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

Should you visit Vilnius or Pamplona?

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 Pamplona. 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 historic, religious, and surprising 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.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a historic, elegant, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Vilnius and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Pamplona?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Pamplona than Vilnius. While Vilnius is larger than Pamplona, Pamplona has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Pamplona is better known for its food, hiking, and big city activities, while Vilnius is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Pamplona is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. Also, Pamplona is famous for The Running of the Bulls Festival. Vilnius is well known for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

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

Pamplona 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 Pamplona. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

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 Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are superb in both Vilnius and Pamplona.

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.

Pamplona has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

Is Vilnius or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius is a well-known place for its old town. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Pamplona has an old town worth visiting. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Is Vilnius or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Pamplona is a popular spot for hiking. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Pamplona?

Both Vilnius and Pamplona 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.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Vilnius or Pamplona Better for Families?

Both Vilnius and Pamplona are notable 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.

Pamplona is a family-friendly city. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Vilnius or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Vilnius and Pamplona both notable 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.

Pamplona is a good city for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Vilnius or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Vilnius and Pamplona are superb 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 Pamplona. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

Is Vilnius or Pamplona Better for Students?

Vilnius and Pamplona are both notable 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 Pamplona. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

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

Both Vilnius and Pamplona offer notable public transit options.

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

Pamplona has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Vilnius or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Pamplona 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.

Pamplona is a very walkable city. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city 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 Pamplona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Pamplona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Vilnius or Pamplona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Vilnius than Pamplona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pamplona.

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Pamplona?

The beautiful city of Vilnius offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Pamplona, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Pamplona?

Vilnius is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vilnius, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Pamplona, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pamplona has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Pamplona?

Vilnius is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pamplona is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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 Pamplona?

Vilnius is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pamplona. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Pamplona. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Pamplona?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Pamplona. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Pamplona, 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 Pamplona?

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 Pamplona in the Summer?

Both Pamplona and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pamplona for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Vilnius is around the same temperature as Pamplona in the summer. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Pamplona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vilnius. Vilnius usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pamplona during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vilnius usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pamplona. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vilnius or Pamplona in the Autumn?

Both Pamplona and Vilnius during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pamplona in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Vilnius is much colder than Pamplona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vilnius in October average around 8°C (46°F), and Pamplona averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Pamplona. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Vilnius usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Pamplona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Pamplona. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pamplona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Vilnius can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Vilnius is generally much colder than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around -5°C (23°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Pamplona during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

Pamplona receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vilnius or Pamplona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Pamplona. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the activities around the city.

Vilnius is much colder than Pamplona in the spring. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Vilnius often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Vilnius usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Vilnius