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

Should you visit Vilnius or Lofoten Islands?

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 Lofoten Islands. 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.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a spectacular, dramatic, and remote archipelago. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Vilnius and Lofoten Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Lofoten Islands?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lofoten Islands than Vilnius, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lofoten Islands is better known for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Vilnius is more popular for its nightlife. Lofoten Islands is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful fjords, remote setting, and colorful houses. Also, Lofoten Islands is famous for The Svolvær Goat Trail. Vilnius is well known for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Lofoten Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Vilnius and Lofoten Islands.

Vilnius offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lofoten Islands. The charming towns often have local museums that highlight the region's history and culture. The Lofoten War Memorial Museum is in the town of Svolvaer. The Lofotr Viking Museum is on the island of Vestvågøy and the Lofoten Museum is in Kabelvåg.

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

Lofoten Islands 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 Lofoten Islands. Fish and lamb are both common at most restaurants in the area. The food is fresh, delicious, and filling, and although it's expensive, it's also high quality and uniquely local.

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 Lofoten Islands Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Lofoten Islands. Some towns have local bars and pubs that are fun places to grab a drink.

Is Vilnius or Lofoten Islands Better for Beaches?

Lofoten Islands is notable for the beache. However, Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Lofoten Islands for it's beautiful beaches. Most people don't think of the Arctic when they think about beaches, but these islands have long sandy beaches that meet blue waters. They're tucked in between valleys and mountains and offer a surreal Arctic landscape.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Lofoten Islands Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the high quality old town areas in both Vilnius and Lofoten Islands.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Lofoten Islands. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Is Vilnius or Lofoten Islands Better for Hiking?

Lofoten Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Lofoten Islands is well-known for its hiking and trekking. It's remote setting and dramatic scenery lead to some truly breathtaking hikes. You'll find trails that pass by beautiful beaches, climb spectacular peaks, and wander through the beautiful countryside. Reinebringen, Horseid Beach, and Bunes Beach are among the favorite hikes in the area.

Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Lofoten Islands?

Both Vilnius and Lofoten Islands are notable 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.

Lofoten Islands has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are quirky local shops that sell local art, food, and merchandise.

Is Vilnius or Lofoten Islands Better for Families?

Lofoten Islands 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.

Lofoten Islands is a very kid-friendly archipelago. Outdoor adventures await at this breathtaking archipelago. There's kayaking, hiking, whale watch, and even a few Viking museums that the kids 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 Lofoten Islands Better for Couples?

Lofoten Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Lofoten Islands is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Stunning views, dramatic fjords, and world class outdoor adventures make this an amazing romantic destination for couples. If you enjoy the outdoors and adventure activities, then there is no shortage of opportunities to explore here.

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 Lofoten Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Vilnius and Lofoten Islands are high quality 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 Lofoten Islands. There are plenty of hostels around but transportation can be a bit tricky.

Is Vilnius or Lofoten Islands Better for Students?

Vilnius is very good for students. However, Lofoten Islands 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.

Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

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

Vilnius is very good for its public transit. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago 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 Lofoten Islands. There are buses and ferries, but the service is limited, although reliable.

Is Vilnius or Lofoten Islands a more walkable city?

Vilnius is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its ease of walking around.

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

Lofoten Islands is not a very walkable city. Although the area is filled with hikes, you really must have a car if you hope to explore it with flexibility and accessibility.

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

Should I spend more time in Lofoten Islands or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Lofoten Islands?

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

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Lofoten Islands?

The religious destination of Vilnius offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Lofoten Islands, you'll find museums and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This archipelago 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 Lofoten Islands?

The city of Vilnius offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

In Lofoten Islands, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Lofoten Islands?

Vilnius is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Lofoten Islands is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lofoten Islands has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Vilnius or Lofoten Islands?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Vilnius. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lofoten Islands. In Lofoten Islands, you'll find museums and food. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Contiki Tours to Norway, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Vilnius and Lofoten Islands, we can see that Vilnius is more expensive. And not only is Lofoten Islands much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lofoten Islands would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lofoten Islands 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 Lofoten Islands.

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