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

Should you visit Vilnius or Geneva?

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 Geneva. 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.

Geneva

Geneva is a diverse, international, and professional city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Vilnius and Geneva: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Vilnius or Geneva?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Geneva than Vilnius. While Vilnius is larger than Geneva, Geneva has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Geneva is very popular for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Vilnius attracts visitors for its nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Geneva is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also well known for The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau). Vilnius is famous for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Geneva?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vilnius
Geneva

Geneva 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 Geneva. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

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 Geneva? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vilnius
Geneva

Geneva 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 Geneva. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

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 Geneva Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius
Geneva

Vilnius is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Vilnius know how to have a good time. 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 Geneva has a few options to choose from. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

Is Vilnius or Geneva Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius
Geneva

Vilnius is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Geneva. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.


Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Geneva?

Vilnius
Geneva

Geneva 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 Geneva make it a world-class shopping destination. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

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 Geneva Better for Families?

Vilnius
Geneva

Both Vilnius and Geneva 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.

Geneva is a family-friendly city. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Vilnius or Geneva Better for Couples?

Vilnius
Geneva

Vilnius and Geneva both nice 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.

Geneva is a good city for couples to visit. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.


Is Vilnius or Geneva Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius
Geneva

Vilnius is a great destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options 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.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Vilnius or Geneva Better for Students?

Vilnius
Geneva

Geneva 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 Geneva. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

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

Vilnius
Geneva

Geneva 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 Geneva is top-notch. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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


Is Vilnius or Geneva a more walkable city?

Vilnius
Geneva

Geneva 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.

Geneva is a very walkable city. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored 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 Geneva Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Geneva or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Geneva?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Vilnius or Geneva? Ideal Length of Stay
    Vilnius 1-4 
    Geneva 1-3

One day in Vilnius or Geneva?

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.

Because Geneva is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Geneva?

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.

Because Geneva 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. 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 Geneva has to offer.


Five days in Vilnius or Geneva?

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.

Geneva 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 Geneva?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the religious 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 Geneva. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Geneva. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, and The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Geneva 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 Geneva is €196. 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 Geneva in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vilnius 42
    Geneva 136
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vilnius 84
    Geneva 272
Compare Hotels in Vilnius and Geneva

Looking for a hotel in Vilnius or Geneva? 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 Geneva


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 Geneva Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vilnius 8.30
    Geneva 8.79

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vilnius

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Vilnius:

  • Private Transfer from Vilnius Airport to Lithuania: $143
  • Arrival Transfer from Vilnius VNO Airport to Vilnius by Minivan: $46
  • From Druskininkai & Grutas Park Tour with Transfer: $521
  • Private Transfer: Vilnius to Klaipeda or Klaipeda to Vilnius via Trakai Castle: $243
  • Private Vilnius Airport Arrival Transfer: $28
  • Riga / Tallinn / Vilnius. Transfer Between Baltic States: $650
  • Riga: Bus Transfer to/from Vilnius: $21
  • Transfer from Kaunas Airport to Vilnius: $217
  • Vilnius Airport (VNO): Bus Transfer to/from Gdansk: $52
  • Vilnius Airport Transfer: $52
  • Vilnius Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Riga: $24
  • Vilnius Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Warsaw: $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • Geneva Int Airport (GVA) to La Clusaz - Arrival Private Transfer: $50
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Lausanne - Arrival Private Transfer: $54
  • Geneva to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • One-way Private Transfer From/To Geneva Airport: $72
  • VIP Transfer: $73
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Verbier - Arrival Private Transfer: $77
  • Geneva Airport GVA to Val d'Isere Espace Killy Arrival Transfer: $77
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Geneva Hotels : $87
  • Geneva Airport Transfers : Geneva City to Geneva Airport GVA in Business Car: $88
  • Geneva Departure Private Transfers from Geneva City to Geneva Airport GVA: $88
  • Geneva Arrival Private Transfers from Geneva Airport GVA to Geneva City: $88
  • Geneva Airport Transfers : Geneva Airport GVA to Geneva City in Business Car: $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Vilnius or Geneva?

Prices for flights to both Geneva 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
    Geneva 49
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: $61
  • Dinner in local family: $75
  • Cooking Class in Vilnius : $85
  • Cooking Class in Lithuanian House Surrounded by Nature: $99

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

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

  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $148

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vilnius 9.72
    Geneva 28
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: $3.26
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.52
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.52
  • Vilnius Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • The Old Town of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • 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

Tours and Activities in Geneva

Here are a few actual costs in Geneva for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • From Brunswick Monument to the Botanical Garden: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Geneva (International District) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Best of Geneva City tour with Panoramic Bus: $17
  • Audioguided sightseeing cruise of Geneva: $22
  • (STTG03)Geneva International Quarter & Lakeside Sightseeing Tour: $30
  • (STTG04) - Sightseeing Cruise at Geneva with Wine and Aperitif: $33
  • 2-Hour Small-Group Bike Guided Tour in Geneva: $34
  • The Highlights Tour in a TaxiBike: Geneva : $61
  • Geneva Highlights 2-Hour Introductory Tour: $66
  • Geneva : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $83
  • Annecy - Venice of the Alps - Tour from Geneva: $85
  • Chamonix Self-guided Sightseeing Tour from Geneva: $90

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vilnius 6.38
    Geneva 21
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


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


Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Geneva?

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

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 Geneva in the Summer?

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

In July, Vilnius is generally cooler than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 18°C (65°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Geneva this time of the year. In Vilnius, it's very sunny this time of the year. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Geneva during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Geneva. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Vilnius or Geneva in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Geneva. 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 Geneva for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Vilnius is much colder than Geneva in the autumn. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Geneva fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Geneva. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 127 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in October than Geneva. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Vilnius or Geneva in the Winter?

Both Geneva 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 Geneva in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Geneva can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Vilnius. In the winter, Vilnius is much colder than Geneva. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vilnius in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Geneva averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Geneva during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Geneva. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Vilnius or Geneva in the Spring?

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

In April, Vilnius is generally much colder than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 7°C (45°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Vilnius often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Geneva. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 174 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in April than Geneva. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Geneva and Vilnius

Vilnius Geneva
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)