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

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

Potsdam

Potsdam is a park-filled, historic, and accessible city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a charming, under-rated, and authentic 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Potsdam and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Potsdam or Ljubljana?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ljubljana than Potsdam. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Ljubljana is very popular for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Potsdam attracts visitors for its museums, food, and small town charm. Potsdam is famous for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin. 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 Potsdam different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Potsdam
Ljubljana

Potsdam 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 Potsdam can be an interesting and educational experience. People visit this city for its high concentration of historic sights. The Renaissance Orangery Palace is a highlight of the visit for many travelers.

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 Potsdam or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Potsdam
Ljubljana

Potsdam 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 Potsdam. You'll find a diverse restaurant scene, although the city is quite small. There are international restaurants as well as local venues where you can try 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 Potsdam or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Potsdam
Ljubljana

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Potsdam and Ljubljana.

Potsdam has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city is not far from Berlin, so head in to Germany's nightlife capital for the most famous clubs and venues. In the town of Potsdam there are cocktail bars and breweries that make for a mellow and relaxed evening.

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 Potsdam or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Potsdam
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is well known for its old town. However, Potsdam 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.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Ljubljana?

Potsdam
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Potsdam has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.

Is Potsdam or Ljubljana Better for Families?

Potsdam
Ljubljana

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

Potsdam offers lots of family activities. There are a number of playgrounds around town as well as several beaches by lakes that are fun for kids. Another highlight for families is a visit to Babelsberg Film Studios.

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 Potsdam or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Potsdam
Ljubljana

Both Potsdam and Ljubljana are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Potsdam makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Exploring the city and soaking up the sights is the best way for couples to enjoy their time. There are some nice hotels and restaurants in the area that make for a great date night.

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 Potsdam or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is well known for backpackers. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ljubljana is a great capital city to visit for backpackers. 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 Potsdam. There are a handful of hostels to choose from in town.

Is Potsdam or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Potsdam
Ljubljana

Ljubljana is very good for students. However, Potsdam 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.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Potsdam
Ljubljana

Potsdam is a great city 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 Potsdam can move around easily with public transportation. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

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


Is Potsdam or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Potsdam
Ljubljana

Potsdam and Ljubljana both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Potsdam is a very walkable city. It's a smaller, compact city that can mostly be explored 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 Potsdam Worth Visiting? and Is Ljubljana Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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

One day in Potsdam or Ljubljana?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Potsdam. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Potsdam 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 Potsdam or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the compact destination of Potsdam. 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.

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 Potsdam or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the park-filled city of Potsdam. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. 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 Potsdam or Ljubljana?

Potsdam 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 Coach Bus Tours in Germany, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.


Which place is cheaper, Ljubljana or Potsdam?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Potsdam is €111, 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 Potsdam and Ljubljana in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Potsdam 60
    Ljubljana 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Potsdam 120
    Ljubljana 108
Compare Hotels in Potsdam and Ljubljana

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam 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 Potsdam


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: Potsdam Hotel Prices and Ljubljana Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Potsdam 28
    Ljubljana 21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

  • Berlin Airport Departure Transfer from Potsdam Hotels: $174
  • Departure Airport Transfer from Potsdam Hotels to Berlin BER Airport: $174
  • Private Transfer from Potsdam to Berlin Tegel Airport: $160

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ljubljana

Also for Ljubljana, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Private Transfer Ljubljana City to Ljubljana Airport by Business Car: $66
  • E-bike experience between vineyards of Goriška Brda - transfer from Ljubljana: $148
  • Ljubljana Airport Private Transfer : $104
  • Ljubljana Airport to Moravske Toplice-Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • Ljubljana to Ljubljana Airport (LJU) - Departure Private Transfer: $69
  • Ljubljana-Airport Ljubljana. Private transfer.Price per car.: $63
  • Ljubljana-Zagreb. Private transfer.Price per car: $216
  • Airport Transfer to/from Ljubljana Station: $13
  • Guided Truffle Hunting Tour with Hotel Transfers: $374
  • Private Transfer from Brnik Airport to Ljubljana Centre: $28
  • Private Transfer from Budapest to Ljubljana: $524
  • Private Transfer from Celje to Ljubljana Airport (LJU): $214

Is it cheaper to fly into Potsdam or Ljubljana?

Prices for flights to both Ljubljana and Potsdam 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
    Potsdam 31
    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.
    Potsdam 25
    Ljubljana 14

Tours and Activities in Potsdam

Here are a few actual costs in Potsdam for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 hours: Private Harbor and Castle Sightseeing Cruise: $364
  • 4 hours Private Romantic River Boat Cruise with Wine: $620
  • 4h Private Havelland Discovery Boat Cruise with Skipper: $620
  • 8h: Private Potsdam Islands Sightseeing Boat Cruise: $1,358
  • AbenteuerPark Adventure Climbing in the Trees: $31
  • Babelsberg Park Walking Tour: $152
  • Beautiful Baroque A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Christmas Walking Tour of Magical Potsdam: $502
  • Christmas Walking Tour of Magical Potsdam: $257
  • City Sightseeing Potsdam Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $22
  • City and Palaces Tour Potsdam - Stadt- und Schloesserrundfahrt Potsdam: $27

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.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Romantic Old Town Self-guided Discovery Tour: $6.31
  • Ljubljana City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Ljubljana:Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • From Swamp to State: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Ljubljana: $6.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Castle Entry Ticket with Optional Funicular Ride: $13
  • Ljubljana Castle: Entrance Ticket: $13
  • House of Illusions Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Virtual Reality Gaming Experience Ljubljana: $17
  • Tour of the Festive Decorations: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Potsdam 6.70
    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 Potsdam and Ljubljana, we can see that Potsdam 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 Potsdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Potsdam 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 Potsdam Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Potsdam 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 Potsdam 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 Potsdam or Ljubljana in the Summer?

Both Ljubljana and Potsdam during the summer are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Potsdam is generally cooler than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around 19°C (66°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Ljubljana, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Potsdam. In the summer, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Ljubljana. Potsdam gets 232 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. Potsdam usually gets less rain in July than Ljubljana. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Potsdam or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Potsdam and Ljubljana. Many travelers come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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.

Potsdam is cooler than Ljubljana in the autumn. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 10°C (51°F) in October, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana during autumn. Potsdam gets 114 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, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F) 
    Ljubljana 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Ljubljana. Many visitors come to Potsdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Ljubljana can be very cold during winter. Potsdam can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Potsdam is much colder than Ljubljana. Typically, the winter temperatures in Potsdam in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Potsdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in January than Ljubljana. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F) 
    Ljubljana 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Ljubljana in the Spring?

Both Ljubljana and Potsdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Potsdam is generally cooler than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around 9°C (48°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana during spring. Potsdam gets 168 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, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F) 
    Ljubljana 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Potsdam

Potsdam Ljubljana
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 98 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 20°C (68°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in) 22°C (72°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (36°F) 101 mm (4 in)