A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saaremaa vs. Ljubljana for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Saaremaa or Ljubljana?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa 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.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a calm, peaceful, and relaxed island. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food and beaches.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a under-rated, authentic, and historic 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Saaremaa and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Ljubljana?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ljubljana than Saaremaa, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ljubljana is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Saaremaa is more popular for its food, beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Ljubljana is more touristy than Saaremaa and is 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. Saaremaa is well known for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ljubljana is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ljubljana. 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.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saaremaa or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saaremaa is a great island 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 Saaremaa. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

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 Saaremaa or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Ljubljana is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Ljubljana Better for Beaches?

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

Saaremaa has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Is Saaremaa or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Ljubljana is great for its historic old town charm. However, Saaremaa does not have a historic 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.

Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana is great for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Ljubljana Better for Families?

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

Saaremaa offers lots of family activities. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.

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 Saaremaa or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

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

Saaremaa is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

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 Saaremaa or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ljubljana is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Saaremaa is a good island to visit for backpackers. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

Is Saaremaa or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Ljubljana is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Saaremaa is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Ljubljana. 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.

Saaremaa is not popular with students.

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

Ljubljana is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Ljubljana offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a city bus system.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Ljubljana is great for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

Even though Saaremaa is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

The capital city of Ljubljana offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Saaremaa or Ljubljana?

Saaremaa is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Ljubljana is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this capital city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ljubljana, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Saaremaa or Ljubljana?

Saaremaa is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Saaremaa or Ljubljana?

Saaremaa 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.

Ljubljana is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This capital city offers something for everyone.

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

Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa or Ljubljana in the Summer?

Both Ljubljana and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Saaremaa because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

In the summer, Saaremaa is cooler than Ljubljana. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saaremaa in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Ljubljana. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saaremaa. Saaremaa usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during summer. Saaremaa gets 302 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, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Saaremaa during the autumn are popular places to visit. The small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saaremaa this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 8°C (47°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Ljubljana. Saaremaa gets 101 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. Saaremaa usually gets less rain in October than Ljubljana. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Ljubljana in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Ljubljana. Many travelers come to Saaremaa for the cuisine. Furthermore, 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. Be prepared for some very cold days in Saaremaa. Saaremaa is much colder than Ljubljana in the winter. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Ljubljana during winter. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Ljubljana in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Ljubljana. Many visitors come to Saaremaa in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Saaremaa can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Saaremaa is much colder than Ljubljana. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saaremaa in April average around 4°C (38°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Saaremaa often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Saaremaa gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Saaremaa usually gets less rain in April than Ljubljana. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Saaremaa