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

Should you visit Vilnius or Leipzig?

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 Leipzig. 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a historic, growing, and dynamic city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Vilnius and Leipzig: 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
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Vilnius or Leipzig?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vilnius. Although Vilnius and Leipzig are roughly the same size, Vilnius has more sights and attractions for tourists. Vilnius is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Leipzig attracts visitors for its museums, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Leipzig is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner. 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 Leipzig?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vilnius
Leipzig

Leipzig 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 Leipzig. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

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 Leipzig? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vilnius
Leipzig

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

Leipzig is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

Is Vilnius or Leipzig Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius
Leipzig

Vilnius is great for nightlife. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Vilnius for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Leipzig. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is Vilnius or Leipzig Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius
Leipzig

Vilnius is great for its historic old town. However, Leipzig 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.

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Leipzig?

Vilnius
Leipzig

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

Leipzig is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

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 Leipzig Better for Families?

Vilnius
Leipzig

Both Vilnius and Leipzig are nice 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.

Leipzig is a family-friendly city. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

Is Vilnius or Leipzig Better for Couples?

Vilnius
Leipzig

Vilnius and Leipzig both nice 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.

Leipzig is a good city for couples to visit. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.


Is Vilnius or Leipzig Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius
Leipzig

Vilnius is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Leipzig is a good city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

Is Vilnius or Leipzig Better for Students?

Vilnius
Leipzig

Vilnius is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Leipzig is not popular with students.

It's common for students to 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.

Leipzig is not popular with students.

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

Vilnius
Leipzig

Leipzig 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.

Leipzig has some very good public transit options. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

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


Is Vilnius or Leipzig a more walkable city?

Vilnius
Leipzig

Vilnius and Leipzig both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Leipzig or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Leipzig?

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Leipzig?

In Vilnius, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

In Leipzig, 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 Leipzig?

In Vilnius, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vilnius has to offer.

In Leipzig, 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 Leipzig has to offer.


Five days in Vilnius or Leipzig?

Vilnius is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Leipzig 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 Leipzig?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vilnius. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Vilnius. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Leipzig. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Leipzig. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Leipzig 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 Leipzig is €166. 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 Leipzig in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vilnius 42
    Leipzig 91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vilnius 84
    Leipzig 182
Compare Hotels in Vilnius and Leipzig

Looking for a hotel in Vilnius or Leipzig? 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 Leipzig


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 Leipzig Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vilnius 8.30
    Leipzig 27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vilnius

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Vilnius:

  • Riga / Tallinn / Vilnius. Transfer Between Baltic States: $641
  • From Druskininkai & Grutas Park Tour with Transfer: $513
  • Jewish Heritage Sites Private Tour with Transfer: $214
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride with Hotel Transfer: $214
  • Transfer from Kaunas Airport to Vilnius: $214
  • Private Transfer from Vilnius Airport to Lithuania: $142
  • Vilnius Private 1-Way Airport Transfer: $53
  • Vilnius Airport Transfer: $51
  • Vilnius Airport (VNO): Bus Transfer to/from Gdansk: $51
  • Arrival Transfer from Vilnius VNO Airport to Vilnius by Minivan: $46
  • Vilnius Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Warsaw: $35
  • Private Vilnius Airport Arrival Transfer: $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Leipzig

Also for Leipzig, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $68
  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83
  • Arrival Transfer Leipzig Airport LEJ to Leipzig by Car or Van: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Vilnius or Leipzig?

Prices for flights to both Leipzig 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
    Leipzig 53
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Leipzig

For Leipzig, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vilnius 9.72
    Leipzig 36
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:

  • “Ghostly Tales of Vilnius” Walking Tour: $86
  • "Ghostly Tales of Vilnius" Walking Tour: $170
  • (Post) Soviet Vilnius Private Walking Tour: $107
  • 1-Day Pilgrim Tour from Vilnius: $385
  • Automuseum Entry Ticket: $21
  • Automuseum Entry Ticket: $21
  • Bachelorette Party Adventure's Organization: $33
  • Bike Tour of Vilnius Highlights "Iconic Landmarks & Hidden Gems": $32
  • Day tour out of Paneriai holocaust park,Trakai castle, medieval Kernave: $208
  • Discover Vilnius Tour: $267
  • Dzukija National Park and Grutas Park: Full-Day Tour: $214
  • Explore Old Town and Uzupis Guided Walking Tour: $76

Tours and Activities in Leipzig

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Leipzig.

  • Secrets of Old The Lost Treasure Adventure: $4.27
  • Leipzig's Communist Past: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of the City's Communist Past: $6.99
  • Historic Center Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.45
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Smartphone Scavenger Hunt Sighteeing Tour: $12
  • Guided Crime-Themed Walking Tour: $13
  • Old Town Guided Tour: $13
  • 1.5-Hour Historical Walking Tour in German: $14
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour - Explore Your Way: $14
  • Guided Tour of the Southern Cemetery: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vilnius 6.38
    Leipzig 26
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


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


Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Leipzig?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Leipzig. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Leipzig, 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 Leipzig?

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 Leipzig in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Leipzig. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Leipzig for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Vilnius is generally around the same temperature as Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 18°C (65°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Leipzig. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vilnius this time of the year. In the summer, Vilnius often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Leipzig. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 206 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Leipzig. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Vilnius 18°C (65°F) 
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Leipzig in the Autumn?

Both Leipzig and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Leipzig because of the shopping scene.

Vilnius is cooler than Leipzig in the autumn. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Leipzig fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Leipzig during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Vilnius 8°C (46°F) 
    Leipzig 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Leipzig in the Winter?

Both Leipzig and Vilnius during the winter are popular places to visit. 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 Leipzig this time of year.

It's quite cold in Leipzig in the winter. The weather in Vilnius can be very cold. In the winter, Vilnius is much colder than Leipzig. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vilnius in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Leipzig averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Leipzig. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 45 hours of full sun.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Vilnius -5°C (23°F) 
    Leipzig 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Leipzig in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Leipzig. The natural beauty are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year.

In April, Vilnius is generally cooler than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 7°C (45°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Vilnius usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 143 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Leipzig. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Vilnius 7°C (45°F) 
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Leipzig and Vilnius

Vilnius Leipzig
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb -4°C (26°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 1°C (33°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 77 mm (3 in) 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 13°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Dec -2°C (29°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)