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

Should you visit Vilnius or Budapest?

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 Budapest. 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.

Budapest

Budapest is a authentic, bustling, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. 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.

Vilnius and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Budapest?

You'll generally find more things to do in Budapest than Vilnius. Budapest is bigger than Vilnius, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Budapest is better known for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Vilnius is more popular for its food. Budapest is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. Also, Budapest is famous for The Hungarian Parliament Building. Vilnius is well known for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Budapest 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 Budapest. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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 Budapest? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vilnius is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Vilnius has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Vilnius or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Vilnius and Budapest.

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.

Budapest has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Vilnius or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the high quality old town areas in both Vilnius and Budapest.

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 Budapest. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Budapest?

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

Budapest is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

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 Budapest Better for Families?

Both Vilnius and Budapest are notable 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly city. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Vilnius or Budapest Better for Couples?

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

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

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 Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest 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 Budapest. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

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 Budapest Better for Students?

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

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

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

Budapest 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 Budapest is top-notch. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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

Is Vilnius or Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest 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 Budapest on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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 Budapest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Budapest?

In either Vilnius or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than Vilnius because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Budapest?

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 Budapest 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 Budapest?

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 Budapest 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 Budapest has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Budapest?

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.

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

A week in Vilnius or Budapest?

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 Budapest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Budapest. 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

When comparing the travel costs between Vilnius and Budapest, we can see that Vilnius is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Vilnius. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Budapest, 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 Budapest?

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 Budapest in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Budapest. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Budapest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Vilnius is cooler than Budapest in the summer. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Budapest. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vilnius this time of the year. In the summer, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Budapest. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Budapest in the Autumn?

Both Budapest 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 Budapest for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Vilnius is cooler than Budapest. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vilnius in October average around 8°C (46°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Budapest. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vilnius or Budapest in the Winter?

Both Budapest 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. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Budapest because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Budapest can be very cold. Vilnius can be very cold during winter. In January, Vilnius is generally much colder than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around -5°C (23°F), and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Budapest. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Budapest in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Budapest. The spring months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Budapest this time of year.

Vilnius is much colder than Budapest in the spring. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Budapest. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Vilnius