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

Should you visit Vilnius or Quepos?

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 Quepos. 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. With stunning beauty, Vilnius attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Vilnius travel costs.

Quepos

Quepos is a laid-back, relaxed, and local town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Quepos travel costs.

Vilnius and Quepos: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Vilnius or Quepos?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vilnius. Although Vilnius and Quepos are both popular with visitors, Vilnius has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Vilnius is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Quepos is known for its resorts and beaches. Quepos is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for its big game sport fishing. Vilnius is popular for its authentic old town and long running history. It is also home to Gediminas Castle Tower.

How is Vilnius different from Quepos?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vilnius
Quepos

Vilnius is very good for its museums and history. However, Quepos is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Quepos offers a few options for museum-goers. You won't find much as far as museums go around town.


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

Vilnius
Quepos

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Vilnius and Quepos can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Vilnius. 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.

Quepos is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a mix of cafes, fine dining, and seafood restaurants in the area. You can get traditional Costa Rican dishes as well as a more international flavor depending on your preference.

Is Vilnius or Quepos Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius
Quepos

Vilnius is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Quepos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Vilnius has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Quepos has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a few bars and clubs around town, but it is a small town and the selection can be limited.

Is Vilnius or Quepos Better for Resorts?

Vilnius
Quepos

Quepos is a moderate town for its resorts. However, Vilnius is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Quepos offers a few options. It's a fishing town with a local vibe, so you'll likely want to stay outside of town if you're looking for an upscale resort.

Vilnius is not a resort destination.


Is Vilnius or Quepos Better for Beaches?

Vilnius
Quepos

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

Quepos offers a nice beach destination. If you want to be close to the beach, you'll do better to stay at nearby Manuel Antonio. Quepos does have a waterfront and access to deep sea fishing.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Quepos Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius
Quepos

Vilnius is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Quepos does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Quepos does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Quepos?

Vilnius
Quepos

Both Vilnius and Quepos are good 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.

Quepos has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find boutique shops around town that sell everything from clothing to art.


Is Vilnius or Quepos More Beautiful?

Vilnius
Quepos

Vilnius is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Quepos is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Vilnius attracts visitors from all around. The city is less frequented by tourists than many in Europe, but much of its beauty comes from the hidden charm and undiscovered atmosphere.

Quepos is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Vilnius or Quepos Better for Families?

Vilnius
Quepos

Quepos 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.

Quepos is a very kid-friendly town. Most of the beaches are kid-friendly and the children will love the wildlife. You'll also find zipline tours in the area as well as canopy walks.

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 Quepos Better for Couples?

Vilnius
Quepos

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

Quepos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The beaches and resorts make this a favorite honeymoon destination for couples. There are many great restaurants and plenty of activities like horseback riding or surfing nearby.

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 Quepos Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius
Quepos

Quepos is an amazing town 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 Quepos. It's one of the more popular destinations in Costa Rica, so you'll find plenty of hostels and other backpackers to hang out with.

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 Quepos Better for Students?

Vilnius
Quepos

Vilnius is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Quepos is not popular with students.

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.

Quepos is not popular with students.

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

Vilnius
Quepos

Both Vilnius and Quepos offer good public transit options.

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

Quepos has some public transit options. There are a number of buses that pass through town. There are also buses that travel between Quepos and Manuel Antonio.


Is Vilnius or Quepos a more walkable city?

Vilnius
Quepos

Vilnius and Quepos both are good when exploring on foot.

Vilnius is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is the most walkable part of the city.

Quepos is a somewhat walkable city. It is a relatively walkable town.

For even more information, also check out Is Vilnius Worth Visiting? and Is Quepos Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Quepos or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Quepos?

It's fun to spend time in either Vilnius or Quepos. Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. In general, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 2-4 days is enough time in Quepos.

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

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

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


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

One day in Vilnius or Quepos?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Vilnius. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Quepos, you'll find shopping and nightlife. This town 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 Quepos?

Vilnius is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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


Five days in Vilnius or Quepos?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vilnius. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Quepos is a great place to explore. 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 Quepos?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the undiscovered destination of Vilnius. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Quepos. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Quepos. 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 Wildlife Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Quepos 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 Quepos is €119. 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 Quepos in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vilnius 42
    Quepos 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vilnius 84
    Quepos 130
Compare Hotels in Vilnius and Quepos

Looking for a hotel in Vilnius or Quepos? 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 Quepos


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 Quepos Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vilnius 8.05
    Quepos 8.18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vilnius

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Vilnius:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Quepos

Also for Quepos, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer: SJO Airport to/from Manuel Antonio (One Way): $99
  • Private Transfer: SJO Airport to Manuel Antonio with Scenic Stop.: $203
  • Private One Way Transfer from Manuel Antonio to San José (Airport SJO): $220
  • Transfer from Manuel Antonio to SJO Airport and surroundings : $229

Is it cheaper to fly into Vilnius or Quepos?

