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

Should you visit Pisa or Ljubljana?

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

Should I visit Pisa or Ljubljana? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Pisa

Pisa is a world-famous, classic, and charming city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a under-rated, authentic, and historic 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Pisa and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pisa or Ljubljana?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ljubljana than Pisa. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Ljubljana is very popular for its big city activities, while Pisa attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and impressive beauty. Pisa is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere. 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 Pisa different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pisa 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 Pisa can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is more than a one hit wonder. In addition to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, you'll find many beautiful buildings and museums. Popular places to visit include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Campo Santo (Sacred Field), and Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.

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 Pisa or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pisa is a great city 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 Pisa. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the city's maritime roots. You'll find many seafood dishes as well as local classic recipes that have been passed down through the generations. A quintessential local dish is Bordatino alla Pisana, which is made with beans, cabbage, and cornflour. Also popular are Pasta e Ceci (chickpea pasta), Palette (a local polenta), and Trippa alla Pisana.

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 Pisa or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Pisa 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 Pisa has something for everybody. Head out to an aperitivo bar for an early drink, then head to one of the area's best nightlife neighborhoods. For the biggest party scene, go about 10 kilometers out of town to the Versilian coast. This area has the most popular clubs. If you decide to stay in town, there are still plenty of places to catch live music and dance.

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 Pisa or Ljubljana Better for Beaches?

Pisa is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Pisa has a beach worth visiting. Many people forget that there are beaches near Pisa, but the city is close to the sea. Some of the closest beaches include Marina di Vecchiano and Marina di Pisa.

Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Is Pisa or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the very good old towns in both Pisa and Ljubljana.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Pisa. The old town is where you'll find the city's classic charm and many of the best sights.

There is a nice variety of sights 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 Pisa or Ljubljana?

If you're looking to go shopping, Pisa and Ljubljana both offer plenty of very good spots.

Pisa is well-known for its shopping. There's a great mix of traditional markets, high end stores, and indoor shopping malls where you can find anything that you might need. Corso Italia is one of the most popular shopping areas, but also worth checking out are Centro Commerciale Pisanova, Borgo Stretto and Borgo Largo.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Is Pisa or Ljubljana Better for Families?

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

Pisa offers lots of family activities. It's a lively city with beautiful squares and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Kids will enjoy hanging out in the city center, visiting Parco Don Bosco, Giardino Scotto Park, or Marina di Pisa. If you have a car and are willing to venture a bit further away, there's the Piccolo Mondo Amusement Park and Parco Preistorico Peccioli.

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 Pisa or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Pisa and Ljubljana make for a nice place to visit.

Pisa makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an iconic Italian destination that offers so much more than its most famous landmark. The city is filled with charming squares, beautiful architecture, and plenty of fun activities that couples can enjoy.

Ljubljana is a good 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.

Is Pisa or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Pisa and Ljubljana are very good places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Pisa. Most backpackers pass through on their way to other towns, but for those that linger, there are plenty of hostels and a lively social scene.

Ljubljana is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Pisa or Ljubljana Better for Students?

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

Pisa is a great destination for students. Many study abroad students flock to Italy for its beautiful culture, art, and architecture. Pisa makes a nice base for international students, and it offers easy access to other parts of Italy. It's also home to an internationally acclaimed university, Scuola Normale Superiore, which was founded in 1810.

Ljubljana is a good 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.

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

Pisa and Ljubljana both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Pisa offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses through town with the most popular lines being the Red and Green Lines.

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

Is Pisa or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Pisa and Ljubljana are very good when it comes to walkability.

Pisa is a very walkable city. The city is a great place to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Pisa?

How long in Pisa or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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

One day in Pisa or Ljubljana?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Pisa. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pisa has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Ljubljana. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Pisa or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the world-famous destination of Pisa. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Ljubljana is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Pisa or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the classic city of Pisa. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Ljubljana. This capital city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Pisa or Ljubljana?

Pisa 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.

The historic capital city of Ljubljana offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, 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 Pisa and Ljubljana, we can see that Pisa 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 Pisa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pisa 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 Pisa Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pisa or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Pisa. When comparing the sizes of Pisa 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 Pisa 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 Pisa or Ljubljana in the Summer?

Both Ljubljana and Pisa are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Pisa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Pisa is generally around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Pisa average around 23°C (73°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Ljubljana. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pisa. Pisa usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during summer. Pisa gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. In July, Pisa usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Pisa gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pisa or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Pisa during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Pisa in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Pisa is a little warmer than Ljubljana in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pisa averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Pisa often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Pisa gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun.

Ljubljana gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Pisa. Pisa usually gets more rain in October than Ljubljana. Pisa gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pisa or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pisa and Ljubljana. Most visitors come to Pisa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Ljubljana can be very cold. In the winter, Pisa is much warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pisa in January average around 7°C (45°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 1°C (34°F).

Pisa usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during winter. Pisa gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Pisa usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Pisa gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pisa or Ljubljana in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pisa as well as Ljubljana. The spring months attract visitors to Pisa because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

In April, Pisa is generally around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Pisa average around 13°C (55°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Pisa often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Pisa gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Pisa receives a lot of rain in the spring. Pisa usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Ljubljana. Pisa gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Pisa