A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pompeii vs. Ljubljana for Attractions, Families, Backpackers, and Couples

Should you visit Pompeii 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 Pompeii and Ljubljana can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a one-of-a-kind, ancient, and famous archeological site. Other reasons to visit include museums.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a historic, charming, and under-rated capital city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Pompeii and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pompeii or Ljubljana?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ljubljana than Pompeii, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ljubljana is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii is more popular for its museums. Pompeii is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Ljubljana is well known for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty. Also, Ljubljana is famous for The Ljubljana Castle.

How is Pompeii different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pompeii 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 Pompeii from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

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 Pompeii or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ljubljana is very good for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Ljubljana is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Pompeii or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Ljubljana is very good for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

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 Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Pompeii or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Ljubljana is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

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.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Pompeii or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Pompeii or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Pompeii is a great archeological site for its kid-friendly activities. However, Ljubljana is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Pompeii is a very family-friendly destination. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

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 Pompeii or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Both Pompeii and Ljubljana are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Pompeii is a good archeological site for couples to visit. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

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.

Is Pompeii or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ljubljana is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Pompeii or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Both Pompeii and Ljubljana are notable destinations for students.

Plenty of students visit Pompeii. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

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.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Pompeii and Ljubljana.

Pompeii has some public transit options. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

You'll find some public transit in Ljubljana, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a city bus system.

Is Pompeii or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

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

Pompeii is a very easy archeological site to get around on foot. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Pompeii?

How long in Pompeii or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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

You'll find museums around the archeological site of Pompeii. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pompeii has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Ljubljana, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This capital city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Pompeii or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums around the ancient destination of Pompeii. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this archeological site has to offer. This archeological site offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Ljubljana, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ljubljana has to offer.

Five days in Pompeii or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the one-of-a-kind archeological site of Pompeii. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Ljubljana is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Pompeii or Ljubljana?

Pompeii is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ljubljana. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ljubljana. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking 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 Pompeii and Ljubljana, we can see that Pompeii 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 Pompeii would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pompeii 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 Pompeii Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Pompeii 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 Pompeii or Ljubljana in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Pompeii and Ljubljana. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pompeii this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pompeii is around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pompeii in July average around 23°C (74°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ljubljana this time of the year. In Pompeii, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pompeii usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during summer. Pompeii gets 313 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, Pompeii usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Pompeii gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pompeii or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Pompeii as well as Ljubljana. Also, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Pompeii is generally a little warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Pompeii average around 17°C (63°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Pompeii often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Pompeii gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Pompeii usually gets more rain in October than Ljubljana. Pompeii gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pompeii or Ljubljana in the Winter?

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

Ljubljana can be very cold during winter. Pompeii is much warmer than Ljubljana in the winter. The daily temperature in Pompeii averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Pompeii usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during winter. Pompeii gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. In January, Pompeii usually receives more rain than Ljubljana. Pompeii gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pompeii or Ljubljana in the Spring?

Both Ljubljana and Pompeii during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Pompeii is around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pompeii in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Pompeii often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Pompeii gets 189 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. Pompeii usually gets less rain in April than Ljubljana. Pompeii gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Pompeii