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

Should you visit Vilnius or Brussels?

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

Brussels

Brussels is a historic, cosmopolitan, and authentic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Vilnius and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Brussels?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels than Vilnius. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Brussels is very popular for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Vilnius attracts visitors for its nightlife and impressive beauty. Brussels is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also well known for La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Vilnius is famous for its authentic old town and long running history.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Vilnius different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Brussels 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 Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

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 Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brussels 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 Brussels. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

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 Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Vilnius is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Vilnius or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

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

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 Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Brussels?

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

The abundance of shops in Brussels make it a world-class shopping destination. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

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 Brussels Better for Families?

Brussels 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.

Brussels is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around 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 Brussels Better for Couples?

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

Brussels is a very popular place to visit for couples. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

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 Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Vilnius and Brussels 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 Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Is Vilnius or Brussels Better for Students?

Brussels 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 Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

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 Brussels Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels 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 Brussels is top-notch. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

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

Is Vilnius or Brussels a more walkable city?

Brussels 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.

Brussels is a very walkable city. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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 Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Brussels?

In either Vilnius or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than Vilnius because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Brussels?

The beautiful city of Vilnius offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Because Brussels 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. One reason most visitors come is for the 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 Brussels?

Vilnius is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vilnius, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Because Brussels 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. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Brussels?

Vilnius is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Brussels 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 Brussels has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Vilnius or Brussels?

Vilnius is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 88% larger than the population of Vilnius. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Brussels, 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 Brussels?

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 Brussels in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Brussels. The summer months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

In July, Vilnius is generally around the same temperature as Brussels. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 18°C (65°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In Vilnius, it's very sunny this time of the year. Vilnius usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Vilnius or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Brussels. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Vilnius is much colder than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in October than Brussels. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Vilnius. In the winter, Vilnius is much colder than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vilnius in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Brussels. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vilnius or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Vilnius during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Vilnius is generally cooler than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 7°C (45°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Vilnius often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in April than Brussels. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Vilnius