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

Should you visit Vilnius or Jaco?

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 Jaco. 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. With stunning beauty, Vilnius attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Vilnius travel costs.

Jaco

Jaco is a popular, touristy, and laid back town. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Jaco travel costs.

Vilnius and Jaco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Jaco?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Jaco. Although Vilnius and Jaco are both popular with visitors, Jaco has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Jaco is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Vilnius is known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Jaco is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for its surfing, nightlife, and beaches. It is also home to Carara National Park. Vilnius is popular for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Jaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vilnius is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Jaco is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Jaco offers a few options for museum-goers. Most people spend their time outside or partying while they're in town.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Vilnius and Jaco 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.

Jaco is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a range of restaurants around town that include hamburger joints, pizza shops, and other casual favorites. You'll find a variety of options along the main strip as well.

Is Vilnius or Jaco Better for Nightlife?

Jaco is an amazing town to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Jaco has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. What was once a quiet surfing town is now one of the most famous party destinations in Costa Rica. There are a constantly growing number of bars and clubs around town and you'll find tons of young tourists and backpackers looking for a party.

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.

Is Vilnius or Jaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Jaco is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Vilnius is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Jaco. You can't really snorkel at Jaco Beach because of the waves and water conditions, but there are a number of snorkeling tours that leave from town and take you to better spots.

Vilnius is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Vilnius or Jaco Better for Beaches?

Jaco is a good destination for the beach. However, Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Jaco offers a nice beach destination. Jaco Beach is a great spot for swimming and surfing. It's lost some of its original charm, but there's still golden sand and nearby horseback riding.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Jaco Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Vilnius to see the historical old town. 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.

Jaco does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Jaco?

Both Vilnius and Jaco are good shopping destinations.

Vilnius offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Jaco has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Many of the shops are found along the main street. There are a number of souvenir stores and a few art galleries that are worth checking out.

Is Vilnius or Jaco More Beautiful?

Vilnius is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Vilnius attracts visitors from all around. The city is less frequented by tourists than many in Europe, but much of its beauty comes from the hidden charm and undiscovered atmosphere.

Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Vilnius or Jaco Better for Families?

Both Vilnius and Jaco are good 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.

Jaco is a family-friendly city. Nearby you'll find horseback riding, monkey tours, and other fun kid-friendly activities. Kids will enjoy the beaches in the area as well.

Is Vilnius or Jaco Better for Couples?

Vilnius and Jaco both good 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.

Jaco is a good city for couples to visit. It's one of the more touristy parts of Costa Rica, but if you enjoy surfing and beach life, then you'll find a lot to do in the area.

Is Vilnius or Jaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Vilnius and Jaco are great 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 Jaco. It's a touristy town with a bit of a party reputation. There are plenty of hostels and other backpackers around so you shouldn't have trouble meeting people.

Is Vilnius or Jaco Better for Students?

Vilnius is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Jaco 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.

Jaco is not popular with students.

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

Vilnius is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jaco is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Jaco. Most people walk or get around by bicycle.

Is Vilnius or Jaco a more walkable city?

Jaco 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.

Jaco is a very walkable town. The town is compact and walkable. You'll find many of the restaurants and shops along the main street, and it's easy to reach the beach 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 Jaco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jaco or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Jaco?

It's fun to spend time in either Vilnius or Jaco. In our opinion, Vilnius has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Vilnius than Jaco. In general, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 3-4 days is enough time in Jaco.

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Jaco?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Vilnius. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Jaco, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Jaco?

Vilnius is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Jaco, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Jaco?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Vilnius. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Jaco 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 Jaco?

The authentic city of Vilnius offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Jaco. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Jaco. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Vilnius and Jaco, we can see that Vilnius is more expensive. And not only is Jaco much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Vilnius is in Europe and Jaco is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Jaco would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jaco 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 Vilnius would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Vilnius than you might in Jaco.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Vilnius Expensive? and Is Jaco Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Jaco?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Jaco. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Jaco, 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 Jaco?

Vilnius has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Jaco experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Jaco in the Summer?

Both Jaco and Vilnius during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Jaco year-round.

In the summer, Vilnius is much colder than Jaco. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vilnius in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Jaco averages at about 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Vilnius. In the summer, Vilnius often gets more sunshine than Jaco. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jaco receives 164 hours of full sun.

Jaco gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Vilnius usually gets less rain in July than Jaco. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Jaco in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Jaco. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Jaco attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In October, Vilnius is generally much colder than Jaco. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 8°C (46°F), and Jaco fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Jaco during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Jaco receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Jaco receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Jaco. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to May in Jaco is the dry season. June to October is the hurricane season in Jaco.

Should I visit Vilnius or Jaco in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Jaco. The winter months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Jaco throughout the year.

The weather in Vilnius can be very cold. Vilnius is much colder than Jaco in the winter. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Jaco fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jaco. In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Jaco. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jaco receives 264 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in January than Jaco. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Jaco in the Spring?

Both Jaco and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Jaco because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the spring, Vilnius is much colder than Jaco. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vilnius in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Jaco averages at about 29°C (85°F).

It's quite sunny in Jaco. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Jaco during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Jaco receives 255 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Jaco. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Jaco is November to May. June to October in Jaco is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Jaco and Vilnius