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

Should you visit Vilnius or Siena?

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 Siena. 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Siena

Siena is a history, beautiful, and romantic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Vilnius and Siena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Siena?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Siena than Vilnius. While Vilnius is larger than Siena, Siena has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Siena is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Vilnius attracts visitors for its nightlife. Siena is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace. It is also well known for Piazza del Campo. Vilnius is famous for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Siena 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 Siena. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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 Siena? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Siena 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 Siena. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

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 Siena Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius is notable for nightlife. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Siena. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Vilnius or Siena Better for its Old Town?

Siena is an amazing city to visit for its old town. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Siena offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Siena?

Both Vilnius and Siena 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.

Siena has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Is Vilnius or Siena Better for Families?

Vilnius is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city 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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Vilnius or Siena Better for Couples?

Siena 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.

Siena is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

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 Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius is notable for backpackers. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Siena. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Vilnius or Siena Better for Students?

Siena 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 Siena. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

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

Both Vilnius and Siena offer nice public transit options.

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

Siena has some public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

Is Vilnius or Siena a more walkable city?

Siena 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.

Siena is a very walkable city. The compact town center is best explored 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 Siena Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Siena or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Siena?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Vilnius or Siena to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Vilnius than Siena 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 Siena.

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

One day in Vilnius or Siena?

In Vilnius, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic 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.

In Siena, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Siena?

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.

In Siena, you'll find food and shopping. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Siena has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Siena?

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.

Siena is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Siena?

You'll find food and shopping around the undiscovered 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 Siena. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Siena. 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 Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Siena?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Siena. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Siena, 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 Siena?

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 Siena in the Summer?

Both Siena and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Siena in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Vilnius is generally cooler than Siena. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 18°C (65°F), and Siena fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Siena. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vilnius. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Siena during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Siena. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vilnius or Siena in the Autumn?

Both Siena and Vilnius during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Siena for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Vilnius is much colder than Siena in the autumn. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Siena fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Siena. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in October than Siena. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Siena receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Siena in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Siena. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Siena 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 Siena. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vilnius in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Siena averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Siena during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Siena. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vilnius or Siena in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Siena. The spring months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Siena this time of year.

In April, Vilnius is generally much colder than Siena. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 7°C (45°F), and Siena fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Siena. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in April than Siena. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Siena and Vilnius