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

Should you visit Ljubljana or Pittsburgh?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Ljubljana or Pittsburgh, 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 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.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a industrial, authentic, and under-rated 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 and Pittsburgh: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Ljubljana or Pittsburgh?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Ljubljana than Pittsburgh. While Pittsburgh is larger than Ljubljana, Ljubljana has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Ljubljana is better known for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pittsburgh is more popular for its museums and nightlife. Ljubljana is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is 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. Pittsburgh is well known for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".

How is Ljubljana different from Pittsburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh?

Ljubljana
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

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 Pittsburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ljubljana
Pittsburgh

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Ljubljana and Pittsburgh.

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 Pittsburgh. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Is Ljubljana or Pittsburgh Better for Nightlife?

Ljubljana
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh has something for everybody. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

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 Pittsburgh Better for its Old Town?

Ljubljana
Pittsburgh

Ljubljana is great for its historic old town charm. However, Pittsburgh does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Ljubljana to see the historical old town. 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.

Pittsburgh does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Ljubljana or Pittsburgh?

Ljubljana
Pittsburgh

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

Pittsburgh is a great destination for shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.

Is Ljubljana or Pittsburgh Better for Families?

Ljubljana
Pittsburgh

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

Pittsburgh offers lots of family activities. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

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 Pittsburgh Better for Couples?

Ljubljana
Pittsburgh

Ljubljana is a nice place to visit for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

Ljubljana is a good capital city for couples to visit. 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.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.


Is Ljubljana or Pittsburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ljubljana
Pittsburgh

Ljubljana is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.

Is Ljubljana or Pittsburgh Better for Students?

Ljubljana
Pittsburgh

Ljubljana is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not popular with students.

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

Ljubljana
Pittsburgh

Ljubljana and Pittsburgh both offer notable 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.

Pittsburgh has a few public transit options. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.


Is Ljubljana or Pittsburgh a more walkable city?

Ljubljana
Pittsburgh

Ljubljana is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Pittsburgh is somewhat walkable. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pittsburgh or Ljubljana?

How long in Ljubljana or Pittsburgh?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ljubljana and Pittsburgh. In our opinion, Ljubljana has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ljubljana than Pittsburgh. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ljubljana, and 2-3 days is enough time in Pittsburgh.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Ljubljana or Pittsburgh? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ljubljana 1-3 
    Pittsburgh 2-3

One day in Ljubljana or Pittsburgh?

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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Pittsburgh. 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.


Five days in Ljubljana or Pittsburgh?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the industrial city of Pittsburgh. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Ljubljana or Pittsburgh?

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.

Pittsburgh is a popular choice for travelers. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Pittsburgh or Ljubljana?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ljubljana is $93, while the average daily cost in Pittsburgh is $181. 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 Pittsburgh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ljubljana $58
    Pittsburgh $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ljubljana $116
    Pittsburgh $212
Compare Hotels in Ljubljana and Pittsburgh

Looking for a hotel in Ljubljana or Pittsburgh? 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 Pittsburgh


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 Pittsburgh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ljubljana $22
    Pittsburgh $22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ljubljana

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

  • Private Transfer from Budapest to Ljubljana: $527
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana to Rovinj: $495
  • Guided Truffle Hunting Tour with Hotel Transfers: $377
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Koper: $296
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Kostanjevica na Krki: $261
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Krško: $257
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Maribor: $256
  • Private Transfer from Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to Izola: $246
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana city to Piran: $246
  • Private transfer from Ljubljana city to Portoroz: $240
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Ilirska Bistrica: $240
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Lipica: $218

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $97
  • Pittsburgh City to Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Ljubljana or Pittsburgh?

Prices for flights to both Pittsburgh 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 $18
    Pittsburgh $54
Typical Food Prices in Ljubljana

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


  • Horsemeat Hot Dog
    $2.14

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70
  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ljubljana $15
    Pittsburgh $38
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)
    $8.57

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

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pittsburgh.

  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour of Pittsburgh: $33
  • Bike the Burgh Tour: $50
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $33
  • Discover Oakland Tour: $33
  • Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.22
  • Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections: $7.00
  • Essential Pittsburgh Experience - The One Tour to Take: $75
  • HOP ON-HOP OFF TOUR PASS- All Day Sightseeing Tour Pass: $40
  • JUST THE TOUR - Double Decker bus sightseeing tour of Pittsburgh.: $35
  • New! Art & Artists Tour: $33
  • New! Bikes & Brews Tour: $75
  • Pittsburg 101 Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ljubljana $12
    Pittsburgh $33
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)
    $6.43

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 Pittsburgh

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Pittsburgh:

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • New! Bites & Brews: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $50
  • Bike and Brewery Tour: $69
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ljubljana and Pittsburgh, we can see that Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ljubljana or Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Ljubljana. When comparing the sizes of Ljubljana and Pittsburgh, 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.