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

Should you visit Vilnius or Oxford?

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 Oxford. 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Oxford

Oxford is a scholarly, collegiate, and beautiful college town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Vilnius and Oxford: 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
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Vilnius or Oxford?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vilnius than Oxford. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Vilnius is very popular for its historical sights, while Oxford attracts visitors for its museums, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Oxford is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for being home to one of the world's most notable universities. 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 Oxford?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vilnius
Oxford

Oxford 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 Oxford. This town is filled with culture, history, and world class museums. Check out the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, Ashmolean Museum, or the Museum of Oxford.

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 Oxford? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vilnius
Oxford

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Vilnius and Oxford 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.

Oxford is becoming an appealing option for foodies. In addition to the typical British pubs and fish and chips shops, you'll find a wide diversity of ethnic food around town. Thai, sushi, Indian, and more are common dining options. Head to the Oxford Covered Market to try a traditional British breakfast or have some delicious ice cream.

Is Vilnius or Oxford Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius
Oxford

Evening events are great in both Vilnius and Oxford.

Vilnius has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Oxford has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. As a college town, you'll find an active nightlife scene with trivia nights and plenty of parties. There are pubs around town where you can grab a drink or find out if there's a concert while you're in town.

Is Vilnius or Oxford Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius
Oxford

Vilnius is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Oxford 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.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Oxford?

Vilnius
Oxford

Both Vilnius and Oxford are nice 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.

Oxford has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Is Vilnius or Oxford Better for Families?

Vilnius
Oxford

Both Vilnius and Oxford 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.

Oxford is a family-friendly city. Families will enjoy taking a paddle boat out on the water and exploring the beautiful setting. There are also a number of sights that were influential in the making of Harry Potter. In particular, you'll find the inspiration for the "Great Hall" if you take a tour of Christ Church College. The tour must be booked in advance and they often sell out. Older kids will also enjoy exploring the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

Is Vilnius or Oxford Better for Couples?

Vilnius
Oxford

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

Oxford is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beautiful campus and striking architecture make this a great destination for romance. Hire a boat and explore the water or wander through one of the impressive gardens.

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 Oxford Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius
Oxford

Vilnius is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Oxford is lacking in good options 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.

Oxford is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town that offer affordable accommodation. As a college town, Oxford also has an active nightlife scene and a young crowd that keeps things affordable and fun.

Is Vilnius or Oxford Better for Students?

Vilnius
Oxford

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

Oxford is a very popular place to visit for students. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

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

Vilnius
Oxford

Both Vilnius and Oxford offer nice public transit options.

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

Oxford has some public transit options. There are buses available if your legs get tired.


Is Vilnius or Oxford a more walkable city?

Vilnius
Oxford

Oxford 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.

Oxford is a very walkable college town. The best way to explore most of the town is on foot, so you can soak up the full collegiate atmosphere.

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 Oxford Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oxford or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Oxford?

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

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Oxford?

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.

Oxford is a small town with plenty to do. This college town 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 Oxford?

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.

Oxford might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Oxford has to offer.


Five days in Vilnius or Oxford?

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.

Oxford 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 Oxford?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic 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 Oxford. Since Oxford is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Oxford 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 Oxford is €153. 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 Oxford in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vilnius 42
    Oxford 84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vilnius 84
    Oxford 168
Compare Hotels in Vilnius and Oxford

Looking for a hotel in Vilnius or Oxford? 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 Oxford


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 Oxford Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vilnius 8.30
    Oxford 32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vilnius

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Vilnius:

  • Jewish Heritage Sites Private Tour with Transfer: $214
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride with Hotel Transfer: $214
  • Airport Bus Transfer to/from Central Bus Station: $3.21
  • Vilnius Private 1-Way Airport Transfer: $53
  • Vilnius Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Warsaw: $35
  • Vilnius Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Riga: $24
  • Vilnius Airport Transfer: $51
  • Vilnius Airport (VNO): Bus Transfer to/from Gdansk: $51
  • Transfer from Kaunas Airport to Vilnius: $214
  • Riga: Bus Transfer to/from Vilnius: $20
  • Riga / Tallinn / Vilnius. Transfer Between Baltic States: $641
  • Private Vilnius Airport Arrival Transfer: $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oxford

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

  • National Express | Between Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airports Bus Transfers: $34
  • Fareham to Southampton Airport (SOU) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Private Transfer from Gatwick city hotels to Dover Cruise Port: $55
  • Oxford Private Departure Transfer - Oxford Hotel/Accommodation to Oxford Airport: $68
  • Transfer in private Vehicle from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) - Central London: $96
  • Private One Way or Round Trip Transfer: Kensington SW London to Gatwick Airport: $147
  • Oxford City to London Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $196
  • Arrival or Departure Private Transfer: Stansted Airport to Central London: $224
  • Gatwick Airport to Southampton Port or Hotel Private Airport Arrival Transfer: $230
  • Southampton - London Transfer: via Bath and Windsor: $234

Is it cheaper to fly into Vilnius or Oxford?

Prices for flights to both Oxford 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
    Oxford 48
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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vilnius 9.72
    Oxford 22
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 Oxford

For Oxford, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Discovery Walk & Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Carfax Tower Entry Ticket: $3.81
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Oxford Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Oxford's Literary Legends and Landmarks" A Self-Guided Tour: $7.99
  • Discover Oxford's Timeless Tales: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Discover Oxford's Timeless Tales: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Explore Oxford's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour for Students: $11
  • Oxford Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Stepping Through Oxford Walking Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vilnius 6.38
    Oxford 24
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

Sample the Local Flavors in Oxford

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Oxford:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Cambridge: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Edinburgh: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Bristol: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • Eccentric Oxford 3-Hour Pub Tour: $150
  • Wine Tasting in the Garden of England: $221


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


Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Oxford?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Oxford. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Oxford, 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 Oxford?

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 Oxford in the Summer?

Both Oxford and Vilnius during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Oxford for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Vilnius is generally around the same temperature as Oxford. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 18°C (65°F), and Oxford fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Vilnius. In the summer, Vilnius often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 195 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Oxford. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Vilnius 18°C (65°F) 
    Oxford 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Oxford in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Oxford. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Oxford because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

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

In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Oxford. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Vilnius or Oxford in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Oxford in the winter. The weather in Vilnius can be very cold. In the winter, Vilnius is much colder than Oxford. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vilnius in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Oxford averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Oxford. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 52 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in January than Oxford. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Vilnius -5°C (23°F) 
    Oxford 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Oxford in the Spring?

Both Oxford 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 Oxford for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Vilnius is generally cooler than Oxford. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 7°C (45°F), and Oxford fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Vilnius usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives around the same amount of rain as Oxford. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Vilnius 7°C (45°F) 
    Oxford 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Oxford and Vilnius

Vilnius Oxford
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb -4°C (26°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 1°C (33°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 77 mm (3 in) 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Sep 13°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Dec -2°C (29°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)