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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Ljubljana?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a historic, vibrant, and high energy city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Thessaloniki and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Ljubljana?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Thessaloniki than Ljubljana. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Thessaloniki is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and beaches, while Ljubljana attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also well known for The Monument of Rotonda. Ljubljana is famous for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty.

How is Thessaloniki different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

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 Thessaloniki or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

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 Thessaloniki or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki has something for everybody. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

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 Thessaloniki or Ljubljana Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is adequate for its beaches. However, Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Thessaloniki is a good spot to see the beach. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Ljubljana?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Thessaloniki and Ljubljana.

Thessaloniki is well-known for its shopping. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

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 Thessaloniki or Ljubljana Better for Families?

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

Thessaloniki offers lots of family activities. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

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 Thessaloniki or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

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

Thessaloniki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.

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 Thessaloniki or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki and Ljubljana are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Thessaloniki or Ljubljana Better for Students?

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

Thessaloniki is a great city to visit as a student. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

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

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

Thessaloniki has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

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 Thessaloniki or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Ljubljana is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable city. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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

One day in Thessaloniki or Ljubljana?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Thessaloniki. 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 food and shopping that this under-rated capital city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this capital city.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the bustling destination of Thessaloniki. 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Thessaloniki. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Ljubljana. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Thessaloniki or Ljubljana?

Thessaloniki 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 popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Ljubljana?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 39% larger than the population of Ljubljana. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Ljubljana in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Ljubljana. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, 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, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 25°C (77°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 Thessaloniki, it's very sunny this time of the year. Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 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, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Ljubljana. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. 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.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Ljubljana in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Ljubljana. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Ljubljana in the Winter?

Both Ljubljana and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki 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, Thessaloniki is much warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thessaloniki in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 1°C (34°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Ljubljana in the Spring?

Both Ljubljana and Thessaloniki during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

In April, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 13°C (56°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Thessaloniki gets 196 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. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Ljubljana. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Thessaloniki