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

Should you visit Kaunas or Stockholm?

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 Stockholm. 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.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a coastal, safe, and expensive city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and shopping.

Kaunas and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Kaunas or Stockholm?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Stockholm than Kaunas, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Stockholm is more touristy than Kaunas and is known for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also home to Gamla Stan (the old town). Kaunas is popular for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town.

Gamla Stan (the old town)
Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Kaunas different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kaunas
Stockholm

Stockholm 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 Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Kaunas
Stockholm

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Kaunas and Stockholm.

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 Stockholm. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Kaunas or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

Kaunas
Stockholm

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

Stockholm has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

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 Stockholm Better for Music?

Kaunas
Stockholm

Stockholm is renowned for its music scene. However, Kaunas is not a live music destination.

In Stockholm you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Kaunas is not a live music destination.


Is Kaunas or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

Kaunas
Stockholm

Stockholm 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 Stockholm is one of the most recognized in the world. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

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 Stockholm?

Kaunas
Stockholm

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

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 Stockholm Better for Families?

Kaunas
Stockholm

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

With a huge array of activities for kids, Stockholm is very family-friendly. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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 Stockholm Better for Couples?

Kaunas
Stockholm

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

Stockholm is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kaunas
Stockholm

Both Kaunas and Stockholm are good 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 Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Kaunas or Stockholm Better for Students?

Kaunas
Stockholm

Kaunas and Stockholm are both good destinations for students and younger travelers.

Kaunas is a good city to visit for students. 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.

Plenty of students visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.


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

Kaunas
Stockholm

Stockholm 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.

Stockholm has a great public transit system. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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

Is Kaunas or Stockholm a more walkable city?

Kaunas
Stockholm

Stockholm 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 Stockholm on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only 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 Stockholm Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Kaunas?

How long in Kaunas or Stockholm?

Both Kaunas and Stockholm have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than in Kaunas. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Kaunas, and 2-7 days is enough time in Stockholm.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Kaunas or Stockholm? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kaunas 1-2 
    Stockholm 2-7

One day in Kaunas or Stockholm?

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Kaunas. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kaunas has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Stockholm is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Stockholm?

You'll find food and nightlife around the active destination of Kaunas. 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.

Stockholm is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, 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 Stockholm?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Kaunas. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stockholm. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Kaunas or Stockholm?

Kaunas is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Stockholm is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


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 Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.


Which place is cheaper, Stockholm 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 Stockholm is €157. 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 Stockholm in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kaunas 44
    Stockholm 90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kaunas 88
    Stockholm 180
Compare Hotels in Kaunas and Stockholm

Looking for a hotel in Kaunas or Stockholm? 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 Stockholm


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 Stockholm Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kaunas 17
    Stockholm 19

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 Stockholm

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Stockholm:

  • Arlanda Airport Bus Transfer Departure: $17
  • Train Transfer between City and Arlanda Airport: $21
  • Skavsta Airport Bus Transfer: $26
  • Private Transfer from Stockholm Port to Bromma Airport BMA: $37
  • Private Transfer from Bromma Airport (BMA) to Stockholm Port: $37
  • Stockholm City to Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $37
  • Stockholm Port to Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $37
  • Stockholm Hotels to Nynashamn Cruise Port Private Transfer: $38
  • Stockholm Port to Stockholm hotel Arrival Private Transfer: $41
  • Stockholm hotel to Stockholm Port Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Private Transfer from Stockholm hotels to Stockholm Cruise Port: $41
  • Stockholm to Stockholm Airport (ARN) - Departure Transfer: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Kaunas or Stockholm?

Prices for flights to both Stockholm 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
    Stockholm 33

Typical Food Prices in Stockholm

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Stockholm:


  • Breakfast
    8.55

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stockholm

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

  • Self Guided Taysta Food Tour in Stockholm: $33
  • Food Tour: $101
  • Stockholm Food Tour: $104
  • Stockholm Walking Food Tour With Small Group: $119
  • From Wildlife Safari with Campfire Dinner: $128

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kaunas 19
    Stockholm 23

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
  • Recreational Tour in Kaunas - The City of Freedom: $64
  • Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide in Kaunas: $76
  • Kaunas Private Walking Tour: $84
  • Kaunas Tour: Love Stories: $86
  • Kaunas Old Town: 2-Hour Ghost Tour: $86
  • Kaunas city center tour + IX Fort Museum (BONUS): $109
  • Kaunas, Lithuania 2-Hour Sightseeing Tour: $144
  • Kaunas Tour: Love Stories: $170
  • Kaunas Old Town: 2-Hour Ghost Tour: $170
  • Kayak Tour in Nemunas: $185
  • 2-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour: $191

Tours and Activities in Stockholm

Here are a few actual costs in Stockholm for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2-Hour Free Walking Tour in Stockholm: $0.92
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Tour Gratis Estocolmo La Ciudad Vieja Isla los Caballerosen: $4.41
  • Central A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Central A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Gamla Stan's Landmarks and legends: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • History and Secrets of Gamla Audio Guided Walking Tour: $6.20
  • Stockholm City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Stockholm Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Highlights Tour: $6.95
  • Gamla Stan: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Stockholm’s Old City: $6.99
  • Walking Tour of Stockholm's City Center: $7.64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kaunas 16
    Stockholm 24

Sample the Local Flavors in Stockholm

Also in Stockholm, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Original Stockholm Pub Crawl: $32
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $280
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $288


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


Which is Bigger, Kaunas or Stockholm?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Kaunas. When comparing the sizes of Kaunas and Stockholm, 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 Stockholm?

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 Stockholm in the Summer?

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

In July, Kaunas is generally around the same temperature as Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 18°C (64°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Stockholm this time of the year. In Kaunas, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kaunas usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Stockholm during summer. Kaunas gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 260 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kaunas usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Kaunas gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kaunas 18°C (64°F) 
    Stockholm 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Stockholm in the Autumn?

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

Kaunas is around the same temperature as Stockholm in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kaunas averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Stockholm fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

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

Kaunas usually gets less rain in October than Stockholm. Kaunas gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kaunas 8°C (46°F) 
    Stockholm 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Stockholm in the Winter?

Both Stockholm 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 Stockholm for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Stockholm. It's quite cold in Kaunas in the winter. In the winter, Kaunas is much colder than Stockholm. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kaunas in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Stockholm averages at about -3°C (27°F).

Kaunas usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Stockholm during winter. Kaunas gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kaunas usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Kaunas gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kaunas -5°C (23°F) 
    Stockholm -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Stockholm in the Spring?

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

In April, Kaunas is generally a little warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 7°C (44°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the spring, Kaunas often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Stockholm. Kaunas gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 185 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets more rain in April than Stockholm. Kaunas gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kaunas 7°C (44°F) 
    Stockholm 5°C (41°F)

Typical Weather for Stockholm and Kaunas

Kaunas Stockholm
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) -3°C (27°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Feb -4°C (25°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Mar 0°C (33°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 0°C (33°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
May 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 16°C (62°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) -1°C (31°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)