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Vilnius is the vibrant capital of Lithuania, though you wouldn’t think it when you arrive. This is a small and charming city, with only 500,000 residents, it boasts a small town vibe, but still has tons of interesting things to do.
It boasts a rich history, charming Baroque and Gothic architecture, an artsy district, and thriving bar and cafe scene, and some tranquil parks and natural landscapes – there is no shortage of things do in Vilnius to suit any travelers style and budget.
Nestled in the heart of Eastern Europe, Vilnius is a destination that not many travellers add to their itinerary – which is exactly why you need to discover it.
You can step back in time and wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, where cobblestone streets and Gothic-style buildings transport you to a bygone era, or delight in the culinary offerings from Lithuanian dishes such as cepelinai.
To help you decide on what to do in Vilnius, we interviewed Ele Pranaityte, a localwho was born in Vilnius in 1981, who shares her insider tips on the best attractions, where to eat, stay, drink, and explore.
Things to do in Vilnius
Whether you’re looking for the highlights of Vilnius or you want to discover some hidden gems, we have all this in our list below.
1. Visit The Lithuanian National Museum
Vilnius is one of the least visited European cities, so little is written about its history and culture – if you want to learn about it, my advice would be try to learn about this at the Lithuanian National Museum, otherwise known as The New Arsenal of National Museum of Lithuania.
It has an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and artworks from prehistoric times to the present day, and it’s small enough that you can delve into the country’s past and learn about its cultural heritage without feeling overloaded with information.
Also, behind the National Museum of Lithuania is the iconic Gediminas Castle Tower, which offers breathtaking views of Vilnius.
You can climb to the top of Gediminas Tower and take in panoramic vistas of the city while immersing yourself in the historical context of this landmark.
The tower has been a staple monument in Vilnius since 1409, and is the only remaining structure from the Upper Castle, and was rebuilt in 1933.
Another great museum if you have more time and have an interest in art is the National Art Gallery, which houses collections by Lithuanian artists.
2. Explore the independent state of Uzipis
Zverynas the menagerie
Tourists usually enjoy the bohemic Republic of Uzupis, an independent state where a lot of artists live and work – you can even see some examples of street art in this area.
They consider themselves as a separate republic and even have their own Constitution, their own flag, and even its own currency. Don’t worry though, there’s no border control. Just snap a photo of the sign by the bridge to show you’ve been there.
As you walk around, look out for the myriad of sculptures that hide in narrow alleys and street corners. I love the sculpture of a mermaid sitting in a window by the river (see if you can find it).
For wooden architecture lovers, I also recommend checking out the Zverynas (Menagerie) neighrborhood for its wooden houses heritage.
3. Try some Lithuanian cuisine
If you want to try some of the national dishes, you should try Fried Bread Sticks, Cepelinai (a type of Lithuanian dumpling) or Kibinai (similar to a pasty).
You should also make sure to sample some local cheese and honey.
Vilnius has also seen a number of international restaurants opening and it’s not uncommon to find your home favourites. There are sushi places, Chinese restaurants, and Italian restaurants all over the city with cheap food in big portions.
This is still Europe though, so expect European prices no matter where you go.
Vegetarians will love Radharane in Center. I would not recommend eating street food from street vendors as they usually sell rather greasy and difficult to digest food in terms of foreign visitors stomachs. And Cepelinai is quite heavy at the best of times!
4. Experience the Vilnius nightlife
Old Town
Vilnius has a buzzing nightlife scene. For relaxed vibes, I recommend Sky Bar at the Radisson Hotel. Skyscrapers and high rises are in short supply in Vilnius, so there’s not too many rooftop bars with incredible views.
Sky Bar is the exception. It‘s got a panoramic view of the Old Town and Neris River, and good cocktails that are mid-priced. Do wear a shawl or a jacket as the air conditioning might be crazy cool.
There‘s a good pub called The Portobello in the Old Town near the Gates of Dawn – they have good beer, but can get crowded when there‘s a match on TV.
Practically all cafes and restaurants serve wine, beer and stronger drinks, so you will not be thirsty in Vilnius.
5. Attend an annual festival
skamba skamba kankliai
Vilnius is a lively place and full of fun and exciting events, all year round.
Kristupas Summer Festival is held every year between July and August, and offers a number of concerts to everyones taste. If you’re visiting in the summer, do check their free concerts times and venues.
