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

Should you visit Vilnius or Helsinki?

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 Helsinki. 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 undiscovered, authentic, and historic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a coastal, environmentally conscious, and waterfront city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Vilnius and Helsinki: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Helsinki?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vilnius than Helsinki, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Vilnius is better known for its nightlife and historical sights, while Helsinki is more popular for its museums, shopping, and impressive beauty. Helsinki is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene. Vilnius is well known for its authentic old town and long running history. Also, Vilnius is famous for Gediminas Castle Tower.

How is Vilnius different from Helsinki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Helsinki 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 Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

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 Helsinki? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Vilnius and Helsinki can be difficult as they are each notable 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.

Helsinki is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Vilnius or Helsinki Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Vilnius has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Vilnius or Helsinki Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius is a very popular place for its old town. However, Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Vilnius is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Helsinki?

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

Helsinki is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

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 Helsinki Better for Families?

Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is a very kid-friendly city. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

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 Helsinki Better for Couples?

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

Helsinki is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

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 Helsinki Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Vilnius. For backpackers who want to escape the crowds, this off-the-beaten path European capital is a great option. It has history, charm, and an authenticity that is hard to find in a more touristy area. It's also an affordable city, with hostels and plenty of cheap places to eat.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Vilnius or Helsinki Better for Students?

Helsinki 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 Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

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

Helsinki 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.

Helsinki has some very good public transit options. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

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

Is Vilnius or Helsinki a more walkable city?

Vilnius and Helsinki both are notable when exploring on foot.

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

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

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

Should I spend more time in Helsinki or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Helsinki?

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

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Helsinki?

The beautiful city of Vilnius offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Helsinki, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Vilnius or Helsinki?

Vilnius is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vilnius, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Helsinki, 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 Helsinki has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Helsinki?

Vilnius is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Helsinki 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 Helsinki?

Vilnius is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Helsinki. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Helsinki. 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 Budget Tours to Finland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Helsinki?

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

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 Helsinki in the Summer?

Both Helsinki and Vilnius during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the family-friendly experiences.

Vilnius is around the same temperature as Helsinki in the summer. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Helsinki fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Helsinki, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Vilnius. In the summer, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Helsinki. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Helsinki receives 275 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Helsinki. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Helsinki receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Helsinki in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Helsinki. The autumn months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year.

In the autumn, Vilnius is a little warmer than Helsinki. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vilnius in October average around 8°C (46°F), and Helsinki averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Vilnius usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Helsinki during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Helsinki receives 90 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Helsinki. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Helsinki receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vilnius or Helsinki in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Helsinki. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Helsinki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Helsinki. It's quite cold in Vilnius in the winter. In January, Vilnius is generally a little warmer than Helsinki. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around -5°C (23°F), and Helsinki fluctuates around -6°C (21°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Helsinki. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Helsinki receives 39 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Helsinki. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Helsinki receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Helsinki in the Spring?

Both Helsinki and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Helsinki in the spring for the natural beauty.

Helsinki can get quite cold in the spring. Vilnius is much warmer than Helsinki in the spring. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Helsinki fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Helsinki during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Helsinki receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Helsinki. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Helsinki receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Helsinki and Vilnius