A ranking once again places this charming destination at the top of the list.
Are you dreaming of a European getaway without breaking the bank? It’s not easy to see clearly among the many trendy destinations just a few hours’ flight from France. Every year, a British study releases its barometer of the cheapest cities for a tourist trip. This study compares the cost of a basket of 12 tourist products and services (accommodation, transport, catering, visits, etc.) in 37 major cities on the continent.
One city is clearly ahead of its competitors, notably Lisbon, which is renowned for being inexpensive and a choice destination for a city break, these famous short stays that are rejuvenating and very fashionable. With an average budget of only 270 euros all inclusive for this basket which combines flight, accommodation, catering and visits, Vilnius is in the lead. The other capitals of Eastern Europe dominate the top 10: Krakow, Riga, Budapest, Bratislava, Prague and Warsaw all offer excellent value for money. Behind Lisbon 2nd, however, we find a French city, Lille! No doubt linked to the proximity of the Channel Tunnel which lowers prices for our British friends…
So what are the advantages of Vilnius, acclaimed by this ranking? Not just these unbeatable prices, rest assured! Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its historic center displays a delicate monochrome of facades in pastel tones. It’s impossible not to fall under the spell of its cobbled streets dotted with baroque and Gothic buildings, such as the flamboyant 15th century Sainte-Anne church. On the majestic Cathedral Square, don’t miss the Stebuklas slab which commemorates the spectacular Baltic Way of 1989, when 2 million Lithuanians, Latvians and Estonians formed a human chain to protest against the Soviet occupation.
As for taste buds, Vilnius will delight travelers on a budget with its traditional canteens. For less than 3 euros, treat yourself to a tasty borsch, beetroot soup or a stuffed roll. The cepelinai, large stuffed potato balls, and the balandeliai, stuffed cabbage rolls, will tide you over for the day and for a price that is also very attractive for a main course, around 5 to 6 euros maximum.