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

Should you visit Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Lofoten Islands and Ljubljana can help you decide which place is right for you.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a quaint, spectacular, and dramatic archipelago. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a authentic, historic, and charming 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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lofoten Islands and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ljubljana. Although Lofoten Islands and Ljubljana are popular destinations, Ljubljana has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ljubljana is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Lofoten Islands attracts visitors for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lofoten Islands is famous for its dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful fjords, remote setting, and colorful houses. Ljubljana is famous for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty. It is also well known for The Ljubljana Castle.

How is Lofoten Islands different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana?

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Lofoten Islands and Ljubljana.

Lofoten Islands offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The charming towns often have local museums that highlight the region's history and culture. The Lofoten War Memorial Museum is in the town of Svolvaer. The Lofotr Viking Museum is on the island of Vestvågøy and the Lofoten Museum is in Kabelvåg.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ljubljana. 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 Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lofoten Islands is a great archipelago 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 Lofoten Islands. Fish and lamb are both common at most restaurants in the area. The food is fresh, delicious, and filling, and although it's expensive, it's also high quality and uniquely local.

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 Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Ljubljana is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Lofoten Islands. Some towns have local bars and pubs that are fun places to grab a drink.

Is Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana Better for Beaches?

Lofoten Islands is a great archipelago for its beaches. However, Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Lofoten Islands. Most people don't think of the Arctic when they think about beaches, but these islands have long sandy beaches that meet blue waters. They're tucked in between valleys and mountains and offer a surreal Arctic landscape.

Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Is Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Lofoten Islands and Ljubljana are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Lofoten Islands. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

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.

Is Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana Better for Hiking?

Lofoten Islands is renowned for hiking. However, Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Lofoten Islands draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. It's remote setting and dramatic scenery lead to some truly breathtaking hikes. You'll find trails that pass by beautiful beaches, climb spectacular peaks, and wander through the beautiful countryside. Reinebringen, Horseid Beach, and Bunes Beach are among the favorite hikes in the area.

Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lofoten Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its shopping areas.

Ljubljana is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Lofoten Islands has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are quirky local shops that sell local art, food, and merchandise.

Is Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Lofoten Islands is a great archipelago for its kid-friendly activities. However, Ljubljana is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Lofoten Islands is a very family-friendly destination. Outdoor adventures await at this breathtaking archipelago. There's kayaking, hiking, whale watch, and even a few Viking museums that the kids will enjoy.

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 Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

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

Lofoten Islands has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Stunning views, dramatic fjords, and world class outdoor adventures make this an amazing romantic destination for couples. If you enjoy the outdoors and adventure activities, then there is no shortage of opportunities to explore here.

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 Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Lofoten Islands and Ljubljana are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Lofoten Islands is a great archipelago to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels around but transportation can be a bit tricky.

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.

Is Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Ljubljana is very good for students. However, Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

Ljubljana is a good capital city to visit for 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.

Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

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

Ljubljana is very good for its public transit. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Lofoten Islands. There are buses and ferries, but the service is limited, although reliable.

Is Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Ljubljana is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its ease of walking around.

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

Lofoten Islands is not a very walkable archipelago. Although the area is filled with hikes, you really must have a car if you hope to explore it with flexibility and accessibility.

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Lofoten Islands?

How long in Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ljubljana than Lofoten Islands 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 Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana?

You'll find shopping and museums around the archipelago of Lofoten Islands. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

The historic destination of Ljubljana offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums and food around the dramatic destination of Lofoten Islands. 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 archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The capital city of Ljubljana offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming archipelago of Lofoten Islands. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this archipelago makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer.

Ljubljana is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This capital city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lofoten Islands or Ljubljana?

Lofoten Islands is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lofoten Islands, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ljubljana. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lofoten Islands and Ljubljana, we can see that Ljubljana is more expensive. And not only is Lofoten Islands much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lofoten Islands would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lofoten Islands 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 Ljubljana would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ljubljana than you might in Lofoten Islands.

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