travel to vilnius

Reasons to visit Vilnius - 8 things to do in Lithuania's capital city

Mar 29, 2018 • 6 min read

Lithuania’s capital city has been quietly charming tourists for years, drawing in visitors with the largest baroque Old Town in eastern Europe, then wowing them with an offbeat elegance, a complex history and a cultural scene that's uniquely Lithuanian. Vilnius under-promises and over-delivers.

There's a host of reasons to visit this quirky, creative and compact city: here are 8 of the best things to do.

Take in that Old Town charm

Dating back to the 14th century, Vilnius  has quite the historical pedigree. While the city's Unesco-listed Old Town is primarily known for its baroque buildings (of which the meticulously restored Palace of the Grand Dukes is one), a variety of styles are crammed onto its diminutive medieval footprint, from the Gothic St Anne's Church  to the classical exterior of the gargantuan  Vilnius Cathedral .

Aside from its architectural clout, the Old Town's jumbled cobbled streets are simply a delight to wander through; perfect for getting lost and 'finding' yourself in one of the many cafe-bars ferreted away in its alleyways or courtyards.

Uncover centuries of Jewish history

Once known as the Jerusalem of the North, the city's history has been inextricably interwoven with that of its Jewish community since the first Jewish merchants, traders and craftspeople were invited to Vilnius by the Grand Dukes just after it was founded.

Thriving, the Litvak (Lithuanian Jewish) population grew to 100,000 before WWII but, tragically, over 90% were murdered during the Holocaust, having been rounded up by the Nazis and imprisoned in two ghettos in the city. The Holocaust Musuem  provides a harrowing account of these events, while the Tolerance Centre gives a broader overview of the Litvaks' history and their many contributions to Vilnius' culture and to Lithuania as a whole. Today, the Choral Synagogue  on Pylimo gatve is the only remaining Jewish place of worship.

Visit a 'country' within a city

There can’t be many cities in the world where a collective of artists has banded together to declare their district an independent republic. But that’s exactly what happened in the creative neighbourhood of Užupis in 1997.

Were they serious or was it intended to be a work of performance art? That's still unclear but, whatever their motivation, they followed through on their resolve: cross over the Vilnia River and, as well as a multitude of galleries and artists' workshops, you'll find a 41-point constitution proudly on display in over 20 languages. You can even have your passport stamped at the Užupis Information Centre .

Reveal the city’s Soviet past

Lithuania’s history is complex, fascinating, and often harrowing. Following WWII, the country came under Soviet rule and, although resistance among Lithuanians was heartfelt, it was brutally stifled; the Museum of Genocide Victims gives a shocking insight into daily life during the Soviet period.

The country's independence was finally acknowledged by the USSR in 1991, but it came at a price, following the killing of 14 civilians when Soviet troops charged Vilnius' TV Tower .  The 326m-high structure stands as a symbol of Lithuania's struggle for freedom, and there’s a monument to remember those who died.

Find a new point of view

The best way to see a city is often from above, and you won't find yourself short of options to get a bird's-eye-view in Vilnius.  If you've the stamina for a reasonably steep ascent, the Hill of Three Crosses  – a monument to a group of martyred monks – offers a spectacular panorama. Dog walkers and tourists mingle with canoodling teenagers on summer evenings to watch the sun set over the city. 

Gediminas Hill, which is climbed via a steep cobbled path, or by hopping on the thigh-saving funicular , is another popular spot to admire the cityscape. Atop the hill is  Gediminas Castle ; the tower is all that remains of the 15th-century fortress, but the views are no less glorious for it. The site is currently under reconstruction but should be back in business for vista-viewing early in 2019.

Craft your shopping list

Traditional crafts are alive and well in Lithuania, and the capital is full of places to snaffle yourself a souvenir. Baltic amber jewellery or trinkets are the main sell, though fakes abound, so galleries such as the Amber Museum are your best bet to be sure you're getting the real deal. For a weightier purchase, head to  Užupis Blacksmith Museum-Gallery  for hand-wrought items including 'Lithuanian sun crosses', an amalgamation of the pagan symbol of the sun and a Christian cross.

Other pieces to look out for include linens embroidered or woven with geometric ethnic designs, black pottery (a technique to blacken the pots which dates to Neolithic times), and hand-carved, gargoyle-like wooden carnival masks.

Savour the flavours of Lithuania

Long gone are the days when Baltic cuisine was synonymous with 'stodge', but you’d be missing out if  you went all that way and didn’t challenge yourself to finish the daddy of the dumplings, the torpedo-shaped  cepelinai . Filled with ground meat, mushrooms or curd cheese, these potato dumplings are the very definition of comfort food, though you may need to schedule a nap afterwards. Cosy  Senoji trobelė is an authentic place to give them a go.

Meanwhile Vilnius' culinary stars are working hard to change the face of Lithuanian food. At Ertlio Names , chefs expertly craft historically popular ingredients such as pheasant and pike into stunning modern dishes. Both  Dziaugsmas and Sweetroot  bring locavorism to the table, serving up exquisite plates from menus that can change from one day to the next to make the most of the seasonal produce available. 

Brew up a night out

With a student population of over 20,000, you'd be right to expect things to get lively after dark. Beer ( alus ) experts are well-catered for: brew-pub Craft & Draft  always has five of their own beers on tap as well as dozens of national and international choices, while Vejai's craft beer and cider menu will satisfy the thirstiest of punters and get their toes tapping with live music.

Liquor-lovers won't miss out, with cocktails expertly shaken or stirred at Alchemikas  and Sweet and Sour , and the wine being more than fine at Notre Vie . And while the club scene might not have Berlin quaking in its boots just yet, a clutch of nocturnal haunts such as the two-floored  Exit and techno-leaning  Opium  ensure that the city stays up until dawn...on the weekends at least.

Day trip to Trakai

A little over half an hour on the train from Vilnius, the island castle at Trakai is an arresting sight, seemingly taken straight from the pages of a fairy tale, and well worth the trip on a visit to the Lithuanian capital. The 15th-century castle is most spectacular when seen from the water, so take a boat trip around it on Lake Galvė or, if you like your tours to be more active, take a kayaking trip with  North North East . The surrounding forest is also part of the small national park, and makes for a peaceful scenic walk.

Trakai is also home to Lithuania’s Karaite minority. With fewer than 300 members in Lithuania, the community is striving to preserve their language, culture and cuisine. Filling up on Kibinai (the traditional Karaite pasty) at  Senoji Kibininė is a satisfying starting point for anyone wanting to learn more, though the Karaite Ethnographic Museum  admittedly provides more detail.

Explore related stories

Festivals & Events

May 24, 2022 • 8 min read

Get ready for a rainbow-lit Eiffel Tower, Big Ben and Colosseum: the best destinations to celebrate pride in Europe.

Nov 4, 2020 • 6 min read

Sep 3, 2020 • 2 min read

Aug 27, 2020 • 2 min read

Jun 11, 2020 • 1 min read

May 8, 2020 • 2 min read

Apr 29, 2020 • 2 min read

Oct 9, 2019 • 4 min read

Aug 27, 2019 • 5 min read

Aug 22, 2019 • 2 min read

Plan Your Trip to Vilnius: Best of Vilnius Tourism

Vilnius, Lithuania

Essential vilnius.

Trending in the forums

Vilnius Is Great For

Historical tours.

Cultural Tours

Eat & drink

Private Sightseeing Tours

• Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius
• Artagonist Art Hotel
• Hilton Garden Inn Vilnius City Centre
• Radisson Collection Astorija Hotel, Vilnius
• Hotel Pacai
• Pachamama Dinner Club
• D'eco Bar & Restaurant
• Lukiškės Prison 2.0
• KGB Museum (Genocido Auku Muziejus)
• Vilnius Old Town
• Vilnil. Museum of illusions
• Surprising Walking Red Light District Tour in Vilnius
• Full-Day The Hill of Crosses Tour from Vilnius
• Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Vilnius Old Town
• Regular walking tour of Soviet Vilnius
• Regular walking tour of Jewish Vilnius

Top 25 Things to Do in Vilnius | Travel Guide, Points of Interest, & Landmarks

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: August 17, 2021  - Last updated: September 18, 2021

Categories Destinations , Europe , Lithuania

Vilnius is probably one of the least-known European capitals. However, this hidden gem should definitely not be left out of your latest travel plans. From fascinating architecture and local history to all of the exciting activities available, there are plenty of fun things to do in Vilnius.

Although Vilnius only appears in records from the 13th century, it has been at the center of Lithuanian politics since then. The castles, palaces, and museums built in the city and the surrounding areas tell tales of the history of Lithuania – from the Grand Duchy to its independence from the Soviet Union.

Without further introduction, let’s explore everything there is to know about Vilnius so that your time here can be as adventurous as possible.

Where is Vilnius, Lithuania?

Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania, a Baltic state in North-East Europe. The city lies in the South-East region of the country, close to the borders of Belarus. 

The city was originally limited to the medieval Old Town (now a popular attraction) but has since expanded to include a larger municipal area of almost 750,000 people. The neighboring districts are made up of 1,163 villages and stretch over an area of 2,129 square kilometers.

How to Reach Lithuania, Vilnius

You can reach Vilnius via plane or road. The capital of Lithuania has an international airport, but if you are traveling from a neighboring Balkan state, you could also choose to travel by bus, car, or train. 

Traveling to Vilnius by Plane

The easiest way to travel to Vilnius is by plane. The Vilnius International Airport is one of the three biggest commercial airports in the country, together with international airports in Palanga and Kaunas.

Unfortunately, as with the rest of Lithuania, you will not be able to get a direct flight from outside of Europe or the UK. The international airports in Lithuania are rather small, with only one runway, which is not long enough to accept bigger airplanes. However, with a quick stopover in one of the bigger European airports, you will be in Vilnius in no time. 

The airport is on the southern outskirts of the city. It will take approximately 10/15 minutes to reach the center via car. Costing from 5 to 10 Euro. The two best Taxi apps in Lithuania is Bolt and Uber.

From Vilnius Airport to City Center with public transportation

Getting from Vilnius airport to the city center is fairly straightforward. You can either take a bus or a local train. However, the airport is located just 6 km south of the city center, so it’s a very short trip between the city center and the airport. There are 5 different busses from the airport, so be sure about which one you should take, the bus ride from the airport to the center of Vilnius takes around 15 minutes, and the buses depart from the airport every 10–15 minutes. NB. You can not buy the ticket (1euro) from the bus driver anymore; you can either use the app Trafi or buy the ticket from the tourist centre or the Narvesen Kiosk. Trafi is used for all public transportation in Vilnius. Busses which has the letter G after the numbers are express buses, while it stops on the most popular stops around the city while skipping some regular stops before and after the centre.

• Bus #1  From airport to the central bus/train station, which is located south of the city.
• Bus #2   Also goes from the airport to the bus/train station.
• Bus #88  From the airport to the City Business Centre, but goes trough the Old Town first.
• Bus#3G  goes to the north through the centre ( Lukiškės  square) and business centre ( Konstitucijos  avenue). Travel along the western outskirts of the old town.
• N ight minibus #88N  goes hourly 23:30–05:30 same route as nr 2.

By train from Vilnius airport: There´s a train from the airport to the train station which depart every 45min and takes 7min to reach the train station. costs 0.72 Euro. The train station is located in the south part of the city, so you are probably best of taking one of the busses if you are planning to stay in the old town part of Vilnius or in the new part of town.

Traveling to Vilnius by Bus, Car, or Train

If you are coming from Minsk (Belarus), Warsaw (Poland), or Riga (Latvia) , you can easily take a bus, rental car, or train. There are plenty of options from any of these countries. The popular weekend destination, Klaipeda, along the Baltic Coast, is 3 – 4 hours away.

The bus is the cheapest option, ranging from $15 to $30 for the shortest (and cheapest) options. Trains and cars are slightly more expensive but do offer on average an hour less travel time. 

Note: Once inside the country, public transport is a great option. The train network and bus schedule can be found online. 

What to Do in Vilnius | 5 Fun Activities & Day Trips

There are so many great Lithuanian things to do in Vilnius that you will need to stay here for more than a few days. These fun activities and day trips will have you exploring every part of the city and the surrounding country. Make sure to tick a few of these off your bucket list the next time you’re in Vilnius.

1. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Vilnius

One of the best ways to truly appreciate a city is from the air. Although you will get glimpses if you are flying in, it’s definitely worth it to take a closer look. The best way to do this is with a hot air balloon trip . As you float above the city, you will appreciate a side of Vilnius that many people don’t get to enjoy.

These trips usually last for between 1 to 2 hours, but that will fly by, quite literally. Take as many pictures as you can because you’re going to struggle to find a viewpoint this good again.

You will be in small groups of up to 4 to 7 people in the basket for this trip, depending on the size of the basket. However, there are more romantic couple options available. 

2. Canoe Through Vilnius

The history of Vilnius is closely connected to the two rivers that run through the city – the Neris and the Vilnia River. If you’re visiting Vilnius in the summer and are a fan of water activities, then a guided canoe trip is a great activity.

You’ll be able to explore the city using the rivers to your advantage. Not only will you get to challenge yourself with the most difficult river route in Lithuania, but you will also get to take in the city from a completely unique perspective.

Note: Even though the river can be challenging at times, it’s not impossible for the keen adventurer, and it’s a boatload of fun.

3. Explore Trakai Castle

Although not in Vilnius itself, Trakai Island Castle is a must-do day trip for anyone visiting the city. This castle played a pivotal role in the safety of the Lithuanian capital and is a great opportunity to glimpse back into 14th- and 15th-century European culture. 

You can either take a guided tour to learn as much as you can about the complicated local history or explore the museum and castle grounds by yourself. It’s only a 40-minute drive from central Vilnius and is any history-lover’s dream. 

The castle had a complicated history that began in the 14th century. Because of its strategic position, the castle quickly found itself at the center of a war – which shaped future constructions. The castle fell into disarray in the 17th century and was only restored in 1951. 

Now a part of the Trakai History Museum, the grounds are filled with archaeological findings, art, and exhibitions commemorating the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. If you visit during summer, you can also enjoy one of the medieval festivals or various concerts or events that are hosted there.

Note: If you still want to head out on the water. The castle is located on an island that you can explore via a beginner-friendly canoe tour . 

4. Learn About Vilnius Ghost Stories & Legends

If you’re looking for an unconventional adventure that will leave you in awe of Vilnius, then this guided tour is a great choice. You will meet up in the evening as the sun sets and begin exploring a unique side of the city.

The two-hour walking tour will take you through Vilnius Old Town and will introduce you to various real stories as well as some interesting legends. Although the city might not be as old as some other European cities, it has still racked up an impressive collection of tales.

