A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kaunas vs. Ghent for Nightlife, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Kaunas or Ghent?

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 Kaunas and Ghent. 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.

Kaunas

Kaunas is a young, vibrant, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife and food. See Kaunas travel costs.

Ghent

Ghent is a under-rated, youthful, and high energy city. You'll find world class beauty in Ghent as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Ghent travel costs.

Kaunas and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular for students
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Kaunas or Ghent?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Ghent than Kaunas. While Kaunas is larger than Ghent, Ghent has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Ghent is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Kaunas is more popular for its big city activities. Ghent is more touristy than Kaunas and is known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets Also, Ghent is famous for The Fortress of Gravensteen. Kaunas is well known for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town.

How is Kaunas different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kaunas or Ghent?

Kaunas
Ghent

Ghent is notable for its sights and museums. However, Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Ghent. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Kaunas or Ghent? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kaunas
Ghent

Ghent is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Ghent is an experience not to be missed. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Kaunas. It is a great place to try traditional Lithuanian dishes as there are a number of good restaurants and an active restaurant scene. Popular local dishes include cepelinai potato dumplings and cold beetroot soup.

Is Kaunas or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Kaunas
Ghent

Ghent is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Ghent is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kaunas. The nightlife scene continues to improve with a growing number of bars and clubs. During the warmer months you'll find many places opening outdoor areas. The old town is one of the more lively areas in town where it's nice to enjoy a drink on a terrace.

Is Kaunas or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Kaunas
Ghent

Ghent is notable for its historic old town charm. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Kaunas is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town has tree-lined streets with charming cafes and a number of museums. It's also where you'll find the Kaunas Castle.


Is the Shopping Better in Kaunas or Ghent?

Kaunas
Ghent

Ghent is notable for its shopping areas. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Ghent. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Kaunas is a good destination for shopping. The old town is the place to pick up souvenirs, but there are also shopping malls and outlets in the city.

Is Kaunas or Ghent More Beautiful?

Kaunas
Ghent

Ghent is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Kaunas is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Ghent as well. With its medieval architecture and beautiful waterfront areas, the city has a lot to offer.

Kaunas is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kaunas or Ghent Better for Families?

Kaunas
Ghent

Both Kaunas and Ghent are notable family-friendly destinations.

Kaunas is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has both outdoor and indoor areas that are fun for kids. Vienybės Square has fountains and splash areas that are fun for kids of all ages. Lampėdis Lake is a great place to swim or visit an adventure park. When the weather isn't great, you can head indoors to the the Kaunas Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum or "CurioCity" in the Mega Mall.

Ghent is a family-friendly city. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.


Is Kaunas or Ghent Better for Couples?

Kaunas
Ghent

Ghent is notable for couples. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for romance.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for couples. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Kaunas is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a number of historical sites as well as interesting restaurants that you can explore.

Is Kaunas or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kaunas
Ghent

Both Kaunas and Ghent are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kaunas. It's not a popular destination, but there are enough concerts and festivals throughout the year that it does see a few tourists.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Kaunas or Ghent Better for Students?

Kaunas
Ghent

Ghent is renowned for students. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Plenty of students visit Kaunas. The city has a vibrant and young student population. It also hosts festivals, concerts, and other events that make it a fun destination for international students.


Is Kaunas or Ghent Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kaunas
Ghent

Ghent is renowned for its public transit. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Ghent has a great public transit system. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

Kaunas has some public transit options. There are both buses and trolleybuses around town.

Is Kaunas or Ghent a more walkable city?

Kaunas
Ghent

Ghent is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

Ghent is a very walkable destination. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

Kaunas is somewhat walkable. When the weather is nice, the city is a nice place to take a walk.

For even more information, also check out Is Kaunas Worth Visiting? and Is Ghent Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Kaunas?

How long in Kaunas or Ghent?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ghent than Kaunas 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 Ghent.


  • How many days in Kaunas or Ghent? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kaunas 1-2 
    Ghent 1-3

One day in Kaunas or Ghent?

In Kaunas, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this vibrant destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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


A weekend in Kaunas or Ghent?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kaunas. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

Ghent is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Kaunas or Ghent?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ghent. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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 Kaunas or Ghent?

You'll find food and nightlife around the young destination of Kaunas. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Ghent. This 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 Tours for Seniors to Lithuania, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vilnius, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Belgium.


