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

Should you visit Hydra or Ljubljana?

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

Should I visit Hydra 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.

Hydra

Hydra is a picturesque, charming, and accessible island. 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 hiking, shopping, and museums.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a charming, under-rated, and authentic capital city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hydra and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Ljubljana?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Ljubljana are both popular with visitors, Hydra has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hydra is more popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Ljubljana is known for its nightlife and big city activities. Hydra is more touristy than Ljubljana and is popular for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. It is also home to The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Ljubljana is popular for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty.

How is Hydra different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hydra is a great island 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 Hydra can be an interesting and educational experience. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

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 Hydra or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Hydra and Ljubljana both to be good destinations.

Hydra offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

Ljubljana has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Hydra or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Ljubljana is a popular place for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Ljubljana has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Hydra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

Is Hydra or Ljubljana Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Ljubljana is not a resort destination.

Hydra has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Ljubljana is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Ljubljana Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ljubljana is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hydra has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Ljubljana is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Ljubljana Better for Beaches?

Hydra is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Hydra has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the very good old towns in both Hydra and Ljubljana.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Hydra. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its atmosphere.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Is Hydra or Ljubljana Better for Hiking?

Hydra is a great island for hiking. However, Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Hydra for the hiking trails. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Ljubljana?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Ljubljana and Hydra.

Hydra is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

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.

Is Hydra or Ljubljana Better for Families?

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

Hydra is a very family-friendly destination. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

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 Hydra or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

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

Hydra has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

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 Hydra or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ljubljana is a great destination for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

Is Hydra or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Ljubljana is a popular place for students. However, Hydra is not popular with students.

Ljubljana is popular with 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.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Ljubljana is a popular place for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

Is Hydra or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

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

Hydra is a very easy island to get around on foot. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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

One day in Hydra or Ljubljana?

Even though Hydra is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hydra has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Ljubljana, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this under-rated destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Hydra or Ljubljana?

Hydra is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and 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 island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ljubljana. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Hydra or Ljubljana?

Hydra 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. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Ljubljana is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Ljubljana. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hydra or Ljubljana?

Hydra 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Ljubljana. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.

When comparing the travel costs between Hydra and Ljubljana, we can see that Hydra is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hydra Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra 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 Hydra 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 Hydra or Ljubljana in the Summer?

Both Ljubljana and Hydra during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hydra for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Hydra is a little warmer than Ljubljana in the summer. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Ljubljana, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the summer, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Hydra gets 357 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. Hydra usually gets less rain in July than Ljubljana. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Ljubljana. Many visitors come to Hydra in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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.

In the autumn, Hydra is a little warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hydra in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during autumn. Hydra gets 206 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, Hydra usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Ljubljana. Most visitors come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. In January, Hydra is generally much warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 10°C (51°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in January than Ljubljana. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Ljubljana in the Spring?

Both Ljubljana and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

Hydra is a little warmer than Ljubljana in the spring. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during spring. Hydra gets 226 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, Hydra usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Hydra