A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vilnius vs. Palermo for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Vilnius or Palermo?

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 Palermo. 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo

Palermo is a colorful, diverse, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Vilnius and Palermo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Palermo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palermo than Vilnius, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Palermo is more popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Vilnius is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Palermo is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also home to The Cathedral. Vilnius is popular for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Palermo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Vilnius and Palermo.

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 Palermo. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

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

Palermo 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 Palermo. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

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 Palermo Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are very good in both Vilnius and Palermo.

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.

Palermo has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

Is Vilnius or Palermo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Vilnius is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Vilnius is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Vilnius or Palermo Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Palermo for it's beautiful beaches. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Palermo Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Vilnius is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Palermo?

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

Palermo is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

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 Palermo Better for Families?

Palermo 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.

Palermo is a very kid-friendly city. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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 Palermo Better for Couples?

Vilnius and Palermo both good destinations for a couple.

Vilnius makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Palermo is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Vilnius or Palermo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Vilnius is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 backpackers visit Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Vilnius or Palermo Better for Students?

Vilnius and Palermo are both good destinations for students and younger travelers.

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.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

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

Vilnius is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city 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 Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Vilnius or Palermo a more walkable city?

Palermo 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.

Palermo is a very walkable city. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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 Palermo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palermo or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Palermo?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vilnius than Palermo 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 Palermo?

In Vilnius, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

In Palermo, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Palermo?

In Vilnius, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Vilnius has to offer.

In Palermo, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Palermo has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Palermo?

Vilnius 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.

Palermo is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Palermo?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Palermo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Vilnius and Palermo, we can see that Vilnius is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Palermo?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Vilnius. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Palermo, 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 Palermo?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Vilnius or Palermo in the Summer?

Both Palermo and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Palermo because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Vilnius is cooler than Palermo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vilnius in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Palermo averages at about 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vilnius. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Palermo during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 347 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Palermo. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vilnius or Palermo in the Autumn?

Both Palermo and Vilnius during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Palermo this time of year.

In October, Vilnius is generally much colder than Palermo. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 8°C (46°F), and Palermo fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Palermo. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 204 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in October than Palermo. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Palermo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Palermo. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Palermo during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 133 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Palermo. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vilnius or Palermo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Palermo. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Palermo in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Vilnius is much colder than Palermo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vilnius in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Palermo averages at about 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. In the spring, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Palermo. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 219 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in April than Palermo. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Palermo and Vilnius