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

Should you visit Ljubljana or Cancun?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Ljubljana or Cancun, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

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.

Cancun

Cancun is a active, adventurous, and wild city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ljubljana and Cancun: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Ljubljana or Cancun?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cancun than Ljubljana. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cancun is very popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Ljubljana attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities. Cancun is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also well known for . Ljubljana is famous for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty.


How is Ljubljana different from Cancun?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ljubljana
Cancun

Cancun 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 Cancun can be an interesting and educational experience. It's possible to do a day trip to visit the impressive Chichén Itzá, but closer by you'll find El Rey Maya Ruins and El Meco Archaeological Site. You can also visit the Maya Museum in town. For something truly unique, you can take a diving or snorkeling trip to the Cancun Underwater 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 Ljubljana or Cancun? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ljubljana
Cancun

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Ljubljana and Cancun.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cancun. If you step away from the tourist scene, you'll find some amazing local restaurants that serve authentic and fresh Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes in the area include tamales, sopa de lima, and tacos al pastor.

Is Ljubljana or Cancun Better for Nightlife?

Ljubljana
Cancun

Cancun is renowned for nightlife. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for nightlife and partying.

Cancun is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.

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 Ljubljana or Cancun Better for Resorts?

Ljubljana
Cancun

Cancun is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Ljubljana is not a resort destination.

Cancun offers an unforgettable resort vacation. You'll find most of the accommodation options in the Hotel Zone, which runs along Boulevard Kukulkan. The stretch can be divided into three areas, which each have a slightly different personality.

Ljubljana is not a resort destination.


Is Ljubljana or Cancun Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ljubljana
Cancun

Cancun is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ljubljana is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Cancun specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. Beautiful reefs and world class dives make this a popular destination for those who want to explore the undersea world. You'll find plenty of snorkeling and dive excursions in the area with diverse coral and marine life.

Ljubljana is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ljubljana or Cancun Better for Beaches?

Ljubljana
Cancun

Cancun is renowned for its beaches. However, Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Cancun are among the best in the world. There are stunning white sand beaches and turquoise blue water that make this a beautiful beach destination. There are miles of sandy coastline with many of the beaches found in the Hotel Zone.

Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Is Ljubljana or Cancun Better for its Old Town?

Ljubljana
Cancun

Ljubljana is a very popular place for its old town. However, Cancun does not have a historic old town.

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.

Cancun does not have a historic old town.


Is Ljubljana or Cancun Better for Hiking?

Ljubljana
Cancun

Cancun is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Cancun has hiking trails worth exploring. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ljubljana or Cancun?

Ljubljana
Cancun

Ljubljana is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cancun 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 Cancun to go shopping. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

Is Ljubljana or Cancun Better for Families?

Ljubljana
Cancun

Cancun is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. However, Ljubljana is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Cancun is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Although this part of Mexico has long had a reputation for its party scene, the area also attracts many families, who come for the family-friendly resorts, world class snorkeling, and fascinating jungle tours. You can snorkel at the Garrafon Natural Reef Park or have fun on the water slides at Ventura Park. Xel-Ha Park is also worth a visit.

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 Ljubljana or Cancun Better for Couples?

Ljubljana
Cancun

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

Cancun has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. As a world class honeymoon destination, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a huge range of entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightlife scene or check out Cirque du Soleil. Sunset boat cruises and romantic horseback rides all make this an amazing honeymoon destination.

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 Ljubljana or Cancun Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ljubljana
Cancun

For backpackers, both Ljubljana and Cancun are excellent places to visit.

Ljubljana is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Cancun is a great capital city to visit for backpackers. Mixed in between the luxury resorts are a few hostels that cater to the backpacker crowd. There are so many activities in the area, from diving to partying, that appeal to the backpacker crowd, that it won't be long before you find your people.

Is Ljubljana or Cancun Better for Students?

Ljubljana
Cancun

Ljubljana is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Cancun 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.

Cancun is not popular with students.


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

Ljubljana
Cancun

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

While Ljubljana offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a city bus system.

Cancun has a few public transit options. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

Is Ljubljana or Cancun a more walkable city?

Ljubljana
Cancun

Ljubljana and Cancun are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

Cancun is a very walkable capital city. The Hotel Zone is where most tourists spend their time, and this area is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Cancun or Ljubljana?

How long in Ljubljana or Cancun?

Both Ljubljana and Cancun have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cancun than in Ljubljana. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ljubljana, and 4-7 days is enough time in Cancun.

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

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

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


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

One day in Ljubljana or Cancun?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Ljubljana. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Cancun. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.


A weekend in Ljubljana or Cancun?

Ljubljana is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the party-hard destination of Cancun. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Ljubljana or Cancun?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ljubljana. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the tropical city of Cancun. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Ljubljana or Cancun?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Ljubljana. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Cancun is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cancun, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun.


Which place is cheaper, Cancun or Ljubljana?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ljubljana is €86, while the average daily cost in Cancun is €135. 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 Ljubljana and Cancun in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Ljubljana or Cancun? 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 Ljubljana


Hotels in Cancun


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: Ljubljana Hotel Prices and Cancun Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ljubljana 21
    Cancun 16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ljubljana

Also for Ljubljana, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Slovenian Coast E-Bike Tour with Transfer from Ljubljana: $148
  • Private transfer from Žalec to Ljubljana city: $130
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Novo Mesto: $200
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Lipica: $218
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Krško: $257
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Kostanjevica na Krki: $261
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Kamnik : $74
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Ilirska Bistrica: $240
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Celje: $171
  • Private transfer from Sežana (Casino Safir) to Ljubljana city: $174
  • Private transfer from Postojna to Ljubljana city: $108
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana city to Slovenj Gradec: $203

