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

Should you visit Vilnius or Tulum?

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 Tulum. 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. Vilnius is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Vilnius travel costs.

Tulum

Tulum is a tropical, active, and lively town. The beauty of Tulum is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food. See Tulum travel costs.

Vilnius and Tulum: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Tulum?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tulum. Although Vilnius and Tulum are popular destinations, Tulum has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tulum is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Vilnius attracts visitors for its historical sights. Tulum is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. It is also well known for the Tulum archeological ruins. Vilnius is famous for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Tulum?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tulum 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 Tulum are among the most recognizable in the world. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

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 Tulum? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tulum 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 Tulum. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

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 Tulum Better for Nightlife?

Tulum is an amazing town 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.

Tulum has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

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 Tulum Better for Resorts?

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for its resorts. However, Vilnius is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Tulum for its luxury resorts. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

Vilnius is not a resort destination.

Is Vilnius or Tulum Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Vilnius is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Tulum. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

Vilnius is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Vilnius or Tulum Better for Beaches?

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for the beach. However, Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Tulum offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Tulum Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Tulum does not have a historic old town.

Vilnius is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Tulum does not have a historic old town.

Is Vilnius or Tulum Better for Hiking?

Tulum is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Tulum is a popular spot for hiking. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

Vilnius is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or Tulum?

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

Tulum is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in 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 Tulum More Beautiful?

Vilnius and Tulum are somewhat similar when it comes to the very good scenery.

The beauty of Vilnius is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is less frequented by tourists than many in Europe, but much of its beauty comes from the hidden charm and undiscovered atmosphere.

With stunning beauty, Tulum attracts visitors from all around. Clear blue water, sandy beaches, jungle covered archeological ruins, and hidden cenotes make this a stunningly beautiful place to visit.

Is Vilnius or Tulum Better for Families?

Tulum 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.

Tulum is a very kid-friendly town. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

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 Tulum Better for Couples?

Tulum 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.

Tulum is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

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 Tulum Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Vilnius and Tulum 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 Tulum. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

Is Vilnius or Tulum Better for Students?

Vilnius is a city with good options for students. However, Tulum is not popular with students.

Vilnius is a good city to visit for students. 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.

Tulum is not popular with students.

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

Both Vilnius and Tulum offer nice public transit options.

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

Tulum has some public transit options. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

Is Vilnius or Tulum a more walkable city?

Tulum 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.

Tulum is a very walkable town. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore 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 Tulum Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tulum or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Tulum?

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

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

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

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

One day in Vilnius or Tulum?

In Vilnius, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this religious 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 Tulum, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Tulum?

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 Tulum, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Tulum?

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.

Tulum is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tulum has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Vilnius or Tulum?

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 Tulum. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Tulum. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Mexico, and The Best Historical Tours in Mexico.

When comparing the travel costs between Vilnius and Tulum, 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 Tulum is in North 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 Tulum Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Tulum?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius and Tulum, 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 Tulum?

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 Tulum in the Summer?

Both Tulum and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Tulum because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Vilnius is generally much colder than Tulum. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 18°C (65°F), and Tulum fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

It's quite sunny in Tulum. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vilnius. Vilnius usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tulum during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Tulum receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tulum. In July, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Tulum. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Tulum receives 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vilnius or Tulum in the Autumn?

Both Tulum and Vilnius during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tulum this time of year.

Vilnius is much colder than Tulum in the autumn. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Tulum fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Tulum. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tulum receives 216 hours of full sun.

Tulum gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Vilnius usually gets less rain in October than Tulum. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Tulum receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Tulum. June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum.

Should I visit Vilnius or Tulum in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Tulum. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Tulum for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Vilnius in the winter. In the winter, Vilnius is much colder than Tulum. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vilnius in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Tulum averages at about 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Tulum during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Tulum receives 213 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Tulum. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Tulum receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vilnius or Tulum in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Tulum. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Tulum in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Vilnius is generally much colder than Tulum. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 7°C (45°F), and Tulum fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. In the spring, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Tulum. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tulum receives 273 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in April than Tulum. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Tulum receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Tulum is the dry season. June to October in Tulum is the rainy season. Also, June to October in Tulum is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Tulum and Vilnius