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

Should you visit Vilnius or Portofino?

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 Portofino. 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.

Portofino

Portofino is a opulent, exclusive, and luxurious seaside village. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Vilnius and Portofino: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Portofino?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Portofino than Vilnius, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Portofino is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Vilnius is more popular for its museums. Portofino is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its picturesque harbor, high end shopping, strikingly blue waters, and popularity with superyachts. Also, Portofino is famous for its scenic harbor. Vilnius is well known for its authentic old town and long running history.

Its scenic harbor

How is Vilnius different from Portofino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vilnius is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Portofino specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The village is mostly about soaking up the atmosphere, but you can also visit sights such as Sun Church of St. George and Cervara Abbey.

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

Portofino 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 Portofino. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt 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 Portofino Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are superb in both Vilnius and Portofino.

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.

Portofino has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Most of the nightlife is found around Piazzetta (Oliveri Square) and Molo Umberto I. Happy hours (aperitivo) start around 5pm or 6pm and then as the evening continues, the party often moves to Paraggi Beach.

Is Vilnius or Portofino Better for Resorts?

Portofino is an amazing seaside village to visit for its resorts. However, Vilnius is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Portofino for its luxury resorts. Known for it's exclusive luxury, there are a number of high end resorts in the area. Popular options include Splendido, Sublimis Boutique Hotel, and Grand Hotel Miramare.

Vilnius is not a resort destination.

Is Vilnius or Portofino Better for Beaches?

Portofino is a good destination for the beache. However, Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Portofino offers a nice beach destination. Like much of the Italian coast, the beaches in the area are dramatic and beautiful. They're also rocky and pebbly and can get a bit crowded during the summer months.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Portofino Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the superb old town areas in both Vilnius and Portofino.

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 Portofino. Despite evolving into a famous resort town, Portofino still holds on to its fishing village charm.

Is Vilnius or Portofino Better for Hiking?

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

Portofino is a popular spot for hiking. There are many beautiful hikes and treks along the coastline that pass by scenic landscapes and breathtaking views.

Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Portofino?

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

Portofino is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The quaint cobblestone streets are lined with high end boutiques that target the opulent jet-setter crowd that frequents Portofino. Much of the shopping is around Martiri dell'Olivetta Square.

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 Portofino Better for Families?

Vilnius is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Portofino is not always a place people visit with their families. The town has a picturesque setting and some beautiful pebbly beaches. It's fun for kids to run around the town, explore by kayak, or play in the waters edge.

Is Vilnius or Portofino Better for Couples?

Portofino is an amazing seaside village to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Portofino is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Set beautifully against the ocean's edge, this famous Italian town makes for a truly romantic holiday. Ogle the mega yachts in the harbor and then wander the charming streets while you soak in the atmosphere.

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 Portofino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius is notable for backpackers. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Portofino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Known for it's high prices, the town isn't particularly popular with the backpacker crowd. It is possible to stay outside of town and head in for a day trip.

Is Vilnius or Portofino Better for Students?

Vilnius is a popular place for students. However, Portofino is not popular with students.

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.

Portofino is not popular with students.

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

Vilnius is a popular place for its public transit. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village 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 Portofino. The closet train stations are Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli. You can catch a bus from the Santa Margherita train station. There are also some ferry options.

Is Vilnius or Portofino a more walkable city?

Portofino is an amazing seaside village 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 Portofino on foot. It's easy to walk around the village and then explore the countryside on one of the nearby trails.

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 Portofino Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portofino or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Portofino?

In either Vilnius or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Portofino 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 Portofino.

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

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

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Vilnius. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vilnius has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Portofino is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This seaside village 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 Portofino?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Vilnius. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Portofino 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. 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 Portofino has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Portofino?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Vilnius. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Portofino is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Portofino has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Vilnius or Portofino?

Vilnius is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portofino. Since Portofino is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Portofino?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 1030 times larger than the population of Portofino. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Portofino, 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.