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

Should you visit Vilnius or Valletta?

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 Valletta. 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 undiscovered, authentic, and historic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Valletta

Valletta is a historic, charming, and cultural town. 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 Valletta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Valletta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valletta. Although Vilnius and Valletta are both popular with visitors, Valletta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Valletta is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Vilnius is known for its nightlife. Valletta is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens. It is also home to The Grand Masters Palace. Vilnius is popular for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Valletta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valletta is an amazing town to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Valletta are among the most recognizable in the world. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

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 Valletta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Valletta is an amazing town 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 Valletta, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

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 Valletta Better for Nightlife?

Vilnius is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta 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.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Vilnius or Valletta Better for Beaches?

Valletta is a moderate town for the beache. However, Vilnius is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Valletta. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Valletta Better for its Old Town?

Valletta is an amazing town 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.

Valletta offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

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 Valletta?

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

Valletta is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

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 Valletta Better for Families?

Both Vilnius and Valletta are good family-friendly destinations.

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.

Valletta is a family-friendly city. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Vilnius or Valletta Better for Couples?

Valletta 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.

Valletta is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

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 Valletta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Vilnius and Valletta are very good destinations for backpackers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Valletta. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

Is Vilnius or Valletta Better for Students?

Vilnius is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Both Vilnius and Valletta offer good public transit options.

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

Valletta has some public transit options. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Vilnius or Valletta a more walkable city?

Valletta is an amazing town 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 Valletta on foot. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

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 Valletta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Valletta or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Valletta?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Vilnius and Valletta. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vilnius than in Valletta. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 1-3 days is enough time in Valletta.

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Valletta?

The beautiful city of Vilnius offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Valletta, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town 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 Valletta?

Vilnius is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vilnius, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Valletta, 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 Valletta has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Valletta?

Vilnius is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Valletta 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 Valletta?

Vilnius is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valletta. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Valletta. 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 Historical Tours in Malta, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Valletta?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Valletta, 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 Valletta?

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

Should I visit Vilnius or Valletta in the Summer?

Both Valletta and Vilnius during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round.

In the summer, Vilnius is cooler than Valletta. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vilnius in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Valletta averages at about 26°C (79°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Vilnius. In the summer, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Valletta. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 365 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Valletta. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Valletta in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Valletta. The autumn months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In October, Vilnius is generally much colder than Valletta. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 8°C (46°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Valletta. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vilnius or Valletta in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Valletta. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year.

It's quite cold in Vilnius in the winter. Vilnius is much colder than Valletta in the winter. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Valletta fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Valletta. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 159 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in January than Valletta. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Valletta in the Spring?

Both Valletta and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the natural beauty. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the spring, Vilnius is much colder than Valletta. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vilnius in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Valletta averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Valletta. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Valletta and Vilnius