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

Should you visit Paphos or Ljubljana?

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

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

Paphos

Paphos is a ancient, beautiful, and cultural town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a charming, under-rated, and authentic capital city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Paphos and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Ljubljana?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Ljubljana are both popular with visitors, Paphos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paphos is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Ljubljana is known for its historical sights and big city activities. Paphos is more touristy than Ljubljana and is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also home to Paphos Archaeological Park. Ljubljana is popular for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty.

How is Paphos different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paphos is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Paphos from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The area is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, many of which are found at Paphos Archaeological Site. Other impressive sights include the Tombs of the Kings, the Chrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul's Pillar, Agia Paraskevi, and Paphos Fort.

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 Paphos or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paphos is renowned 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.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paphos is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food is a huge part of the culture and family life in the area. The cuisine is influenced by the surrounding areas and you'll see similarities to Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Popular dishes include koupepia (vine leaves stuffed with a filling called gemista), souvlaki (a meat and salad filled pita), and makaronia tou fournou (a pasta dish made with halloumi and béchamel sauce).

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 Paphos or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Ljubljana has a better nightlife scene.

Paphos has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Most people think of history, culture, beaches, and wine, but the city also has its share of clubs and bars. It's not the party-hard beach destination that you'll find at some Mediterranean tourist areas, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs with atmosphere and style. Head to Agiou Antoniou Street for the most action.

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.

Is Paphos or Ljubljana Better for Resorts?

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

Paphos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The area is filled with all types of resorts. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families, honeymooners, or luxury vacationers. If you want to experience more of the local culture, there are also smaller boutique hotels or local apartments available.

Ljubljana is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Ljubljana Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ljubljana is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Paphos has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are many snorkeling and dive spots that aren't far away. You'll also find a number of scuba or snorkeling excursions that you can join. The water conditions for snorkeling and diving are best during the summer months.

Ljubljana is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Ljubljana Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches in Paphos are among the best in the world. Many people head to the area specifically for the beaches. This region has the longest coastline of any region in Cyprus, but keep in mind that some of the best beaches are found outside of the main tourist areas. However, they most are usually accessible by city bus with many remote stretches found along the Akamas Peninsula. Within town the beaches are often rocky and pebbly.

Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Ljubljana is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Paphos. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Ljubljana?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Ljubljana and Paphos.

Paphos is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are outdoor markets, major shopping streets, and international fashion brands. You can pick up local souvenirs or beach gear that you may have forgotten.

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.

Is Paphos or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Paphos is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. However, Ljubljana is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Paphos is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Head to the beach or take a walk along the coastline. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the zoo, bird park, or aquarium and young thrill seekers will enjoy a day at the Aqua-park of Aphrodite. And, of course, there's also the ruins that kids can have fun exploring.

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 Paphos or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

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

Paphos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Honeymooners who enjoy history, nature, beaches, and culture will find it all in the area. There are stunning beaches where you can relax in the sun, world renowned archeological ruins where you can immerse yourself in a historical world, and beautiful views around every corner. There are also excellent restaurants and wine tasting opportunities that will make for a memorable trip.

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 Paphos or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos and Ljubljana are superb places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Paphos. The area is generally accessible with a few good hostels and budget accommodation options sprinkled about. There are great beaches and restaurants as well as plenty of beautiful places to enjoy a walk.

Many 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 Paphos or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Ljubljana is a nice place to visit for students. However, Paphos is not popular with students.

Ljubljana is popular with 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.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

Paphos 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 Paphos can move around easily with public transportation. It's possible to get around by city bus to most places. Buses connect many touristy areas such as Kato Paphos, Tombs of the Kings, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Coral Bay and Paphos Center.

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

Is Paphos or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Ljubljana is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Paphos is a somewhat walkable place. The main tourist area is Kato Paphos which is small, compact and easy to walk around, but if you want to head to areas further away then you likely won't be able to travel on foot. It's important to understand where your hotel is located if you're planning to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Ljubljana?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Paphos and Ljubljana. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paphos than in Ljubljana. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ljubljana.

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

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

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

One day in Paphos or Ljubljana?

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Paphos. 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.

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.

A weekend in Paphos or Ljubljana?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the overlooked destination of Paphos. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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.

Five days in Paphos or Ljubljana?

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

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.

A week in Paphos or Ljubljana?

Paphos is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.

When comparing the travel costs between Paphos and Ljubljana, we can see that Paphos is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos 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 Paphos or Ljubljana?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Paphos or Ljubljana in the Summer?

Both Ljubljana and Paphos during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

Paphos is a little warmer than Ljubljana in the summer. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Ljubljana, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun.

Ljubljana gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Ljubljana. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Ljubljana. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Paphos is much warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paphos in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Ljubljana. Many travelers come to Paphos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ljubljana can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Paphos is generally much warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 12°C (53°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in January than Ljubljana. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Ljubljana in the Spring?

Both Ljubljana and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Paphos in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Paphos is a little warmer than Ljubljana in the spring. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Paphos