“Skamba skamba kankliai“ is an annual folk music and dance festival that is held on the last weekend of May, and features local groups and guests from abroad.
A number of fairs takes places, the best known is St. Casimir‘s Fair in early March. Also, don‘t miss out on Palm Sunday.
6. See amazing views from St John’s Church Bell Tower
In high season, you can see an amazing Vilnius panorama from the top of St. John‘s Church Tower.
Standing at an impressive height of 69 meters (226 ft), the St. John’s Church Tower offers stunning panoramic views of Vilnius Old Town and its surroundings.
Whether you prefer climbing the authentic wooden stairs or taking the modern lift, reaching the observation platform is easily accessible for visitors of all ages.
From the observation platform, you can admire the city’s historic rooftops and picturesque landscapes.
The tower itself is a masterpiece of architecture, with its five gradually decreasing portions. It stands as the tallest building in Vilnius Old Town and is a prominent landmark in the city.
7. Check out The Church of St. Peter and Paul
Head over to Antakalnis and see the Baroque Pearl of Church of St. Peter and Paul.
The church is widely considered one of the most beautiful Catholic churches in the world. Its stunning Baroque architecture and intricate design make it a sight to behold.
Step inside the church, and you’ll be mesmerized by its special interior. Filled with around two thousand statues, the church’s interior is a testament to artistic craftsmanship.
The Church of St. Peter and Paul has a rich history dating back to its construction, which started on June 29, 1668, and was completed in 1676. It stands as a symbol of Lithuania’s cultural heritage.
Whether you’re a believer or not, the church radiates a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Many visitors find solace and inspiration within its walls.
8. Eat cake at Mint Vinetu Bookshop
Pay a visit to Mint Vinetu, a second hand bookshop that offers a really delicious mint tea and carrot cake (sells out quickly, so be early).
As well as having a great cafe, Mint Vinetu offers an extensive collection of new and used books covering various genres, from literature to philosophy, history to art.
You’ll find hidden gems and rare editions that will delight any avid reader.
The bookshop provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, with cozy nooks and comfortable seating where you can lose yourself in a good book.
It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
9. Check out the Trakai Island Castle
If you’re looking for a day trip from Vilnius, head over to Trakai Castle.
The castle is famous for its stunning gothic architecture. It stands on an island in Lake Galvė, creating a picturesque and fairy tale-like setting.
Being situated on an island in one of the deepest lakes in Lithuania makes Trakai Island Castle a truly unique attraction. The surrounding natural beauty adds to the charm of the castle.
It was built in the 14th and 15th centuries, and played a significant role as the residence of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania.
Exploring its halls and chambers offers a glimpse into the history and grandeur of the past.
Trakai Island Castle is not just a historical site; it’s a symbol of Lithuania’s rich heritage and a testament to the architectural prowess of the past.
10. Wander around The Presidential Palace
The Presidential Palace is the official office of the President of Lithuania, and sits in the Simonas Daukantas Sqaure.
The building was built in the 18th and 19th century in a Classical style, and was once a a former nobleman’s house.
If you’re visiting Vilnius on the weekend, be sure to head over to the palace on Sunday’s at 12pm, when a flag hoisting ceremony takes place.
You can witness soldiers of the Honour Guard Company of the Lithuanian Armed Forces dressed in reconstructed uniforms worn by the guards of the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania in the 14th century, hoist the flag.
There are also free tours of the palace on Saturdays and Sundays at 10am – 3pm, though you need to register at least 3 days before.
11. Marvel at Vilnius Cathedral
Another striking monument in Vilnius is the Vilnius Cathedral. The cathedral holds immense historical and cultural significance, making it a true gem of Lithuania.
With its stunning architectural design and grandeur, the cathedral stands as a symbol of the country’s rich heritage.
Inside the cathedral, you can explore the beautifully decorated chapels, admire the intricate artwork, and learn about the fascinating stories behind each element.
The crypts beneath the cathedral hold the remains of various notable individuals, adding to the sense of reverence and importance.
12. Visit the KGB Museum / Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights
The KGB Museum, also known as the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, is a significant historical site in Vilnius.
It is situated in the former KGB headquarters, where crimes of the Soviet regime were planned and executed for fifty years.
The museum offers visitors a glimpse into Lithuania’s tumultuous past, showcasing artifacts, records, and exhibits from the Nazi occupation period and the Soviet Era dictatorship.
