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

Should you visit Vilnius or Porto?

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 Porto. 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 religious, surprising, and undiscovered city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Porto

Porto is a historic, cultural, and cosmopolitan port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. 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.

Vilnius and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Porto?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Porto than Vilnius. While Vilnius is larger than Porto, Porto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Porto is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also well known for Cais da Ribeira. Vilnius is famous for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Porto 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 Porto. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

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 Porto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Porto is an amazing port 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 Porto, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

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 Porto Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Vilnius and Porto.

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.

Porto has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Is Vilnius or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the high quality old town areas in both Vilnius and Porto.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Porto. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Porto?

Both Vilnius and Porto 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.

Porto has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Vilnius or Porto Better for Families?

Porto 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.

Porto is a very kid-friendly port city. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

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 Porto Better for Couples?

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

Porto is a very popular place to visit for couples. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic 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 Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is an amazing port city to visit for backpackers. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Porto. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

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.

Is Vilnius or Porto Better for Students?

Porto 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 Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

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

Porto is notable 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.

Porto has some very good public transit options. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

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

Is Vilnius or Porto a more walkable city?

Porto 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.

Porto is a very walkable port city. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

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 Porto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Porto or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Porto?

In either Vilnius or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Porto than Vilnius because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 2-5 days is enough time in Porto.

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Porto?

In Vilnius, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this undiscovered 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 Porto 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This port 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 Porto?

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 Porto 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Porto has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Porto?

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.

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

A week in Vilnius or Porto?

You'll find food and shopping around the surprising 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 Porto. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Porto. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Porto?

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

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 Porto in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Porto. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Porto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Vilnius is generally cooler than Porto. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 18°C (65°F), and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Porto. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vilnius this time of the year. In the summer, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Porto. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Porto. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Porto in the Autumn?

Both Porto and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Porto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Vilnius is much colder than Porto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Porto fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Porto during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Porto. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vilnius or Porto in the Winter?

Both Porto and Vilnius during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Porto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Vilnius can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Vilnius is much colder than Porto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vilnius in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Porto averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Porto. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Vilnius usually gets less rain in January than Porto. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Porto in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Porto. The spring months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

In April, Vilnius is generally much colder than Porto. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 7°C (45°F), and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Porto during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Porto. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Porto and Vilnius