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

Should you visit Split or Ljubljana?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Split and Ljubljana. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Split

Split is a budget-friendly, historic, and active city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a historic, charming, and under-rated 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Split and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Split or Ljubljana?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Split than Ljubljana. While Ljubljana is larger than Split, Split has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Split is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Ljubljana attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Ljubljana is famous for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty.

How is Split different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split 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 Split can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.

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 Split or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Split 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 Split. It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

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 Split or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Split is renowned for nightlife. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for nightlife and partying.

Split is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

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 Split or Ljubljana Better for Resorts?

Split is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Ljubljana is not a resort destination.

Split is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

Ljubljana is not a resort destination.

Is Split or Ljubljana Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a great city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ljubljana is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Split to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

Ljubljana is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Split or Ljubljana Better for Beaches?

Split is a great city for its beaches. However, Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Split. There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Is Split or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Ljubljana is an excellent place to visit for its old town. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Split offers a nice historic old town area. The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

Is the Shopping Better in Split or Ljubljana?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Split and Ljubljana.

Split is well-known for its shopping. Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

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 Split or Ljubljana Better for Families?

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

Split is a very family-friendly destination. With its parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, kids will love this spot. Zvonac Park is one of the best in town for kids. Young kids will appreciate the Dinasour Playground. Also make sure you allow time to explore Diocletian's Palace and Klis Fortress. There are also beaches and other water activities that are fun for the whole family.

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 Split or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

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

Split has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

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 Split or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Split. There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

Ljubljana is a great 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.

Is Split or Ljubljana Better for Students?

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

Split is a great city to visit as a student. It's easy to visit on a student's budget. There are plenty of hostels and a huge party scene that bring backpackers and students together.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Split and Ljubljana.

Split has some public transit options. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

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 Split or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Split and Ljubljana are great when it comes to walkability.

Split is a very walkable city. The city is laid out in a pedestrian-friendly way so it's easy to explore on foot, particularly in the old town. It's also easy to get lost, but that's all part of the fun.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Split?

How long in Split or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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

One day in Split or Ljubljana?

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Split. 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.

In Ljubljana, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Split or Ljubljana?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the budget-friendly destination of Split. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ljubljana. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Split or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the touristy city of Split. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Ljubljana is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Ljubljana. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Split or Ljubljana?

Split 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Ljubljana. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

Which is Bigger, Split or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 45% larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Split 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 Split 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 Split or Ljubljana in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Split and Ljubljana. Many visitors come to Split in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Split is generally a little warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Split average around 26°C (80°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ljubljana this time of the year. In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. Split usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during summer. Split gets 345 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, Split usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Split gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Split or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Split as well as Ljubljana. Most visitors come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Split is a little warmer than Ljubljana in the autumn. The daily temperature in Split averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In the autumn, Split often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Split gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Split usually gets less rain in October than Ljubljana. Split gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Split or Ljubljana in the Winter?

Both Ljubljana and Split are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Split because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ljubljana in the winter. In the winter, Split is much warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the winter temperatures in Split in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 1°C (34°F).

Split usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during winter. Split gets 128 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Split usually receives around the same amount of rain as Ljubljana. Split gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Split or Ljubljana in the Spring?

Both Ljubljana and Split during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Split this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Split is generally a little warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Split average around 15°C (59°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. In the spring, Split often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Split gets 212 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. Split usually gets less rain in April than Ljubljana. Split gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Split