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

Should you visit Vilnius or Chicago?

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 Chicago. 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Vilnius travel costs.

Chicago

Chicago is a edgey, cosmopolitan, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Chicago is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Chicago travel costs.

Vilnius and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Vilnius, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chicago is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Vilnius is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Chicago is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also home to The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Vilnius is popular for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chicago is an amazing city 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 Chicago are among the most recognizable in the world. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

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 Vilnius or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its theatre productions. However, Vilnius is not a theatre destination.

Chicago is considered to be a world-class theater destination. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Vilnius is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago 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 Chicago, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

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 Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Chicago has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

Vilnius has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Is Vilnius or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago 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 Chicago The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Vilnius is not a live music destination.

Is Vilnius or Chicago Better for Beaches?

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

Chicago offers a nice beach destination. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Chicago Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Chicago 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.

Chicago does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Chicago?

Chicago 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 Chicago make it a world-class shopping destination. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

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 Chicago More Beautiful?

Vilnius is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and 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.

Chicago is a gorgeous place to visit. The water makes this city a truly unique place to explore, and the world class architecture is not to be missed.

Is Vilnius or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Chicago is very family-friendly. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

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 Chicago Better for Couples?

Vilnius and Chicago both good destinations for a couple.

Vilnius makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Chicago is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Vilnius or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vilnius is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Vilnius is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is Vilnius or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago 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.

Chicago is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

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

Chicago 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 Chicago is top-notch. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

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

Is Vilnius or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chicago 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.

Chicago is a very walkable city. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible 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 Chicago Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Chicago?

In either Vilnius or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than Vilnius because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Chicago?

In Vilnius, 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.

Because Chicago is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Chicago?

In Vilnius, 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 Vilnius has to offer.

Because Chicago is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Vilnius or Chicago?

Vilnius 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.

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

A week in Vilnius or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vilnius. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Vilnius. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Chicago. 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 from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Vilnius and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Vilnius much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Vilnius is in Europe and Chicago is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago 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 Chicago Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Vilnius. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Chicago, 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 Chicago?

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 Chicago in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Chicago. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Chicago in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Vilnius is cooler than Chicago. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vilnius in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Chicago averages at about 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chicago this time of the year. In Vilnius, it's very sunny this time of the year. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun in the summer.

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Chicago. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vilnius or Chicago in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Chicago. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Vilnius is generally much colder than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 8°C (46°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In the autumn, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Chicago. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Chicago in the Winter?

Both Chicago and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Chicago because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Chicago can be very cold. Vilnius can be very cold during winter. Vilnius is cooler than Chicago in the winter. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Chicago. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vilnius or Chicago in the Spring?

Both Chicago and Vilnius during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

In the spring, Vilnius is much colder than Chicago. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vilnius in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Chicago averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Vilnius usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Vilnius