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

Should you visit Kaunas or Tromso?

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 Tromso. 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife and food.

Tromso

Tromso is a one-of-a-kind, spectacular, and remote town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking, nightlife, and food.

Kaunas and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Northern Lights


Is there more to do in Kaunas or Tromso?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kaunas than Tromso. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Kaunas is very popular for its historical sights and big city activities, while Tromso attracts visitors for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Tromso is more touristy than Kaunas and is popular for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords. Kaunas is famous for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town. It is also well known for The Kaunas Old Town.

How is Kaunas different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kaunas
Tromso

Tromso 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 Tromso is an experience not to be missed. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

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 Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Kaunas
Tromso

Evening events are nice in both Kaunas and Tromso.

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 Tromso. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Kaunas or Tromso Better for its Old Town?

Kaunas
Tromso

Kaunas is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Kaunas has an old town worth visiting. 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.

Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Is Kaunas or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Kaunas
Tromso

Tromso is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Kaunas is not a hiking destination.

Tromso is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Kaunas is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Kaunas or Tromso?

Kaunas
Tromso

Both Kaunas and Tromso are reasonable shopping destinations.

Kaunas has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The old town is the place to pick up souvenirs, but there are also shopping malls and outlets in the city.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Kaunas or Tromso Better for Families?

Kaunas
Tromso

Tromso 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.

Tromso is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.

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 Tromso Better for Couples?

Kaunas
Tromso

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

Tromso is a very popular place to visit for couples. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

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 Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kaunas
Tromso

Both Kaunas and Tromso are nice 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 Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Is Kaunas or Tromso Better for Students?

Kaunas
Tromso

Kaunas and Tromso are both nice 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 Tromso. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.

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

Kaunas
Tromso

Both Kaunas and Tromso offer nice public transit options.

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

Tromso has some public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.


Is Kaunas or Tromso a more walkable city?

Kaunas
Tromso

Tromso 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.

Tromso is a very walkable destination. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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 Tromso Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Kaunas?

How long in Kaunas or Tromso?

Both Kaunas and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tromso than in Kaunas. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Kaunas, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Kaunas or Tromso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kaunas 1-2 
    Tromso 4-7

One day in Kaunas or Tromso?

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

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Kaunas or Tromso?

Kaunas 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.

Tromso is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Kaunas or Tromso?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tromso. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active destination of Kaunas. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Tromso is a small town with plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Tromso 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 Tromso is €106. 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 Tromso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kaunas 44
    Tromso 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kaunas 88
    Tromso 102
Compare Hotels in Kaunas and Tromso

Looking for a hotel in Kaunas or Tromso? 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 Tromso


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 Tromso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kaunas 17
    Tromso 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: $49
  • Private Transfer from Kaunas City to Kaunas Airport KUN by car: $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tromso

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

  • Private Airport and City Transfer in Tromso: $83
  • Highway to Heaven - Aurora Cable Car Transfer in Tromsø: $96
  • Tromso Private Transfer from Tromso city centre to Tromso airport: $118

Is it cheaper to fly into Kaunas or Tromso?

Prices for flights to both Tromso 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
    Tromso 37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tromso

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

  • Reindeer Camp Dinner with Chance of Northern Lights in Tromso: $164
  • Night Reindeer Sledding with Camp Dinner and Chance of Northern Lights: $183
  • Fjord Cruise Expedition with Dinner,Tromso: $213
  • Luxury Northern Lights Cruise with Hot Tub and Dinner: $242

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kaunas 19
    Tromso 16

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: $87
  • Kaunas Old Town: 2-Hour Ghost Tour: $173
  • Kaunas Private Walking Tour: $85
  • Kaunas Private Walking Tour: $380
  • Kaunas Tour: Love Stories: $87
  • Kaunas Tour: Love Stories: $173
  • Kaunas city center tour + IX Fort Museum (BONUS): $110
  • Kaunas, Lithuania 2-Hour Sightseeing Tour: $147
  • 2-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour: $194
  • Kayak Tour in Nemunas: $188
  • Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide in Kaunas: $77

Tours and Activities in Tromso

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

  • The Paris of the North: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Tromsø: $6.99
  • Touring-Trekking Bicycle Rental in Tromso - 1 to 2 Days: $47
  • Tromso Embrace the Spirits of the North Tasting Experience: $65
  • 1 Hour Photo & History Cruise: $76
  • Northern Light 4 hours cruise with MS Strønstad : $96
  • Electric Northern Lights Cruise: $105
  • Northern Lights Walking Tour: $115
  • Tromsø Ice Domes Guided Tour and Reindeer Visit: $120
  • Half Day Arctic Fjord Cruise from Tromso: $121
  • Tromsø, Northern Lights and Wilderness Evening Catamaran Cruise: $123
  • Arctic fjord and Landscape Tour: $125
  • Exclusive Reindeers Experience in small groups, Tromso: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kaunas 16
    Tromso 7.82


When comparing the travel costs between Kaunas and Tromso, we can see that Tromso is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Kaunas or Tromso?

Kaunas has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Tromso. When comparing the sizes of Kaunas and Tromso, 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 Tromso?

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 Tromso in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Kaunas as well as Tromso. Most visitors come to Kaunas for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Tromso because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Kaunas is a little warmer than Tromso in the summer. The daily temperature in Kaunas averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Tromso fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tromso. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kaunas this time of the year. In the summer, Kaunas often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Kaunas gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets more rain in July than Tromso. Kaunas gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kaunas 18°C (64°F) 
    Tromso 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Tromso in the Autumn?

Both Tromso and Kaunas are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Kaunas because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tromso this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tromso in the autumn. In the autumn, Kaunas is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kaunas in October average around 8°C (46°F), and Tromso averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Kaunas usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during autumn. Kaunas gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tromso. In October, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Tromso. Kaunas gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kaunas 8°C (46°F) 
    Tromso 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Tromso in the Winter?

Both Tromso and Kaunas during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Kaunas this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Tromso for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tromso. It's quite cold in Kaunas in the winter. In January, Kaunas is generally cooler than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around -5°C (23°F), and Tromso fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Kaunas often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Kaunas gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets less rain in January than Tromso. Kaunas gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kaunas -5°C (23°F) 
    Tromso -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Tromso in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kaunas and Tromso. Many travelers come to Kaunas for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Tromso in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Tromso can get quite cold in the spring. Kaunas is much warmer than Tromso in the spring. The daily temperature in Kaunas averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Tromso fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Kaunas usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during spring. Kaunas gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Tromso. Kaunas gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kaunas 7°C (44°F) 
    Tromso 1°C (33°F)

Typical Weather for Tromso and Kaunas

Kaunas Tromso
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) -4°C (25°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb -4°C (25°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) -4°C (25°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 0°C (33°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) -2°C (28°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 1°C (33°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
May 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 16°C (62°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) -1°C (31°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) -3°C (27°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)