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

Should you visit Mainz or Ljubljana?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Mainz and Ljubljana can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Mainz

Mainz is a beautiful, peaceful, and historic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

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.

Mainz and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Mainz or Ljubljana?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ljubljana than Mainz, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Ljubljana is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mainz is known for its food and impressive beauty. Mainz is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its quaint old town, Roman heritage, and beautiful town squares. 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 Mainz different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Mainz
Ljubljana

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Mainz or Ljubljana.

Mainz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's an old university town with a number of historical sights. Check out the Church of St. Stephan, Mainz Cathedral, the Gutenberg Museum, and the Museum of Ancient Seafaring.

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 Mainz or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mainz
Ljubljana

Mainz is a great town 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 Mainz. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes that serve local food. There are also wine taverns where you can sample the local wines and dine of regional specialties.

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 Mainz or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Mainz
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a capital city with good options for nightlife. However, Mainz is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Mainz. It's a sleepy little town, so even locals often head to bigger cities for better nightlife.

Is Mainz or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Mainz
Ljubljana

Both Mainz and Ljubljana have high quality historic old towns worth visiting.

Mainz is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Filled with beautiful squares and cobblestone streets, this is a nice old town in a pleasant city.

There are many historical things to see 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 the Shopping Better in Mainz or Ljubljana?

Mainz
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Mainz 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.

Mainz offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the boulevard of Am Brand near the cathedral for some of the town's best shopping. There are shops that line the street and it's a nice area to walk around.

Is Mainz or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Mainz
Ljubljana

Neither Mainz nor Ljubljana are considered to be the most family-friendly destination.

Mainz is not always a place people visit with their families. Kids will enjoy the Gutenburg Museum and the outdoor spaces where they can run around. There's also a nice old town that everyone will have fun exploring.

Ljubljana doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. 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 Mainz or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Mainz
Ljubljana

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

Mainz is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Located on the Rhine River, this scenic setting is popular for river cruises. The town is nice to explore on its own, or you can hop around and take in several of the German river towns. You can also sit at outdoor cafes and sip local wine.

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 Mainz or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mainz
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Mainz. The town is popular with river cruises but you'll also find a hostel or two where budget travelers can save some money and meet other backpackers.

Is Mainz or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Mainz
Ljubljana

Mainz is a great town for its student-friendly activities. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for students.

Mainz is a great town to visit as a student. It's a university town with a pleasant atmosphere and a beautiful setting.

Ljubljana is a good town 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.

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

Mainz
Ljubljana

Mainz is a great town for times when you don't have a car. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its public transit.

Visitors to Mainz can move around easily with public transportation. There are regional trains that make it easy to use Mainz as a base to explore the area, or you could visit Mainz as a day trip from another nearby town.

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


Is Mainz or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Mainz
Ljubljana

Mainz is renowned for its walkability. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its high level of walkability.

Mainz is a very easy town to get around on foot. The town is easily explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Mainz?

How long in Mainz or Ljubljana?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mainz and Ljubljana. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mainz than in Ljubljana. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Mainz, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ljubljana.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ljubljana than Mainz 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 Mainz or Ljubljana? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mainz 2-4 
    Ljubljana 1-3

One day in Mainz or Ljubljana?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Mainz. 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.

In Ljubljana, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this under-rated destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Mainz or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums and food around the charming destination of Mainz. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ljubljana. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Mainz or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint town of Mainz. 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.

Ljubljana is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Ljubljana. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Mainz or Ljubljana?

Mainz 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Ljubljana. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.


Which place is cheaper, Ljubljana or Mainz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Mainz is €142, 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 Mainz and Ljubljana in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mainz 74
    Ljubljana 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mainz 148
    Ljubljana 108
Compare Hotels in Mainz and Ljubljana

Looking for a hotel in Mainz 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 Mainz


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: Mainz Hotel Prices and Ljubljana Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mainz 37
    Ljubljana 21

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 airport Ljubljana to Velenje: $163
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Slovenj Gradec: $212
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Sežana (Casino Safir): $205
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Kranj: $89
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Krško: $257
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Koper: $267
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Kamnik : $74
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Jesenice: $145
  • Private transfer from airport Ljubljana to Ilirska Bistrica: $239
  • Private transfer from Sežana (Casino Safir) to Ljubljana city: $174
  • Private transfer from Postojna to Ljubljana city: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Mainz or Ljubljana?

Prices for flights to both Ljubljana and Mainz 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
    Mainz 41
    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.
    Mainz 33
    Ljubljana 14

Tours and Activities in Mainz

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

  • 2 Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: Jewish Mainz: $207
  • 1 Hour Private Guided Tour: Cathedral and Diocesan Museum Mainz: $131
  • 1 Hour Private Guided Tour: Chagall Windows in Saint Stephan’s Mainz: $131
  • 1 Hour Private Guided Tour: Gutenberg Museum Mainz : $131
  • 1 Hour Private Guided Tour: Landesmuseum Mainz: $131
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Family Walking Tour in Mainz : $207
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Gentle Walking Tour: Mainz with the Elderly: $207
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Tour: Landesmuseum Mainz: $207
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: Cathedral and Old Mainz: $207
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: Chagall Windows and Mainz Cathedral : $197
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: Chagall Windows and Old Mainz: $197
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: Gutenberg and Mainz Cathedral: $207

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
    Mainz 22
    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 Mainz and Ljubljana, we can see that Mainz 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 Mainz would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mainz 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 Mainz Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mainz or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Mainz. When comparing the sizes of Mainz 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.


When is the best time to visit Mainz or Ljubljana?

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 Mainz or Ljubljana in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Mainz and Ljubljana. Most visitors come to Mainz for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Mainz is cooler than Ljubljana in the summer. The daily temperature in Mainz averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ljubljana this time of the year. In Mainz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mainz usually receives less sunshine than Ljubljana during summer. Mainz gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun in the summer.

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Mainz usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Mainz gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Mainz 19°C (66°F) 
    Ljubljana 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Mainz or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Mainz as well as Ljubljana. The autumn months attract visitors to Mainz because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

In the autumn, Mainz is cooler than Ljubljana. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Mainz in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Mainz often gets less sunshine than Ljubljana. Mainz gets 103 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Mainz usually gets less rain in October than Ljubljana. Mainz gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Mainz 11°C (51°F) 
    Ljubljana 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Mainz or Ljubljana in the Winter?

Both Ljubljana and Mainz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mainz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ljubljana. It's quite cold in Mainz in the winter. In January, Mainz is generally a little warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Mainz average around 2°C (35°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Mainz usually receives less sunshine than Ljubljana during winter. Mainz gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Mainz usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Mainz gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Mainz 2°C (35°F) 
    Ljubljana 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Mainz or Ljubljana in the Spring?

Both Ljubljana and Mainz during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Mainz for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Mainz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana. Mainz gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun.

Ljubljana gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Mainz usually gets less rain in April than Ljubljana. Mainz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Mainz 11°C (51°F) 
    Ljubljana 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Mainz

Mainz Ljubljana
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 98 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 52 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 22°C (71°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 101 mm (4 in)