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

Should you visit Kaunas or Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo. 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 vibrant, cultural, and active city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife and food.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a cultural, beautiful, and overlooked city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Kaunas and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kaunas or Sarajevo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sarajevo than Kaunas, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Kaunas is popular for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town. Sarajevo is popular for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. It is also home to The Old Town.

How is Kaunas different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo. The sights in the city reflect its history and culture. Famous places to visit include Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, Kovači Memorial Cemetery, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.

Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Eat your way through Sarajevo, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.

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 Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Kaunas and Sarajevo.

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 Sarajevo. After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.

Is Kaunas or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

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 Kaunas or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Sarajevo is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Kaunas is not a hiking destination.

Sarajevo is well-known for its hiking and trekking. If you have a way to get out of town, you'll be rewarded with a natural beauty that is untouched and pristine - a rare find in Europe. There are a number of popular trails that are popular with locals and tourists alike. While landmines remain a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas, if you stay on marked trails, they pose no real threat.

Kaunas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kaunas or Sarajevo?

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Sarajevo. This city offers a unique opportunity to shop for traditional hand-crafted good in the old town. The goods are handmade and reflect the city's long running history as a center for trade. Popular items for purchase include coffee sets, jewelry, and handmade carpets.

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 Sarajevo Better for Families?

Kaunas is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Sarajevo doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Older kids will really benefit from the history and cultural lessons that coincide with a visit to this beautiful city. There are also some fun activities that they can enjoy including a zoo, an indoor play area, and an amusement park not far outside of town.

Is Kaunas or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Most people don't think of either Kaunas or Sarajevo as a couple's destination.

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

Sarajevo is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Romance isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sarajevo, but the city has amazing food and world class cultural sights that will make for a truly rewarding trip.

Is Kaunas or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Sarajevo is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This city is among the most culturally captivating places in Europe. Although it's often overlooked by tourists and backpackers, the affordability, stunning beauty, and unique personality make it a truly amazing place to visit.

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 Sarajevo Better for Students?

Kaunas is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

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

Is Kaunas or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Kaunas and Sarajevo both are good 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.

Sarajevo is somewhat walkable. Most of the touristy areas in the central part of the city are walkable, but there are also some sights outside of town that you will need a taxi to visit.

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

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Kaunas?

How long in Kaunas or Sarajevo?

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

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

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

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

One day in Kaunas or Sarajevo?

The city of Kaunas offers food and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Sarajevo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Kaunas or Sarajevo?

Kaunas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kaunas, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo?

Kaunas is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sarajevo. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Sarajevo?

Kaunas is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Sarajevo. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kaunas and Sarajevo, we can see that Kaunas is more expensive. And not only is Sarajevo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sarajevo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo.

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

Which is Bigger, Kaunas or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 86% larger than the population of Kaunas. When comparing the sizes of Kaunas and Sarajevo, 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 Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo in the Summer?

Both Sarajevo and Kaunas during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Kaunas because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

In July, Kaunas is generally cooler than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 18°C (64°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

In Sarajevo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kaunas. In the summer, Kaunas often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Kaunas gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets more rain in July than Sarajevo. Kaunas gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kaunas or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kaunas and Sarajevo. 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 Sarajevo for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Kaunas is much colder than Sarajevo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kaunas averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Kaunas usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during autumn. Kaunas gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Kaunas gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kaunas or Sarajevo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kaunas as well as Sarajevo. Many travelers come to Kaunas for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Kaunas. In the winter, Kaunas is much colder than Sarajevo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kaunas in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Kaunas often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Kaunas gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Kaunas usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Kaunas gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kaunas or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo and Kaunas are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Kaunas in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

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

Kaunas usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo during spring. Kaunas gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In April, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Kaunas gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Kaunas