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

Should you visit Vilnius or Queenstown?

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 Queenstown. 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 authentic, historic, and religious city. Vilnius is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Vilnius travel costs.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a bustling, active, and adventure-filled city. The beauty of Queenstown is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Queenstown travel costs.

Vilnius and Queenstown: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Vilnius or Queenstown?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Queenstown. Although Vilnius and Queenstown are popular destinations, Queenstown has more sights and attractions for tourists. Queenstown is very popular for its skiing, food, hiking, and shopping, while Vilnius attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and historical sights. Queenstown is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its world class skiing, adrenaline-filled adventure sports, and stunning mountain scenery. It is also well known for Kawarau Bridge. Vilnius is famous for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Queenstown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Queenstown and Vilnius. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Vilnius or Queenstown Better for Skiing?

Vilnius
Queenstown

Queenstown is an amazing city to visit for snow skiing. However, Vilnius is not a skiing destination.

Queenstown is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. There are four ski areas that are near the city, and many consider these among the best ski fields in New Zealand. The ski season runs from June until October and the skiing is world class.

Vilnius is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Vilnius or Queenstown?

Vilnius
Queenstown

Vilnius is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Queenstown is not a good city for its museums and history.

Vilnius is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Queenstown specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. People head to this city for its amazing outdoor activities, but you won't find much if you're looking for museums. You can check out the Lakes District Museum though.

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

Vilnius
Queenstown

Queenstown is an amazing 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 Queenstown, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Located in the heart of the Otago wine region, this city has many award-winning restaurants. Local dishes, vegan cafes, and international flavors all make for a cosmopolitan and world class dining scene.

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 Queenstown Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius
Queenstown

Evening events are excellent in both Vilnius and Queenstown.

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.

Queenstown has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. This cosmopolitan town has some of the best nightlife in the country. There are laid back pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and live music venues that make for a fun night out.


Is Vilnius or Queenstown Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius
Queenstown

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

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.

Queenstown does not have a historic old town.

Is Vilnius or Queenstown Better for Hiking?

Vilnius
Queenstown

Queenstown is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Queenstown is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The city is ideally located near some of the country's best hiking. There are walks through beech forests, along rugged mountains, and to stunning views. Several of the Great Walks are in the area as well, but if you're looking for something a little simpler, then there are many options also.

Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Queenstown?

Vilnius
Queenstown

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

Queenstown is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's a bustling city with designer brands and boutique shopping. There are also souvenir shops and retail outlets.

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 Queenstown More Beautiful?

Vilnius
Queenstown

Vilnius and Queenstown are somewhat similar when it comes to the excellent scenery.

The beauty of Vilnius is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is less frequented by tourists than many in Europe, but much of its beauty comes from the hidden charm and undiscovered atmosphere.

With stunning beauty, Queenstown attracts visitors from all around. With its mountains and surrounding beauty, this is a breathtakingly beautiful city.

Is Vilnius or Queenstown Better for Families?

Vilnius
Queenstown

Queenstown 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.

Queenstown is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the Queenstown cable car and the Skyline Gondola. After a ride on the gondola, you can even take the luge back down! The city also offers lake cruises, family-friendly farm tours, boat tours, and kayaking.

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 Queenstown Better for Couples?

Vilnius
Queenstown

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

Queenstown is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city is known for its adrenaline-filled adventure activities and couples who enjoy a thrill will appreciate the fun. There are also hot springs, boat cruises, and wine tours in the area. One of the most romantic activities is dinner at the Skyline.

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 Queenstown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius
Queenstown

Queenstown is an amazing 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 Queenstown. With its thrill-seeking activities and nearby skiing, this is a great backpacker destination year round.

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 Queenstown Better for Students?

Vilnius
Queenstown

Queenstown 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 Queenstown. There are excellent universities in the area as well as fun activities and a lively energy that students enjoy.

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

Vilnius
Queenstown

Both Vilnius and Queenstown offer nice public transit options.

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

Queenstown has some public transit options. There's a decent bus system that travels around town.


Is Vilnius or Queenstown a more walkable city?

Vilnius
Queenstown

Queenstown 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.

Queenstown is a very walkable city. In town, many of the sights and activities can be reached 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 Queenstown Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Queenstown or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Queenstown?

Both Vilnius and Queenstown have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Queenstown than in Vilnius. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 2-7 days is enough time in Queenstown.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Vilnius or Queenstown? Ideal Length of Stay
    Vilnius 1-4 
    Queenstown 2-7

One day in Vilnius or Queenstown?

With museums and nightlife around the authentic city of Vilnius, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vilnius, one day is sufficent for most.

In Queenstown, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This 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 Queenstown?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Vilnius, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Queenstown, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Queenstown has to offer.


Five days in Vilnius or Queenstown?

Vilnius, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Queenstown is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Queenstown has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Vilnius or Queenstown?

