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

Should you visit Heraklion 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 Heraklion 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.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a bustling, historic, and vibrant 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 historic, charming, and under-rated 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Ljubljana?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Heraklion than Ljubljana. While Ljubljana is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Heraklion is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and beaches, while Ljubljana attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Palace of Knossos. Ljubljana is famous for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty.

How is Heraklion different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Heraklion 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 Heraklion can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

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 Heraklion or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Heraklion 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 Heraklion. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

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 Heraklion or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion 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 Heraklion has something for everybody. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

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 Heraklion or Ljubljana Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a great city for its beaches. However, Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Heraklion. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Ljubljana is a very popular place for its old town. However, Heraklion 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.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Heraklion to go shopping. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Is Heraklion or Ljubljana Better for Families?

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

Heraklion offers lots of family activities. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water Park.

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 Heraklion or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

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

Heraklion is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

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 Heraklion or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Ljubljana are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Ljubljana is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Heraklion or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Ljubljana is a capital city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Plenty of students 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.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Heraklion and Ljubljana.

Heraklion has some public transit options. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

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

Is Heraklion or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Ljubljana are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Heraklion is a very walkable city. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Ljubljana?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Heraklion. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heraklion has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A weekend in Heraklion or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the accessible destination of Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Ljubljana. 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 capital city has to offer. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling city of Heraklion. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic capital city of Ljubljana. 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.

A week in Heraklion or Ljubljana?

Heraklion is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, 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 Heraklion and Ljubljana, we can see that Heraklion 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 Heraklion would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Heraklion 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 Heraklion Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 86% larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion 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 Heraklion 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 Heraklion or Ljubljana in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Ljubljana. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ljubljana this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun in the summer.

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Ljubljana. The autumn months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, 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.

Heraklion is much warmer than Ljubljana in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Ljubljana. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Ljubljana in the Winter?

Both Ljubljana and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ljubljana. In the winter, Heraklion is much warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 1°C (34°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Ljubljana. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Ljubljana in the Spring?

Both Ljubljana and Heraklion during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun.

Ljubljana gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Ljubljana. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Heraklion