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

Should you visit Vilnius or Marseille?

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 Marseille. 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, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Vilnius and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Marseille?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Marseille than Vilnius, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Marseille is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Vilnius is known for its museums. Marseille is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity. It is also home to The Vieux Port. Vilnius is popular for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vilnius is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marseille does not have 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.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Marseille 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 Marseille, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

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 Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Marseille 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.

Marseille has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Much of the city's nightlife is centered around being outdoors. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place.

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 Marseille Better for Beaches?

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

Marseille offers a nice beach destination. The city has nice beaches that offer both culture and diversity, which may be lacking some other coastal parts of the French Riviera.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

Marseille 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.

Marseille offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old Port is filled with shops and boutiques, and is the most scenic part of the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is filled with history and character.

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 Marseille?

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

Marseille is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

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 Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is a good destination for its Christmas markets. However, Vilnius does not offer Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Marseille. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Vilnius does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Vilnius or Marseille Better for Families?

Vilnius is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Marseille doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Nearby beaches and an outdoor climbing area make it a diverse city to visit with kids.

Is Vilnius or Marseille Better for Couples?

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

Marseille is a very popular place to visit for couples. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

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 Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

Marseille is a good city to visit for backpackers. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

Is Vilnius or Marseille Better for Students?

Marseille 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 Marseille. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

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

Both Vilnius and Marseille offer good public transit options.

Vilnius has a few public transit options. Bus and trolleybuses are available.

Marseille has some public transit options. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

Is Vilnius or Marseille a more walkable city?

Marseille 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.

Marseille is a very walkable city. The Old Port (Vieux Port) is particularly walkable and is one of the best areas to explore 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 Marseille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Marseille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Vilnius and Marseille. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vilnius than in Marseille. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 2-3 days is enough time in Marseille.

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Marseille?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Vilnius. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vilnius has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Marseille, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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 Marseille?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the religious destination of Vilnius. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Marseille, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Marseille has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Marseille?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the undiscovered city of Vilnius. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Marseille 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.

A week in Vilnius or Marseille?

Vilnius is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marseille. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Marseille. 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.

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 France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Marseille?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 47% larger than the population of Vilnius. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Marseille, 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 Marseille?

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 Marseille in the Summer?

Both Marseille and Vilnius during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Marseille for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Vilnius is cooler than Marseille. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vilnius in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Marseille averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Vilnius. In the summer, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 366 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Marseille. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Marseille in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Marseille. 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 Marseille because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Vilnius is generally much colder than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 8°C (46°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Marseille. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vilnius or Marseille in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Marseille. The winter months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Marseille this time of year.

The weather in Vilnius can be very cold. Vilnius is much colder than Marseille in the winter. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Marseille fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 150 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in January than Marseille. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Marseille in the Spring?

Both Marseille 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. Also, many travelers come to Marseille for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Vilnius is much colder than Marseille. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vilnius in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Marseille averages at about 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Marseille. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives around the same amount of rain as Marseille. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Marseille and Vilnius