One of the highlights of the KGB Museum is the exploration of the former KGB offices, which provides insight into the operations and methods of the secret police.
13. Take the kids to Museum of Illusions
If you’re looking for things to do in Vilnius with kids, then a visit to the Museum of Illusions is a must.
The Museum of Illusions in Vilnius is a fascinating and mind-bending attraction that promises to challenge your perception and ignite your curiosity.
This unique museum offers an immersive experience where reality seems to bend, twist, and defy logic.
Visiting the Museum of Illusions allows you to explore a variety of optical illusions, interactive exhibits, and mind-boggling installations.
From rooms that appear to change size to gravity-defying displays, each exhibit is designed to trick your senses and provoke wonder.
It’s a fun and entertaining way to spend a day out with your family.
14. Walk up to the Hill of Three Crosses
For another viewpoint of the city, head up to the Hill of Three Crosses, which is also an important religious site in Vilnius.
Legend has it, that three wooden crosses sat on top of the hill, which were placed there in the 17th century as a memorial to seven Franciscan friars that were beheaded there.
The Soviets removed them in the 50s during their occupation of Vilnius, in which all religion was banned.
When the Soviet regime fell, a memorial was rebuilt in the late 1980s, which has now not only become a symbol of religious importance but also to symbolize the nation’s rise up against the Soviets.
15. Relax in the peaceful squares
Cathedral Square
Vilnius is also home to several relaxing and beautiful squares, where you can sit back in a cafe and admire the architecture and ambiance.
Cathedral Square and Town Hall Square are two iconic squares in Vilnius that are steeped in history and charm.
Cathedral Square is the main square of Vilnius and is surrounded by several significant buildings, including Vilnius Cathedral and the Gediminas Tower.
It serves as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, with its open space and beautiful architecture creating a sense of grandeur and tranquility.
Town Hall Square, on the other hand, is located in the heart of Vilnius Old Town and is home to the historic Vilnius Town Hall.
The square is adorned with charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and outdoor cafes, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere.
It is a vibrant hub for events, festivals, and markets, where visitors can experience the local culture and immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant energy.
Both Cathedral Square and Town Hall Square offer a delightful blend of history, architecture, and a bustling atmosphere.
16. Marvel at The Gate of Dawn
The Gate of Dawn, known as “Aušros Vartai” in Lithuanian, is a significant religious and historical site located in Vilnius.
It is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Lithuania and holds immense cultural and spiritual significance.
The gate is part of the city’s defensive walls and is the only remaining gate from the original nine that once encircled Vilnius.
The Gate of Dawn is renowned for its miraculous icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary, known as the Mother of Mercy.
The icon attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to pay their respects and seek solace. It is believed to have healing powers and is considered a symbol of hope and protection.
17. Take a free walking tour of Vilnius
A great way to experience the city if you are short on time is by taking a free walking tour, which is one of the best free things to do in Vilnius.
The Old Town free walking tour is a 2.5-hour tour that takes you past some of the most iconic sites, such as Cathedral Square, Vilnius University, The Presidential Palace, The Town Hall, The Republic of Uzupis, and the St Anne Church, which is said to be so beautiful Napoleon Bonaparte said he wanted to take it back to Paris with him.
Simply rock up to Cathedral Square any day of the week at 10.30am and look out for the free walking tour flag.
18. Walk around the lush parks and gardens
Vingis Park
Vilnius is surrounded by nature, so if you want to go for a tranquil walk in the gardens, you have several options to choose from.
The 162 hectare Vingis Park boasts woodland walking trails, a large lawn often used for events, an amphitheatre, and a cafe. You can find lots of people rollerblading, scooting, and biking in this park as it’s mostly flat.
Kalnų parkas is nearer to the Old Town behind Uzipis, and has a forested, hilly terrain you can wander around. Next to this park is Bernardine Garden, which has a musical fountain, colourful flower beds, and manicured lawns to sprawl out on.
Lots of people come here in the summer to paddle in the Vilnia River, or play Chess beneath the trees.
Pavilnys Regional Park is a bit out of the city, and may require a bus or an Uber to get to, but it has miles of hiking trails and picnic spots, as well as wooden bridges over rivers and playgrounds for kids.
19. Dine at Vilnius’s only pancake restaurant
If you love pancakes, you will love Pirmas Blynas, which translates to First Pancake, a pancake restaurant in Old Town Vilnius.
