A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vilnius vs. Grindelwald for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Vilnius or Grindelwald?

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 Grindelwald. 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a beautiful, adventure-filled, and high adrenaline town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Vilnius and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Vilnius or Grindelwald?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Vilnius and Grindelwald are both popular with visitors, Grindelwald has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm, while Vilnius is known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Grindelwald is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also home to the beautiful mountain scenery. Vilnius is popular for its authentic old town and long running history.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Vilnius different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Grindelwald and Vilnius. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Vilnius or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Vilnius
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is notable for snow skiing. However, Vilnius is not a skiing destination.

People head to Grindelwald specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. Most of the skiing in the area is best for intermediate level skiers. There are also some places for beginners to ski, but not a lot of options for advanced skiers. The resort is relatively large with 30 lifts and some cross country skiing options as well.

Vilnius is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Vilnius or Grindelwald?

Vilnius
Grindelwald

Vilnius is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Grindelwald. If you happen to have poor weather, there are very few indoor activities around town. The area is all about the views and the outdoor setting, so weather is key when visiting.

Is the Food Better in Vilnius or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vilnius
Grindelwald

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Vilnius and Grindelwald can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Vilnius. 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.

Grindelwald is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

Is Vilnius or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius
Grindelwald

Vilnius is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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 Grindelwald has a few options to choose from. You'll find the most bars of any of the Jungfrau ski resorts in town. Most are attached to a hotel and offer a nice place to enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.


Is Vilnius or Grindelwald Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius
Grindelwald

Vilnius is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Vilnius or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Vilnius
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Grindelwald is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking in the area offers spectacular views of the Bernese Alps including Wetterhorn, Eiger, Jungfrau, and Breithorn. There are trails that cater to all levels and hiking is the best way to explore the countryside.

Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Grindelwald?

Vilnius
Grindelwald

Vilnius is very good for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Vilnius to go shopping. 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.

Grindelwald is a good destination for shopping. There are places to pick up sporting equipment that you may have forgotten. Many shops are seasonal and the turnover is frequent as the tourist season ebbs and flows.


Is Vilnius or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Vilnius
Grindelwald

Grindelwald 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.

Grindelwald is a very kid-friendly town. The area is filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, ziplining, and cog railways. There are hikes for every age and skill level and older kids will enjoy the ropes courses and other outdoor activities.

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 Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Vilnius
Grindelwald

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

Grindelwald is a very popular place to visit for couples. Most people don't visit for the town itself, but instead for the many outdoor adventures in the area. Couples that enjoy hiking and skiing will appreciate a visit to this beautiful alpine setting.

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 Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius
Grindelwald

Both Vilnius and Grindelwald are high quality 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 Grindelwald. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.


Is Vilnius or Grindelwald Better for Students?

Vilnius
Grindelwald

Vilnius is very good for students. However, Grindelwald is not popular with students.

Vilnius is popular with 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.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Vilnius
Grindelwald

Both Vilnius and Grindelwald offer good public transit options.

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

Grindelwald has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Is Vilnius or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Vilnius
Grindelwald

Vilnius and Grindelwald both are good when exploring on foot.

Vilnius is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is the most walkable part of the city.

Grindelwald is a somewhat walkable city. Most places in town can be reached on foot but there can be a lot of traffic on the main thoroughfares.


For even more information, also check out Is Vilnius Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Vilnius or Grindelwald to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Vilnius than Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vilnius than Grindelwald 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 Vilnius.


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

One day in Vilnius or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the religious city of Vilnius. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Grindelwald is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town 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 Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Vilnius. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grindelwald has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Grindelwald?

The surprising city of Vilnius offers shopping and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Grindelwald?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Vilnius. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Grindelwald. Since Grindelwald is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 in Switzerland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald is €226. 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 Grindelwald in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vilnius 42
    Grindelwald 133
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vilnius 84
    Grindelwald 266
Compare Hotels in Vilnius and Grindelwald

Looking for a hotel in Vilnius or Grindelwald? 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 Grindelwald


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 Grindelwald Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vilnius 8.30
    Grindelwald 50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vilnius

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Vilnius:

  • Private Transfer from Vilnius Airport to Lithuania: $142
  • Arrival Transfer from Vilnius VNO Airport to Vilnius by Minivan: $46
  • From Druskininkai & Grutas Park Tour with Transfer: $513
  • Private Vilnius Airport Arrival Transfer: $27
  • Riga / Tallinn / Vilnius. Transfer Between Baltic States: $641
  • Riga: Bus Transfer to/from Vilnius: $20
  • Transfer from Kaunas Airport to Vilnius: $214
  • Vilnius Airport (VNO): Bus Transfer to/from Gdansk: $51
  • Vilnius Airport Transfer: $51
  • Vilnius Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Riga: $24
  • Vilnius Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Warsaw: $35
  • Vilnius Private 1-Way Airport Transfer: $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $87
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $180
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201

Is it cheaper to fly into Vilnius or Grindelwald?

Prices for flights to both Grindelwald 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
    Grindelwald 54
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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vilnius 9.72
    Grindelwald 56
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 Grindelwald

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

  • Glacier Canyon Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Indoor Ropes Park Entry Ticket: $40
  • Grindelwald First: Cable Car Ticket with Cliff Walk: $134
  • Grindelwald First (Top of Adventure) Ticket incl. Cliff Walk: $142
  • From Jungfraujoch Round-Trip Railway Ticket: $231
  • Switzerland: Private Skiing Day Tour for any level: $447

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vilnius 6.38
    Grindelwald 31
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


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


Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Grindelwald?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Grindelwald, 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 Grindelwald?

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 Grindelwald in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Grindelwald. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Grindelwald in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Vilnius is cooler than Grindelwald. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vilnius in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Grindelwald this time of the year. In Vilnius, it's very sunny this time of the year. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Vilnius 18°C (65°F) 
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Grindelwald. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Grindelwald for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Vilnius is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 8°C (46°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Vilnius usually gets less rain in October than Grindelwald. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Vilnius 8°C (46°F) 
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Grindelwald in the Winter?

Both Grindelwald and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Grindelwald can be very cold. Vilnius can be very cold during winter. Vilnius is much colder than Grindelwald in the winter. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Vilnius -5°C (23°F) 
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Grindelwald in the Spring?

Both Grindelwald and Vilnius during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year.

In the spring, Vilnius is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vilnius in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Vilnius often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Grindelwald. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 176 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Vilnius usually gets less rain in April than Grindelwald. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Vilnius

Vilnius Grindelwald
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb -4°C (26°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 1°C (33°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 77 mm (3 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 13°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec -2°C (29°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)