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cancun

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Cancun:


  • Taxi Around Town
    1.53
  • Airport Shuttle (for 2)
    13
  • Ferry to Isla de Mujeres (for 2)
    15
  • Local Bus (for 2)
    1.86

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cancun

Also for Cancun, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private RoundTrip Transfer to Xplor Adventure Park from Cancun: $297
  • Limo Transfer Airport Cancun - Puerto Morelos Hotel Zone: $279
  • Transfers in Lincoln Strecth Limousine with Wi Fi on board: $261
  • Round trip private transfer VAN-Airport-Hotel-Airport-Playa del Carmen: $260
  • Round trip private transfer VAN-Airport-Hotel-Airport-Puerto Morelos: $260
  • Round trip Private airport transfer to Playa del Carmen Flat Rate per vehicle: $240
  • Full-Day Tour to Xcaret Plus with Transfer from Playa del Carmen and Lunch: $238
  • Airport Transfers to Costa Mujeres - Private van (ROUND TRIP) FLAT RATE: $231
  • Holbox Private Transfer from Cancun Hotels or Airport: $229
  • Private Transfer from Cancún Airport (CUN) to Tulum : $224
  • Private One Way Transfer from Cancun Airport to Tulum: $220
  • Private round airport transfer from Cancun - Puerto Aventuras - airport.: $210

Is it cheaper to fly into Ljubljana or Cancun?

Prices for flights to both Cancun and Ljubljana 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
    Ljubljana 17
    Cancun 26
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: $54
  • Traditional Slovenian Dinner and Show: $65
  • Cooking class; Traditional sLOVEnian štrukelj: $65
  • sLOVEnian Strukelj Traditional Cooking Class: $66
  • Traditional Slovenian Dinner and Performance: $74
  • Flavour of Slovenia: Very Small Group Food Tour in Ljubljana: $82
  • 3-Hour Food Tour: $91
  • Dinner in the Dark: $107
  • Šmarna Gora: Hiking and Food Tour from Ljubljana: $129
  • The 10 Tastings of Ljubljana Private Food Tour : $210

Typical Food Prices in Cancun

For Cancun, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    19

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cancun

For Cancun, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Captain Hook: Pirate Show and Dinner Cruise in Cancun: $46
  • Mayan Chichen Itza And Pirate Dinner Two Day Experience: $57
  • The Ultimate Cancun Taco & Street Mexican Food Tour: $59
  • Dinner Show with Pirates! (2x1 Price): $62
  • (2x1 price) Dinner Show and Pirates Experience : $63
  • (2x1 price) Pirate Night! Dinner, Fun and Show: $63
  • (2x1 price)Pirate Adventure! Open Bar, Dinner and Show : $63
  • Pirate Show and Dinner (2x1 price)! Best Promo : $64
  • Cancun Street Food Tour with Food Stalls, Local Market and Murals: $64
  • Private Ultimate Cancun Taco and Street Mexican Food Tour: $69
  • Guided Cancun Local Mexican Food Tour: $77
  • Cancun Authentic Downtown Food Tour: Tacos and Local Flavors: $78

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ljubljana 14
    Cancun 32
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-hour Bike Tour Ljubljana: $86
  • 8-Hour Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj and Waterfall Savica Tour: $88
  • Axe Throwing Experience in Ljubljana: $36
  • Best of Private tour with Ljubljana born guide: $161
  • Best of Piran, Portoroz, Strunjan, Izola, Koper (PRIVATE V.I.P. TOUR): $185
  • Broken Bones Gin Experience: $37
  • City Tour of Ljubljana: $175
  • Discover the land of green gold - Private tour from Ljubljana: $279
  • E-bike tour Škofja Loka: $131
  • E-bike tour Bled: $131

Typical Entertainment Prices in Cancun

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Cancun's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Seasick Pills
    0.55
  • Whale Shark Tour (for 2)
    93

Tours and Activities in Cancun

For Cancun, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • ATV Jungle Adventure with Ziplines, Cenote Transportation Included: $8.00
  • Bacalar tour + Lunch + Boat, from Cancun and Riviera Maya: $139
  • Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya With Snorkeling & Beach Club: $85
  • Full Day All Inclusive Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres : $99
  • Full Day Chichen-Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Complete Tour: $37
  • Holbox Island Magic Tour from Cancun : $144
  • LDS Tour to Chichen Itza + Cenote : $165
  • Party Adventure at Isla Mujeres from Cancun & Playa del Carmen: $93
  • Private Tour to Tulum Ruins and Cenotes : $257
  • Reef and Sunken Ship Snorkeling Experience in Cancun: $85
  • Riviera Maya Luxury Snorkeling Cruise with Lunch and Drinks: $139
  • (4x1) Full day tour to Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen : $48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ljubljana 11
    Cancun 12
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:

  • 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: $94
  • Food & Wine Tour Ljubljana - Local Foodie Adventure in Slovenia: $97
  • From Ljubjana: Slovenian Wine Tour: $193
  • Wine Tours in Slovenia: $218
  • Wine Tours Slovenia: $218
  • Wine Tour Slovenia: $261
  • Truffle Hunting & Wine Tasting In Istria (private V.i.p. Tour): $263

Sample the Local Flavors in Cancun

Also in Cancun, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Social Pub Crawl in Cancun: $37
  • Small Group EkBalam Pink Lakes Cenote and Tequila Distillery Tour: $287


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ljubljana and Cancun, we can see that Cancun is more expensive. And not only is Ljubljana much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Ljubljana is in Europe and Cancun is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Cancun would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cancun 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 Ljubljana Expensive? and Is Cancun Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ljubljana or Cancun?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Ljubljana. When comparing the sizes of Ljubljana and Cancun, 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.