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

Should you visit Kaunas or Kyoto?

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 Kyoto. 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 cultural, active, and young city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife and food. See Kaunas travel costs.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a historic, cultural, and fascinating city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. You'll find world class beauty in Kyoto as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Kyoto travel costs.

Kaunas and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kaunas or Kyoto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kyoto than Kaunas, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Kyoto is more touristy than Kaunas and is known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also home to Kinkaku-ji. Kaunas is popular for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town.

How is Kaunas different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kyoto 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 Kyoto?

Kyoto is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Kyoto on the map. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kyoto 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 Kyoto is an experience not to be missed. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

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 Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Kaunas and Kyoto.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kyoto. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Kaunas or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is renowned 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.

The old town of Kyoto is one of the most recognized in the world. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

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 Kyoto?

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Kyoto. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

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 Kyoto More Beautiful?

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

You'll find world class beauty in Kyoto as well. It's one of the most historical cities in Japan and it has many beautiful Buddhist temples, gardens, and imperial palaces. It's particularly striking during the cherry blossom season.

Kaunas is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kaunas or Kyoto Better for Families?

Kyoto is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Kyoto is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Kaunas is a family-friendly city. 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.

Is Kaunas or Kyoto Better for Couples?

Kyoto is renowned for couples. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for romance.

Kyoto is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

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 Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is notable for backpackers. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kyoto is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Is Kaunas or Kyoto Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

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 Kyoto Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kyoto is notable 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Kyoto. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

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

Is Kaunas or Kyoto a more walkable city?

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

It is easy to get around Kyoto on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

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 Kyoto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Kaunas?

How long in Kaunas or Kyoto?

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

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

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

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

One day in Kaunas or Kyoto?

In Kaunas, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this active 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 Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Kaunas or Kyoto?

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.

Kyoto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, 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 Kyoto?

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 Kyoto. Don't miss the museums, 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 Kyoto?

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 Kyoto. 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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kaunas and Kyoto, we can see that Kaunas is more expensive. And not only is Kyoto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kaunas is in Europe and Kyoto is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kyoto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kyoto 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 Kaunas would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kaunas than you might in Kyoto.

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

Which is Bigger, Kaunas or Kyoto?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Kaunas. When comparing the sizes of Kaunas and Kyoto, 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 Kyoto?

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 Kyoto in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kaunas and Kyoto. Most visitors come to Kaunas for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kaunas is generally much colder than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 18°C (64°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Kaunas, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kaunas usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during summer. Kaunas gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Kaunas gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kaunas or Kyoto in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kaunas as well as Kyoto. The autumn months attract visitors to Kaunas because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year.

Kaunas is much colder than Kyoto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kaunas averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Kyoto fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In the autumn, Kaunas often gets less sunshine than Kyoto. Kaunas gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 159 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. Kaunas usually gets less rain in October than Kyoto. Kaunas gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kaunas or Kyoto in the Winter?

Both Kyoto and Kaunas are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Kaunas this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kyoto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Kyoto. It's quite cold in Kaunas in the winter. In the winter, Kaunas is much colder than Kyoto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kaunas in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Kyoto averages at about 5°C (40°F).

Kaunas usually receives less sunshine than Kyoto during winter. Kaunas gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Kaunas gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kaunas or Kyoto in the Spring?

Both Kyoto and Kaunas during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kaunas for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kyoto in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Kaunas is generally much colder than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 7°C (44°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Kaunas often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kyoto. Kaunas gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 176 hours of full sun.

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kaunas usually gets less rain in April than Kyoto. Kaunas gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Kaunas