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

Should you visit Vilnius or Inverness?

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 Inverness. 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. 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.

Inverness

Inverness is a cultural, traditional, and local city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Vilnius and Inverness: 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 museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to Loch Ness
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Vilnius or Inverness?

Both Inverness and Vilnius have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Vilnius is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Inverness is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, and small town charm. Inverness is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness. Vilnius is well known for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Inverness?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vilnius
Inverness

Inverness 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 Inverness. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.

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 Inverness? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vilnius
Inverness

Inverness 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 Inverness. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

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 Inverness Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius
Inverness

Vilnius is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Inverness. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun evening.

Is Vilnius or Inverness Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius
Inverness

Vilnius is a well-known place for its old town. However, Inverness 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.

Inverness does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Inverness?

Vilnius
Inverness

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

Inverness is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian Market.

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 Inverness Better for Families?

Vilnius
Inverness

Both Vilnius and Inverness are notable family-friendly destinations.

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.

Inverness is a family-friendly city. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.

Is Vilnius or Inverness Better for Couples?

Vilnius
Inverness

Vilnius and Inverness both notable destinations for a couple.

Vilnius makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Inverness is a good city for couples to visit. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.


Is Vilnius or Inverness Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius
Inverness

Vilnius is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city 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.

Inverness is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There a some hostels and student hotels, but this isn't one of the major backpacker spots in the UK.

Is Vilnius or Inverness Better for Students?

Vilnius
Inverness

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

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.

Inverness is not popular with students.

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

Vilnius
Inverness

Vilnius is very good for its public transit. However, Inverness is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.


Is Vilnius or Inverness a more walkable city?

Vilnius
Inverness

Inverness 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.

Inverness is a very walkable city. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town 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 Inverness Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Inverness or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Inverness?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Vilnius and Inverness. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vilnius than in Inverness. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 1-3 days is enough time in Inverness.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vilnius than Inverness 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 Inverness? Ideal Length of Stay
    Vilnius 1-4 
    Inverness 1-3

One day in Vilnius or Inverness?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Vilnius. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vilnius has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Inverness, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Inverness?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Vilnius. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Inverness, 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 Inverness has to offer.


Five days in Vilnius or Inverness?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the religious city of Vilnius. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Inverness 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 Inverness?

Vilnius is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Inverness. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Inverness. 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 London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh.


Which place is cheaper, Inverness 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 Inverness is €196. 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 Inverness in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vilnius 42
    Inverness 107
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vilnius 84
    Inverness 214
Compare Hotels in Vilnius and Inverness

Looking for a hotel in Vilnius or Inverness? 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 Inverness


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 Inverness Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vilnius 8.30
    Inverness 38

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 Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Lecht Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Glenshee Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Inverness INV to Inverness City by luxury vehicle: $105
  • Inverness Airport to Glenshee Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Transfers / Tour from , inverness, Edinburgh ,Glasgow ,Aberdeen : $184
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Aviemore: $229
  • Inverness to Fort William Direct transfer: $374
  • Inverness to Isle of Skye Direct transfer: $623
  • Inverness to Glasgow Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Edinburgh Direct transfer: $781

Is it cheaper to fly into Vilnius or Inverness?

Prices for flights to both Inverness 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
    Inverness 57
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
    Inverness 52
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 Inverness

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

  • City Discovery App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $15
  • Inverness City Daily Walking Tour (11:30am, 2pm & 5:30pm): $15
  • Guided Walking Tour with a Local: $17
  • SEA LIFE Loch Lomond General Admission Ticket: $20
  • Northern Highlights Sightseeing Pass: $25
  • Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views: $27
  • Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise from Dochgarroch: $38
  • Glenaladale Cruise - Great for wizard spotting!: $38
  • Inverness Bike Tour a 2 hours guided bike tour around the Waterways of Inverness: $39
  • Gaskan cruise - Golden Eagles!: $44
  • Puffin Tour: $57

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vilnius 6.38
    Inverness 27
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 Inverness

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

  • From Invergordon Port Dunrobin Castle, Clynelish Distillery Tour : $203
  • Speyside Distillery Tour From Inverness: $1,124


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


Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Inverness?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Inverness. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Inverness, 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 Inverness?

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 Inverness in the Summer?

Both Inverness and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Inverness in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Vilnius is a little warmer than Inverness in the summer. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Inverness fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vilnius. Vilnius usually receives more sunshine than Inverness during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Inverness receives 147 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Inverness. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Vilnius 18°C (65°F) 
    Inverness 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Inverness in the Autumn?

Both Inverness and Vilnius during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Inverness for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Vilnius is cooler than Inverness. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vilnius in October average around 8°C (46°F), and Inverness averages at about 9°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Vilnius often gets more sunshine than Inverness. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Inverness receives 84 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Inverness. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Vilnius 8°C (46°F) 
    Inverness 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Inverness in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Inverness. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Inverness because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Inverness can be very cold. Vilnius can be very cold during winter. In January, Vilnius is generally much colder than Inverness. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around -5°C (23°F), and Inverness fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Inverness during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Inverness receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Inverness. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Vilnius -5°C (23°F) 
    Inverness 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Inverness in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Inverness. The spring months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the small town charm are the main draw to Inverness this time of year.

Vilnius is around the same temperature as Inverness in the spring. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Inverness fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Vilnius often gets more sunshine than Inverness. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Inverness receives 136 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in April than Inverness. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Vilnius 7°C (45°F) 
    Inverness 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Inverness and Vilnius

Vilnius Inverness
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb -4°C (26°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 1°C (33°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 77 mm (3 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 13°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec -2°C (29°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)