Not only do they serve both sweet and savoury pancakes the size of a pizza, but the restaurant itself is located in basement and has rustic, unpretencious vibes.
They have also partnered with the local organisation, Together with the Association of People with Down Syndrome and Their Caregivers, which promotes hiring workers with disabilities.
When is the best time of year to visit Vilnius?
Autumn
The best time to visit Vilnius is in the summer and early autumn, especially around May until early October. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, with less chance of rain.
My last visit was in May, which boasted wonderful weather but had very few travellers. When staying in my hostel, I had a dorm to myself. If you want to visit when Vilnius is a bit livelier, the peak season is July and August, as well as early September.
Generally, the winter has a wet climate with rain and snow, and the Spring can also be wet and run on late.
Summers can be hot and humid, but Autumn is very warm and has beautiful foliage. Vilnius is a remarkably green city, with lots of trees, so you might love the scenes during leaf peeping season.
Bear in mind it gets dark early in late autumn and winter, at 3:00pm – 4:00pm, which can limit the amount of hours in the day you have to explore.
How do you get to and around Vilnius?
Vilnius is reasonably easy to get to, since most major European cities have direct flights to Vilnius International airport. The airport is only a 25 minute bus ride to the heart of Vilnius.
The LTG Link is the bus service which departs outside the main exit of the airport (it’s a small airport, there’s only one building and one bus stop, you won’t miss it) and drops you off at the main railway station in Vilnius, which is located just a 10 minute walk outside the Old Town. There are two buses, 1 and 2, and both go to the Railway Station.
From here, you can walk or take public transportation to your hotel. Mind that luggage on public transportation is payable if it exceed limits of 60x40x20 cm.
Schedule for Buses 1 and 2 can be checked here. The buses are 24 hours, and you can get 72 hour tickets available.
If you are based in the Old town, you will not need to use any public transport for your whole stay in Vilnius as it is easily walkable.
Hot tip! You will need to pay around 2 Euros for the bus, so make sure you have cash on you as they don’t accept card on the bus! I had a kind stranger give me money for the bus as I had only just arrived and hadn’t withdrawn cash yet. It’s the only part of Vilnius where I couldn’t pay by card.
Where to stay in Vilnius
When it comes to finding a place to stay in Vilnius, you don’t need to look too hard. The best neighborhood to stay in is the Old Town, or as close to the Old Town as possible.
Vilnius is reasonably small and can be walked around quite easily, so it doesn’t matter if you book accommodation out of town as you can still walk in.
Note that Center is not the Old Town. This is the “official center” of Vilnius, but it’s a studenty area and has very few tourist attractions. It has some hotels, but is a bit of a walk to the Old Town.
Vilnius also has rather few budget accommodation, compared to the number of people that visit in the high season, so if you are visiting on a budget do book your hostels in advance. If you need budget accommodation, check out Downtown Forest Hostel & Camping, Bali house Vilnius, or Old Town Trio Hostel Rooms.
If you are ready to splash out, Vilnius has some beautiful 4 and 5 star hotels to offer. Among them are The Narutis Hotel, Radisson Blue Astorija, Amberton or Hotel Congress.
See more accommodation options on the following map:
Is Vilnius Worth Visiting?
If you’re not sure whether you should be visiting Vilnius, then before you go, here are some reasons why it’s absolutely worth visiting!
This charming Baltic capital offers a unique blend of history, culture, and beauty that you won’t find in any other Eastern European city.
Vilnius was founded in 1323, and has a history dating back to the Stone Age. It housed a number of cultures, religions and traditions, as well as received the best architects and artists from all over Europe. Not to mention it’s your gateway to Užupis, a self-proclaimed independent state known for its art studios.
Vilnius offers a mix of beautiful nature, historical landmarks, good food, artsy vibes, and kind people, making it absolutely worth a visit.
Vilnius has been praised as one of Europe’s most underrated cities, and since it’s a city that can be explored on foot, you can easily visit for a long weekend city break.
It may be small, but it’s a place that will leave huge memories.
Final Thoughts
I love Vilnius because it’s one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but it hasn’t lost it’s charm to over-tourism.
There are plenty of free attractions, allowing visitors to spend a day sightseeing without breaking the bank.
Not to mention the city exudes a unique charm with its cobblestone streets, baroque buildings, and quaint cafes.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, art, or simply exploring a charming European city, Vilnius has something to offer anyone who visits.
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