Find out about the love stories of the ancient Dukes, hear about atrocities committed during wartime, or find out about the extraordinary lives of Middle Age executioners – this tour has everything you won’t find on a regular Google search. 

5. Visit the Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses is one of Lithuania’s must-see tourist attractions – although it is a bit of a trip away from the city. If you want to know what to do in Lithuania and are ready to explore a little bit more of the country, then why not experience a full-day trip from Vilnius . 

Not only will you get to see a famous Christian pilgrimage landmark, but you will get to stop and explore the Ukmergė District and have a Lithuanian lunch in the city of Siauliai. The Hill of Crosses is 220 km (135 miles) away from Vilnius. You will depart the city in the morning and return between 5 – 6 pm. 

Vilnius Lithuania Points of Interest | 7 Tourist Attractions

Although there are plenty of fun activities to do in and around Vilnius, don’t forget to spend some time admiring the local attractions as well. Vilnius is a treasure trove of European architecture, Lithuanian culture, and all-around beauty, and it´s definitely one of the most underrated cities in Europe.

Explore some of these Lithuanian landmarks to truly check the city off your bucket list. 

1. Vilnius Old Town

A trip to Vilnius would not be complete without exploring the historic old town. It was proclaimed a UNESCO world heritage site in 1994, and, if that wasn’t enough, it is one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in northern Europe.

Vilnius has been a melting pot of European cultures since its inception. It is one of the most unique old towns in the world, where you will be able to see such a wide variety of architectural styles blending together. Don’t be surprised if you happen past buildings designed in the gothic, renaissance, baroque, and neoclassical styles standing side by side. 

Whether you want to explore the old town by yourself or on a guided tour , there are plenty of exciting things to see in Vilnius’ historic centre. 

2. Palace of the Grand Duke of Lithuania

On the southern banks of the Neris River, just north of the Vilnius Old Town, you will find this historic landmark. Although the original palace was demolished, the reconstruction was completed in 2016 and allows you to take a glimpse back in time.

What started out as the Vilnius Castle eventually became the official residence of the Grand Duke of Lithuania. It was during this period of prosperity that the city of Vilnius reached its medieval heights. 

Now that it has been redone, the public is welcome to explore the museum grounds and learn more about the history of Vilnius and the palace’s occupants.

3. Gediminas’ Tower

If the Old Town is the lifeblood of Vilnius, then Gediminas’ Tower is the heart. According to legend, this is the oldest part of the town, where Grand Duke Gediminas proclaimed his new settlement.

Although only the tower remains, it was once part of the old castle complex – located on the same grounds as the Palace of the Grand Duke. This historic landmark is located on a hilltop, which makes it a popular place for locals and tourists alike to relax and admire the views. You can see all of the surrounding city from here, which makes for a great sunset viewing spot. 

The Gediminas’ Tower is located right behind the national museum on a hilltop, while it´s not a long walk up to the tower, so can you take a Funicular train each way for 1 Euro each way.

4. The Three Crosses Hill

If you can´t get enough of the view over Vilnius, you can head to the Three Crosses Hill, a hill overlooking the city with three 12m tall white concrete Crosses overlooking the city.

According to history, there have been wooden crosses on this site since the early 17th century, and since then, they became a symbol of the city and an integral part of the city’s skyline. The original wooden crosses rotted, the crosses needed to be periodically replaced. In 1916, when a concrete monument was constructed and stood here until it was torn down in 1950 during the soviet times. The current Three Crosses was constructed in 1989. 

5. Vilnius Museum of Illusions

The Vilnius Museum of Illusions is the most unique landmark on this list. Where the other museums and stops will have you learn about local history and culture, this one is all about blowing your mind.

Walkthrough the building as you discover the various optical illusions and unique exhibitions. The staff are friendly and more than willing to help show you around the place. This is an excellent stop for any family or illusion lovers visiting the city. 

You can buy a ticket at the entrance, which costs $13 for adults, $10 for students and seniors, and for $36, you can get a family pass. Children under the age of 7 can accompany an adult for free (max 3 kids per adult). 

6. Vilnius Cathedral

Vilnius Cathedral is one of the oldest areas of the city. Although the current church is not the same building as the original, there have been numerous reconstructions and modifications made throughout the century.

The first church was built in the 13th century but faced fires, wars, and general dilapidation over the years. It was originally a Gothic-style church, but when it was rebuilt at the end of the 18th century, it was adapted to the current Neoclassical style. 

It’s a popular stop in Vilnius, thanks to its beautiful white walls and elaborately decorated interior. The Vilnius Bell Tower (just outside the entrance to the church) offers a great opportunity to take in the surrounding views. 

7. Lithuanian National Opera & Ballet Theatre

Home to the Lithuanian National Ballet, this theatre is both a historical and cultural landmark. You can visit the modernly designed building to learn more about the history of ballet in Vilnius, or you can book a ticket and enjoy one of the many performances that take place there. 

From their website, you can view all of the upcoming events as well as book tickets. The pricing varies depending on the show and what seats you want to choose. On average, you’re looking to spend between $20 – $70. 

8. Visit The KGB Museum / Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fighters

This museum is the only one of its kind in the Balkans and serves as a reminder of the struggles that the people of Vilnius have faced over the past 100 years. There are exhibitions highlighting important events, including the underground resistance movements during WW2 and political prisoners that were housed here during the Soviet Union.

The basement of the building was once the KGB prison, and it´s easy to see that this place is not a pleasant place to spend your time in prison. There´s even an execution chamber in the basement.

9. Try the Local Lithuanian Craft Beer

Like most other countries, so are also Vilnius and Lithuania experiencing a craft beer revolution.

But Lithuania seems to favour sour beer when it comes to experiencing with local ingredients, like beetroot sour beer and blackcurrant sour beer. While the two most common craft beer breweries in Lithuania and Vilnius are Genys Brewing and Raudonu Plytu, however, none of them is originally from Vilnius, so do about every bar en restaurant sell them these days. A guide to craft beer in Vilnius and Lithuania.

10. Visit Lukiškės Prison

Once the most notorious prison in Lithuania until the prison was officially closed on 2 July 2019. The prison opened up in 1904 when Lithuania was part of the Russian Empire. It was also used by the Germani Nazi s occupation of Lithuania during WW2 when it was used by the Gestapo as a holding cell for thousands of Jews.

Now the prison has reopened under the name Lukiškės Prison 2.0, which these days offers everything from art studios which is used by around 250 famous local artists., to tours of the old prison with some of the old prison guards working as guides in prison now, (you will hear some crazy stories from their own experience working in the prison during the time it was a notorious prison, similar to Alcatraz in the USA .

The old prison is now considered to be a Culture Hub of Vilnius.

But there are also concerts on a newly built stage in one of the courtyards of the prison, there´s been a night nightclub, and there´s even a well-stocked bar in another of the courtyards.

There´s also rumours that they will turn a part of the prison into a guesthouse in the near future.

Lukiškės Prison was in 2020 also used as a filming location for the fourth season of the popular Netflix show, Stranger Things.

11. Visit Užupis Bohemian Republic

Just east of the old part of town, across the river, is the small bohemian district of Užupis, which try to be the self-proclaimed Republic of Užupis .

Following Lithuania’s independence from Soviet rule, artists in Vilnius took advantage of the cheap accommodation in the area. These new residents turned Užupis into a hive of creativity. Since April 1, 1997, the Užupis neighborhood in Vilnius has been considered a free republic, much like Christiania in Copenhagen, Denmark.

The name Užupis means “over the river”, as the tiny neighborhood sits on the other side of the Vilnelé River, separated from the Old Town, the small bohemian district is well worth a visit.

12. Bernardine Cemetary

Bernardine Cemetery is the second-oldest cemetery in all of Vilnius, located in far edges of Užupis on the right bank of the Vilnia River. Bernardine Cemetery is the eternal resting place of various cultural, social and scientific figures for over 200 years.

The Cemetery was established in 1810 by the Bernardine monks of the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, and the place is today beautiful local historical and cultural objects of the 19 t still visible in Vilnius.

13. Town Hall Square

The Vilnius Town hall square is the main square in old town Vilnius. The first time was mentioned back in 1432 but has since been reconstructed many times.

The current building date back to 1799, and it has remained unchanged since then. These days the town hall is a popular meeting place for locals, and the square is now full of local bars and restaurants.

14. The Gate Of Dawn

The Gate of Dawn, locally known as Aušros Vartai, is one of the most important religious and historical monuments in Vilnius. The Gate of Dawn was built between 1503 and 1522 as a part of defensive fortifications around the old town of Vilnius, which was then the capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

The Gate of Dawn is an important Catholic pilgrimage site in Lithuania and a site for pilgrim travellers coming here from far away to pay a visit to a tinny chapel and to pray in front of an old painting of Virgin Marry which is believed to have miraculous power.

15. National Museum Of Lithuania

The National Museum of Lithuania is like all other national museums in different countries, displaying the development of Lithuanian history from the creation of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania until the first half of the 20th century. The National Museum is located right in front of the Gediminas’ Tower and to the left of the Vilnius Cathedral.

16. St. Anne’s Church

The 500-year-old St. Anne’s Church is a prime example of Gothic architecture in Vilnius. Legend says that Napoleon Bonaparte fell in love with the church so much when he visited Vilnius in 1812, that much as he wanted to tear it down and move it to French. 

Today the Chuch of St. Anne is one of the famous landmarks of Vilnius.

17. Literature Street

One of the newest sites in Vilnius is the Literatų gatvė (Literature Street) which is dedicated to writers who have some kind of connection with Vilnius.

A street which started to be decorated in 2008 when a group of local artists came up with the idea of revitalising the street and decorating it with works of art related to authors with a connection to the city.  Each of the artworks on the wall has its connection to a writer. Some are made in plastic, metal etc., but one stands out as the most bizarre, the denture that was used personally by one of the writers. Now counting more than 200.

18. Climb Bell Tower of St. John’s Church for the best view over Vilnius

The tallest of all Bell Towers in Vilnius is the Bell Tower of St. John’s Church standing 68m tall, attached to Vilnius University.

Built-in renaissance style at the end of the 16th century, but was badly damaged during a fire in 1737. The Bell Tower was then rebuilt in the current Baroque style. The St. John´s Church bell tower is also the tallest building in Old Town Vilnius.

The Bell Tower is located in the middle of old town Vilnius and offers an amazing view if you decide to climb the very steep 193 authentic wooden steps to the top of the tower, or you can take the newly built elevator up to the open-air 45-metre high observation platform. The top of the bell towers offers the best view over Old toWN Vilnius. The entrance fee is 5 Euro.

19. Vilnius University

Vilnius University, located right next to Bell Tower of St. John’s Church. Vilnius University is the oldest higher education in the Baltics and one of the oldest in all of northern Europe.

Opened in the year 1579, it´s famous as the best University in the region, and even today, it´s ranked among the top 400 universities worldwide. 

20. Enjoy the view from Vilnius TV Tower

The Vilnius TV Tower is the tallest structure in Lithuania, standing at 326,5m tall, making it the 29th tallest tv tower in the world.

The Tv tower is easily recognisable from all over Vilnius, and it will be the first thing you will see when you are entering Vilnius.

At the round section at 165m at the tower, there´s a rotating viewing platform and the Milky way restaurant offering a breathtaking view over all of Vilnius. The restaurant rotates 360 degrees which take 55min.

There´s also a small museum at the base of the tv tower, the “Fight for freedom Museum”, which display the event that took place here on the night of 13 January 1991, when Lithuanians got their independence from the Soviet Union. There´s a small granite obelisk near the TV tower in honour of the 12 Lithuanians who lost their lives here that night.

21. Frank Zappa Memorial

One of the strangest monuments and sites in Vilnius is the Frank Zappa memorial in the city.

Why a Frank Zappa statue in Vilnius? He has done nothing for Lithuania. In fact, he has never even been to Lithuania. During the Soviet times, no American or Western culture was allowed. So after the fall of the Soviets, the statue of Frank Zappa got put up as a sign of freedom of speech and creativity, marking an absence of censorship.

22. John Lennon Statue

In the far southern part of the old town, just behind the Comfort Hotel, is a small monument in memory of John Lennon. Even tho the statue was unveiled in 2015; it has fast become one of the most popular sites in Vilnius, even tho it’s one of the newest attractions in Vilnius.

23. The Barbakanas / Artillery Bastion

There´s not much left of the old city wall from the 16th century. But one of the few places you can see the original Vilnius city wall is at Vilnius Artillery Bastion.

The Artillery Bastion was from the 15th to 19th centuries full of explosives, cannons, soldiers and guns. These days there is a small museum in the Artillery Bastion with some of the original weapons on display. The top of the Bastion is a popular place to enjoy the view out over the city.

24. Relax in the Bernardine Garden

The oldest park in Vilnius was created all the way back in 1469; the garden is still open in the heart of the Old Town, a popular place for locals to relax and go for a walk.

The park was completely redesigned a d opened in 2003 after old images. Bernardine Garden is located right behind the Gediminas’ Tower and along the Vilnia river. The Bernardine Gardens is a perfect place to relax after a long day walk around the old town.

Where to Stay in Vilnius

Planning all your activities and trips might be the best part of creating a travel itinerary, but choosing the right accommodation can make or break a trip. Whether you are trying to save money while traveling or have the most unforgettable experience possible, there are plenty of great places to stay in Vilnius.

• Amberton Cathedral Square Hotel : For some, the best place to stay when visiting Vilnius is in the historical Old Town. If you choose the Amberton 4-star Hotel, you will be in the center of all the action and have the cathedral on your doorstep. There is a breakfast buffet included.
• Hilton Garden Inn Vilnius Center : Just outside the Old Town, near the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre, you will find this classy 4-star Hilton hotel. This world-renowned hotel chain is a reliable option that includes modern rooms, a fitness center, and private parking.
• Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva: This 4-star hotel is located on the opposite side of the Neris River to the historical Old Town, however it’s still close to all the best Vilnius attractions. The interior decoration is exceptional and they have a wide range of rooms to choose from – whether you are on a tight budget or looking to stay in a more luxurious suite. Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva is home to the only skybar in Vilnius. Which is well worth a visit for a eveening drink.
• Comfort Hotel LT – Rock ‘n’ Roll Vilnius : One of the newest hotels in city, located about a 10min walk of the old city, a eco friendly hotel, often used as a busniess hotel but is just as popular among travelers. I personally stayed 5 nights here and I would stayed here agian.
• Artis Centrum Hotels : One of the most central located hotel, right next to the Ministry of National Defence of Lithuania. Artis offers a popular resturant and bar, and is one of few hotels with swimming pool, a sauna and steam bath in Vilnius. I did stay my two first nights here.

