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

Should you visit Vilnius or Genoa?

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 Genoa. 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa

Genoa is a historic, vibrant, and colorful port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Vilnius and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Genoa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Genoa. Although Vilnius and Genoa are roughly the same size, Genoa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Genoa is more popular for its museums, food, and beaches, while Vilnius is known for its nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Genoa is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. It is also home to The Via Garibaldi Palaces. Vilnius is popular for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Genoa 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 Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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 Genoa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Genoa 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 Genoa. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and 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 Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius is great for its evening party scene. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Many people head to Vilnius for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Vilnius or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Genoa is a moderate port city for the beache. However, Vilnius is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Genoa. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its 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.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Genoa?

Both Vilnius and Genoa 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.

Genoa has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Vilnius or Genoa Better for Families?

Genoa 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.

Genoa is a very kid-friendly port city. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

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 Genoa Better for Couples?

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

Genoa is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

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 Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Vilnius and Genoa are great 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 Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Is Vilnius or Genoa Better for Students?

Genoa 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 Genoa. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

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

Genoa is notable 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.

Genoa has some very good public transit options. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

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

Is Vilnius or Genoa a more walkable city?

Genoa 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.

Genoa is a very walkable port city. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore 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 Genoa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Vilnius or Genoa. In our opinion, Genoa has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Genoa than Vilnius. In general, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Genoa?

In Vilnius, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this surprising destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Genoa, you'll find nightlife and food. This port 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 Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vilnius. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Genoa, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Genoa has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Genoa?

Vilnius is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Vilnius. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Genoa 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 Genoa?

You'll find food and shopping around the religious destination of Vilnius. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Genoa. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Genoa. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Genoa?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 11% larger than the population of Vilnius. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Genoa, 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 Genoa?

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 Genoa in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Genoa. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Genoa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Genoa. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vilnius this time of the year. In the summer, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Genoa. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Genoa in the Autumn?

Both Genoa and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Genoa because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Vilnius is generally much colder than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 8°C (46°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Genoa. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vilnius or Genoa in the Winter?

Both Genoa and Vilnius during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Genoa this time of year.

The weather in Vilnius can be very cold. Vilnius is much colder than Genoa in the winter. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Genoa fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in January than Genoa. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Genoa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Genoa. The natural beauty are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Genoa for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Vilnius is much colder than Genoa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vilnius in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Genoa averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Genoa. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Genoa and Vilnius