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

Should you visit Vilnius or Istanbul?

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 Istanbul. 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 surprising, undiscovered, and authentic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a historic, diverse, and beautiful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. 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.

Vilnius and Istanbul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Istanbul?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Vilnius. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Vilnius is famous for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Istanbul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Istanbul are among the most recognizable in the world. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

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 Istanbul? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Istanbul, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

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 Istanbul Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are great in both Vilnius and Istanbul.

Vilnius has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Istanbul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

Is Vilnius or Istanbul Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul 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.

Istanbul offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

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 Istanbul?

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

Istanbul is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

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 Istanbul Better for Families?

Istanbul 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.

Istanbul is a very kid-friendly city. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

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 Istanbul Better for Couples?

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

Istanbul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the 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 Istanbul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Istanbul. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Is Vilnius or Istanbul Better for Students?

Istanbul 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 Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit 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.

Public transit in Istanbul is top-notch. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

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

Is Vilnius or Istanbul a more walkable city?

Istanbul 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.

Istanbul is a very walkable city. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

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 Istanbul Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Istanbul or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Istanbul?

Both Vilnius and Istanbul have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Vilnius. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 3-7 days is enough time in Istanbul.

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Istanbul?

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.

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Istanbul?

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.

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Vilnius or Istanbul?

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.

Istanbul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Istanbul has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Vilnius or Istanbul?

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 Istanbul. Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 Turkey, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Istanbul?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Vilnius. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Istanbul, 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 Istanbul?

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 Istanbul in the Summer?

Both Istanbul and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Vilnius is generally cooler than Istanbul. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 18°C (65°F), and Istanbul fluctuates around 24°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Istanbul. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vilnius. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Istanbul during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 333 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Istanbul. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vilnius or Istanbul in the Autumn?

Both Istanbul and Vilnius during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Vilnius is much colder than Istanbul in the autumn. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Istanbul fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Istanbul. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 169 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in October than Istanbul. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Istanbul in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Istanbul. The winter months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year.

The weather in Vilnius can be very cold. In the winter, Vilnius is much colder than Istanbul. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vilnius in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Istanbul averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Istanbul during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 75 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Istanbul. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vilnius or Istanbul in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Istanbul. The natural beauty are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Vilnius is generally much colder than Istanbul. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 7°C (45°F), and Istanbul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Istanbul. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 180 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Istanbul. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Istanbul and Vilnius