Can You Go Skiing in Lithuania?

Although many people don’t realize it, Lithuania is a great place to go skiing. Whether you are traveling here in the summer or winter months, there is an opportunity to hit the slopes.

Naturally, most ski resorts open during the winter, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a place to ski during summer. Thanks to the state-of-the-art Snow Arena , you can find some exciting things to do in Lithuania throughout the year. 

The Snow Arena is located just outside the Druskininkai, a famous spa town in southern Lithuania. It is only a 2-hour drive away from Vilnius and a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Although not many tourists travel to Vilnius during winter, there are opportunities to go skiing. Just outside the city, close to the airport, you can find the Liepkalnis entertainment area. During winter, the slopes are open for snowboarding and skiing. While in summer, there are plenty of fun activities like mountain biking, tobogganing, climbing, tubing, and more. 

Lithuanian Vilnius Tourism Guide | FAQs

When traveling to a new city or country, it’s always a good idea to find out everything you can about it. These are some of the most frequently asked questions by tourists going to Vilnius. 

Is Vilnius Safe for Tourists?

Yes, Vilnius and Lithuania is a very safe place for tourists. Although petty theft and tourist scams do take place (like in all major cities), it is not a high-risk city. Individual travelers (whether male or female) should feel safe traveling here. 

As long as you aren’t careless with your possessions, you should be alright. However, when traveling, it is always best to exercise a bit more caution than you normally would. Having goods stolen while on holiday is a quick way to ruin your day. 

Scams aren’t overly common, but some opportunistic locals may try to take advantage of you. This is especially true for taxis, and tourists are not recommended to use these services. It’s not unheard of for foreigners to be charged 10x the normal fare – and you could be refused service otherwise. Stick with the busses, and you should be fine!

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Vilnius?

If you are a European or US citizen, you can travel to Vilnius for up to 90 days without requiring additional documentation. The rules are slightly different for EU and US citizens, but both do not require visas to enter for holiday. 

Lithuania joined the EU in 2007 and became a member of the Schengen zone. As a result, any EU citizen can travel to or from Lithuania without needing a visa. EU citizens are allowed to visit or work here for a period of up to 3 months.

Do They Speak English in Lithuania Vilnius?

Approximately 30% of Lithuanians can speak English. The majority of these come from the younger generation (between 15 – 29). English has become more popular in recent years after Lithuania’s independence from the Soviet Union.

In Lithuania, it is compulsory to learn a foreign secondary language at school. The three most popular options are English, Russian, and German. During the Soviet occupation of Lithuania, the most popular foreign second language was Russian, but this has since changed to English.

However, about all the people working in bars, restaurants, coffee houses, hotels, etc., is from the younger generation and speak fluent English, making travelling in Vilnius and Lithuania very easy.

Does Lithuania Use the Euro?

Lithuania has used the Euro as its official currency since 1 January 2015. The Euro replaced the previous currency – the Lithuanian Litas. But few people use hard cash these days. Everyone just pays with their credit cards these days, and also did I during my visit.

What Are the Major Cities in Lithuania?

Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania and the most populous city. The second biggest city is Kaunas, followed by Klaipėda and Šiauliai.

What is the Best Time to Visit Vilnius?

The most popular time to visit Vilnius is during summer. The temperature is moderate and pleasant during this time, averaging 23 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s the time of year where the Lithuanian countryside looks the best, and you can enjoy exploring Vilnius and the surrounding areas. 

Being in northern Europe, Lithuania can get very cold during winter. The average temperature during winter is -10 degrees Celsius, and it can get as cold as -20 degrees on some of the colder days. Don’t let this put you off, though; there are still plenty of Vilnius things to do.

The main reason why people visit Lithuania during winter is because of the snow. There are a few popular ski resorts in the south of the country. There are far fewer tourists during these colder months, so you’ll also be able to visit attractions while avoiding long queues. 

Explore a Hidden Gem in the Balkans

Vilnius is a European city, unlike many of the more conventional stops. This unique destination will allow you to experience combinations of culture and architecture that are rarely seen anywhere else. 

Now that you know what to see in Vilnius, where to stay, and some FAQs, all that’s left to do is to figure out what to pack . Your Baltic-European adventure awaits!

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Lithuania - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.  

Exercise normal precautions in Lithuania.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Lithuania.

If you decide to travel to Lithuania:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive travel alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Lithuania.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

1 page per stamp

10,000 Euros or equivalent

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy lithuania.

Akmenu Gatve. 6 Vilnius, Lithuania LT-03106 Telephone: +(370) (5) 266-5600 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(370) (5) 266 5500 Fax: +(370) (5) 266-5590 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the Embassy of Lithuania website for the most current visa information. 

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.  If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page . 
• You will need s ufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .  
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

The Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Lithuania.  

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction, and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe. All European countries, including Lithuania, remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant with regard to their personal security.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.  

Foreigners, ethnic minorities, and members of the LGBTI community have been victims of harassment, physical assaults, and even robbery. This tends to occur late at night near bars and nightclubs. 

Marches and protests do occur, especially in larger cities. You should avoid areas where protests are taking place.

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.  
• Avoid areas around demonstrations.  
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.  

Crime: Crimes of opportunity, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, are common, particularly at popular tourist sites and restaurants, and on public transportation. Pickpockets take advantage of crowds getting on and off all forms of public transportation, using the jostling of people as a distraction.

• Be aware of your surroundings and take personal security measures to stay safe.
• Thefts from cars and car thefts occur regularly. Do not leave valuables in rental cars.
• Avoid walking alone at night.
• Only use taxi services arranged by phone.
• Avoid using automatic teller machines (ATMs) in isolated or poorly lighted areas; use the buddy system and indoor bank ATMs when possible.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes and social welfare emergencies, such as domestic violence or child abuse, to the police by dialing 112 (English-speaking operators are available). Also, contact the U.S. Embassy at (370) (5) 266-5500 for additional assistance. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

We can: 

• Help you find appropriate medical care.  
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police. 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. 
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Assist you with a list of non-governmental organizations and centers providing programs for victims of crime in Lithuania. Please see  our website  for more information.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution. 
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home. 
• Replace a stolen or lost passport. 

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. 

Tourism: The tourism industry is regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are enforced.  Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of metropolitan areas, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be arrested, imprisoned, or deported. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and Department of Justice ’s website. 

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Lithuania are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Driving while intoxicated is a very serious offense and carries heavy penalties.

For more specific information about arrest procedures in Lithuania, visit the Embassy’s  website .

Lithuanian customs regulations are strict for the temporary importation or export of firearms and antiquities. Contact the  Embassy of Lithuania  in the United States for specific information about customs requirements.

Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.   

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Lithuania.  However, members of the LGBTI community have experienced verbal harassment and physical assaults.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.  

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance : Lithuania’s Law on Equal Treatment prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities.

• Public transportation:  Public transportation generally has reserved seats for individuals with disabilities. In cities, there are low-floor trolleybuses and buses, which are marked with special signs.
• Trains:  For assistance getting on or off a train, contact the railway information center by telephone at (370) (5) 269-2121. Free assistance is not provided in all stations.
• Airports:  At the airport, special assistance call buttons for persons with reduced mobility are located in the car parking lot, by the bus stop, and at the departing passenger boarding point on the second level of the passenger terminal. There are wheelchair-accessible bathrooms and elevators in the arrival and departure terminals.
• Reserved parking places for disabled individuals are marked with a wheelchair symbol on roads and in car parks.

Students:  See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .   

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Medical care in Lithuania has improved, but facilities may be limited outside urban areas.

Medical facilities do not always meet Western standards. Payment is expected upon admission at private hospitals .

For emergency services in Lithuania, dial 112 (English-speaking operators are available) 

Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. 

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. 

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Please review the Lithuanian rules for importing medication into Lithuania here .

The Lithuanian government does not require HIV testing for U.S. citizens. Sexually transmitted diseases are a growing public health problem. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  

General Health

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Tuberculosis
• Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)
• Lyme disease

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Lithuania.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: While in Lithuania, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Roads in Lithuania range from well-maintained two-to four-lane highways connecting major cities, to small dirt roads crossing the countryside.

Traffic Laws:  You may drive in Lithuania for up to 90 days with a U.S. driver’s license.

• Seat belts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers. Children under the age of three must be seated in the back seat in a child seat appropriate for their age and size.
• Driving under the influence is considered a very serious offense and carries heavy penalties. The legal limit in Lithuania is the equivalent of 0.04% BAC.
• You must have at least your low beam lights on at all times while driving.
• Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks.
• When involved in a traffic accident, Lithuanian law requires you to leave your vehicle where it is and immediately notify the police (112).
• Drivers must carry a driver’s license, insurance, registration, etc. in the vehicle at all times.
• The phone number for roadside assistance is 8-800-01414 from a regular phone. 1414 from a GSM mobile phone.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation is considered safe and is readily available via taxi, Uber, or bus. If utilizing taxi services, we recommend that travelers place a request via phone, app, or hotel to ensure their safety. As in every situation, travelers should be aware of their surroundings, specifically within large crowds where petty theft could occur.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Lithuania, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Lithuania’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page . 

Maritime Travel: Mariners traveling to Lithuania should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website and the NGA broadcast warnings . 

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Lithuania . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, lithuania map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Vilnius Travel Guide

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• Travel guide
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice

Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

VILNIUS is a cosmopolitan and thoroughly modern city that is relatively compact and easy to get to know, with a variety of inexpensive attractions and a lively nightlife. Its numerous Baroque churches jostle for space amid glitzy restaurants and dilapidated old buildings that line its cobbled streets, while the student population lends the place a tangible air of energy and optimism. Beguiling, and sometimes downright odd, Vilnius has an addictive quality.

Cathedral Square

Drinking and nightlife, frank zappa statue, gediminas castle and museum, gedimino prospektas and the genocide museum, jewish museum, jewish vilnius, the lithuanian national museum, the national art gallery, the old town, st anne’s church and užupis, town hall square and around.

At the centre of Vilnius, poised between the medieval and nineteenth-century parts of the city, is Cathedral Square (Katedros aikštė). To the south of here along Pilies gatvė and Didžioji gatvė is the Old Town , containing perhaps the most impressive concentration of Baroque architecture in northern Europe. West of the square in the New Town is Gedimino prospektas , a nineteenth-century boulevard and the focus of the city’s commercial and administrative life. The traditionally Jewish areas of Vilnius between the Old Town and Gedimino prospektas still retain some sights, such as the synagogue.

Top image: © krivinis/Shutterstock

Travel ideas for Lithuania, created by local experts

10 days  / from 1053 USD

Sustainable Baltic Capitals

Enjoy introductory tours and ample free time to suit your interests. In ten days, relish local accommodations, UNESCO town walks, quirky neighborhoods, and private guide tours, delving into the region's history and customs. Start your Baltic States adventure now for independent exploration.

16 days  / from 3996 USD

Ultimate Baltics

Uncover both renowned attractions and hidden gems across the Baltic States and Southern Finland. Explore UNESCO sites, serene villages, and sandy dunes. From the capital cities of Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn and Helsinki to the beaches in Klaipeda in Pärnu.

10 days  / from 1674 USD

Baltic Highlights

Witness unspoiled landscapes and vibrant capitals. From Vilnius to Riga and Tallinn, move all the way up to Helsinki. Along the way, visit national parks like Laheema and castles like the Trakai castle. Private transfers and unique accommodation choices are included.

Vilnius has a reasonable amount of hotels , although budget choices are relatively thin on the ground and should be booked well in advance, especially in summer. The growing crop of moderate-to-expensive hotels are modern, business-oriented affairs, but there's also a nice choice of characterful, cosy places in stylishly restored old buildings. The Old Town is a good place to look, or the area around Naujamiestis ("New Town") and Gedimino prospektas just to the west, which is within easy walking distance of the attractions. There are also a few options on the rapidly developing north bank of the river Neris.

Other inexpensive options include an increasing number of hostels and B&Bs – the cheapest way of staying close to the Old Town. Hostels are basic compared to their counterparts in Western Europe: rooms are often cramped and very simply furnished, though invariably clean, and the staff usually enthusiastic and friendly.

Cathedral Square is dominated by the Neoclassical cathedral , dating from the thirteenth century when a wooden church was built here on the site of a temple dedicated to Perkųnas, the god of thunder. The highlight of the airy, vaulted interior is the opulent Chapel of St Casimir , the patron saint of Lithuania. Next to the cathedral on the square is the white belfry, once part of the fortifications of the vanished Lower Castle. Between the cathedral and the belfry lies a small coloured tile with stebuklas (miracle) written on it, marking the spot from where, in 1989, two million people formed a human chain that stretched all the way to Tallinn, Estonia, to protest against Soviet occupation.

Immediately behind the cathedral stands the Grand Dukes’ Palace (Valdovu rumai), a 21st-century reconstruction of a Renaissance palace that fell into ruin at the end of the eighteenth century. Rebuilt more-or-less accurately by following old paintings and drawings, the courtyard-edged complex now holds a sumptuous collection of furnishings and artworks displayed in over thirty rooms, reflecting the opulent style in which Lithuania’s Grand Dukes might once have lived. Opened in summer 2013, it’s one of Lithuania’s best-labelled and best-presented collections, and also comes with gift shop and café.

Watering holes in central Vilnius, especially in the Old Town, range from faux-rustic taverns with wooden benches to swish designer bars with minimalist decor. Most places serve a wide range of food, and the locals are as likely to visit them for lunch or dinner as for a session of serious drinking. A few close at 11pm or midnight, although the majority stay open into the early hours, especially at weekends.

Vilinius has several large mainstream clubs attracting a friendly, relaxed crowd with an unsophisticated mixture of Western, commercial dance tunes and Lithuanian and Russian techno. In addition, many of the establishments have DJs or live music at weekends. Entry fees can be anything between 10 and 35Lt.

Vilnius's theatre scene is interesting and varied, although performances are invariably in Lithuanian (or Russian) except on the rare occasions when visiting companies are in town. However, the language barrier shouldn't prevent you from from enjoying shows by the best of the contemporary drama companies, from whom movement and stagecraft are often just as important as the text.

Vilnius has a rapidly growing choice of restaurants , offering everything from Lithuanian to Lebanese cuisine in all budgets. Many Vilnius restaurants serve the kind of cuisine you find in most northern European countries: meat-and-potatoes, schnitzels and chops. An increasing number, however, are serving traditional Lithuanian food, such as cepelinai , koldunai and blynai , in folksy surroundings. In addition there's no end of pizzerias and a handful of ethnic restaurants around the centre.

