A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vilnius vs. Alesund for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Vilnius or Alesund?

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 Vilnius and Alesund. 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.

Vilnius

Vilnius is a historic, religious, and surprising city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Alesund

Alesund is a laid back, welcoming, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Vilnius and Alesund: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Vilnius or Alesund?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Alesund. Although Vilnius and Alesund are popular destinations, Alesund has more sights and attractions for tourists. Alesund is very popular for its food and big city activities, while Vilnius attracts visitors for its nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Alesund is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its nouveau architecture, beautiful views, and access to the fjords. It is also well known for the Art Nouveau Center. Vilnius is famous for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Alesund?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Vilnius or Alesund?

Vilnius
Alesund

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Vilnius and Alesund.

Vilnius offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has fascinating museums relating to Soviet times. These include the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights and the Lithuanian Diaspora Art Museum. Other notable sights include the Three Crosses Monument and the St. Anne's and Bernardine Church Complex.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Alesund. Check out the Atlantic Sea-Park and the Sunnmøre Museum. Also visit the small but interesting Fisheries Museum & Ålesund Museum.


Is the Food Better in Vilnius or Alesund? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vilnius
Alesund

Alesund is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Alesund. As Norway's largest fishing port, you'll find plenty of seafood offerings around town. A favorite is bacalao de noruega (dried and salted clipfish), but also make sure you try the lobster soup.

Vilnius is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food is hearty with plenty of meat and potatoes. There are also soups and herring dishes as well as great desserts. Popular dishes in the area include cepelinai (meat filled potato dumplings), kibinai (a pastry), and potato pancakes.

Is Vilnius or Alesund Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius
Alesund

Vilnius is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Vilnius offers plenty to do in the evening. The large student population is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene. You'll find most of the activity centered around three streets - Vilniaus, Islandijos and Vokiečių. These areas have a number of bars and clubs, and they draw the biggest crowds.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Alesund. There are plenty of bars around town as well as nightclubs and live music venues.

Is Vilnius or Alesund Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius
Alesund

Vilnius is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Alesund does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Vilnius. The old town is filled with history, architecture, and churches. It's also where you'll find Vilnius University. At the heart of the area is Pilies Gatve (Castle Street), which has shopping, cafes, and restaurants.

Alesund does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Alesund?

Vilnius
Alesund

Both Vilnius and Alesund are nice shopping destinations.

Vilnius offers some nice shopping areas. For quaint shops, head to old town, particularly around Pilies Gatve. The city also has an open air market, Kalvarijų Turgus, that is popular on Saturdays. There are also a few shopping malls around town.

Alesund has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shopping streets around town including the shopping areas in Aspøya, which are known for their homemade souvenirs.

Is Vilnius or Alesund Better for Families?

Vilnius
Alesund

Both Vilnius and Alesund are nice family-friendly destinations.

Vilnius is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of historic sights, but once your kids have had their fill, you can head to one of the outdoor or indoor play areas in the city center. There's also a toy museum and an Energy and Technology Museum that kids will enjoy. After a busy day, make sure you grab some ice cream to lift everyone's spirits.

Alesund is a family-friendly city. There's an aquarium and several great parks including Tueneset Naturlekeplass, which is near the aquarium. There's also hiking in the area and other outdoor adventures.

Is Vilnius or Alesund Better for Couples?

Vilnius
Alesund

Vilnius and Alesund both nice destinations for a couple.

Vilnius makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with viewpoints, from hill tops to towers, where you can enjoy romantic views over the landscape. You can also dine in a local restaurant or enjoy a picnic in one of the outdoor settings.

Alesund is a good city for couples to visit. It's a beautiful setting with spectacular views and fun restaurants. There are many great hikes in the area, and many visitors like to use this town as a base for exploring nearby places.


