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

Should you visit Zurich 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 Zurich 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.

Zurich

Zurich is a liberal, beautiful, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

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.

Zurich and Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Ljubljana?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich than Ljubljana. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Zurich is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Ljubljana attracts visitors for its big city activities. Zurich is more touristy than Ljubljana and is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Ljubljana is famous for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty.

How is Zurich different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zurich 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 Zurich can be an interesting and educational experience. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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 Zurich or Ljubljana? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zurich 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 Zurich. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

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 Zurich or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Zurich 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 Zurich has something for everybody. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich or Ljubljana Better for Music?

Zurich is a great city for live music. However, Ljubljana is not a live music destination.

Zurich has a thriving music scene. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Ljubljana is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

Zurich 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 Zurich is one of the most recognized in the world. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

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 Zurich or Ljubljana?

Zurich is renowned for shopping. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Zurich. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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.

Is Zurich or Ljubljana Better for Families?

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

Zurich is a very family-friendly destination. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

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

Zurich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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 Zurich or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ljubljana is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ljubljana is a great capital 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Zurich or Ljubljana Better for Students?

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

Zurich is a great destination for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

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

Zurich is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its public transit.

Visitors to Zurich can move around easily with public transportation. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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

Is Zurich or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Zurich and Ljubljana both are great when exploring on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Ljubljana?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zurich and Ljubljana. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich than in Ljubljana. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ljubljana.

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

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

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

One day in Zurich or Ljubljana?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Zurich. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Ljubljana. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Ljubljana?

You'll find live music and food around the beautiful destination of Zurich. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Ljubljana?

You'll find food and shopping around the liberal city of Zurich. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ljubljana. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zurich or Ljubljana?

Zurich 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Ljubljana. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Ljubljana?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 34% larger than the population of Ljubljana. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Ljubljana in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Ljubljana. Many visitors come to Zurich in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°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 Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Ljubljana. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Zurich usually gets less rain in July than Ljubljana. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

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

Zurich is around the same temperature as Ljubljana in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana during autumn. Zurich gets 120 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, Zurich usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Ljubljana in the Winter?

Both Ljubljana and Zurich during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Zurich 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. The weather in Zurich can be very cold. In the winter, Zurich is much warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Ljubljana. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Ljubljana in the Spring?

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

In April, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ljubljana during spring. Zurich gets 150 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, Zurich usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Zurich