Many of Vilnius's cafés offer much the same food as those places that call themselves restaurants, but in more informal surroundings and at sometimes significantly cheaper prices.

On Kalinausko Street, the bronze head of rocker Frank Zappa is perched on a column against a backdrop of street art. Civil servant Saulis Paukstys founded the local Zappa fan club and, in 1992, commissioned the socialist-realist sculptor Konstantinas Bogdanas to create this unique sculpture.

Rising behind the cathedral is the tree-clad Castle Hill, its summit crowned by the red-brick Gediminas Castle – one of the city’s best-known landmarks – founded by Grand Duke Gediminas, the Lithuanian ruler who consolidated the country’s independence. The tower houses a little museum , with displays of armour and models showing the former extent of Vilnius’s medieval fortifications. The view of Old Town from the top is unparalleled. Take the funicular from the courtyard of the Applied Art Museum.

Gedimino prospektas , running west from Cathedral Square, is the most important commercial street. On the southern side of Lukiskių aikštė , a square around 900m west of Cathedral Square, is Gedimino 40, Lithuania’s former KGB headquarters. The building also served as Gestapo headquarters during the German occupation and, more recently, the Soviets incarcerated political prisoners in the basement. It’s now the Genocide Museum (Genocido aukų muziejus), its torture cells and execution chamber making a grim impression. Well-labelled, detailed exhibits on Soviet occupation, deportation and Lithuanian partisan resistance are upstairs; the optional English-language audiotape commentary is worthwhile if you want a detailed prison tour.

The Vilna Gaon Jewish State Museum (Valstybinis Vilniaus Gaono Žydų Muziejus) is housed in three separate branches. The Jewish History Exhibits has displays upstairs on Jewish partisan resistance, life in the Vilnius ghetto, and an exhibit on Lithuanians who risked their lives to save Jews during the Nazi occupation. The Green House , slightly uphill contains a harrowing display on the fate of Vilnius and Kaunas Jews during World War II, including eyewitness accounts, and many extremely disturbing photographs with some captions in English. Guided museum tours in English can be arranged, as well as “history of Jewish Vilnius” tours. The Centre for Tolerance inside a restored former Jewish theatre, houses some excellent twentieth-century Jewish artwork, as well as fine religious items and an excellent display in English on the second floor charting the history of Jews in Lithuania from the fourteenth century until the present day.

Before World War II, Vilnius was one of the most important centres of Jewish life in eastern Europe. The Jews – first invited to settle in 1410 by Grand Duke Vytautas – made up around a third of the city’s population, mainly concentrated in the eastern fringes of the Old Town around present-day Vokiečių gatvė, Zydų gatvė and Antokolskio gatvė. Massacres of the Jewish population began soon after the Germans occupied Vilnius on June 24, 1941, and those who survived the initial killings found themselves herded into two ghettos . The smaller of these ghettos centred on the streets of Zydų, Antokolskio, Stiklių and Gaono, and was liquidated in October 1941, while the larger occupied an area between Pylimo, Vokiečių, Lydos, Mikalojaus, Karmelitų and Arklių streets, and was liquidated in September 1943. Most of Vilnius’s 80,000 Jewish residents perished in Paneriai forest, 10km southwest of the city.

Today the Jewish population of Vilnius numbers only five thousand. The city's one surviving synagogue is a Moorish-style structure built in 1903 to serve a congregation that belonged to the Haskalah ("Enlightenment") tradition – a nineteenth-century movement that aimed to bring Judaism into line with modern secularism. Originally known as Choral Synagogue, owing to the (then innovation) use of a boys' choir during services, it was a popular place of worship for wealthier, westernized Jews pre-World War II, and now serves the whole of Vilnius's remaining Jewish community.

About 100m north of the cathedral is the Lithuanian National Museum (Lietuvos Nacionalinis Muziejus), which traces the history of Lithuania from prehistoric times to 1940 through an interesting collection of artefacts, paintings and photographs, including a display of wooden crucifixes and ethnographic reconstructions of peasant life. A little further north on Arsenalo, a separate department houses the much snazzier Prehistoric Lithuania Exhibition , displaying flint, iron, bronze and silver objects and covering the history of Lithuanians up to the Middle Ages.

On the north side of the River Neris, the National Art Gallery (Nacionalinė Dailės Galerija) houses a permanent display of eleven galleries of Lithuanian art since 1900, as well as temporary exhibitions. The works are organized to indicate how art changed in response to political circumstances such as World War II and Soviet repression; check out the photo documentaries of Antanas Sutkus in particular.

The Old Town , just south of Cathedral Square, is a network of narrow, often cobbled streets that forms the Baroque heart of Vilnius, with the pedestrianized Pilies gatvė cutting into it from the southeastern corner of the square. To the west of this street is Vilnius University , constructed between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries around nine linked courtyards that extend west to Universiteto gatvė. Within its precincts is the beautiful Baroque St John’s Church (Šv Jono baznyčia), founded during the fourteenth century, taken over by the Jesuits in 1561 and given to the university in 1737.

Napoleon Bonaparte, who stayed in Vilnius briefly during his ill-fated campaign against Russia in 1812, is said to have been so impressed by St Anne’s Church (Šv. Onos Bažnyčia), on Maironio gatvė, that he wanted to take it back to Paris on the palm of his hand. Studded with skeletal, finger-like towers, its facade overlaid with intricate brick traceries and fluting, this late sixteenth-century structure is the finest Gothic building in the capital. Just south of St Anne’s a bridge over the River Vilnia forms the border of the self-declared independent republic of Užupis , home to a flourishing population of artists, bohemians and yuppies (note the locks on the bridge: lovers fasten them here and then throw the key in the river to symbolize their union). Stroll up from Užupio Café across the bridge to see the psychedelic art gallery with weird and wonderful creations suspended above the river. Some of the buildings here are in dire need of repair, but there is a trendy feel to the area.

West of Užupis, Pilies gatvė becomes Didžioji gatvė as it heads south, with the restored Baroque palace at no. 4 housing the Vilnius Picture Gallery (Vilniaus Paveikslų Galerija), with a marvellous collection of sixteenth- to nineteenth-century paintings and sculptures from around the country. The colonnaded Neoclassical building at the end of Town Hall Square (Rotušės aikštė) is the Town Hall itself. The Contemporary Art Centre (Suolaikinio meno centras or SMC) lies behind it, hosting modern art exhibitions with interactive elements and a good café. East of the square is the striking St Casimir’s Church (Šv. Kazimiero Bažnyčia), the oldest Baroque church in the city, dating from 1604, and possessing a beautiful interior including a marble altarpiece. South of here, Didžioji becomes Aušros Vartų gatvė, leading to the Gate of Dawn (Aušros Vartų), the sole survivor of the nine city gates. A chapel above the gate houses the image of the Madonna of the Gates of Dawn, said to have miraculous powers and revered by Polish Catholics; open-air Mass is held on Sundays.

Around 30km west of Vilnius lies the little town of Trakai , a mix of concrete Soviet-style buildings merging with the wooden cottages of the Karaite community. The former capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Trakai was founded during the fourteenth century and, standing on a peninsula jutting out between two lakes, it’s the site of two impressive medieval castles and makes for a worthwhile day-trip from the capital.

Once you arrive, follow Vytauto gatvė and turn right down Kėstučio gatvė to reach the remains of the Peninsula Castle , now partially restored after having been destroyed by the Russians in 1655. Skirting the ruins along the lakeside path, you will see the spectacular Island Castle (Salos pilis), one of Lithuania’s most famous monuments, accessible by two wooden drawbridges and preceded by souvenir and rowing-boat rental (15Lt) stalls. You can also rent yachts here. Built around 1400 AD by Grand Duke Vytautas, under whom Lithuania reached the pinnacle of its power during the fifteenth century, the castle fell into ruin from the seventeenth century until a 1960s restoration returned it to its former glory. The history museum inside displays artefacts discovered while excavating the site.

Trakai is home to three hundred Karaim, Lithuania’s smallest ethnic minority – a Judaic sect of Turkish origin whose ancestors were brought here from the Crimea by Grand Duke Vytautas to serve as bodyguards. You can learn more about their cultural contribution to Trakai at the Karaite Ethnographic Exhibition . You can sample kibinai , the Karaite culinary speciality – a mincemeat pasty – served up at the cafés arounds; wash it down with gira , a semi-alcoholic drink made from fermented bread.

Discover more places in Lithuania

• Travel Guide Morocco
• Travel Guide Namibia
• Travel Guide South Africa
• Travel Guide China
• Travel Guide India
• Travel Guide Indonesia
• Travel Guide Japan
• Travel Guide Laos
• Travel Guide Malaysia
• Travel Guide Myanmar (Burma)
• Travel Guide Nepal
• Travel Guide Philippines
• Travel Guide Singapore
• Travel Guide South Korea
• Travel Guide Sri Lanka
• Travel Guide Taiwan
• Travel Guide Thailand
• Travel Guide Australia
• Travel Guide Fiji
• Travel Guide New Zealand
• Travel Guide Belize
• Costa Rica Travel Guide
• Travel Guide Cuba
• Travel Guide Guatemala
• Travel Guide Honduras
• Travel Guide Jamaica
• Travel Guide Nicaragua
• Travel Guide Panama
• Travel Guide Puerto Rico
• Travel Guide Trinidad and Tobago
• Travel Guide Albania
• Travel Guide Austria
• Travel Guide Belgium
• Travel Guide Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Travel Guide Bulgaria
• Travel Guide Cyprus
• Travel Guide Czechia (Czech Republic)
• Travel Guide Denmark
• Travel Guide England
• Travel Guide Estonia
• Travel Guide Finland
• Travel Guide France
• Travel Guide Germany
• Travel Guide Greece
• Travel Guide Hungary
• Iceland Travel Guide

The Rough Guides to Lithuania and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover Lithuania?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Travel Guide To Vilnius

Lithuania's capital enjoyed limited freedom even in the Soviet era; but democracy has transformed the city beyond recognition. Once a Soviet backwater, Vilnius is now extraordinarily pretty, almost every building in the centre has had the Cinderella treatment. There is a sense of novelty about the swish cafés and the good-looking bars. The youthful vibe on the street is partly down to the fact that 90% of the population seems to be under the age of 24 and out for a good time, but there are few of the stag parties that one associates other Baltic cities with. Vilnius is a great place for a honeymoon or a hand-holding, affordable weekend à deux . Or, you could spend a perfectly contented weekend here just pottering around the Old Town.

Where to stay in Vilnius

GROTTHUSS HOTEL

Ligonines 7, Vilnius (00 370 5 2660 322; www.grotthusshotel.com ). This has 20 pretty rooms, a delightful courtyard for breakfast and the owner's art colelciton on the walls. The three-storey building has no lift. £££

NARUTIS HOTEL

Pilies 24, Vilnius (00 370 5 212 2894; www.narutis.com ). Now a splendid five-star hotel, Narutis was built in 1581 to house visitors to the university across the road. It has been sympathetically restored: in one chamber, which used to be the rector's dining room, you can still see 18th-century frescoes on the old plaster. One of the suites has a separate bathroom for visitors and a set of bedrooms across the corridor for masseur, bodyguard, PA and other flunkies. £££

RADISSON SAS ASTORIJA HOTEL

Didzioji 35/2, Vilnius (00 370 5 212 0110; www.radisson.com/vilniuslt ). Right next to the city hall, this is the hotel of choice for visiting dignitaries - who have included President Bush and Prince Charles. The Sunday brunch is terrific, as is the conservatory café, which looks out onto the church of St Casimir. There are good conference facilities and a bijou fitness room. ££

SCANDIC NERINGA

Gedimino 23, Vilnius (00 370 5 268 1910; www.scandichotels.com/neringa). This is the old Intourist hotel, and the restaurant still has some of its Soviet formality. It also has a 1970s mural, showing happy Lithuanians enjoying the fruits of socialism. There is a basement bar dedicated to the Sixties. ££

SHAKESPEARE BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Bernardinu 8/8, Vilnius (00 370 5 266 5885; www.shakespeare.lt ). The 31 rooms are named after writers such as Milton or Aristotle. Roaring fires make the Globe bar and Sonnets restaurant cosy in winter. £££

STIKLIAI HOTEL

Gaono 7, Vilnius (00 370 5 264 9595; www.stikliaihotel.lt ). This 17th-century building has 43 rooms, a stunning, glass-roofed restaurant, and a tavern for more casual dining. £££

Where to eat out in Vilnius

CAFES PILIES KEPYKLELE Pilies 19, Vilnius (00 370 5 260 8992). A genteel café whose name means 'little oven'. It's a nice place for coffee and cakes in the afternoon, or salmon and potato pancakes at lunchtime. Waitresses all wear striped pencil skirts, like updated versions of the Lyons Tea House 'Nippies'. SKONIS IR KVAPAS Traku 8, Vilnius (00 370 5 212 2803). Tearoom with a large choice of teas and coffee. SOPRANO ICE CREAM Pilies 3, Vilnius (00 370 5 212 6042). A fantastic ice-cream parlour, which also offers takeaway cornets. Couples on dates, and mothers on shopping trips sit eating knickerbocker glories in the intimate booths. RESTAURANTS BISTRO 18 Stikliu 18, Vilnius (00 370 6 777 2091; www.bistro18.lt ). A modern restaurant run by an Irish-Lithuanian couple. Scallops with green-pea puree and chantarelles with cream and bacon make one of the best meals in Vilnius. FIORENTINO Universiteto 4, Vilnius (00 370 5 212 0925). An Italian restaurant in a colonnaded courtyard. Serves simple, classic salads and pasta dishes. www.fiorentino.lt MANO GURU Vilniaus 22/1, Vilnius (00 370 5 212 0126). Good for a healthy lunch, with a daily changing soup and 63 delicious salads. PILIES MENE Pilies 8, Vilnius (00 370 5 261 2552). A sophisticated bar right on the main street of the Old Town, good for lunch or an afternoon snack. The slow service is charming, and there are many kinds of pancakes on the menu. ROJAUS ARKA Dauksos 3, Vilnius (00 370 5 212 0625). Formal restaurant with Edwardian décor and Art Nouveau trimmings just outside the Gates of Dawn. It sometimes hosts art exhibitions and chamber concerts. Fantastic value. SONNETS Bernardinu 8/8, Vilnius (00 370 5 266 5885; www.shakespeare.lt ). The room and the service are lovely at this restaurant inside the Shakespeare Hotel (see Where to Stay) . It is one of the most expensive places in Vilnius.

