A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers York vs. Ljubljana for Food, Old Town, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit York or Ljubljana?

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

Should I visit York 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.

York

York is a historic, medieval, and fanciful city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a authentic, historic, and charming capital city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

York and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in York or Ljubljana?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ljubljana than York, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Ljubljana is more popular for its shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while York is known for its museums, food, nightlife, and historical sights. York is more touristy than Ljubljana and is popular for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. Ljubljana is popular for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty. It is also home to The Ljubljana Castle.

How is York different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

York 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 York can be an interesting and educational experience. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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 York or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York is renowned 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.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, York is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

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 York or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

York 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 York has something for everybody. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

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 York or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

York is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its old town.

The old town of York is one of the most recognized in the world. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

Ljubljana is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in York or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana is a well-known place for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Ljubljana is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is York or Ljubljana Better for Families?

York is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. However, Ljubljana is not known for its family-friendly activities.

York is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

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 York or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

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

York is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

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 York or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both York and Ljubljana are very good destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

Many 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.

Is York or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Ljubljana is a popular place for students. However, York is not popular with students.

Ljubljana is a good capital 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.

York is not popular with students.

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

Both York and Ljubljana offer good public transit options.

York has a few public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

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

Is York or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Ljubljana is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or York?

How long in York or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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

One day in York or Ljubljana?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of York. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Ljubljana. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in York or Ljubljana?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the medieval destination of York. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in York or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of York. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Ljubljana. This capital city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in York or Ljubljana?

York is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

The under-rated capital city of Ljubljana offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, 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 York and Ljubljana, we can see that York 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 York would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in York 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 York Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, York or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 77% larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of York 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 York 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 York or Ljubljana in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to York as well as Ljubljana. Many travelers come to York for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Ljubljana in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

York is cooler than Ljubljana in the summer. The daily temperature in York averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. In the summer, York often gets less sunshine than Ljubljana. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. York usually gets less rain in July than Ljubljana. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit York or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and York are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to York in the autumn for 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.

In the autumn, York is cooler than Ljubljana. Typically, the autumn temperatures in York in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 13°C (56°F).

York usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana during autumn. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. In October, York usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit York or Ljubljana in the Winter?

Both Ljubljana and York during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to York 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. York can be very cold during winter. In January, York is generally much warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in York average around 4°C (39°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, York often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in January than Ljubljana. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit York or Ljubljana in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both York and Ljubljana. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

York is cooler than Ljubljana in the spring. The daily temperature in York averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

York usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana during spring. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun in the spring.

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, York usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and York