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

Should you visit Vilnius or Annecy?

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 Annecy. 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 religious, surprising, and undiscovered city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy

Annecy is a breathtaking, quaint, and storybook alpine town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Vilnius and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Vilnius or Annecy?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Annecy than Vilnius, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Annecy is better known for its food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Vilnius is more popular for its nightlife. Annecy is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Also, Annecy is famous for Palais de l'Isle. Vilnius is well known for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vilnius
Annecy

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Vilnius and Annecy.

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 Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.


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

Vilnius
Annecy

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Annecy, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

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 Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius
Annecy

Vilnius is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Vilnius has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Annecy. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Is Vilnius or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius
Annecy

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its old town. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Annecy offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

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.


Is Vilnius or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Vilnius
Annecy

Annecy is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Annecy is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Annecy?

Vilnius
Annecy

Both Vilnius and Annecy are notable 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.

Annecy has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Vilnius or Annecy Better for Families?

Vilnius
Annecy

Annecy is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Annecy is a very kid-friendly alpine town. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Vilnius is a family-friendly city. 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.


Is Vilnius or Annecy Better for Couples?

Vilnius
Annecy

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Annecy is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

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 Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius
Annecy

Vilnius is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

Many 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Is Vilnius or Annecy Better for Students?

Vilnius
Annecy

Vilnius is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Vilnius. 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.

Annecy is not popular with students.


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

Vilnius
Annecy

Both Vilnius and Annecy offer notable public transit options.

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

Annecy has some public transit options. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Is Vilnius or Annecy a more walkable city?

Vilnius
Annecy

Annecy is notable 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.

Annecy is a very walkable alpine town. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore 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 Annecy Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Vilnius or Annecy. In our opinion, Annecy has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Annecy than Vilnius. In general, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vilnius than Annecy 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 Annecy? Ideal Length of Stay
    Vilnius 1-4 
    Annecy 2-4

One day in Vilnius or Annecy?

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

Annecy is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This alpine town 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 Annecy?

Vilnius 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.

Annecy might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Annecy has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Annecy?

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

Annecy 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.

A week in Vilnius or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the undiscovered destination of Vilnius. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. Since Annecy is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.


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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Annecy 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 Annecy is €178. 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 Annecy in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vilnius 42
    Annecy 92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vilnius 84
    Annecy 184
Compare Hotels in Vilnius and Annecy

Looking for a hotel in Vilnius or Annecy? 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 Annecy


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 and Annecy Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vilnius 8.30
    Annecy 37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vilnius

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Vilnius:

  • Riga / Tallinn / Vilnius. Transfer Between Baltic States: $641
  • From Druskininkai & Grutas Park Tour with Transfer: $513
  • Jewish Heritage Sites Private Tour with Transfer: $214
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride with Hotel Transfer: $214
  • Transfer from Kaunas Airport to Vilnius: $214
  • Private Transfer from Vilnius Airport to Lithuania: $142
  • Vilnius Private 1-Way Airport Transfer: $53
  • Vilnius Airport Transfer: $51
  • Vilnius Airport (VNO): Bus Transfer to/from Gdansk: $51
  • Arrival Transfer from Vilnius VNO Airport to Vilnius by Minivan: $46
  • Vilnius Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Warsaw: $35
  • Private Vilnius Airport Arrival Transfer: $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Annecy

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

  • Private transfer from Geneva airport to Annecy: $295
  • Lyon : Luxury private transfer to Annecy in Van: $374

Is it cheaper to fly into Vilnius or Annecy?

Prices for flights to both Annecy 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
    Annecy 58
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.

  • Private National Dinner with Folk Show: $60
  • Dinner in local family: $74
  • Flavors of Vilnius - Private Walking Food Tour: $191

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Annecy

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

  • Annecy Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Annecy Old Town with Local Guide: $148
  • Private Market Tour and Modern French Cooking and Meal with a Local in Annecy: $188
  • Private Walking Food Tour: $348

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vilnius 9.72
    Annecy 41
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:

  • “Ghostly Tales of Vilnius” Walking Tour: $86
  • "Ghostly Tales of Vilnius" Walking Tour: $170
  • (Post) Soviet Vilnius Private Walking Tour: $107
  • 1-Day Pilgrim Tour from Vilnius: $385
  • Automuseum Entry Ticket: $21
  • Automuseum Entry Ticket: $21
  • Bachelorette Party Adventure's Organization: $33
  • Bike Tour of Vilnius Highlights "Iconic Landmarks & Hidden Gems": $32
  • Day tour out of Paneriai holocaust park,Trakai castle, medieval Kernave: $208
  • Discover Vilnius Tour: $267
  • Dzukija National Park and Grutas Park: Full-Day Tour: $214
  • Explore Old Town and Uzupis Guided Walking Tour: $76

Tours and Activities in Annecy

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour with Smartphone App: $12
  • Yakapedaler : bike rental tour with the Annecy lac: $21
  • Full-day private tour from Geneva to Annecy: $40
  • 1-Hour Segway Discovery Tour: $43
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h: $44
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h30: $55
  • Annecy 2-Hour Segway Tour: $64
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 2h: $66
  • Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vilnius 6.38
    Annecy 34
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

Sample the Local Flavors in Annecy

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

  • Wine Tour with private driver: $850


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


Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Annecy?

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

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 Vilnius or Annecy in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Annecy. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Annecy in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Vilnius is cooler than Annecy in the summer. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Annecy fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Annecy. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vilnius this time of the year. In the summer, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Annecy. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Vilnius 18°C (65°F) 
    Annecy 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Annecy in the Autumn?

Both Annecy and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Vilnius is much colder than Annecy. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vilnius in October average around 8°C (46°F), and Annecy averages at about 14°C (56°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Annecy. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Vilnius 8°C (46°F) 
    Annecy 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Annecy in the Winter?

Both Annecy and Vilnius during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Annecy because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Annecy can be very cold. Vilnius can be very cold during winter. In January, Vilnius is generally much colder than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around -5°C (23°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in January than Annecy. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Vilnius -5°C (23°F) 
    Annecy 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Annecy in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Annecy. The spring months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Annecy this time of year.

Vilnius is much colder than Annecy in the spring. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Annecy fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Vilnius usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Annecy during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Annecy. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Vilnius 7°C (45°F) 
    Annecy 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Annecy and Vilnius

Vilnius Annecy
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb -4°C (26°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 1°C (33°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 77 mm (3 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 13°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec -2°C (29°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)