The best nightlife in Vilnius

Lithuanians are very fond of beer. The most widespread brand of local beer is called Svyturys, which means 'lighthouse'. Every pint, in every bar and restaurant, is unimpeachable, chilled, sharp and delicious. They also drink mead and a tooth-achingly sweet honey liqueur called Krupnikas.

CAFE DE PARIS

Didzioji 1, Vilnius (00 370 5 261 1021; www.cafedeparis.lt ). Next to the French cultural centre, Café de Paris serves salads and panini and is quite convincingly rive gauche . On a Sunday night it is filled with the gilded youth of Vilnius and is absolutely jumping.

Ausros Vartu 6, Vilnius (00 370 5 212 1210; www.invino.lt ). Busy wine bar near the Town Hall.

Sv Ignoto 4/3, Vilnius (00 370 5 212 1087; www.laboheme.lt ). Three large rooms with vaulted ceilings, a good wine list and delicious, inexpensive tapas.

UZUPIO KAVINE

Uzupio 2, Vilnius (00 370 5 212 2138; www.uzupiokavine.lt ). The first bar inside the free republic of Uzupis. On a warm evening you can sit on the veranda and watch the River Vilnia.

ZEMAICIU SMUKLE

Vokieciu 24, Vilnius (00 370 5 261 6573). A bit like a German bierkeller . In the cavernous depths downstairs, the lights are low and the walls covered in jolly murals. Next door is a posher dining room reminiscent of London's gay Hussar. The menu contains 120 variations on the theme of meat and potatoes. They include zeppelins refried and 'huntsman's skillet' - a collation of rabbit, duck, veal and chicken. There are all sorts of interesting things to chew and nibble as you drink: fried bread, smoked fish and cheese, and sausages that are the length of a policeman's truncheon.

What to see in Vilnius

BUILDINGS AND MONUMENTS

GATE OF DAWN CHAPEL

Eastern Gates, Vilnius ( www.lcn.lt ). This exquisite chapel is a 15-minute walk uphill through the silent streets. It is built into a gatehouse above the city wall and hangs over the Old Town like a blessing. From the pavement you can look up at the great icon of the dark-faced Madonna. To get into the chapel you have to trace your way back to an anonymous doorway further down the street. Inside, a set of worn steps leads up the icon. The properly pious negotiate them on their knees.

RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Ausros Vartu 10, Vilnius. The rococo interior is an astonishing piece of work, a sculpted mass of pink, green and blue marble with gold and red hangings. In the dead centre of the church is a glass-topped coffin, like Snow White's. It contains three desiccated martyrs, quite short and completely covered up with an ornate blanket.

THE CATHEDRAL

Katedros aikšt, Vilnius. Visit the Cathedral, on central Cathedral Square. The side chapel of St Casimir has wonderful paintings.

TRAKAI CASTLE

Trakai ( www.trakaimuziejus.lt ). The 14th-century capital is a 40-minute drive away. Enjoy the castle and a view over lunch at Apvalaus Stalo Klubas (00 370 5 285 5595; www.asklubas.lt ).

THE MUSEUM OF GENOCIDE VICTIMS

Auku 2a, Vilnius (00 370 5 249 7427; www.genocid.lt ). The dungeon of the former KGB HQ is a sobering place. Now The Museum of Genocide Victims, it is hardly a museum at all because nothing has really been touched since the secret police vacated the building in 1991. Names of people who died there have been inscribed in the marble blocks of the façade, turning each into a gravestone for someone without a grave. Inside, the stairwell is boarded up, presumably to prevent new arrests from throwing themselves to their deaths before interrogation, and in the basement at the bottom of the steps is a tiny holding cell where prisoners were kept for days before being processed. You can wander into the interrogation room and into most of the cells, all of which are below ground. There is a tiny grille above head height which lets in some murky light. Prisoners might, as they waited endless hours, have seen the faint shadow of a free man go by. There is an isolation cell: a truly terrifying space barely larger than a toilet cubicle. Prisoners would be stripped to their underwear and left there for a week. There is a room full of bulging files, the 'cases' of some of the prisoners who languished here; and a padded cell where a straitjacket hangs on the wall like a canvas crucifix. In the guardroom there is a set of scales for weighing prisoners' parcels - a privilege introduced after Stalin's death. It all has the authentic whiff of the USSR: damp bricks, rotting paper, dim light and despair. From the prison block you cross a tiny courtyard and go down more stairs to a cellar where thousands of Lithuanians were executed in the 1940s. The wall is pockmarked with bullet holes, as if the executions ended only yesterday. Even after half an hour in this place you cannot help but gulp fresh air when you emerge.

UPPER CASTLE

Arsenalo 5, Vilnius. Go to the Upper Castle for city views. Closed Monday, except during summer.

Things to do in Vilnius

JEWISH QUARTER

Walk around the Jewish Quarter in the Old Town, west of Didzioji. Most of Vilnius's Jews were murdered, exiled or imprisoned by the Nazis and Soviets: the Jewish Museum's Holocaust exhibition on Pamenkalnio tells the story (00 370 5 262 0730; www.jmuseum.lt ).

Wander along the pedestrianised Pilies, resting at a pavement café such as Aula or Pilies Kepyklele (see Where to Eat) and exploring the craft and linen shops.

How to get to Vilnius

Vilnius International airport ( www.vilnius-airport.lt ) is to the south of Vilnius. It is only a 15-minute drive from the centre of the capital.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

There are direct flights from London to Vilnius with AirBaltic (00 370 5 235 6000; www.airbaltic.com ).

Tourist information for Vilnius

Visit www.vilnius-tourism.lt .

$250 Find cheap flights to Vilnius

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight to vilnius departing on 7/29. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to vilnius.

Save 21% or more Compare multiple travel sites with one search.

Track prices Not ready to book? Create a price alert for when prices drop.

Filter your deals Choose cabin class, free Wi-Fi and more.

Bundle and save Save money when you bundle your flight + hotel.

Cheap flight deals to Vilnius

Recent round-trip flight deals to vilnius, recent one-way flight deals to vilnius, recent last minute flight deals to vilnius, recent direct flight deals to vilnius, cheap bus & train deals to vilnius, all round-trip flight deals to vilnius, flights to vilnius - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends for flights to vilnius to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest day to fly to vilnius, based on kayak data, the cheapest day to fly to vilnius is wednesday where tickets can be as cheap as $853. on the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is friday, where prices are $988 on average., what is the cheapest month to fly to vilnius, the cheapest month for flights to vilnius is january, where tickets cost $535 on average for one-way flights. on the other hand, the most expensive months are june and july, where the average cost of tickets from the united states is $1,124 and $1,067 respectively. for return trips, the best month to travel is january with an average price of $481., what is the cheapest time of day to fly to vilnius, the cheapest time of day to fly to vilnius is generally in the evening, when flights cost $664 on average. the most expensive time of day to fly to vilnius is generally at night, which is peak travel time and where the average cost of a ticket is $874., how far in advance should i book a flight to vilnius, to get a below average price, you should book around 0 weeks before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 83 days before departure., how long is the flight to vilnius, the duration of your flight to vilnius depends on your departure and arrival airports. obviously any flights that include a layover will also be longer. the most popular routes to vilnius on kayak are from newark , which takes 10h 05m, new york , which takes 10h 25m, los angeles , which takes 12h 55m, and miami , which takes 13h 25m., good to know, when to book flights to vilnius, faqs - booking vilnius flights, how do i get to vilnius from west coast u.s..

You’ll find a selection of flights to Vilnius departing from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Multiple airlines offer one-stop flights to VNO from these airports, including LOT Polish Airlines, SAS Scandinavian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Air France, Swiss Airlines, and Lufthansa.

What car rental options are available at Vilnius International Airport?

One of the best ways to get to Vilnius and explore the city is by renting a car. Different car rental agencies have a desk at the Arrivals Hall in the passenger Terminal of VNO. You can rent a car from different providers, including Europcar, Hertz, SIXT, and Enterprise.

Which airlines fly Business Class to Vilnius?

Multiple airlines offer Business Class flights to Vilnius from the U.S. through their connecting flights. They include LOT Polish Airlines, Air France, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. You’ll enjoy benefits like priority check-in and boarding, special baggage allowance, complimentary meals and drinks, and access to specific lounges.

What are my best options for flights to Vilnius Airport from East Coast, U.S.?

If you’re flying to Vilnius from the East Coast, the best departure airports are Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). You’ll find one-stop flights from these airports to VNO.

Is there a hotel on-site at Vilnius Airport?

Yes, Vilnius Airport offers a hotel on-site for visitors with early flights or long layovers who want to get some rest. AirInn Vilnius provides great views of the runway and is conveniently located just in front of the terminal, right by airport parking.

Is it possible to travel with a pet at Vilnius Airport?

You can travel with your four-legged friend at the airport as long as you present the required documentation. You must have a pet passport as well as a veterinary entry document for all the animals.

What transportation options are available from Vilnius Airport to the city center?

The fastest and cheapest way to travel from the airport into the city is by taking the train. You can reach the Vilnius Train Station in 7min, and you can expect to pay less than $1. The Vilnius Train Station is less than a mile from Old Town Vilnius. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the airport directly into the city center, or use a rideshare company.

How far is Saint Anne’s Church from Vilnius Airport?

St. Anne’s Church is a 16th century gothic church in the center of Vilnius’ Old Town neighborhood. You can travel there from Vilnius Airport by any means of transportation heading to the center of the city. By car, you can reach the church in about 20min, since it’s about 4 miles away from the airport.

How far is Vilnius from central Vilnius?

Vilnius is 4 miles from the center of Vilnius.

What is the name of Vilnius’s airport?

There is only 1 airport in Vilnius, called Vilnius (VNO). It can also be referred to as Vilnius.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to Vilnius?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to Vilnius.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to Vilnius?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Vilnius is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights to Vilnius?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Vilnius with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to Vilnius?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Vilnius up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Vilnius

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Vilnius flight deals.
• The best airports for flights to Vilnius from Southeast U.S. are Miami International Airport (MIA) and Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). You’ll find one-stop flights to Vilnius International Airport (VNO) operated by Turkish Airlines, SAS Scandinavian Airlines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Air France, and Lufthansa.
• Vilnius International Airport has different dining options for arriving passengers. You can visit Crustum Bakery in Arrivals Hall C for some sweet pastries. Other dining options at the airport include Restaurant PANK'olis, Charlie Pizza, Cafés CAFFEINE, MANAMI Restaurant, and PANK'olis Restaurant.
• For families travelling with children, Vilnius International Airport (VNO) offers convenient family-friendly services. Free strollers are available after the security check in the departures area, as well as in each arrival gallery. The airport also houses a Play and Read area, located on the second floor after going through the security check, which provides a playground for children and reading material for adults.
• If you’re a US citizen traveling to Lithuania, make sure you have the correct entry documentation. If you’re staying in Lithuania for less than 90 days, you won’t need an entry visa. However, an ETIAS authorization is required. You must also present a valid passport than does not expire for at least three months beyond the period of your intended stay.
• Travelers can be dropped off at the “Kiss and Fly” drop-off area at Vilnius International Airport. In this area, cars can be parked for up to 10min while passengers are being dropped off. For arrivals, Central Parking is free for the first 15min.
• Narbutas Business Lounge is located in the departures area on the third floor of Vilnius Airport (VNO). If you don’t have a membership but would like to visit the lounge, it’s possible to purchase single vouchers.
• Vilnius Airport offers several services for passengers with special needs. Passenger escort services are provided at arrivals for those with reduced mobility, and wheelchairs are available for temporary use within the airport at departures as well as arrivals. In the departures hall, there’s a waiting area with an emergency call button for passengers needing medical assistance.

Prefer to fly non-stop to Vilnius?

Find which airlines fly direct to Vilnius, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

United States to Vilnius

ANA, Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, +33 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, +34 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, +30 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, +31 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, +32 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, +33 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, +31 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, +32 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, +29 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, +30 more

Nonstop returns

Vilnius to United States

Top 5 airlines flying to vilnius.

Not great. Flight attendants were aloof, food was mediocre, seats that I paid $150 were given to someone else without any concession. I will probably never use kayak again. Terrible experience from start to finish.

The wine was low quality Finnair label stuff in small bottles and only one small bottle each. Embarassinng. A competing airline served me two generous glasses of a nice South African Shiraz from regular wine bottles, a Beck's beer, and a generous Dewar's White Label on the rocks. Cabin service was good and polite, plane interior was beautiful, but cramped.

All good- I love BA and the professionalism of the crew and pilots.

Great flight- smooth, nice crew, nice clean aircraft, departed a little late but arrived 10 early.

Sorting on line would have been appreciated Onward information on flights missed No ability to get seating arranged before we got to gate Very unfriendly at gate

The flight was Finnair but there was no indications anywhere that the checkin was for Finnair also. There was no one to ask. I think at a minimum they should list the code shares so people don’t stand in the wrong line for an hour.

I booked the flight with Finnair, which made the arrangements for downloading a boarding pass unnecessarily complicated. I wouldn't do that again. Instead I'd book direct with AA.

Flight ok, but me and other two passengers didn’t have connection with the entertainment in our seats. So, no movies, no games, no music… for 9 hours. The crew just told us that there’s nothing they can do but I noticed during the flight that there were empty seats, so they could have offered to us to change seats. Customer service could be better.

Had a nice flight to London on BA will fly with them again in the future

Finnair cancelled my flight 12 hours prior to leaving for Helsinki. They stated there were mechanical problems. I had to scurry around to find a new flight that would meet my needs for arrival in Helsinki. Luckily I was able to find alternate transportation through Lufthansa/United.

SAS is the representation of the Scandinavian minimalism, which I like. I wished they had a more relaxed policy on free water distribution beyond one bottle (500 ml) per person and two drinks, including water, per overseas flight.

Bathrooms weren’t too clean. Onboard entertainment was light. Other than that everything was great. Food, service, comfort and crew. Although it was hard to understand the crew announcements.

Much better, not their fault but my plane was so delayed causing me to have to take this airline rather than my earlier connecting flight

TERRIBLE! Staff was unfriendly, rude, and demeaning. One flight attendant touched me to grab the complimentary blanket off my neck because I couldn't take it home, while a bunch of other people took theirs home. I have never been so ill treated. I am not happy at all. And flight was delayed, no information until short notice for everything. Lost an entire day at my destination. I expect a full refund for that experience. Never will fly with them EVER again

My return flight has been changed to JFK from EWR without any notice or reason

This was my first time flying SAS and used them for 4 flights. The crews, flight and communication was outstanding. I flew premium economy and was extremely impressed by their SAS lounges. I will 100% ise SAS again. Everyone was so pleasant!

