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

Should you visit Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana?

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

Should I visit Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a breathtaking, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled ski resort. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

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.

Kitzbuhel and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kitzbuhel. Although Kitzbuhel and Ljubljana are popular destinations, Kitzbuhel has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kitzbuhel is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Ljubljana attracts visitors for its museums, shopping, and big city activities. Kitzbuhel is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities. It is also well known for The Kitzbüheler Horn. Ljubljana is famous for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty.

How is Kitzbuhel different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana Better for Skiing?

Kitzbuhel
Ljubljana

Kitzbuhel is renowned for skiing. However, Ljubljana is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Kitzbuhel is among the best in the world. There are four ski resorts near the village and 145 miles of slopes. Hahnenkamm Streif racecourse is world famous, but there are also 57 lifts that offer access to skiing for everyone from beginners to professionals. This is a world class ski area that is considered to be one of the best in the world. It attracts international skiers who come for the well maintained slopes and world class skiing.

Ljubljana is not a skiing destination.


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

Kitzbuhel
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Kitzbuhel is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Kitzbuhel offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors come for the skiing and outdoor adventures, not the museums and historical sights. But you can visit the St. Andreas Parish Church, Museum Kitzbühel, or the Liebfrauenkirche while you're in town.

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

Kitzbuhel
Ljubljana

Kitzbuhel is a great ski resort 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 Kitzbuhel. There's a diverse food scene with everything from rustic inns to award-winning fine dining experiences. You'll find both local dishes and international flavors around town 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 Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Kitzbuhel
Ljubljana

Kitzbuhel is a great ski resort for nightlife. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Kitzbuhel has something for everybody. The nightlife scene offers everything from wine bars to high end cocktail bars or local pubs with beer on tap. There are also dance clubs and other party areas where visitors dance until the early morning hours.

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 Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Kitzbuhel
Ljubljana

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Kitzbuhel. The town center is compact and charming with restaurants, churches, and shopping. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

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 Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana Better for Hiking?

Kitzbuhel
Ljubljana

Kitzbuhel is renowned for hiking. However, Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Kitzbuhel draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. During the summer months the area is filled with miles of stunning hikes. There's the famous Kitzbüheler Horn, as well as more relaxing mountain strolls. You'll enjoy breathtaking views and serene mountain pastures.

Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana?

Kitzbuhel
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort 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 Kitzbuhel to go shopping. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.


Is Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Kitzbuhel
Ljubljana

Kitzbuhel is a great ski resort for its kid-friendly activities. However, Ljubljana is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Kitzbuhel is a very family-friendly destination. This is a family-friendly ski area that has child care available in several places as well as kids slopes and other family friendly things to do. During the summer months there's hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventure 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 Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Kitzbuhel
Ljubljana

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

Kitzbuhel is a great ski resort if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy skiing, winter sports, and other outdoor adventures will truly appreciate a visit. It makes for an adrenaline filled holiday that is both romantic and fun.

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 Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kitzbuhel
Ljubljana

For backpackers, both Kitzbuhel and Ljubljana are very good places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Kitzbuhel. There are several hostels near town that cater to the budget crowd. There's also a large number of skiing and sport enthusiasts so its not hard to meet other likeminded travelers.

Ljubljana is a very popular ski resort 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 Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Kitzbuhel
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

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

Kitzbuhel
Ljubljana

Kitzbuhel and Ljubljana both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Kitzbuhel offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses that connect the town to other nearby villages. During the winter months are are ski buses that take skiers to the ski areas.

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

Is Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Kitzbuhel
Ljubljana

Kitzbuhel and Ljubljana are very good when it comes to walkability.

Kitzbuhel is a very walkable ski resort. The town is small and compact enough to explore on foot.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Kitzbuhel?

How long in Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kitzbuhel and Ljubljana. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kitzbuhel than in Ljubljana. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Kitzbuhel, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ljubljana.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kitzbuhel 4-7 
    Ljubljana 1-3

One day in Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana?

Even though Kitzbuhel is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

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 Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana?

Kitzbuhel is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This ski resort 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 Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana?

Kitzbuhel is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this ski resort makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this ski resort has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming 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 Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana?

Kitzbuhel is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kitzbuhel, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Budget Tours to Austria, The Best Luxury Tours to Austria, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.


Which place is cheaper, Ljubljana or Kitzbuhel?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kitzbuhel is €179, while the average daily cost in Ljubljana is €86. 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 Kitzbuhel and Ljubljana in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kitzbuhel 89
    Ljubljana 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kitzbuhel 178
    Ljubljana 108
Compare Hotels in Kitzbuhel and Ljubljana

Looking for a hotel in Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel


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: Kitzbuhel Hotel Prices and Ljubljana Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kitzbuhel 69
    Ljubljana 21

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 Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana?

Prices for flights to both Ljubljana and Kitzbuhel 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
    Kitzbuhel 48
    Ljubljana 17

Typical Food Prices in Ljubljana

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


  • Horsemeat Hot Dog
    2.00

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.
    Kitzbuhel 34
    Ljubljana 14

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)
    8.00

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
    Kitzbuhel 11
    Ljubljana 11

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)
    6.00

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


Which is Bigger, Kitzbuhel or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kitzbuhel. When comparing the sizes of Kitzbuhel 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.