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

Should you visit Vilnius or Belfast?

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 Belfast. 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Belfast

Belfast is a under-rated, authentic, and affordable 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 shopping.

Vilnius and Belfast: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Vilnius or Belfast?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Belfast than Vilnius. While Vilnius is larger than Belfast, Belfast has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Belfast is very popular for its big city activities, while Vilnius attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Belfast is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles". It is also well known for Belfast Castle. Vilnius is famous for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Belfast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vilnius
Belfast

Vilnius is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Vilnius is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Vilnius
Belfast

Vilnius is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

Vilnius offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Vilnius or Belfast Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius
Belfast

Vilnius is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Belfast 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 Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

Is Vilnius or Belfast Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius
Belfast

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

Many visitors go to Vilnius to see the historical old town. 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.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Belfast?

Vilnius
Belfast

Both Vilnius and Belfast 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.

Belfast has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Is Vilnius or Belfast Better for Families?

Vilnius
Belfast

Both Vilnius and Belfast 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.

Belfast is a family-friendly city. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Is Vilnius or Belfast Better for Couples?

Vilnius
Belfast

Vilnius is a nice place to visit for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Vilnius is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.


Is Vilnius or Belfast Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius
Belfast

Vilnius is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Belfast 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.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Vilnius or Belfast Better for Students?

Vilnius
Belfast

Vilnius and Belfast 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 Belfast. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

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

Vilnius
Belfast

Vilnius is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.


Is Vilnius or Belfast a more walkable city?

Vilnius
Belfast

Vilnius and Belfast both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Belfast is a somewhat walkable city.

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

Should I spend more time in Belfast or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Belfast?

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

Families should spend more time in Vilnius than Belfast. 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 Vilnius than Belfast. 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 Belfast 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 Belfast? Ideal Length of Stay
    Vilnius 1-4 
    Belfast 1-3

One day in Vilnius or Belfast?

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 Belfast, you'll find nightlife and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Vilnius or Belfast?

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 Belfast, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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 Belfast has to offer.


Five days in Vilnius or Belfast?

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.

Belfast 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 Belfast?

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 Belfast. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Belfast. 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 Budget Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Belfast 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 Belfast is €155. 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 Belfast in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vilnius 42
    Belfast 80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vilnius 84
    Belfast 160
Compare Hotels in Vilnius and Belfast

Looking for a hotel in Vilnius or Belfast? 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 Belfast


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 Belfast Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vilnius 8.30
    Belfast 17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vilnius

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Vilnius:

  • Airport Bus Transfer to/from Central Bus Station: $3.21
  • Riga: Bus Transfer to/from Vilnius: $20
  • Vilnius Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Riga: $24
  • Private Vilnius Airport Arrival Transfer: $27
  • Vilnius Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Warsaw: $35
  • Arrival Transfer from Vilnius VNO Airport to Vilnius by Minivan: $46
  • 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: $142
  • Jewish Heritage Sites Private Tour with Transfer: $214
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride with Hotel Transfer: $214

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Belfast

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Belfast:

  • Belfast Accommodation to Belfast City Airport (BHD) - Departure Private Transfer: $23
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Holywood Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bangor Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast International Airport (BFS) to Belfast City - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast City to Belfast International Airport (BFS) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisburn Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Private Belfast Arrival Transfer- Belfast City Airport to Belfast Hotel / Accomm: $44
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Belfast Airport: $44
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Crawfordsburn: $50
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bangor Accommodation - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $54
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisburn Accommodation - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $55
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Groomsport: $57

Is it cheaper to fly into Vilnius or Belfast?

Prices for flights to both Belfast 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
    Belfast 59
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 Belfast

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

  • Guided Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $81
  • Belfast Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vilnius 9.72
    Belfast 21
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: $3.21
  • Secrets of Old Vilnius Smartphone App GPS Audio Walking Tour: $6.00
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.42
  • Vilnius Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • 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 Jewish Vilnius: $19
  • Regular walking tour of Soviet Vilnius: $19

Typical Entertainment Prices in Belfast

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


  • Movie Tickets
    9.35

Tours and Activities in Belfast

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

  • Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.00
  • Belfast's Iconic Sites: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.47
  • Museum Ticket: $6.90
  • Hillsborough Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $12
  • If Buildings Could Talk Tour Belfast: $15
  • If Buildings Could Talk Tour: $15
  • Crumlin Road Gaol Experience: $18
  • 2.5-Hour Street Murals Tour in Spanish: $19
  • Belfast Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Belfast Murals Political Tour in Spanish: $19
  • Line of Duty Guided Walking Tour: $21
  • Belfast Line of Duty Walking Tour: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vilnius 6.38
    Belfast 9.18
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 Belfast

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Belfast:

  • Pub Crawl and Bar Walking Tour with Two Drinks: $15
  • Belfast Pub Crawl: $15
  • Explore & Taste: Distillery Tour at Titanic Distillers: $32
  • Belfast Giant's Causeway and Titanic Distillery Whiskey Tour: $69
  • VIP Skip-the Line Titanic Museum and Distillery Tasting Tour: $119


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


Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Belfast?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 97% larger than the population of Belfast. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Belfast, 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 Belfast?

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 Belfast in the Summer?

Both Belfast and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Belfast for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Vilnius is generally a little warmer than Belfast. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 18°C (65°F), and Belfast fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vilnius. Vilnius usually receives more sunshine than Belfast during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Belfast receives 151 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Belfast. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Vilnius 18°C (65°F) 
    Belfast 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Belfast in the Autumn?

Both Belfast and Vilnius during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Belfast because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

In the autumn, Vilnius often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Belfast. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Belfast receives 92 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in October than Belfast. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Vilnius or Belfast in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Belfast. The winter months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Belfast this time of year.

It's quite cold in Belfast in the winter. The weather in Vilnius can be very cold. In the winter, Vilnius is much colder than Belfast. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vilnius in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Belfast averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Belfast during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Belfast receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Belfast. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Vilnius or Belfast in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Belfast. The natural beauty are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Belfast for the activities around the city.

In April, Vilnius is generally cooler than Belfast. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 7°C (45°F), and Belfast fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Vilnius often gets more sunshine than Belfast. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Belfast receives 150 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in April than Belfast. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Vilnius 7°C (45°F) 
    Belfast 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Belfast and Vilnius

Vilnius Belfast
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Feb -4°C (26°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 1°C (33°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 77 mm (3 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 13°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Dec -2°C (29°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)