They lost my luggage. Tromso in winter without warm clothes is not fun.

Flight was delayed 3 hours. Pilot cancelled flight under 4 people volunteered to change their seats to economy from business class.

I paid for wifi and it worked about a total of 5 min. Feel ripped off

Good friendly service and food - The seats in business class are old, too hard and not very comfortable.

All good! But sandwiches for breakfast need to be warm!!!!! Not cold!!! You do not want anything cold in your stomach in the morning!… think about it!

LOT airlines wasn't the best. They had trouble with boarding and they didn't have my information on file the right way. They change last minute details without us knowing and everything was a HOT MESS. Lot airlines also lost my baggae which was the carseat and haven't responded to any of my emails.

The worst experience ever! They never told me I had to transfer my ticket at the ticket transfer counter. They moved me to a flight leaving the next day, which was also heavily delayed. The staff at the airport were rude and not helpfull. I'll never travel with this airline again and will not recommend it

Would have liked to have Wi-Fi on the longer flight (nyc-Warsaw)

My flight was cancelled and I went through hell to get it fixed, with no help from the website I booked it on. My reservation was cancelled AGAIN by the site I booked on without my knowledge a week later. The flight itself that I finally got on was awful. Drunk man belligerent the entire flight, I don't understand how he was allowed on the flight.

Lot still has not refunded me after they cancelled my flight to India!! Kayak had been awful at getting me this refund too. Will NEVER be using kayak or LOT again.

Tv screen not working. Food in business class was cold & not available

The customer service and the flight experience were very good!

My bag was lost despite an almost 8 hour layover in Warsaw. Nearly 12 hours after my arrival, I have not heard anything about it.

Delay everywhere,5 hours,24 hours,missing all connection flights,terrible trip..

Everything was fine once we actually got on our flight. It was more then annoying they canceled (delayed) our flight. We lost out on a day of our trip along with money on our stay. Plus we had to book another hotel. So expensive.

This flight was canceled and delayed several times without explanation. The plane was freezing cold and no wifi for messaging. Getting off the plane was terribly unorganized and felt like it took forever….

The flight was delayed several times without explanation. The seats were terribly uncomfortable and wifi isn’t included. All these make for a less than ideal flight.

The flights was delayed by hours and it was the firmest landing I have experienced in my life. My back is still sore.

Internet service was erratic. Crew service was poor and slow. My luggage on this non-stop flight was lost and not recovered

Terrible. I didn’t fly and I had an important meeting the next day.

Missed this flight due to the first AA flight delay

Equipment swap led to 2+ hour delay on international flight. And to top it off, boarding took forever.

Wretched scheduling - they got themselves into a critical crew situation and didn’t try to address it until 15 minutes before they had to cancel my flight

They cancelled two flight and got us onto another airline, which was also delayed.

Captain waited 45 minutes for late passengers boarding from Washington DC to Munich which was nice for them but caused our luggage to miss boarding our connection on to Bucharest. We then did not receive our luggage for about 48 hours after landing which was very inconvenient for our travel.

Poor, we had 1 hour to grab our checked luggage, go through customs, recheck bags and run across terminals to make our United flight. Poorly planned connections.

Check in in Albuquerque was awful. The people were great but they were over loaded. The procedures were terrible. We got through fine but it took 90+ minutes.

Will try to not fly with them again. Delays because of weather but got redirected to an airport where I could not make connection.

Staff didn’t care in business class. Closed the door on my mom while she was on the jetbridge and flight attendant told me she would make it from the connecting flight. They lied. My luggage was damaged on arrival. No success in filing damage claim.

Boston Logan is a crummy airport - signage is terrible or lacking in areas. Boarding seemed to be a free for all and with all the different airlines speaking, you couldn't tell who was supposed to be where and when. Plain and simple, airlines should board from the back of the plane to the front. Also someone was sitting in my seat. By the time that was figured out, I had to place my overhead behind me which made de-planing more difficult. Logan is not Lufthansa's fault so that is not on them, Boarding is on them! Still, overall it was a Good Experience flying with Lufthansa. This is not my first flight with them...

Overall, the flight was comfortable without any serious issues. Transit through Frankfurt airport was a little confusing, but not too difficult if you follow the signs

There was a screaming child behind our seats. This prevented us from getting any sleep during the night.

There was a screaming child just behind our seats. This prevented us from getting any sleep during the night!!

Staff disappeared after dinner service until breakfast, no help with beds, no help running to our gate to catch connection cause flight was late, our luggage didn’t make it, took over 24 hours to get luggage to hotel, no compensation!!

Book Cheap Vilnius Plane Tickets

Recent round-trip flight deals, search by stops, search by airline, search by price, recent one-way flight deals, last minute flights to vilnius, last minute flight, train and bus deals, flights to vilnius, destination:.

Vilnius (VNO) Lithuania

Return flight deals:

Vilnius - United States

Cabin classes:

Browse origins:.

• Flights  » 
• United States

Browse destinations:

• Worldwide  » 
• Lithuania  » 

Flight search

• Adults Remove adult 1 Add adult
• Children Aged 2-11 Aged 2 to 11 Remove child 0 Add child
• Infants In seat Remove infant in seat 0 Add infant in seat
• Infants On lap Remove infant on lap 0 Add infant on lap
• Premium economy

Cheap flights to Vilnius

Good to know, popular airports near vilnius.

• Vilnius International Airport (VNO) Vilnius 17 min 5 km
• Kaunas International Airport (KUN) Kaunas 1 hr 10 min 83 km
• Riga Airport (RIX) Riga 3 hr 39 min 261 km
• Palangos Oro Uostas (PLQ) Palanga 3 hr 31 min 300 km

When to visit

About vilnius, frequently asked questions about flying to vilnius, search more flights, more places to fly.

The Man in Seat 61

No need to endure a bus

Warsaw to vilnius by train.

• Buy train tickets
• Buy ferry tickets
• Book a hotel
• Privacy & cookies
•   Home

Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, new daily train links warsaw & vilnius for €25.

You don't need to endure a bus!  Until 2013 a comfortable daily train linked Warsaw with Vilnius with a change of trains at Sestokai on the Polish/Lithuanian border, where Polish standard gauge met Lithuanian 5' track gauge.  This was cancelled in 2013 while the Rail Baltica project dug up the tracks, but in June 2016 a cross-border Bialystok-Kaunas train started running over the new standard gauge Rail Baltica line.  In 2022 you could once more travel by train between Warsaw & Vilnius, but only at weekends.  Starting 11 December 2022, a new daily train service links Krakow & Warsaw with Kaunas & Vilnius as shown below, with integrated ticketing and cheap fares.  Longer-term, the Rail Baltica project will ultimately provide a 200km/h standard gauge railway linking Warsaw, Lithuania, Latvia & Estonia.

Train times 2024

This new daily Krakow-Warsaw-Vilnius train service started on 11 December 2022, provided by Polish & Lithuanian railways.

Remember that Lithuanian time is 1 hour ahead of Polish time.  This service does not pass through any part of Belarus!

Check Polish train times for your date of travel at www.intercity.pl .  Check Mockava-Kaunas & Kaunas-Vilnius times at ltglink.lt .

A regular train service links Kaunas & Vilnius in 1h30, check times at ltglink.lt .

On other pages:    Vilnius-Riga   Riga-Tallinn

How to buy tickets

If you buy tickets at bilietas.ltglink.lt , you can choose an exact seat on the Polish train from a seat map (it's 2 cars of the Polish train that are shown in the graphic).  Only the Polish train's car & seat number will be shown on your ticket, there are no seat reservations on the Lithuanian train.

Incidentally, each website has its own quota of tickets, so if bilietas.ltglink.lt has sold out, www.intercity.pl may still have tickets available.

Option 2, buy at www.intercity.pl (PKP Intercity, Polish Railways).

Booking opens 1 month in advance .  In theory, your ticket must be printed out to be accepted in Lithuania, but in practice it may be accepted if shown on your phone.

If you buy tickets at www.intercity.pl , you get a choice of sitting in a 6-seat compartment or in open-plan seating ('noncompartment') on the Polish train, and can request window seats.  I personally prefer open-plan, a family or small group may prefer compartments.  Only the Polish train's car & seat number will be shown on your ticket, there are no seat reservations on the Lithuanian train.

What's the Polish train like?

The Polish train between Krakow, Warsaw & Mockava is a modern air-conditioned Intercity (IC) train called the Hancza , with 1st & 2nd class seats, reservation compulsory.  The train will be shown on the departure boards at Krakow & Warsaw as going to Mockava .

The Hancza has a restaurant car, treat yourself to a cooked breakfast and lunch going east, dinner with wine or beer heading west.

The 2nd class cars are a mix of cars with open-plan seating and cars with classic 6-seat compartments.  The 1st class car is a classic compartment car with side corridor and 6-seat compartments.  Luggage goes on the racks above your seat, or on the floor. 

There are power sockets at all seats, but no WiFi in the direct Krakow-Warsaw-Mockava cars.  If you need WiFi, simply walk back along the train to the 2 or 3 extra cars attached to the rear of the train between Krakow, Warsaw & Bialystok as these cars should have WiFi.

Tip:   You can check the train formation, check car numbers & see which have WiFi, which are open-plan & which compartment-type using www.vagonweb.cz .  Change cs to English upper left, then click Train formations, scroll to Poland, click IC and look for IC13000/1 Hancza .

Switching trains at Mockava

What's the lithuanian train like.

The Lithuanian train between Mockava & Vilnius is a modern air-conditioned Pesa 730 train, see en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pesa_730M .  It's air-conditioned with comfortable seating, drop-down tables, toilets, large luggage racks, free WiFi, wheelchair space and accessible toilet, see virtual tour at traukinyje.lt/pesa730ml .  Hot & cold drinks (including latte or cappuccino bean to cup coffee), snacks and sandwiches can ordered from a menu and brought to your seat by the train staff working out of a small catering compartment.

Pesa 730 train.  Courtesy of Julien Lebel.

Recommended hotels in Vilnius

Hotels are cheap by western standards, with good hotels often under £100. 

At the affordable end, try the highly-rated Grotthuss Boutique Hotel , in a historic building on a medieval street in the old town, 11 minutes walk from the station, see walking map .

Back to 'Rail travel to Europe' general page

Back to home page

Finnair deal: Fly to Finland, Lithuania, Poland and India from $440 round-trip

We have yet another big European sale to tell you about.

Finland's flagship airline, Finnair, is offering discounts on round-trip flights from its U.S. network of cities to various European destinations. Destinations featured in this sale include Helsinki; Vilnius, Lithuania; Riga, Latvia; and Warsaw, Poland. Finnair has even dropped prices on flights to New Delhi, India.

Some of the prices we saw are as low as $440 round-trip for travel to Europe. This sale involves flights from six American cities: Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City and Seattle.

The travel window for discounted Finnair flights primarily takes place between October 2024 and February 2025, with the best availability and prices in November. Most itineraries include layovers.

This deal is for Finnair's Economy Light tickets, which include an economy ticket, a carry-on bag and a personal item. Checked luggage will cost $70 each way.

Deal basics

Airline : Finnair

Routes : From Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York and Seattle to various European cities and New Delhi

How to book : Go to the Finnair website and book directly with the airline; travel must be booked by Tuesday

Travel dates : Availability from October through February

Sample flights

Routes in this sale include:

• Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Vilnius International Airport (VNO) - $481
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Riga Airport (RIX) in Latvia - $503
• Miami International Airport (MIA) to Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) - $482
• New York City's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) - $757

Finnair's website is fairly user-friendly. You can search for the lowest fares by month by clicking the "Depart: Select date" box.

You will then get a calendar view. Just go to the month you want to travel in, and begin your search. The screenshot below shows the prices for available flights in February from New York City to Helsinki.

Here's one itinerary from John F. Kennedy International Airport to Helsinki Airport for only $447 round-trip. As the calendar view above shows, you have lots of options at this price in February.

You can also fly out of New York City to Riga Airport to visit historic Old City Riga in November for as low as $440 round-trip.

Also, you can fly out of JFK to DEL for less than $800 round-trip. This itinerary is for February, but we saw good availability at this price in January as well.

Flights from Miami to Poland are available for less than $500 round-trip in the fall. We found several routes in November out of Miami International Airport to Warsaw Chopin Airport for just $482 round-trip, an excellent price.

Round-trip flights to Lithuania are also available in this sale. You can fly out of Chicago's O'Hare International Airport to Lithuania's Vilnius International Airport in November for $466.

Here's an excellent deal for West Coast travelers. This itinerary from Los Angeles International Airport to Warsaw is just $443 round-trip.

Maximize your purchase

Be sure to use a credit card that earns bonus points on airfare purchases, such as:

• American Express® Gold Card : 3 points per dollar spent on airfare when booked directly with the airline or through amextravel.com
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : 5 points per dollar spent on airfare when booked directly with the airline or through American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 of these purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar)
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : 3 points per dollar spent on airfare
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : 2 points per dollar spent on travel

Bottom line

If you take advantage of this deal to travel to Estonia in December, do not miss the Tallinn Christmas Market. It's considered one of the best Christmas markets in Europe .

Related reading:

• Valuable travel discounts and deals for college students and young adults
• Everything you need to know about State Department travel advisories
• When and how to renew your passport, according to the State Department
• Everyone is going to Sicily — try these 7 underrated places in Italy instead

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

EWTN News, Inc. is the world’s largest Catholic news organization, comprised of television, radio, print and digital media outlets, dedicated to reporting the truth in light of the Gospel and the Catholic Church.

• National Catholic Register
• News Agencies
• Catholic News Agency
• CNA Deutsch
• ACI Afrique
• ACI Digital
• Digital Media
• ChurchPOP Español
• ChurchPOP Italiano
• ChurchPOP Português
• EWTN News Indepth
• EWTN News Nightly
• EWTN Noticias
• EWTN Pro-life Weekly
• Register Radio

Get HALF OFF the Register!

National Catholic Register News https://www.ncregister.com/news/report-archbishop-gaenswein-papal-nuncio

• Synod on Synodality
• Most Popular
• Publisher’s Note
• College Guide
• Commentaries
• Culture of Life
• Arts & Entertainment
• Publisher's Note
• Letters to the Editor
• Support the Register
• Print subscriptions
• E-Newsletter Sign-up
• EWTN Religious Catalogue

Report: Pope Benedict’s Former Secretary Archbishop Georg Gänswein to Be Appointed Papal Nuncio

Appointment to Lithuania’s capital city of Vilnius is in the works, according to an Italian Catholic news outlet.

The long limbo of Pope Benedict XVI’s former longtime personal secretary may be ending soon.

