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

Should you visit Vilnius or Girona?

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 Girona. 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Girona

Girona is a ancient, charming, and beautiful city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Vilnius and Girona: 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 walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Vilnius or Girona?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Girona than Vilnius. While Vilnius is larger than Girona, Girona has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Girona is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Vilnius is more popular for its nightlife. Girona is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine. Also, Girona is famous for The Girona Cathedral. Vilnius is well known for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Girona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vilnius
Girona

Girona 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 Girona. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

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 Girona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vilnius
Girona

Girona 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 Girona. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

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 Girona Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius
Girona

Vilnius is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Vilnius or Girona Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius
Girona

Girona is an amazing city to visit for its old town. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Girona offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.


Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Girona?

Vilnius
Girona

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

Girona is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

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 Girona Better for Families?

Vilnius
Girona

Vilnius is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Vilnius or Girona Better for Couples?

Vilnius
Girona

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

Girona is a very popular place to visit for couples. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

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 Girona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius
Girona

Vilnius is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 visit Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Vilnius or Girona Better for Students?

Vilnius
Girona

Vilnius and Girona are both notable 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 Girona. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

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

Vilnius
Girona

Both Vilnius and Girona offer notable public transit options.

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

Girona has some public transit options. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.


Is Vilnius or Girona a more walkable city?

Vilnius
Girona

Girona 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 Girona on foot. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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 Girona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Girona or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Girona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Vilnius or Girona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Vilnius than Girona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 1-2 days is enough time in Girona.

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


  • How many days in Vilnius or Girona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Vilnius 1-4 
    Girona 1-2

One day in Vilnius or Girona?

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.

In Girona, you'll find museums 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.

A weekend in Vilnius or Girona?

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.

In Girona, 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 Girona has to offer.


Five days in Vilnius or Girona?

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.

Girona 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.

A week in Vilnius or Girona?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the undiscovered 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 Girona. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Girona. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.


Which place is cheaper, Girona 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 Girona is €140. 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 Girona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vilnius 42
    Girona 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vilnius 84
    Girona 138
Compare Hotels in Vilnius and Girona

Looking for a hotel in Vilnius or Girona? 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 Girona


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 Girona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vilnius 8.30
    Girona 49

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 Girona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Girona:

  • Girona Airport Bus Transfer from/to Barcelona Center: $21
  • Palamós to Girona Airport (GRO) - Departure Private Transfer : $33
  • Palamós to Barcelona Airport (BNC) Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Girona Airport (GRO) to Costa Brava - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $98
  • Transfer from Barcelona to girona Airport: $196
  • Private Transfer from Tossa de Mar/ Lloret de Mar to Barcelona: $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Vilnius or Girona?

Prices for flights to both Girona 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
    Girona 41
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 Girona

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

  • The 11 tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $88
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $91
  • Girona Evening Food Tour & Tapas Bar Experience: $95
  • The 11 Tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $96
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vilnius 9.72
    Girona 24
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

Tours and Activities in Girona

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

  • Girona self-guided tour app with multilingual audioguide: $4.28
  • Audio Tour Imprescindible a tu ritmo: $6.41
  • Girona Art Museum: Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket & Audio Guide: $6.42
  • Entrance ticket to the Girona Art Museum: $6.54
  • Museum of Cinema Entry Ticket: $7.49
  • Fábrica-Museo de Anchoas Solés Ticket: $7.74
  • Self-guided Audio City Tour on Your Phone: $11
  • Girona City Tour Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11
  • Ticket pass to Girona Cathedral, Sant Felix and Girona Art Museum: $13
  • Catedral, Art Museum, St Felix Church Ticket & Audio: $29
  • E-ticket to Girona's Cathedral, Art Museum & S.t Feliu Church: $29
  • Girona History, Legends, and Food Walking Tour with food tasting: $31

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vilnius 6.38
    Girona 9.69
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 Girona

Also in Girona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Spanish Wine Tasting in the Costa Brava: $82
  • Local Wineries Tour with Breakfast and Wine Tasting: $149


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


Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Girona?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Girona. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Girona, 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 Girona?

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 Girona in the Summer?

Both Girona and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Girona this time of year.

Vilnius is cooler than Girona in the summer. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Girona fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Girona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vilnius. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Girona during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Girona. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Girona receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Vilnius 18°C (65°F) 
    Girona 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Girona in the Autumn?

Both Girona and Vilnius during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Girona for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Vilnius is much colder than Girona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vilnius in October average around 8°C (46°F), and Girona averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Girona. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 170 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in October than Girona. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Girona receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Vilnius 8°C (46°F) 
    Girona 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Girona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Girona. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Girona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vilnius. In January, Vilnius is generally much colder than Girona. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around -5°C (23°F), and Girona fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Girona during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 148 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Girona. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Girona receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Vilnius -5°C (23°F) 
    Girona 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Girona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Girona. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Girona for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Vilnius is much colder than Girona in the spring. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Girona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Girona. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 177 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in April than Girona. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Girona receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Vilnius 7°C (45°F) 
    Girona 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Girona and Vilnius

Vilnius Girona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb -4°C (26°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 1°C (33°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (62°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 77 mm (3 in) 21°C (69°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 24°C (74°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 13°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 21°C (70°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec -2°C (29°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (47°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)