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

Should you visit Vilnius or Vienna?

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 Vienna. 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 surprising, undiscovered, and authentic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Vienna

Vienna is a classical, traditional, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Vilnius and Vienna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Vienna?

You'll generally find more things to do in Vienna than Vilnius. Vienna is bigger than Vilnius, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Vienna is better known for its museums, food, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Vilnius is more popular for its nightlife. Vienna is more touristy than Vilnius and is popular for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. Also, Vienna is famous for The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace. Vilnius is well known for its authentic old town and long running history.

The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace

How is Vilnius different from Vienna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vienna 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 Vienna. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

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 Vienna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vienna 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 Vienna. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

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 Vienna Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Vienna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Is Vilnius or Vienna Better for Music?

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Vilnius is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Vienna On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Vilnius is not a live music destination.

Is Vilnius or Vienna Better for its Old Town?

Vienna 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.

Vienna offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

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 Vienna?

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

The abundance of shops in Vienna make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

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 Vienna Better for Families?

Both Vilnius and Vienna are notable 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.

Vienna is a family-friendly city. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Vilnius or Vienna Better for Couples?

Vienna 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.

Vienna is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

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 Vienna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many 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.

Vienna is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Is Vilnius or Vienna Better for Students?

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Vienna is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

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

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Vienna is top-notch. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

Vilnius has some public transit options. Bus and trolleybuses are available.

Is Vilnius or Vienna a more walkable city?

Vienna is an amazing city 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 Vienna on foot. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

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 Vienna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vienna or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Vienna?

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

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Vienna?

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 Vienna, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Vienna?

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 Vienna, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Vienna has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Vienna?

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.

Vienna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vienna has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Vilnius or Vienna?

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 Vienna. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Vienna. 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Vienna?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Vilnius. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Vienna, 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 Vienna?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Vilnius or Vienna in the Summer?

Both Vienna and Vilnius during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Vienna for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Vilnius is cooler than Vienna in the summer. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Vienna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Vienna, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Vilnius. In the summer, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Vienna. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 255 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in July than Vienna. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Vienna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Vienna. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Vienna because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Vilnius is much colder than Vienna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vilnius in October average around 8°C (46°F), and Vienna averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Vienna during autumn. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 140 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Vienna. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vilnius or Vienna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Vienna. The winter months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vienna this time of year.

It's quite cold in Vienna in the winter. The weather in Vilnius can be very cold. In January, Vilnius is generally much colder than Vienna. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around -5°C (23°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Vienna. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 65 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in January than Vienna. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Vienna in the Spring?

Both Vienna and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vienna for the natural beauty.

Vilnius is much colder than Vienna in the spring. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Vienna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Vienna. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Vienna during spring. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 202 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Vienna. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Vienna and Vilnius