Archbishop Georg Gänswein, who fell from influential papal aide to no assignment in the Catholic Church, will soon be appointed papal nuncio to the three Baltic countries, according to a report from an Italian Catholic news outlet.

The story, published by La Nuova Bussola Quotidiana and citing unnamed sources, said the archbishop will become papal nuncio to Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania — a position that also includes similar duties in neighboring Latvia and Estonia.

It’s not the first time the high-profile prelate has been linked to a far-flung foreign post, however. In March 2023, a Spanish religious news website reported that Archbishop Gänswein might become papal ambassador to Costa Rica, which has not so far come to pass . More recently, in April 2024, an Argentinian newspaper, La Nación , reported that Archbishop Gänswein would soon become a papal nuncio to a country not named in the story.

A papal nuncio is a diplomatic representative of the Pope, serving as the Holy See’s ambassador to the government of a country and also typically playing a role in the selection of bishops there.

Archbishop Gänswein, 67, served as Pope Benedict XVI’s principal private secretary during his entire pontificate and retirement.

In December 2012, Benedict also appointed him prefect of the Pontifical Household, a higher-profile position that has led to appointment as a cardinal to all the previous holders of the office. That Vatican appointment led to Archbishop Gänswein’s ordination as an archbishop in January 2013.

He continued to hold both positions after Benedict resigned the papacy about seven weeks later, in February 2013. For about seven years, Archbishop Gänswein served both Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict.

But Archbishop Gänswein’s role diminished starting in early 2020, when Pope Francis stripped him of the powers of prefect of the Pontifical Household while allowing him to keep the title.

After Pope Benedict died at the end of December 2022, Archbishop Gänswein stayed in his Vatican apartment, until Pope Francis in April ordered him to leave the apartment and publicly implied that he should return to his native Germany, which he eventually did.

Since then, Archbishop Gänswein has lived in the Archdiocese of Freiburg in southwestern Germany, where he is originally from — without a formal assignment from the Church. He is currently an honorary canon of Freiburg Cathedral.

Archbishop Gänswein’s immediate predecessor as the papal private secretary — Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz, longtime aide to St. John Paul II, now 85 — was named archbishop of Kraków and a cardinal by Benedict, after John Paul died.

No such appointment has been forthcoming for Archbishop Gänswein from Pope Francis, who has publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the German prelate.

Pope Francis has blamed the archbishop for public reports of behind-the-scenes friction between Francis and Benedict during Benedict’s retirement. Pope Francis has also criticized Archbishop Gänswein’s 2023 book, Nothing but the Truth: My Life Beside Benedict XVI , which was published the day of Pope Benedict’s funeral, saying it includes untrue statements and calling its appearance “very sad.”

The archbishop, dubbed “Gorgeous Georg,” is known for his active pursuits, including tennis and skiing, and for having an amateur pilot’s license.

During a book promotion appearance in August 2023, Archbishop Gänswein expressed a sense of loneliness during his exile from an active role in the Church, including at one point a wry statement: “I am here, looking for work, so to speak.”

• archbishop georg gänswein
• papal nuncio

Matthew McDonald Matthew McDonald is a staff reporter for The National Catholic Register and the editor of New Boston Post. He lives in Massachusetts.

• Related Stories
• Latest News

Marian Embrace: Archbishop Gänswein Speaks of Loneliness and Solace in First Public Appearance

NEWS ANALYSIS: He returned to Maria Vesperbild, not just as a celebrant but as a beacon of faith for many — and a point of personal connection to the late Bavarian pontiff, Benedict XVI.

When Will English Edition of Archbishop Gänswein’s Book Be Released? Stand By.

There’s no known date for when the highly anticipated book by Benedict XVI’s longtime personal secretary will be published in English — and at least one American publisher has already passed.

Archbishop Gänswein: Movement Wants to Destroy Benedict XVI’s Life and Work

Speaking to an Italian newspaper, the pope emeritus’ personal secretary noted that such people ‘never loved him as an individual, his theology, his pontificate.’

Remembering Mother Angelica, Three Years After Her Death

Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Prefect of the Pontifical Household, offered a memorial Mass at the Vatican’s Teutonic College.

Malawi’s Vice President, a ‘Devout Catholic,’ Among 10 Confirmed Dead in Plane Crash

Chilima, 51, was on his way to represent the government at the burial of former government minister Ralph Kasambara, who died four days ago.

Mary Ann Glendon: Friend of the Unborn — and To Those Who Aren’t

The legal scholar and former ambassador to the Vatican will receive the inaugural Fiat Award from the GIVEN Institute

U.S. Bishops Invite Catholics to ‘Pray, Reflect, and Act’ to Promote Religious Freedom

Marking Religious Freedom Week, which begins June 22, the feast day of St. Thomas More and John Fisher, the bishops invited Catholics to reflect on a particular topic related to religious freedom for each day of the week.

Massachusetts Launches ‘First-in-the-Nation’ Effort to Target Pregnancy Resource Centers

The Massachusetts state government this week announced what it billed as a “first-in-the-nation” effort to discredit — and steer pregnant women away from — pregnancy resource centers in the state.

List of Catholic Third Orders, Divine Blood Type Revealed by ‘Coincidence’ of Eucharistic Miracles, and More Great Links!

The Best In Catholic Blogging

125th Anniversary of the Consecration of the World to the Sacred Heart

In 1899, Pope Leo XIII promulgated Annum Sacrum, an encyclical calling for the world’s consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Meet Some Catholic Astronauts

Finding Faith Beyond Earth’s Boundaries...

‘No Wedding Saturdays in the Month of June’ — Just Like Stevie Wonder Said

Not only has marriage been leveled alongside other ‘relationships,’ its content has been eviscerated.

Betrayed by Medicine: The Unspoken Horrors of Gender Transition

Pilgrimage to ugandan martyrs’ shrine paved by prayer and perseverance, religious sisters walking the national eucharistic pilgrimage reflect on ‘beautiful’ time with the lord, 16 men to be ordained to the priesthood in washington, dc, the return of the ring and tolkien’s ‘fundamentally catholic’ work, st. thomas aquinas and flannery o’connor: shedding light on true influences on american’s gothic writing, excommunication looms for renegade group of poor clares in spain, boats, books and badges: st. martin’s academy offers a unique education for young men, ‘very sad day’: fire engulfs historic toronto church, subscription options.

Subscriber Service Center Already a subscriber? Renew or manage your subscription here .

Subscribe and Save HALF OFF! Start your Register subscription today.

Give a Gift Subscription Bless friends, family or clergy with a gift of the Register.

Order Bulk Subscriptions Get a discount on 6 or more copies sent to your parish, organization or school.

Sign-up for E-Newsletter Get Register Updates sent daily or weeklyto your inbox.

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Hungarian president to skip NATO's eastern flank summit -Latvia

• Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again later. More content below

By Andrius Sytas

VILNIUS (Reuters) -Hungary's President Tamas Sulyok will not attend the summit of the Bucharest Nine, a group of European countries on the eastern edge of NATO in Riga on Tuesday, Latvian president's office said.

The summit will not end with a joint declaration of the nine countries, the office added, for the first time since the format was established in 2015.

Instead, a statement will be issued in the name of the presidents of Latvia, Romania and Poland, who jointly host the Riga gathering, a spokesperson for Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics told Reuters on Monday.

Hungary and the other central European nations have been at odds over Prime Minister Viktor Orban's continued cultivation of close ties to Russia and refusal to give arms to Ukraine.

"Hungary will be represented by the Ambassador to Latvia", said the spokesperson.

She referred to Sulyok's office "for questions related to the Hungarian president’s agenda".

The Hungarian president's office did not immediatelly reply to the request for comment, which was sent outside working hours.

The presidents of Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovakia are usually represented at the annual summits of the Buharest Nine grouping. Thare countries are members of both NATO and the European Union.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, who will be at the Riga summit, will visit Budapest the next day "to discuss Hungary's staying out from NATO's Ukraine mission", Orban told state media earlier on Monday.

Hungary signalled last week it had no plans to abandon natural gas imports from Russia and sought to deepen business ties with Moscow in non-sanctioned areas.

(Reporting by Andrius Sytas in Vilnius; Editing by Alistair Bell and Stephen Coates)

Recommended Stories

Paramount stock plummets after shari redstone kills skydance deal.

Shari Redstone, who controls Paramount through her family's holding company National Amusements, has ended merger talks with Skydance Media, according to the Wall Street Journal.

One big thing for every AFC team heading into the 2024 season

On today's episode, Jason Fitz and Frank Schwab unpack one big question for every AFC team heading into the 2024 NFL season.

Amari Cooper holding out from Browns minicamp amid spike in WR salaries

Cooper presumably would like to cash in on the rising wide receiver market that's seen multiple contract records set this offseason.

Oilers' Leon Draisaitl to avoid discipline for hit that took Panthers' Aleksander Barkov out of Game 2

Barkov did not play the final 9:28 of Florida's Game 2 win over Edmonton.

Apple refuses to call Apple Intelligence 'AI'

Apple won't dare call Apple Intelligence AI.

Half of all drivers don't have much trust in their car insurance company

A new J.D. Power survey of U.S. car owners tackles the topic of customer satisfaction and trust when it comes to insurance companies.

Stock market today: S&P 500, Nasdaq notch fresh records with Apple as CPI, Fed decision loom

Investors braced for a Federal Reserve meeting that should signpost the path of interest rates, with a key inflation print also waiting in the wings.

At the Euros and Copa América, a third title is up for grabs: world’s best soccer player

The European Championships and Copa América, featuring 40 of the top national teams, will likely determine this year's Ballon d'Or winner amid the most open competition for the title of world's best soccer player in years.

USA Basketball: It would be 'irresponsible' to put Caitlin Clark on Olympic team for marketing reasons

USA Basketball selection committee chair Jen Rizzotti said they didn't consider anything but basketball when making their roster decisions.

This lighted magnifying mirror is a travel must-have — and it's down to just $8

This LED travel compact is sure to save the day in dimly lit bathrooms and hotels — it's over 40% off.

64,000+ shoppers swear by these bestselling high-waisted leggings — now just $9

Devotees say these terrific tights flatter all body types, and you can even get them with pockets.

Joey Chestnut out of 2024 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest over deal with rival brand

Chestnut has won the competition 16 times and every year since 2016.

Luka Dončić reportedly had pain-killing injection ahead of NBA Finals Game 2, likely needs another for Game 3

Dončić had the injection to address his thoracic contusion.

One of the best fire pits you can buy is nearly 50% off, and doubles as a grill

The removable, swiveling grill grate makes it easy to cook hot dogs, burgers, steaks and more.

Unhappy customer: Why I finally took my business from Vanguard to Charles Schwab

Last month, I wrote how I'm angry with Vanguard over excessive fees. I finally did something about it.

Keurig K-Mini coffee maker is 40% off at Amazon for Father's Day

Help dad stay caffeinated with the Keurig K-Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker for just $59.99 after at Amazon.

Apple ID is now Apple Account

Apple is renaming Apple ID as "Apple Account" when it rolls out iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia and watchOS 11.

Hunter Biden guilty: Jury delivers swift verdict in his felony gun trial

President Biden’s 54-year-old son was found guilty on all three felony counts stemming from a 2018 gun purchase while he was addicted to drugs.

Muggy house? This sleek dehumidifier 'sucks water like a champ': Snag it on sale

At just under six pounds, it's easy to move around your home and can reduce humidity levels by up to 35%.

Moderna president: Company outlook 'stabilizing' thanks to new flu-COVID vaccine data

Moderna revealed its combination flu/COVID vaccine performed better than the two shots independently.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Bret Stephens

This D-Day, Europe Needs to Resolve to Get Its Act Together

By Bret Stephens

Opinion Columnist

Thursday’s D-Day anniversary — the 80th — is occasioning somber and anxious reflections about the fate of the Atlantic alliance. Somber because the last of the Greatest Generation will soon no longer be with us. Anxious because Donald Trump, and his evident disdain for that alliance, may soon be with us again.

The anxiety is partly misplaced. Trump’s truculent brand of American nationalism is a terrible idea for many reasons, not least in the encouragement it gives to Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping to target weaker American allies. But Trump is also the messenger of a warning Europeans desperately need to heed.

In a nutshell: Shape up.

Europe today faces four great challenges that typically determine the fate of great powers. Take a brief look:

Growth and dynamism: In 1960 the E.U. 28 — the 27 countries currently in the European Union, plus Britain — accounted for 36.3 percent of global gross domestic product. By 2020 it had fallen to 22.4 percent . By the end of the century it is projected to fall to just under 10 percent. By contrast, the United States has maintained a roughly consistent share — around a quarter — of global G.D.P. since the Kennedy administration.

Think of any leading-edge industry — artificial intelligence, microchips, software, robotics, genomics — and ask yourself (with a few honorable exceptions), where’s the European Microsoft, Nvidia or OpenAI?

Military power: When the Cold War ended in 1990, the West German military fielded more than 500,000 troops and spent 2.5 percent of its G.D.P. on defense. As of last year, it was down to 181,000 troops and 1.57 percent. Britain’s Royal Navy, the most powerful in the world at the outset of World War II, can now deploy just 10 submarines and fewer than two dozen major surface warships, some of which are inactive .

In an all-out war, the British would exhaust their defense capabilities in about two months , according to a report to the House of Commons defense committee. The same would likely be true — if not much sooner — for every E.U. member-state apart from Poland, which aims to spend as much as 5 percent of its G.D.P. on defense next year.

Demographics: What do Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany, his predecessor Angela Merkel, President Emmanuel Macron of France, Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands and the former British prime minister Theresa May have in common? They are childless. That’s their personal business (and far from representative of all E.U. leaders), but it’s symbolic of a continent where just under 3.9 million Europeans were born in 2022 and 5.15 million died . A shrinking and aging population typically correlates with low economic growth , not least because entrepreneurship is usually a young person’s game.

Europe has an additional challenge: a relatively high Muslim birthrate, along with the prospect of long-term Muslim migration. Under a “medium migration” scenario estimated by Pew , by 2050 Britain will be nearly 17 percent Muslim, France 17.4 percent and Sweden 20.5 percent. Those wondering about the ascendance of far-right European parties, who are heavily favored to sweep this week’s elections in the E.U. Parliament and who are often sympathetic to Vladimir Putin, know this is a factor. And they need to be honest that the values of depressingly notable segments of these Muslim populations are fundamentally at odds with European traditions of moral tolerance and political liberalism.

