A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vilnius vs. Interlaken for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Vilnius or Interlaken?

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 Interlaken. 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a adventurous, adrenaline-filled, and breathtaking town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Vilnius and Interlaken: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Interlaken?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vilnius. Although Vilnius and Interlaken are popular destinations, Vilnius has more sights and attractions for tourists. Vilnius is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, food, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Vilnius is famous for its authentic old town and long running history. It is also well known for Gediminas Castle Tower.

How is Vilnius different from Interlaken?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Vilnius or Interlaken Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is a good destination for snow skiing. However, Vilnius is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Interlaken is a great destination to visit. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Vilnius is not a skiing destination.

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

Vilnius is very good for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Vilnius is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Interlaken 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 Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

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 Interlaken Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Vilnius has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Vilnius or Interlaken Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Interlaken 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.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Vilnius or Interlaken Better for Hiking?

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

Interlaken is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Interlaken?

Vilnius is very good for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Vilnius. 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.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Vilnius or Interlaken Better for Families?

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Interlaken is very family-friendly. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

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 Interlaken Better for Couples?

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Interlaken is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

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 Interlaken Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Vilnius is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

Is Vilnius or Interlaken Better for Students?

Vilnius is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken is not popular with students.

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.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Interlaken 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.

Interlaken has some very good public transit options. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

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

Is Vilnius or Interlaken a more walkable city?

Vilnius and Interlaken both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable city. The old town is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Interlaken or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Interlaken?

In either Vilnius or Interlaken, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Interlaken than Vilnius because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 2-5 days is enough time in Interlaken.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vilnius than Interlaken 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 Interlaken?

With museums and nightlife around the surprising city of Vilnius, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vilnius, one day is sufficent for most.

In Interlaken, you'll find skiing and food. 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. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Vilnius or Interlaken?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Vilnius, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Interlaken, you'll find food and skiing. 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 Interlaken has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Interlaken?

Vilnius, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Interlaken is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Interlaken has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Vilnius or Interlaken?

Vilnius is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. Many people enjoy the food and skiing when visiting Interlaken. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Interlaken?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Interlaken, 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 Interlaken?

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 Interlaken in the Summer?

Both Interlaken and Vilnius during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Interlaken in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Vilnius is generally cooler than Interlaken. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 18°C (65°F), and Interlaken fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Interlaken, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Vilnius. In the summer, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Interlaken. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 241 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in July than Interlaken. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Interlaken in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Interlaken. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Interlaken for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Vilnius is much colder than Interlaken in the autumn. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Interlaken fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Interlaken during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Interlaken. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vilnius or Interlaken in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Interlaken. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the skiing and the cuisine.

The weather in Interlaken can be very cold. Vilnius can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Vilnius is much colder than Interlaken. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vilnius in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Interlaken averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Interlaken. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 55 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in January than Interlaken. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Interlaken in the Spring?

Both Interlaken and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year.

In April, Vilnius is generally much colder than Interlaken. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 7°C (45°F), and Interlaken fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Vilnius usually receives more sunshine than Interlaken during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Interlaken. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Interlaken and Vilnius