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

Should you visit Ljubljana or Portland?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Ljubljana or Portland, 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a laid-back, progressive, and quirky city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Ljubljana and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ljubljana or Portland?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Ljubljana than Portland. While Portland is larger than Ljubljana, Ljubljana has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Ljubljana is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Portland is known for its music, hiking, and small town charm. Portland is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. Ljubljana is popular for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty. It is also home to The Ljubljana Castle.

How is Ljubljana different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ljubljana is a capital city with good options for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Ljubljana is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Ljubljana is a capital city with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Ljubljana or Portland Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Ljubljana and Portland.

If you're looking for night time activities Ljubljana has a few options to choose from. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Ljubljana or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Ljubljana is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Portland active and fun. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Ljubljana is not a live music destination.

Is Ljubljana or Portland Better for its Old Town?

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

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Ljubljana or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is a great city for hiking. However, Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ljubljana or Portland?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Ljubljana or Portland Better for Families?

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

Portland offers lots of family activities. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

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 Portland Better for Couples?

Ljubljana and Portland are both good to visit as a couple.

Ljubljana is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Ljubljana or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Ljubljana and Portland are high quality 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.

Portland is a great capital city to visit for backpackers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Is Ljubljana or Portland Better for Students?

For students, both Ljubljana and Portland are good places to visit.

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.

Portland is a good capital city to visit for students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

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

Ljubljana and Portland both offer good 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.

Portland has a few public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Ljubljana or Portland a more walkable city?

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

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

Portland is a very walkable capital city. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Ljubljana?

How long in Ljubljana or Portland?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Ljubljana than Portland. 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 Portland 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 Ljubljana or Portland?

The capital city of Ljubljana offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find live music and shopping around the city of Portland. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Portland?

Ljubljana is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this capital city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ljubljana, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the eclectic destination of Portland. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Ljubljana or Portland?

Ljubljana is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the scenic city of Portland. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Ljubljana or Portland?

Ljubljana is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This capital city offers something for everyone.

Portland is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Ljubljana or Portland?

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

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 Ljubljana or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ljubljana and Portland. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Ljubljana is around the same temperature as Portland in the summer. The daily temperature in Ljubljana averages around 22°C (72°F) in July, and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Ljubljana, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ljubljana usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Ljubljana gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

Ljubljana gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Ljubljana usually receives more rain than Portland. Ljubljana gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ljubljana or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ljubljana as well as Portland. Many travelers come to Ljubljana for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Ljubljana is around the same temperature as Portland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ljubljana in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Portland averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Ljubljana often gets less sunshine than Portland. Ljubljana gets 116 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Ljubljana usually gets more rain in October than Portland. Ljubljana gets 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ljubljana or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Ljubljana are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Ljubljana in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Portland can be very cold during winter. Ljubljana can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Ljubljana is generally much colder than Portland. Daily temperatures in Ljubljana average around 1°C (34°F), and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Ljubljana usually receives less sunshine than Portland during winter. Ljubljana gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, Ljubljana usually receives less rain than Portland. Ljubljana gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ljubljana or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Ljubljana during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Ljubljana for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Portland because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Ljubljana is a little warmer than Portland in the spring. The daily temperature in Ljubljana averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Ljubljana often gets less sunshine than Portland. Ljubljana gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. Ljubljana usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Ljubljana gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Ljubljana