Purpose and will: Many of Europe’s current failings are explained (often by European leaders themselves) as a problem of political mechanics: insufficient coordination between states; inadequate power in Brussels; failures of transmission between declared goals and real-world results. But the problem isn’t just one of process. It’s also one of spirit. A few questions:

If Russia defeats Ukraine and decides in a few years’ time to attack one of the Baltic countries, is there a deep pool of young Germans, Belgians or Spaniards willing to die for Tallinn or Vilnius?

As Europe’s NATO members struggle to meet the bare minimum goal of spending 2 percent of their G.D.P. on defense, are they willing to come to grips with the fact that they probably need to spend twice as much?

How much state protection, in social welfare and economic regulation, are Europe’s aging voters willing to forgo for the sake of creating a more dynamic economy for a dwindling number of young people?

How forceful are European leaders willing to be in insisting that their values — including freedom of speech, women’s rights and gay rights — must be protected against the illiberal instincts of a growing share of their voters?

Trump’s ideas about NATO, his zero-sum attitudes about winning, his fondness for strongmen and his ignorance of and indifference to history are all, rightly, causes for European alarm. But people, and nations, succeed or fail to the extent that they refuse to hand over responsibility for their fates to others.

“The world is what it is; men who are nothing, who allow themselves to become nothing, have no place in it,” V.S. Naipaul once warned. It’s good advice for Europe on this solemn anniversary of their previous liberation.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

Follow the New York Times Opinion section on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , WhatsApp , X and Threads .

Bret Stephens is an Opinion columnist for The Times, writing about foreign policy, domestic politics and cultural issues. Facebook

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• Restaurants
• Best-of Guides
• MICHELIN Guide Ceremony
• My Favorites
• Subscribe to newsletter
• Booking partnership with OpenTable
• Booking partnership with Resy
• USA - English - USD
• The Full List of Paris's Michelin Star Restaurants in The MICHELIN Guide France 2024

On the eve of the Olympic Games, the Parisian food scene is flexing its muscles, from legendary restaurants making a comeback to a Japanese tea ceremony and 50 shades of bistronomy.

MICHELIN Guide Ceremony Paris restaurants

Paris by The MICHELIN Guide

See the Paris guide

Since the Middle Ages, Paris has been a ‘Cockaigne’ – a land of plenty, a cornucopia, a warehouse stocked with the best produce from the French provinces and beyond. In 2024, with the Olympics on the horizon, this still holds true, and Paris is limbering up for its own gourmet games. All disciplines and categories are represented, from Japanese chefs to young, home-grown MICHELIN-Starred talent, from revered restaurants to bistros in all their contemporary incarnations. Let the games begin!

Reopening of Legendary Restaurants

New: discover paris by the michelin guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and enjoy the city of light, paris, japanophile capital.

At Akabeko , it’s all about a subtle, French-Japanese omakase menu created by Yasuo Nanaumi. The experienced Japanese chef opened the restaurant with his son, who takes care of proceedings front of house. In this gorgeous little place, diners can shift seamlessly between the two cultures, as they tuck into dishes such as foie gras with teriyaki sauce or deep-fried sole goujonnettes with dashi. Yuichiro Akiyoshi ( Chakaiseki Akiyoshi , new star restaurant) serves up so much more than a meal. Expect a poetic interlude centred on the tea ceremony (lasting three hours) with subdued lighting and contemplative stillness; here, you forget the noise and furious pace of the city outside. Originally from Fukuoka, the chef spent 10 years in a Three Star restaurant in Kyoto, learning cha-kaiseki, the traditional Japanese culinary art based on the idea that food should complement tea. A unique restaurant in Paris. Finally, in Chef Tomoyuki Yoshinaga's Sushi Yoshinaga (new star restaurant), Paris has one of the finest restaurants dedicated to the art of sushi. The produce used smacks of exceptional quality: ikejime fish from Brittany, in particular, plus caviar, sea urchin, abalone, wild eel and matured bluefin tuna of a quality that one rarely has the opportunity to taste. The art of cutting fish, the exceptional skill of the chef, the different temperatures of the rice, the various soy sauces used to complement the fish... it has all the elements of an exceptional dining experience.

Read also:  The Inspectors Reveal All on Le Gabriel, France’s New Three Star Restaurant for 2024!

Paris's new michelin-starred talents.

Maison Dubois (new star restaurant) may be Arthur Dubois's first restaurant but the fact remains that his dishes are nothing if not impressive. Carefully selected ingredients, proven expertise, impeccable technique – the chef shows he is a dab hand at putting a new spin on classic cuisine, in which the influence of his mentor, Pierre Gagnaire, makes its presence felt. The man behind Onor (pronounced ‘honour’, with good reason) is Thierry Marx, an up-and-coming chef who seems destined to make a name for himself. In a nautical-inspired setting (incorporating a wealth of recycled materials) reminiscent of a bijou luxury brasserie, the chef dances to his own tune, supported by his right-hand man Ricardo Silva. The menu switches between nods to Asia and the chef's classics, showcasing this judo enthusiast's many talents. On the rooftop of the Hôtel Cheval-Blanc, a surprise awaited our Inspectors: the luxury brasserie Le Tout-Paris , whose all-encompassing view is enough to whet the appetite. Leading chefs Arnaud Donckele and Maxime Frédéric oversee the kitchen, where top-quality produce is prepared either simply (langoustine and pike quenelles accompanied by velvety pike heads with rosemary), or more elaborately (black pudding à la royale with gnocchi, juniper berries and savory). Géosmine (new star restaurant) is named for the smell that rises from freshly ploughed or wet soil, hinting at the ‘natural’ cuisine that Chef Maxime Bouttier's restaurant has in store for diners. Originally from the Sarthe ‘département’ in northwestern France, where he used to hurry after school to watch the cows being milked, he serves cow udders at his trendy restaurant in the 11th arrondissement. This offal is cooked in a seaweed broth before being pan-fried in butter, lightly grilled on the barbecue, placed on a tartare of seaweed, and topped with a little caviar and finished with two sauces. A creative dish, emblematic of a chef with a strong personality.

Bistro Plus Gastronomy Equals Bistronomy

Discover the 2024 paris selection: .

• Three Stars

10 Restaurants with Three MICHELIN Stars

16 Restaurants with Two MICHELIN Stars

Paris 1er : Restaurant Le Meurice Alain Ducasse Paris 1er : Palais Royal Restaurant Paris 6e : Guy Savoy Paris 6e : Marsan par Hélène Darroze Paris 7e : David Toutain Paris 7e :  Le Jules Verne  - NEW Paris 8e : L'Abysse au Pavillon Ledoyen Paris 8e : Le Clarence Paris 8e : Le Grand Restaurant - Jean-François Piège Paris 8e :  Maison Ruggieri  - NEW Paris 8e :  L'Orangerie  - NEW Paris 8e : La Scène Paris 8e : Le Taillevent Paris 12e : Table - Bruno Verjus Paris 16e : L'Oiseau Blanc Paris 17e : Maison Rostang

111 Restaurants with One MICHELIN Star (including Ile-de-France)

Paris 1er : Le Baudelaire Paris 1er : La Dame de Pic Paris 1er :  Espadon  - NEW Paris 1er : Granite Paris 1er :  Nhome  - NEW Paris 1er : Omar Dhiab Paris 1er : Le Tout-Paris  - NEW Paris 1er : Yam'Tcha Paris 2e : Accents Table Bourse Paris 2e : Fleur de Pavé Paris 2e : Frenchie Paris 2e : Pantagruel Paris 2e : Pur' - Jean-François Rouquette Paris 2e : Shabour Paris 2e : Sushi B Paris 2e :  Sushi Yoshinaga  - NEW Paris 3e : Anne Paris 3e : Datil  - NEW Paris 4e : Benoit Paris 4e : Le Sergent Recruteur Paris 4e : Restaurant H Paris 5e : Alliance Paris 5e : AT Paris 5e : Baieta Paris 5e : Mavrommatis Paris 5e : OKA Paris 5e : Sola Paris 5e : Solstice Paris 5e : Tour d'Argent Paris 6e : Armani Ristorante Paris 6e : Quinsou Paris 6e : Relais Louis XIII Paris 6e : Yoshinori Paris 6e : Ze Kitchen Galerie Paris 7e : Aida Paris 7e : Auguste Paris 7e : Divellec Paris 7e : ES Paris 7e : Gaya par Pierre Gagnaire Paris 7e :  Hémicycle  - NEW Paris 7e : Le Violon d'Ingres Paris 7e : Nakatani Paris 7e : Pertinence Paris 7e : Tomy & Co Paris 8e : 114, Faubourg Paris 8e : Akrame Paris 8e : Apicius Paris 8e : Contraste Paris 8e : Helen Paris 8e : Il Carpaccio Paris 8e : Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée Paris 8e : L'Arôme Paris 8e : Lasserre Paris 8e : L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon - Étoile Paris 8e : Le Chiberta Paris 8e :  Galanga  - NEW Paris 8e : Le George Paris 8e : L'Écrin Paris 8e : Lucas Carton Paris 8e :  Maison Dubois  - NEW Paris 8e :  Onor  - NEW Paris 8e : Pavyllon Paris 8e : Trente-Trois Paris 9e : Louis Paris 9e : NESO Paris 11e : Automne Paris 11e : FIEF Paris 11e :  Géosmine  - NEW Paris 11e : Qui Plume la Lune Paris 11e : Septime Paris 12e : Virtus Paris 14e : MoSuke Paris 15e :  Chakaiseiki Akiyoshi  - NEW Paris 15e : Neige d'Été Paris 16e : Alan Geaam Paris 16e : Astrance Paris 16e : Bellefeuille - Saint James Paris Paris 16e :  Blanc  - NEW Paris 16e : Comice Paris 16e : Don Juan II Paris 16e : La Grande Cascade Paris 16e : L'Archeste Paris 16e : Nomicos Paris 16e : Ōrtensia Paris 16e : Pages Paris 16e : Shang Palace Paris 16e : Substance Paris 17e : Anona Paris 17e : Frédéric Simonin Paris 17e : Jacques Faussat Paris 17e : La Scène Thélème Paris 17e : Le Faham by Kelly Rangama Paris 17e : Mallory Gabsi Paris 17e : Oxte Paris 18e : L'Arcane Couilly-Pont-aux-Dames (77) : Auberge de la Brie Dampmart (77) : Le Quincangrogne Fontainebleau (77) : L'Axel Villeneuve-le-Comte (77) : La Vieille Auberge  - NEW Le Tremblay-sur-Mauldre (78) : Numéro 3 Marly-Le-Roi (78) : Le Village Tomohiro Rolleboise (78) : Le Panoramique - Domaine de la Corniche Versailles (78) : Gordon Ramsay au Trianon Versailles (78) : La Table du 11 Versailles (78) : Le Grand Contrôle Meudon (92) : L'Escarbille Rueil-Malmaison (92) : Ochre Ville-d'Avray (92) : Le Corot Montreuil (93) : Villa9Trois Vincennes (94) : L'Ours Pontoise (95) : L'Or Q'Idée

Hero Image: @Matthieu Salvaing/Tour d'Argent

New York City Hotels with Restaurants in The MICHELIN Guide

The complete MICHELIN Guide experience from room to room service.

London in the Summer: 10 Things to See and Do

What better time of year to explore the capital? Discover our list of Inspector-approved activities for enjoying the warmer weather.

Pangina Heals’ Bangkok: Bars, Fab Shops, Rendezvous Spots, Sexy Nights Out, and More

The MICHELIN Guide invites you to discover Bangkok through the dazzling perspective of the fabulous Pangina Heals, the international Thai drag superstar who took RuPaul's Drag Race by storm.

In The Kitchen With Daniel Humm of Eleven Madison Park

The Three MICHELIN Star restaurant chef takes us on a tour of his Art Deco boîte.

Keep Exploring - Stories we think you will enjoy reading

2 New Three Star Restaurants in The MICHELIN Guide Nordic Countries 2024

Discover all the winners from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden

New MICHELIN Star Restaurants Shine in The MICHELIN Guide Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo 2024 Selection

With 3 new Two Star restaurants and 7 new One Star restaurants, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide makes a bright relaunch in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.

All The Stars From The MICHELIN Guide Mexico 2024

2 Two Stars, 16 One Stars, and 6 Green Stars fill out the MICHELIN Guide Mexico 2024.

2024 Mexico MICHELIN Bib Gourmands

From fusion to seafood, these Bib Gourmands are filled with value and flavor.

Inside the Florida MICHELIN Guide Ceremony 2024

The Sunshine State sparkled brighter with the addition of 9 new One Stars and 2 new Green Stars.

All the 2024 Florida MICHELIN Stars

The Sunshine State just got hauter with these bright new MICHELIN Stars.

Gabriela Ospina of Boia De is the MICHELIN Guide Florida 2024 Sommelier Award Winner

Congratulations to Gabriela Ospina of Boia De, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide Florida Sommelier Award Winner! For Ospina, wine is about the stories and the ...

Justin Levaughn is the MICHELIN Guide Florida 2024 Exceptional Cocktails Award Winner

From dish washer to award winner, here's the story on Levaughn's journey through the culinary world.

Tam Pham, MICHELIN Guide Florida 2024 Young Chef Award Winner

The chef and co-owner of Tam Tam on his culinary inspiration and motivation.

Israel Perez of Victoria & Albert's is the MICHELIN Guide Florida 2024 Service Award Winner

Through consistency and preparation, here's the secret sauce behind the inviting service at Victoria & Albert's.

Lithuania Joins The MICHELIN Guide Collection!

On 13th June 2024, the first MICHELIN Guide selection to Lithuania will be unveiled, covering not only the capital, Vilnius, but the rest of the country too. Watch this space to be the first to discover this new selection...

Paris in the Spring: 15 Things to See and Do

Have you booked a short break in Paris? Explore our list of Inspector-approved activities to enjoy the warmer weather in the French capital.

The MICHELIN Guide Kyoto Osaka 2024: Newly Awarded Restaurants Announced Including One 2-Star and two MICHELIN Green Stars

Restaurant Yugen is newly awarded Two MICHELIN Stars, and 17 restaurants are recognised with One MICHELIN Star. The MICHELIN Green Star highlights the sustainable commitment of two new establishment. Two Special Awards are presented: the MICHELIN Mentor Chef and the MICHELIN Service Award.

MICHELIN Guide

Use the app to find the best restaurants and hotels everywhere

Be the first to get news and update about the michelin guide.

MICHELIN Guide selections

The michelin group.

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Legal Notice

Display settings

Customize your experience by easily adjusting display settings for territory, and currency to suit your preferences!

Member privileges

The Plus program provides upgrades and amenities at participating hotels. For this hotel, Plus members will receive:

Non-members can add the privileges at checkout through our 30 day free trial, cancellable at anytime.