Is Vilnius or Alesund Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius
Alesund

Vilnius is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Alesund is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Vilnius. For backpackers who want to escape the crowds, this off-the-beaten path European capital is a great option. It has history, charm, and an authenticity that is hard to find in a more touristy area. It's also an affordable city, with hostels and plenty of cheap places to eat.

Alesund is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a limited number of hostels in town so apartments may be the best option for backpackers. It's also hard to get around the region without a car.

Is Vilnius or Alesund Better for Students?

Vilnius
Alesund

Vilnius and Alesund are both nice destinations for students and younger travelers.

Vilnius is a good city to visit for students. The city is small but charming with a number of places where international students can study. It's an affordable city with a lively atmosphere and an authenticate and genuine personality.

Plenty of students visit Alesund. There's a small student population, which means that the group stays close and everyone is very welcoming. The town also makes a great base for exploring this part of Norway.

Is Vilnius or Alesund Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vilnius
Alesund

Both Vilnius and Alesund offer nice public transit options.

Vilnius has a few public transit options. Bus and trolleybuses are available.

Alesund has some public transit options. There is a public bus system around town.


Is Vilnius or Alesund a more walkable city?

Vilnius
Alesund

Vilnius and Alesund both are nice when exploring on foot.

Vilnius is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is the most walkable part of the city.

Alesund is a somewhat walkable city. The city center can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Vilnius Worth Visiting? and Is Alesund Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alesund or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Alesund?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Vilnius and Alesund. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vilnius than in Alesund. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 2-3 days is enough time in Alesund.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vilnius than Alesund 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 Vilnius.


  • How many days in Vilnius or Alesund? Ideal Length of Stay
    Vilnius 1-4 
    Alesund 2-3

One day in Vilnius or Alesund?

In Vilnius, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Alesund, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Vilnius or Alesund?

In Vilnius, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vilnius has to offer.

In Alesund, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Alesund has to offer.


Five days in Vilnius or Alesund?

Vilnius is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Alesund is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Vilnius or Alesund?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vilnius. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Vilnius. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alesund. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alesund. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vilnius, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Lithuania, The Best Tours for Seniors to Norway, and The Best Contiki Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Alesund or Vilnius?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Vilnius is €94, while the average daily cost in Alesund is €93. 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 Vilnius and Alesund in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vilnius 42
    Alesund 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vilnius 84
    Alesund 98
Compare Hotels in Vilnius and Alesund

Looking for a hotel in Vilnius or Alesund? 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 Vilnius


Hotels in Alesund


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: Vilnius Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vilnius 8.30
    Alesund 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vilnius

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Vilnius:

  • Airport Bus Transfer to/from Central Bus Station: $3.20
  • Riga: Bus Transfer to/from Vilnius: $20
  • Vilnius Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Riga: $23
  • Private Vilnius Airport Arrival Transfer: $27
  • Vilnius Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Warsaw: $35
  • Arrival Transfer from Vilnius VNO Airport to Vilnius by Minivan: $45
  • Vilnius Airport Transfer: $51
  • Vilnius Airport (VNO): Bus Transfer to/from Gdansk: $51
  • Vilnius Private 1-Way Airport Transfer: $53
  • Private Transfer from Vilnius Airport to Lithuania: $141
  • Jewish Heritage Sites Private Tour with Transfer: $213
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride with Hotel Transfer: $213

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alesund

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Alesund:

  • Private Transfer from Alesund Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Alesund Cruise Port: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Cruise Port to Alesund City Hotels: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Vigra Airport (AES) to Molde Port: $37
  • Private Transfer from Molde Cruise Port to Alesund City Hotels: $58
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Maloy Cruise Port: $58
  • Private Transfer from Alesund city hotels to Maloy Cruise Port: $58
  • Alesund to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES)-Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Private Transfer To and From Airport in Ålesund: $71
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Aalesund Private Transfer from Aalesund (AES) Airport to City centre: $135
  • Tour from Alesund to Trollstigen Land of Trolls with Transfer: $149

Is it cheaper to fly into Vilnius or Alesund?

