A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vilnius vs. Amsterdam for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Old Town

Should you visit Vilnius or Amsterdam?

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 Amsterdam. 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 surprising, undiscovered, and authentic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a laid-back, scenic, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Vilnius and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Amsterdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Vilnius. Amsterdam is bigger than Vilnius, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Vilnius is more popular for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Vilnius is well known for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Amsterdam is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Amsterdam. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Vilnius. 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.

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

Vilnius is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Vilnius. 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.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Vilnius or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Amsterdam has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

Vilnius has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Is Vilnius or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Vilnius is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Amsterdam The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Vilnius is not a live music destination.

Is Vilnius or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the great old town areas in both Vilnius and Amsterdam.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Amsterdam. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Vilnius has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Is Vilnius or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Vilnius is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Vilnius. 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.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Vilnius or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Amsterdam is a very popular place to visit for couples. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Vilnius is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Is Vilnius or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Amsterdam. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Is Vilnius or Amsterdam Better for Students?

Vilnius is a nice place to visit for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Vilnius is popular with 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.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Amsterdam is top-notch. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

Vilnius has some public transit options. Bus and trolleybuses are available.

Is Vilnius or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Amsterdam on foot. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Amsterdam?

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

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Amsterdam?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Vilnius. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vilnius has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Amsterdam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Vilnius. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Amsterdam has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Amsterdam?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the surprising city of Vilnius. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Vilnius or Amsterdam?

Vilnius is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Vilnius and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Vilnius much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Vilnius would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Vilnius 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 Amsterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amsterdam than you might in Vilnius.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Vilnius. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Amsterdam, 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 Amsterdam?

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 Amsterdam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Amsterdam. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Vilnius is around the same temperature as Amsterdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Amsterdam this time of the year. In Vilnius, it's very sunny this time of the year. Vilnius usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vilnius usually receives around the same amount of rain as Amsterdam. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vilnius or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Amsterdam. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Vilnius is cooler than Amsterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vilnius in October average around 8°C (46°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Vilnius often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in October than Amsterdam. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Amsterdam in the Winter?

Both Amsterdam and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year.

It's quite cold in Amsterdam in the winter. The weather in Vilnius can be very cold. In January, Vilnius is generally much colder than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around -5°C (23°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Amsterdam during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vilnius or Amsterdam in the Spring?

Both Amsterdam and Vilnius during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Vilnius is around the same temperature as Amsterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Vilnius often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in April than Amsterdam. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Vilnius