg or Ljubljana?

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint town of Heidelberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heidelberg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and nightlife around the charming capital city of Ljubljana, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ljubljana, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Heidelberg or Ljubljana?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the lively destination of Heidelberg. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Ljubljana, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this capital city.

Five days in Heidelberg or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the energetic town of Heidelberg. 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.

Ljubljana, a popular capital city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Heidelberg or Ljubljana?

Heidelberg 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.

Ljubljana is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, 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 Heidelberg and Ljubljana, we can see that Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Heidelberg. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg or Ljubljana in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Heidelberg is around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heidelberg in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Ljubljana. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heidelberg. Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Ljubljana during summer. Heidelberg gets 224 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. In July, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Heidelberg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene 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 October, Heidelberg is generally around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 12°C (54°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Ljubljana. Heidelberg gets 102 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. Heidelberg usually gets less rain in October than Ljubljana. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Ljubljana. The winter months attract visitors to Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg can be very cold. Heidelberg is much warmer than Ljubljana in the winter. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Ljubljana during winter. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Ljubljana in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Heidelberg is around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heidelberg in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Heidelberg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana. Heidelberg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Heidelberg usually gets less rain in April than Ljubljana. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Heidelberg