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

Should you visit Kaunas or Zurich?

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 Zurich. 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 young, vibrant, and cultural 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.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and shopping.

Kaunas and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kaunas or Zurich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich. Although Kaunas and Zurich are both popular with visitors, Zurich has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zurich is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Kaunas is known for its big city activities. Zurich is more touristy than Kaunas and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster. Kaunas is popular for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town.

How is Kaunas different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich 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 Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Zurich 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 Zurich is an experience not to be missed. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

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 Zurich Better for Nightlife?

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

Zurich has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich Better for Music?

Zurich is notable for its music scene. However, Kaunas is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Kaunas is not a live music destination.

Is Kaunas or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Zurich 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 Zurich is one of the most recognized in the world. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore 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 Zurich?

Zurich is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for shopping.

Zurich is a world class destination for shoppers. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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 Zurich Better for Families?

Zurich 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.

Zurich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich Better for Couples?

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

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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 Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Kaunas and Zurich 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 Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Kaunas or Zurich Better for Students?

Zurich is renowned for students. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

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

Zurich 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 Zurich. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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

Is Kaunas or Zurich a more walkable city?

Zurich 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.

Zurich is a very walkable destination. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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 Zurich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Kaunas?

How long in Kaunas or Zurich?

In either Kaunas or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich than Kaunas because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Kaunas, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zurich.

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

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

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

One day in Kaunas or Zurich?

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 food and shopping when visiting the destination of Zurich. 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 Zurich?

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.

Zurich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, 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 Zurich?

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 Zurich. Don't miss the shopping, 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 Zurich?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the liberal destination of Zurich. 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 Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.

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

Which is Bigger, Kaunas or Zurich?

Kaunas has a larger population, and is about 10% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Kaunas and Zurich, 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 Zurich?

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 Zurich in the Summer?

Both Zurich and Kaunas are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Kaunas because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zurich this time of year.

In July, Kaunas is generally cooler than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 18°C (64°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Zurich. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kaunas. Kaunas usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zurich during summer. Kaunas gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Zurich. Kaunas gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kaunas or Zurich in the Autumn?

Both Zurich and Kaunas during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Kaunas is much colder than Zurich in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kaunas averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Zurich fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Kaunas often gets less sunshine than Zurich. Kaunas gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets less rain in October than Zurich. Kaunas gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kaunas or Zurich in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kaunas and Zurich. Many travelers come to Kaunas for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zurich in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zurich can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Kaunas. In the winter, Kaunas is much colder than Zurich. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kaunas in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Zurich averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Kaunas usually receives less sunshine than Zurich during winter. Kaunas gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Zurich. Kaunas gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kaunas or Zurich in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kaunas as well as Zurich. Many visitors come to Kaunas in the spring for the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Zurich for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Kaunas is generally much colder than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 7°C (44°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Kaunas often gets more sunshine than Zurich. Kaunas gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets less rain in April than Zurich. Kaunas gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zurich and Kaunas