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

Should you visit Vilnius or Bari?

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 Bari. 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 authentic, historic, and religious city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bari

Bari is a local, cultural, and authentic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Vilnius and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Bari?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bari than Vilnius. While Vilnius is larger than Bari, Bari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bari is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, and big city activities, while Vilnius is known for its impressive beauty. Vilnius is popular for its authentic old town and long running history. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. It is also home to San Nicola.

How is Vilnius different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bari 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 Bari. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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 Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bari is an amazing port city 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 Bari, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

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 Bari Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are excellent in both Vilnius and Bari.

Vilnius has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Bari has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

Is Vilnius or Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is a good destination for the beache. However, Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Bari offers a nice beach destination. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the excellent old town areas in both Vilnius and Bari.

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 Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Bari?

Both Vilnius and Bari are good 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.

Bari has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Vilnius or Bari Better for Families?

Bari 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.

Bari is a very kid-friendly port city. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

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 Bari Better for Couples?

Vilnius and Bari both good 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.

Bari is a good city for couples to visit. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Vilnius or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Vilnius and Bari are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Vilnius is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

Is Vilnius or Bari Better for Students?

Bari is notable for students. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Bari. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Plenty of students 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.

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

Both Vilnius and Bari offer good public transit options.

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

Bari has some public transit options. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Vilnius or Bari a more walkable city?

Bari 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.

Bari is a very walkable port city. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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 Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Bari?

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

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Vilnius. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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

A weekend in Vilnius or Bari?

Vilnius is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Bari, 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. 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 Bari has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the surprising destination of Vilnius. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bari 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 Bari?

The religious city of Vilnius offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Bari. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bari. 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 Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Bari?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 71% larger than the population of Bari. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Bari, 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 Bari?

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 Bari in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Bari. The summer months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In the summer, Vilnius is cooler than Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vilnius in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Bari averages at about 25°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bari. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vilnius this time of the year. In the summer, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Bari. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Bari. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Vilnius is generally much colder than Bari. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 8°C (46°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Bari during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Bari. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vilnius or Bari in the Winter?

Both Bari and Vilnius during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bari in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vilnius. Vilnius is much colder than Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Bari. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in January than Bari. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Bari in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Bari. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bari for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Vilnius is much colder than Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vilnius in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Bari averages at about 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari this time of the year. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Bari during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Bari. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bari and Vilnius