Prices for flights to both Quepos 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
    Quepos 44
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

Typical Food Prices in Quepos

For Quepos, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch
    13
  • Seafood Dinner (for 1)
    17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Quepos

For Quepos, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Class in Manuel Antonio with Medicinal Plants Garden Visit: $77
  • Cooking Class & Medicinal Plants Garden Manuel Antonio: $77
  • Night Mangrove Safari Boat Tour with Dinner | Manuel Antonio: $79
  • Local Flavor Cooking Experience: $81

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vilnius 9.72
    Quepos 15
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:

  • (Post) Soviet Vilnius Private Walking Tour: $141
  • 1-Day Pilgrim Tour from Vilnius: $516
  • Admission Ticket at Auto Museum Vilnius: $24
  • Audio Tour of Vilnius Old Town Core: $12
  • Audio Tour of Vilnius Old Town Core and the South Part 2in1: $14
  • Audio Tour of the South Part of the Vilnius Old Town: $11
  • Automuseum Entry Ticket: $21
  • Bike Tour of Vilnius Highlights "Iconic Landmarks & Hidden Gems": $35
  • Cathedral Crypts and Medieval History Tour: $33
  • Day tour out of Paneriai holocaust park,Trakai castle, medieval Kernave: $250
  • Discover Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Dzukija National Park and Grutas Park: Full-Day Tour: $235

Tours and Activities in Quepos

For Quepos, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour: $25
  • Quepos Manuel Antonio Park Nature Guided Tour: $26
  • Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour: $27
  • Manuel Antonio Park: Manuel Antonio Park Nature Guided Tour: $27
  • 2-3-Hour Manuel Antonio Park Nature Guided Tour: $28
  • Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour: $29
  • Manuel Antonio National Park guided tour : $29
  • Guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park: $29
  • Manuel Antonio Park Tour and its Amazing Wildlife and Beaches: $30
  • Manuel Antonio National Park guided Tour: $30
  • Manuel Antonio with Mauro / Tickets not Included! : $30
  • Manuel Antonio National Park: Guided Tour with Beach Time: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vilnius 6.23
    Quepos 13
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


When comparing the travel costs between Vilnius and Quepos, 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 Quepos is in Central America, 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 Quepos Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Quepos?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Quepos. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Quepos, 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 Quepos?

Vilnius has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Quepos experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Quepos in the Summer?

Both Quepos and Vilnius during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Quepos year-round.

In the summer, Vilnius is much colder than Quepos. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vilnius in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Quepos averages at about 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Vilnius. In the summer, Vilnius often gets more sunshine than Quepos. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Quepos receives 164 hours of full sun.

Quepos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Vilnius usually gets less rain in July than Quepos. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Quepos receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Vilnius 18°C (65°F) 
    Quepos 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Quepos in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Quepos. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Quepos attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In October, Vilnius is generally much colder than Quepos. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 8°C (46°F), and Quepos fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Quepos during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Quepos receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Quepos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Quepos. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Quepos receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to April in Quepos is the dry season. May to November is the hurricane season in Quepos.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Vilnius 8°C (46°F) 
    Quepos 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Quepos in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Quepos. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to Quepos throughout the year.

Vilnius can be very cold during winter. Vilnius is much colder than Quepos in the winter. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Quepos fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Quepos. In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Quepos. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Quepos receives 264 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in January than Quepos. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Quepos receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Vilnius -5°C (23°F) 
    Quepos 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Vilnius or Quepos in the Spring?

Both Quepos and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the natural beauty. Plenty of visitors come to Quepos because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the spring, Vilnius is much colder than Quepos. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vilnius in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Quepos averages at about 29°C (85°F).

It's quite sunny in Quepos. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Quepos during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Quepos receives 255 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Quepos. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Quepos receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Quepos is December to April. May to November in Quepos is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Vilnius 7°C (45°F) 
    Quepos 29°C (85°F)

Typical Weather for Quepos and Vilnius

Vilnius Quepos
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Feb -4°C (26°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 28°C (83°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Mar 1°C (33°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 29°C (84°F) 4 mm (0.2 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 29°C (85°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 29°C (83°F) 226 mm (8.9 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 77 mm (3 in) 28°C (82°F) 226 mm (8.9 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 28°C (82°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 289 mm (11.4 in)
Sep 13°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 28°C (82°F) 328 mm (12.9 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 27°C (81°F) 254 mm (10 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 27°C (81°F) 121 mm (4.8 in)
Dec -2°C (29°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 27°C (81°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)