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

Should you visit Zadar or Ljubljana?

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

Should I visit Zadar 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.

Zadar

Zadar is a vibrant, laid back, and relaxed town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a authentic, historic, and charming 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zadar and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zadar or Ljubljana?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ljubljana than Zadar. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Ljubljana is very popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Zadar attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Ljubljana is more touristy than Zadar and is popular 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. Zadar is famous for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Zadar different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Zadar and Ljubljana.

Zadar offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The old town is like a living museum, with city walls and a historic gate. The Church of St. Donatus, Zadar Cathedral, and the Zadar Archaeological Museum are all fascinating places to visit in town, but if you're looking for the most unique sight, make sure you check out The Sea Organ and The Sun Salutation.

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.

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

Zadar is a great town 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 Zadar. The town is filled with outdoor cafes that serve up a healthy and delicious selection of recipes. The ingredients are fresh and local with olive oil and seafood making frequent appearances on the menus. Prices are also reasonable.

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 Zadar or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Both Zadar and Ljubljana are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Zadar. The town comes to life at night when the bars and restaurants fill with people chatting and socializing. This is an easy place to enjoy the evening as almost all of the nightlife venues are within a five minute walk of each other.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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 Zadar or Ljubljana Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Ljubljana is not a resort destination.

Zadar is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Ljubljana is not a resort destination.

Is Zadar or Ljubljana Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ljubljana is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Zadar has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. This is an easy place to snorkel because the water is so clear. There are also half and full day snorkeling trips that take you to some of the best spots.

Ljubljana is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Zadar or Ljubljana Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a great town for its beaches. However, Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Zadar. There are some nice beaches outside of town with one of the most famous being Sakarun Beach, which is part of the Zadar archipelago. There are a handful of beaches nearby that are pebbly and popular with the locals. These include Puntamika Beach and Beach Borik.

Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Is Zadar or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the very good old towns in both Zadar and Ljubljana.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Zadar. The small old town is filled with charm and character. It's a walled medieval town that can easily be explored in a few hours.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Zadar or Ljubljana?

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

Zadar has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Is Zadar or Ljubljana Better for Families?

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

Zadar offers lots of family activities. It's fun to explore the small medieval old town, but the kids will also appreciate getting out of town and enjoying the nearby activities. It's definitely worth visiting Pag Island or any of the other natural settings that are nearby. There are also several beaches near town. In town, make sure you hear the Sea Organ and dance at the Sun Salutation.

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 Zadar or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

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

Zadar is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This charming seaside town is fun to explore as a couple. There's a walled medieval town that is small and easy to wander around. There are also nearby beaches and great restaurants to explore. A highlight of a visit is watching the stunning sunsets by the water.

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 Zadar or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zadar and Ljubljana are very good destinations for backpackers.

Zadar is a great town to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

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.

Is Zadar or Ljubljana Better for Students?

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

Zadar is a great town to visit as a student. The laid back lifestyle and low cost of living make this a great place to be a student. It's a relaxed environment with many nearby places to explore.

Ljubljana is a good town 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 Zadar or Ljubljana Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Zadar and Ljubljana offer nice public transit options.

Zadar has a few public transit options. There are 11 bus lines that travel around town.

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

Is Zadar or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Zadar and Ljubljana both are very good when exploring on foot.

Zadar is a very walkable town. The old town is particularly walkable and can easily be explored on foot in a few hours.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Zadar?

How long in Zadar or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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

One day in Zadar or Ljubljana?

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Zadar. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zadar has to offer. 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 Zadar or Ljubljana?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the laid back destination of Zadar. 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 town has to offer. This town 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 Zadar or Ljubljana?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the laid back town of Zadar. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Zadar or Ljubljana?

Zadar 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 historic 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 Tours for Seniors to Croatia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.

When comparing the travel costs between Zadar and Ljubljana, we can see that Zadar is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zadar Expensive? and Is Ljubljana Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zadar or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Zadar 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 Zadar 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 Zadar or Ljubljana in the Summer?

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

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. In the summer, Zadar often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Zadar gets 345 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Zadar usually gets less rain in July than Ljubljana. Zadar gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zadar or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Zadar are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zadar in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. 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.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. Zadar usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during autumn. Zadar gets 200 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, Zadar usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Zadar gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zadar or Ljubljana in the Winter?

Both Ljubljana and Zadar during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zadar 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, Zadar is much warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zadar in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Zadar often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Zadar gets 128 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun.

Zadar usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Ljubljana. Zadar gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zadar or Ljubljana in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zadar and Ljubljana. The spring months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

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

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zadar usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during spring. Zadar gets 212 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, Zadar usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Zadar gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Zadar