Vilnius is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Queenstown. In Queenstown, you'll find shopping and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


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 Bicycle Tours in New Zealand, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Queenstown or Vilnius?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Vilnius is €121, while the average daily cost in Queenstown is €110. 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 Queenstown in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vilnius 42
    Queenstown 47
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vilnius 84
    Queenstown 94
Compare Hotels in Vilnius and Queenstown

Looking for a hotel in Vilnius or Queenstown? 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 Queenstown


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 Queenstown Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vilnius 8.05
    Queenstown 8.64

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vilnius

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Vilnius:

  • Trakai Tour with Audio Guide and Minibus Transfers: $35
  • Private Vilnius Airport Arrival Transfer: $42
  • Vilnius Private 1-Way Airport Transfer: $70
  • Private Transfer from Vilnius Airport to Lithuania: $155
  • From Suburbs Hot Air Balloon Ride w/ Hotel Transfer: $164
  • Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Vilnius or Trakai(transfer included): $208
  • Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Trakai(transfer included) or Vilnius : $208
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride with Hotel Transfer: $235
  • Jewish Heritage Sites Private Tour with Transfer: $235

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Queenstown

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Queenstown:

  • ZQN Airport to Downtown|Hotels Private Transfer: $27
  • QUEENSTOWN:Private 1 way Airport transfer to/from CBD Hotels: $52
  • Private Airport Transfer Vice Versa in Queenstown by SUV: $69
  • Queenstown private transfer: $87
  • Queenstown International Airport to City Hotels Transfer : $90
  • Queenstown Airport to/from Wanaka Hassle Free Private Transfer : $101
  • Queenstown to Mt Cook One Way Scenic Transfer: $115
  • From Cardrona Ski/Snowboard Rentals & Transfer: $152
  • Private Transfers from Queenstown Airport to Wanaka : $177
  • Milford Sound Cruise with Helicopter Transfer: $748
  • Tasman Glacier Helihike with Flight Transfers: $982

Is it cheaper to fly into Vilnius or Queenstown?

Prices for flights to both Queenstown 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 67
    Queenstown 52
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.

  • Cooking Class in Vilnius : $106
  • Zeppelin Cooking Class: $118

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Queenstown

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Queenstown.

  • Bar Crawl with 5 Free Shots and Pizza: $17
  • Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm and Cruise from Queenstown: $119
  • Queenstown Wine & Food Tour: Scenery, Tastings & Delicious Lunch!: $135
  • Wine & Food Tour, Scenic Tastings & Paired Lunch: $138

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vilnius 9.72
    Queenstown 18
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:

  • Vilnius Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $4.46
  • Vilnius History and Hidden Gems Self Guided Walking Tour: $6.93
  • Secrets of Old Vilnius Smartphone App GPS Audio Walking Tour: $7.50
  • Vilnius Self-Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
  • The Old Town of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Audio Tour of the South Part of the Vilnius Old Town: $11
  • Audio Tour of Vilnius Old Town Core: $12
  • Live guide tour via WhatsApp - Vilnius Ghetto: $12
  • Skip the Line: Europos Parkas, Open-Air Museum Ticket Vilnius, Lithuania: $13
  • Audio Tour of Vilnius Old Town Core and the South Part 2in1: $14
  • Discover Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Virtual reality movie - experience I AM LITHUANIA: $18

Typical Entertainment Prices in Queenstown

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Queenstown are as follows:


  • Skyline Gondola (for 2)
    25

Tours and Activities in Queenstown

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Queenstown are as follows:

  • Underwater Theatre Experience Entry Ticket: $12
  • Augmented Reality Escape Adventure: $20
  • Fear Factory Haunted House Admission Ticket: $23
  • Private Race Car Simulation Experience: $26
  • Minus 5 Ice Bar Experience with Drink Options: $29
  • Go Karts - Highlands Motorsport and Tourism Park: $32
  • Kiwi Park Admission Ticket: $35
  • Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise: $40
  • Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise (90 Minutes): $41
  • Scenic Queenstown Lake Cruise : $41
  • Glenorchy Kiwi Special Tour : $53
  • Self-Guided Gibbston Valley Wineries Bike Tour: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vilnius 6.23
    Queenstown 7.54
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:

  • Vilnius Private Pub & Bar Crawl Tour & Hidden Gems: $62
  • Pub Crawl with Welcome Drink and Traditional Snacks: $77

Sample the Local Flavors in Queenstown

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Queenstown:

  • Ice Bar Crawl: $23
  • Queenstown, Arrowtown, Gibbston: Join the Only Flexible Wine Tour: $53
  • Bike & Wine Tour: Arrowtown to Valley of the Vines: $69
  • Queenstown & Gibbston Valley: Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tours: $75
  • Craft Beer Brewery Tour with Lunch: $107
  • Queenstown's Original Wine Tour Celebrating 33 Years: $113
  • Classic Wine Tour: $127
  • Queenstown Classic Wine Tour: 3 Winery Visits, Cave Tour & Cheese: $131
  • Central Otago Wine Tour: $132
  • Award Winning Premium Wine Tour Queenstown Tasting at 4 Wineries: $137
  • Wine Tasting Tour: $144
  • Afternoon Boutique Wine Tour: $149


When comparing the travel costs between Vilnius and Queenstown, 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. Even though Vilnius is in Europe and Queenstown is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Queenstown?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Queenstown. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Queenstown, 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.