Prices for flights to both Alesund and Vilnius 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
    Vilnius 40
    Alesund 28
Typical Food Prices in Vilnius

Some typical examples of dining costs in Vilnius are as follows:


  • Dinner for Two
    13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Vilnius

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

  • Dinner in local family: $74
  • Flavors of Vilnius - Private Walking Food Tour: $190

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vilnius 9.72
    Alesund 15
Typical Entertainment Prices in Vilnius

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Vilnius are as follows:


  • Walking Tour
    5.79

Tours and Activities in Vilnius

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Vilnius are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Secrets of Old Vilnius Smartphone App GPS Audio Walking Tour: $6.00
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.39
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.39
  • Vilnius Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.50
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Skip the Line: Europos Parkas, Open-Air Museum Ticket Vilnius, Lithuania: $12
  • Vibrant Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $14
  • Regular walking tour of Soviet Vilnius: $18
  • Regular walking tour of Jewish Vilnius: $18
  • Regular walking tour of Soviet Vilnius: $18
  • Regular walking tour of Jewish Vilnius: $18

Tours and Activities in Alesund

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Alesund are as follows:

  • Ålesund Two Hour Walking City Tour: $42
  • 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off Audio-Guided Tour in Alesund : $42
  • City Sightseeing Alesund Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $45
  • Varden Molde Panorama Hike Tour: $46
  • Hellesylt Sightseeing Boat Geirangerfjord: $55
  • Molde and Atlantic Ocean Road Audio Tour: $64
  • Ålesund Sightseeing and Viking Saga Islands: $101
  • 3 Hour Guided Food Walk Tour in Alesund, Norway: $111
  • Fjord Paddle in Hellesylt - Half Day Kayaking Tour: $121
  • Alesund Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour: $125
  • Sightseeing Tour in Trollstigen - Land of Trolls: $139
  • E-bike And Hiking Tour In Ålesund: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vilnius 6.38
    Alesund 11
Typical Alcohol Prices in Vilnius

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Vilnius from other travelers:


  • Beer
    4.34

Sample the Local Flavors in Vilnius

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

  • Beer degustation at Bear & Boar Brewery Taproom: $43
  • Vilnius Private Pub & Bar Crawl Tour & Hidden Gems: $46


When comparing the travel costs between Vilnius and Alesund, we can see that Vilnius 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 Vilnius Expensive? and Is Alesund Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Alesund?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Alesund. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Alesund, 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 Vilnius or Alesund?

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 Vilnius or Alesund in the Summer?

Both Alesund and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alesund for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Vilnius is generally a little warmer than Alesund. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 18°C (65°F), and Alesund fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In July, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Alesund. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Vilnius 18°C (65°F) 
    Alesund 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Alesund in the Autumn?

Both Alesund and Vilnius during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Alesund in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Vilnius is cooler than Alesund in the autumn. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Alesund fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Alesund gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Vilnius usually gets less rain in October than Alesund. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Vilnius 8°C (46°F) 
    Alesund 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Alesund in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Alesund. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Alesund for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Alesund can be very cold during winter. Vilnius can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Vilnius is much colder than Alesund. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vilnius in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Alesund averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Alesund receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Alesund. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Vilnius -5°C (23°F) 
    Alesund 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Alesund in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Alesund. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Alesund because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

The weather in Alesund can be very cold. In April, Vilnius is generally much warmer than Alesund. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 7°C (45°F), and Alesund fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Vilnius usually gets less rain in April than Alesund. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Vilnius 7°C (45°F) 
    Alesund 5°C (40°F)

Typical Weather for Alesund and Vilnius

Vilnius Alesund
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Feb -4°C (26°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 1°C (33°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (40°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 77 mm (3 in) 11°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 13°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 188 mm (7.4 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 187 mm (7.4 in)
Dec -2°C (29°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (38°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)