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

Should you visit Vilnius or Milan?

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 Milan. 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 undiscovered, authentic, and historic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Milan

Milan is a trendy, chic, and cultural 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 live music, food, and shopping.

Vilnius and Milan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Milan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Milan than Vilnius, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Milan is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also home to Piazza del Duomo. Vilnius is popular for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Milan 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 Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

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 Milan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Milan 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 Milan, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

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 Milan Better for Nightlife?

Milan 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.

Milan has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

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 Milan Better for Music?

Milan 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 Milan The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Vilnius is not a live music destination.

Is Vilnius or Milan Better for its Old Town?

Milan 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.

Milan offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

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 Milan?

Milan 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 Milan make it a world-class shopping destination. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

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 Milan Better for Families?

Both Vilnius and Milan 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.

Milan is a family-friendly city. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Vilnius or Milan Better for Couples?

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

Milan is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

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 Milan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Vilnius and Milan are very good 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 Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Is Vilnius or Milan Better for Students?

Milan is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

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

Milan 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 Milan is top-notch. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

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

Is Vilnius or Milan a more walkable city?

Milan 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 Milan on foot. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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 Milan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Milan or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Milan?

In either Vilnius or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Milan than Vilnius because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 1-5 days is enough time in Milan.

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Milan?

In Vilnius, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this surprising destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Because Milan 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. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Vilnius or Milan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vilnius. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Because Milan 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. 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 Milan has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Milan?

Vilnius is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Vilnius. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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

A week in Vilnius or Milan?

You'll find food and shopping around the undiscovered destination of Vilnius. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Milan. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Milan. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Milan?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Vilnius. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Milan, 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 Milan?

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 Milan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Milan. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Milan because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Milan. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vilnius this time of the year. In the summer, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Milan. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 250 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Milan. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Milan receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Milan in the Autumn?

Both Milan and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Milan this time of year.

In October, Vilnius is generally much colder than Milan. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 8°C (46°F), and Milan fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Milan during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Milan. In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Milan. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Milan receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vilnius or Milan in the Winter?

Both Milan and Vilnius during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Milan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Milan. It's quite cold in Vilnius in the winter. Vilnius is much colder than Milan in the winter. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Milan fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Milan. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 119 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in January than Milan. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Milan receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Milan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Milan. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Milan in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Vilnius is much colder than Milan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vilnius in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Milan averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Vilnius usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Milan during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Milan. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Milan receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Milan and Vilnius