Which place is cheaper, Ghent or Kaunas?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Kaunas is €117, while the average daily cost in Ghent is €144. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Kaunas and Ghent in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kaunas 42
    Ghent 72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kaunas 84
    Ghent 144
Compare Hotels in Kaunas and Ghent

Looking for a hotel in Kaunas or Ghent? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Kaunas


Hotels in Ghent


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Kaunas Hotel Prices and Ghent Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kaunas 15
    Ghent 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kaunas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kaunas:

  • CO2-Offset Private Transfer from Kaunas to Kaunas Airport KUN: $61
  • CO2-Offset Departure Transfer Kaunas City to Kaunas Airport KUN: $69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ghent

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ghent:

  • Transfer Ghent Luxembourg (1 to 8 places): $251

Is it cheaper to fly into Kaunas or Ghent?

Prices for flights to both Ghent and Kaunas change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Kaunas 58
    Ghent 60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ghent

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ghent.

  • Walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food: $111

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kaunas 18
    Ghent 8.64

Tours and Activities in Kaunas

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Kaunas are as follows:

  • Best of A Modernism and Medieval History Self Guided tour: $15
  • Immersive VR Cultural Experience in Kaunas: $23
  • Self-Guided Secrets of Kaunas Exploration Game Tour: $24
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $53
  • Kaunas Old Town Tour: Local Secrets & Hidden Corners: $58
  • Kaunas Old Town tour + IX Fort Museum (BONUS): $59
  • 1 day Self-Guided Bike Tour with Train Tickets: $68
  • Recreational Tour in Kaunas - The City of Freedom: $70
  • Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide in Kaunas: $82
  • Kaunas : Sightseeing Walking Custom Tour with a Local Guide: $115
  • Pažaislis Monastery and Church Guided Tour: $127
  • Kaunas Old Town and Aleksotas tour: $165

Tours and Activities in Ghent

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Ghent are as follows:

  • Evening Tour of the Dark Side of Gent: $3.52
  • Gastronomic Walking Tour of Gent - Tasters included: $3.52
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Gent: $3.52
  • Guided tour of the medieval secrets of Ghent: $3.53
  • Ghent Self Guided Walking Tour Rebels, Dragons and Secret: $4.00
  • Ghent Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self Guided Walking Tour: $4.71
  • Ghent Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone: $10
  • 40-Minute Historical Boat Tour of City Center: $13
  • 40 Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour: $13
  • Pub Trail an adventure full of surprises: $13
  • Pub Trail Ostend: an adventure full of surprises: $13
  • Pub Trail Kortrijk: an adventure full of surprises: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kaunas 15
    Ghent 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Ghent

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ghent:

  • Brewery Visit in Ostend- Two 33cl Beers Included: $21
  • NEW Ghent Brewery Visit, Beer Tasting Tour & Chocolate Pairing: $88


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kaunas and Ghent, we can see that Ghent is more expensive. And not only is Kaunas much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kaunas would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kaunas 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 Ghent would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ghent than you might in Kaunas.

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


Which is Bigger, Kaunas or Ghent?

Kaunas has a larger population, and is about 62% larger than the population of Ghent. When comparing the sizes of Kaunas and Ghent, 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 Kaunas or Ghent?

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 Kaunas or Ghent in the Summer?

Both Ghent and Kaunas are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Kaunas because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ghent this time of year.

In the summer, Kaunas is around the same temperature as Ghent. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kaunas in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Ghent averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Ghent. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kaunas. Kaunas usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during summer. Kaunas gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kaunas usually receives more rain than Ghent. Kaunas gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kaunas 18°C (64°F) 
    Ghent 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Ghent in the Autumn?

Both Ghent and Kaunas during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Kaunas this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ghent for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Kaunas is generally much colder than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 8°C (46°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Kaunas often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ghent. Kaunas gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets less rain in October than Ghent. Kaunas gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kaunas 8°C (46°F) 
    Ghent 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Ghent in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kaunas and Ghent. Many travelers come to Kaunas for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ghent in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ghent can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Kaunas. Kaunas is much colder than Ghent in the winter. The daily temperature in Kaunas averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Ghent fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Kaunas usually receives less sunshine than Ghent during winter. Kaunas gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Ghent. Kaunas gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kaunas -5°C (23°F) 
    Ghent 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Ghent in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kaunas as well as Ghent. Many visitors come to Kaunas in the spring for the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Ghent for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Kaunas is cooler than Ghent. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kaunas in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Ghent averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Kaunas often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Kaunas gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Ghent. Kaunas gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kaunas 7°C (44°F) 
    Ghent 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Ghent and Kaunas

Kaunas Ghent
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb -4°C (25°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 0°C (33°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 16°C (62°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)