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

Should you visit Kaunas or Warsaw?

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 Warsaw. 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.

Warsaw

Warsaw is a cultural, historical, and under-rated 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Kaunas and Warsaw: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kaunas or Warsaw?

You'll generally find more things to do in Warsaw than Kaunas. Warsaw is bigger than Kaunas, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kaunas is well known for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town. Warsaw is well known for its historical position as a cultural and political center. Also, Warsaw is famous for The Old Town Market Square.

How is Kaunas different from Warsaw?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Warsaw 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 Warsaw. There are a number of landmarks and interesting museums around town. Many of the museums focus on the area's history, including the Warsaw Rising Museum, POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, and the Museum of Warsaw. Other notable sights include the Royal Castle, Łazienki Królewskie Park, and Wilanów Palace Museum and Park.

Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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 Warsaw. The city's restaurants are diverse with a combination of international flavors, Michelin Star restaurants, and Soviet era "milk bars". Traditional dishes are hearty with many soups, dumplings, and desserts to choose from. Some of the most famous dishes include pierogis (dumplings), zurek (soup), and borsch (beetroot soup).

Is Kaunas or Warsaw Better for Nightlife?

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

Warsaw has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has an active nightlife scene with many bars and clubs spread out in a number of different areas. Many locals dress for the occasion, so depending on your hangout spot of choice, you may want to dress to impress.

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 Warsaw Better for its Old Town?

Warsaw is notable 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Warsaw. While many buildings have been rebuilt following World War II, there are still some historical gems to explore. St. John's Archcathedral dates back to the 14th century and Rynek Starego Miasta is the square at the heart of the 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Kaunas or Warsaw?

Warsaw is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for shopping.

Many visitors go to Warsaw to go shopping. The city has malls, shopping streets, flea markets and boutiques to explore. There are both global brands and local items to choose from. For the best deals you should head to an outlet mall.

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 Warsaw Better for Families?

Both Kaunas and Warsaw 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.

Warsaw is a family-friendly city. The city has many museums that are dedicated to the area's history. These museums may, at times, cover difficult topics for young children, but there are also science and technology museums that are perfect for young minds. Make sure you check out the Copernicus Science Center. There's also a city zoo and many parks that are fun to explore.

Is Kaunas or Warsaw Better for Couples?

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

Warsaw is a good city for couples to visit. While many of the city's historical buildings were destroyed during the war, there are a few gems that remain. Couples will enjoy visiting the Wilanów Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science. There are also many parks and gardens where you can wander or enjoy a picnic. And, of course, the old town is a beautiful way to pass the time.

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 Warsaw Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Kaunas and Warsaw 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 Warsaw. While it's not as popular as many other city's in the area, this city remains affordable and fascinating for those who pass through. There are a few hostels around town as well as cheap places to grab a bite to eat.

Is Kaunas or Warsaw Better for Students?

Warsaw 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 Warsaw. The city's long history and current standing as a cultural and economic hub make it appealing to international students. The prices are reasonable and the opportunities for students are abundant.

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

Warsaw 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 Warsaw. There are buses, trams, and a metro available.

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

Is Kaunas or Warsaw a more walkable city?

Kaunas is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Warsaw is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Warsaw is generally not very walkable. Many sights are spread out, so walking between attractions isn't always the best option.

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

Should I spend more time in Warsaw or Kaunas?

How long in Kaunas or Warsaw?

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

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

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

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

One day in Kaunas or Warsaw?

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Warsaw. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Kaunas or Warsaw?

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.

Warsaw 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 Warsaw?

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 Warsaw. 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 Warsaw?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the young 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated destination of Warsaw. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Poland, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Krakow.

When comparing the travel costs between Kaunas and Warsaw, we can see that Kaunas 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 Warsaw Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kaunas or Warsaw?

Warsaw has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Kaunas. When comparing the sizes of Kaunas and Warsaw, 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 Warsaw?

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 Warsaw in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Kaunas is around the same temperature as Warsaw. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kaunas in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Warsaw averages at about 19°C (65°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Warsaw. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kaunas this time of the year. In the summer, Kaunas often gets less sunshine than Warsaw. Kaunas gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Warsaw receives 353 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets more rain in July than Warsaw. Kaunas gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Warsaw receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kaunas or Warsaw in the Autumn?

Both Warsaw 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 city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Warsaw this time of year.

In October, Kaunas is generally cooler than Warsaw. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 8°C (46°F), and Warsaw fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Kaunas usually receives less sunshine than Warsaw during autumn. Kaunas gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Warsaw receives 135 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Kaunas usually receives more rain than Warsaw. Kaunas gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Warsaw receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kaunas or Warsaw in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Warsaw. It's quite cold in Kaunas in the winter. Kaunas is much colder than Warsaw in the winter. The daily temperature in Kaunas averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Warsaw fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In the winter, Kaunas often gets more sunshine than Warsaw. Kaunas gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Warsaw receives 35 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets more rain in January than Warsaw. Kaunas gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Warsaw receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kaunas or Warsaw in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Kaunas is cooler than Warsaw. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kaunas in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Warsaw averages at about 9°C (47°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Warsaw this time of the year. Kaunas usually receives less sunshine than Warsaw during spring. Kaunas gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Warsaw receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kaunas usually receives more rain than Warsaw. Kaunas gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Warsaw receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Warsaw and Kaunas