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

Should you visit Vilnius or Lisbon?

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 Lisbon. 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 historic, religious, and surprising city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Vilnius and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Lisbon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon. Although Vilnius and Lisbon are both popular with visitors, Lisbon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisbon is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Vilnius is popular for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon are among the most recognizable in the world. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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 Lisbon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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 Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an amazing city 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.

Lisbon has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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 Lisbon Better for Music?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Vilnius is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Lisbon The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Vilnius is not a live music destination.

Is Vilnius or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

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

Lisbon offers a nice beach destination. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon 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.

Lisbon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

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 Lisbon?

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

The abundance of shops in Lisbon make it a world-class shopping destination. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon Better for Families?

Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is a very kid-friendly city. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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 Lisbon Better for Couples?

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

Lisbon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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 Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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 Lisbon Better for Students?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international 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.

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon is top-notch. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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

Is Vilnius or Lisbon a more walkable city?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit 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.

It is easy to get around Lisbon on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Lisbon?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon 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 Lisbon.

One day in Vilnius or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Vilnius. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Because Lisbon 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 Lisbon?

Vilnius is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Because Lisbon 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 Lisbon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vilnius. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Lisbon 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 Lisbon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Vilnius or Lisbon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the religious destination of Vilnius. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Because Lisbon 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Lisbon?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Lisbon, 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 Lisbon?

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 Lisbon in the Summer?

Both Lisbon and Vilnius during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Vilnius is cooler than Lisbon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vilnius in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Lisbon averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Vilnius. In the summer, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Lisbon. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 352 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Lisbon. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Lisbon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Lisbon. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lisbon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Vilnius is generally much colder than Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 8°C (46°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Lisbon during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vilnius or Lisbon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Lisbon. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Vilnius can get quite cold in the winter. Vilnius is much colder than Lisbon in the winter. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Lisbon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Lisbon. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. Vilnius usually gets less rain in January than Lisbon. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Lisbon in the Spring?

Both Lisbon and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Vilnius is much colder than Lisbon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vilnius in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Lisbon averages at about 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Lisbon during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 235 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lisbon and Vilnius