A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kaunas vs. Leipzig for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Kaunas or Leipzig?

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 Leipzig. 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 active, young, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and food.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a historic, growing, and dynamic city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Kaunas and Leipzig: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Kaunas or Leipzig?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Kaunas than Leipzig. While Leipzig is larger than Kaunas, Kaunas has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kaunas is better known for its historical sights and big city activities, while Leipzig is more popular for its museums, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Leipzig is more touristy than Kaunas and is popular for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner. Kaunas is well known for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town. Also, Kaunas is famous for The Kaunas Old Town.

How is Kaunas different from Leipzig?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kaunas
Leipzig

Leipzig 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 Leipzig. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Kaunas
Leipzig

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Kaunas and Leipzig.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kaunas area. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

Is Kaunas or Leipzig Better for Nightlife?

Kaunas
Leipzig

Evening events are notable in both Kaunas and Leipzig.

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 Leipzig. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is Kaunas or Leipzig Better for its Old Town?

Kaunas
Leipzig

Kaunas is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

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.

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Kaunas or Leipzig?

Kaunas
Leipzig

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Leipzig. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

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 Leipzig Better for Families?

Kaunas
Leipzig

Both Kaunas and Leipzig 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.

Leipzig is a family-friendly city. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

Is Kaunas or Leipzig Better for Couples?

Kaunas
Leipzig

Leipzig is a good destination for couples. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for romance.

Leipzig is a good city for couples to visit. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.

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 Leipzig Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kaunas
Leipzig

Both Kaunas and Leipzig 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 Leipzig. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

Is Kaunas or Leipzig Better for Students?

Kaunas
Leipzig

Kaunas is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Leipzig is not popular with students.

It's common for students to 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.

Leipzig is not popular with students.

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

Kaunas
Leipzig

Leipzig 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 Leipzig. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

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


Is Kaunas or Leipzig a more walkable city?

Kaunas
Leipzig

Kaunas and Leipzig both are notable when exploring on foot.

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

Leipzig is somewhat walkable. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Leipzig or Kaunas?

How long in Kaunas or Leipzig?

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

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

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


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

One day in Kaunas or Leipzig?

In Kaunas, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Leipzig. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Kaunas or Leipzig?

In Kaunas, you'll find food and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kaunas has to offer.

Leipzig 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 Kaunas or Leipzig?

Kaunas is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Leipzig. 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 Leipzig?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kaunas. Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Kaunas. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the growing destination of Leipzig. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Leipzig or Kaunas?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Kaunas is €95, while the average daily cost in Leipzig is €166. 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 Leipzig in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kaunas 44
    Leipzig 91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kaunas 88
    Leipzig 182
Compare Hotels in Kaunas and Leipzig

Looking for a hotel in Kaunas or Leipzig? 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 Leipzig


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 Leipzig Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kaunas 17
    Leipzig 27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kaunas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kaunas:

  • Departure Private Transfer Kaunas City to Kaunas Airport KUN by Minivan: $56
  • Private Kaunas Airport to City Transfer: $48
  • Private Transfer from Kaunas City to Kaunas Airport KUN by car: $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Leipzig

Also for Leipzig, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $68
  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83
  • Arrival Transfer Leipzig Airport LEJ to Leipzig by Car or Van: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Kaunas or Leipzig?

Prices for flights to both Leipzig 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 37
    Leipzig 53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Leipzig

For Leipzig, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kaunas 19
    Leipzig 36

Tours and Activities in Kaunas

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

  • Kaunas Old Town tour + IX Fort Museum (BONUS): $55
  • Kaunas Old Town: 2-Hour Ghost Tour: $86
  • Kaunas Old Town: 2-Hour Ghost Tour: $170
  • Kaunas Private Walking Tour: $84
  • Kaunas Private Walking Tour: $374
  • Kaunas Tour: Love Stories: $86
  • Kaunas Tour: Love Stories: $170
  • Kaunas city center tour + IX Fort Museum (BONUS): $109
  • Kaunas, Lithuania 2-Hour Sightseeing Tour: $144
  • 2-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour: $191
  • Kayak Tour in Nemunas: $185
  • Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide in Kaunas: $76

Tours and Activities in Leipzig

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Leipzig.

  • Secrets of Old The Lost Treasure Adventure: $4.27
  • Leipzig's Communist Past: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of the City's Communist Past: $6.99
  • Historic Center Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.45
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Smartphone Scavenger Hunt Sighteeing Tour: $12
  • Guided Crime-Themed Walking Tour: $13
  • Old Town Guided Tour: $13
  • 1.5-Hour Historical Walking Tour in German: $14
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour - Explore Your Way: $14
  • Guided Tour of the Southern Cemetery: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kaunas 16
    Leipzig 26


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kaunas and Leipzig, we can see that Leipzig 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 Leipzig would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Leipzig 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 Leipzig Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kaunas or Leipzig?

Leipzig has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Kaunas. When comparing the sizes of Kaunas and Leipzig, 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 Leipzig?

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 Kaunas or Leipzig in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Kaunas is around the same temperature as Leipzig. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kaunas in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Leipzig averages at about 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Leipzig. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kaunas this time of the year. In the summer, Kaunas often gets more sunshine than Leipzig. Kaunas gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 206 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets more rain in July than Leipzig. Kaunas gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kaunas 18°C (64°F) 
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Leipzig in the Autumn?

Both Leipzig and Kaunas are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kaunas for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Leipzig because of the shopping scene.

In October, Kaunas is generally cooler than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 8°C (46°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Kaunas usually receives less sunshine than Leipzig during autumn. Kaunas gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Kaunas usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Kaunas gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kaunas 8°C (46°F) 
    Leipzig 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Leipzig in the Winter?

Both Leipzig and Kaunas during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Kaunas because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Leipzig this time of year.

It's quite cold in Leipzig in the winter. The weather in Kaunas can be very cold. Kaunas is much colder than Leipzig in the winter. The daily temperature in Kaunas averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Leipzig fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Kaunas often gets less sunshine than Leipzig. Kaunas gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 45 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Leipzig. Kaunas gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kaunas -5°C (23°F) 
    Leipzig 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Leipzig in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kaunas and Leipzig. The activities around the city are the main draw to Kaunas this time of year.

In the spring, Kaunas is cooler than Leipzig. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kaunas in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Leipzig averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Kaunas usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during spring. Kaunas gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 143 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Leipzig. Kaunas gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kaunas 7°C (44°F) 
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Leipzig and Kaunas

Kaunas Leipzig
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb -4°C (25°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 0°C (33°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 16°C (62°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)