vilnius alternative tourism

Best Of Vilnius – 10 Unique Things To Do in Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania is a city worth a visit, with a ton of places to see. Here you can find some of the alternative Vilnius sightseeing options and the most unique things to do in Vilnius.

The capital of the Baltic country in eastern Europe charmed me from the very first moment. The quiet areas by the river, the picturesque orange roofs of the Old Town, and delicious Lithuanian food. If you are wondering what to do in Vilnius, you don’t need to worry – there is plenty of options. From different Vilnius attractions to visiting one of the many churches to going to the Trakai castle, to walking on the streets of the Old Town. Here, I want to share with you a few of the more unique things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania. 

We visited Vilnius this summer for a weekend from Norway on an invitation from Tinggly Experiences . (the company that believes in giving stories, not stuff! Pretty cool, check them out!). Not much to say, we fell in love with it straight away!

Alternative Vilnius – 10 unique things to do in Vilnius

There are some of the things to see in Vilnius, and Vilnius tourist attractions, that everyone knows about, like Vilnius Cathedral or Gate of Dawn. But what if you are interested in another side of the city and want to discover the alternative Vilnius? Here you can see some of the more unique things to do in Vilnius, that I hope will get your interest!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. More details here .

#1 fly on the hot air balloon over trakai castle.

Most people decide to visit Trakai castle on foot on a day trip. I have no doubts, it surely is very picturesque and full of history. Especially if you go on a guided Trakai tour .

I can also recommend trying a bit different approach to admiring the castle – from the air. By taking a hot balloon ride, you can fly over the Trakai castle, the lake, and the little islands dotted around. It’s probably one of my favorite Vilnius activities. We did it on a perfect day during sunset and it was an amazing trip. It was my second hot-air balloon ride, after the Masai Mara , and I think I’m getting addicted 😉

#2 Try cheese ice cream

Yes, I know – cheese in ice cream?! I was thinking the same when our guide on the Vilnius food tour suggested to try it. And I actually liked it! The sweet, usually cherry-flavored ice cream is served with chunks of the legendary hard cheese Džiugas . It is the famous cheese in Lithuania and you need to try it when you visit the country. The cheese has a special tangy flavor derived from the quality milk, and it has no lactose! We liked it so much, that we brought some back home. And yes, to truly understand what I’m talking about, you need to visit Vilnius and try it yourself!

# 3 Go on the Hill of Three Crosses … from the back

Hill of Three Crosses is a well-known monument. According to a legend, seven Franciscan friars were beheaded on top of this hill. To remember that place, three wooden crosses were built in the location in the early 17th century. Later on, they were replaced with the current monument.

The normal way of getting to the Hill of Three Crosses is by following the set of stairs or a path through Kalnai Park. We, however, chose to get there through an abandoned stadium, from the back of the park. There was not a single person in the whole area, so it felt a bit strange, but once we got to the hill, it was all good. That always happens when we decide to explore the city on foot and get lost in the process (part of the adventure, right?!).

The Hill is worth getting onto (whatever side you choose), as it offers some of the best views over the city.

#4 Admire the quirky street art in Vilnius

I was positively surprised when I found out the amount of street art in Vilnius. I love street art (like I spent the whole day checking out the street art in the Brick Lane in London ) and I always take way too many photos. If you are also a fan, you should go out and look for the colourful murals. You might even recognize some of the portraits, and it might remind you of some other iconic mural on another wall , too.

#5 Stay in the nuclear research center

Right, that might sound a bit weird, but it actually isn’t! Many buildings in Vilnius have been repurposed after changes that happened in Lithuania. Thanks to Tinggly we were able to stay in the old nuclear research center, that now was transformed into the Tinggly Bloggers House.

The coolest loft in town had everything that we needed for the stay (and more), including a projector, segway, studio lights, fast internet, and a wooden world map, that I immediately wanted to have at home.

#6 Drink Sushi martini

You must be thinking that I got a bit crazy with all those weird food combinations. Maybe . But we like trying new things. So when we ended up in one of the coolest cocktail bars in the city, Alchemikas, we needed to try their most interesting creations – like, yes, Sushi Martini with actual seaweed and ginger, as well as very unique art on the cocktail. It also turned out that the Vilnius nightlife is alive and kicking, so it’s worth going out into the city!

#7 Visit the independent Užupis Republika within the city

Užupis is a special part of Vilnius, located near the Old Town. Its name means “beyond the river”. The district is popular with artists and has a bohemian and free atmosphere. On April 1, 1998, the district declared itself an independent republic – The Republic of Užupis with their own constitution (very witty, have a read) .

#8 Try the pink soup

A pink soup is a famous (and delicious) dish in Lithuania. It is also another quite unusual item to try in the capital. The soup is made from kefir (sour milk) and beetroot with added dill, potatoes and eggs. It’s served cold, which means it’s perfect for the hot days! I love it (it reminded me of similar soup that my mum used to make), and I had it every-single-day we were in Vilnius 😉

#9 Enter every church you see and look at the ceiling

You won’t regret it! There are a lot of churches in Vilnius and all of them are beautiful from the outside and from the inside. Wouldn’t you agree?

#10 Take a ride with a trolleybus

Trolleybuses are not so popular anymore as the regular buses or metro replaced them. So when I saw them in Vilnius, I felt very nostalgic. The trolleybus is an electric bus that uses the power from overhead wires by using the special trolley poles. Have you ever ride the trolleybus before? Give it a try!

Where to stay in Vilnius, Lithuania?

We stayed in Tinggly Bloggers House, thanks to Tinggly, but if you don’t manage to do that, you can try some of the suggestions below:

Hotel PACAI   – this 5-star design hotel is located 900 meters from the city center, and set in a Baroque palace dating back to 1677. History at its best! Check prices and availability here.

Come to Vilnius Apartments – apartments in a good price, located with a short distance of Bastion of the Vilnius Defensive Wall. Check prices and availability here.

Tours in Vilnius, Lithuania

Have you been to Vilnius, Lithuania? Have you tried any of the unique things to do in Vilnius? Can you add any more? Let me know in the comments!

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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!

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A mini guide to things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania

I believe Central Europe is one of the most fascinating yet underrated regions. Long history, rich culture, delicious food, friendly locals… and every country is so much different than the another!

But while internet is full of various information about most popular tourist destinations (I’m looking at you London or Paris) finding something useful about this part of the world can be sometimes a challenge. I know as I’ve been looking for that info as well! Therefore I’m gonna start a new series of posts with top attractions in my favorite cities in Central Europe.

The first one will be about things to do in Vilnius Lithuania, probably the least known capital of the Baltic countries. I know this is not super original idea for posts but may be useful for some of you going to Lithuania (that was named one of the top destinations in 2015 by Lonely Planet!).

I had a chance to visit Vilnius couple of times now, I enjoy the city every single time and I’m always glad to return there. Just for some reason I’m always there in autumn or winter time but if it’s great in the somehow sad months I only can imagine how great it must be there in the middle of spring or summer.

No matter what time the city is simply charming with narrow streets in the UNESCO listed Old Town , beautiful baroque churches and so many quirky, alternative places! It is the perfect mix and I’m sure everyone will find something for him/herself.

Even if recently Lithuania has joined the Euro zone the country is still a pretty good value for money and is a great, somehow unknown, destination that can impress many. Vilnius tourism is doing better than ever, the list of Vilnius attractis is long and everyone will find something interesting there!

Vilnius essentials

• Airport transfer: Pre-book the airport transfer from Vilnius airport to your accommodation in Vilnius here .
• Where to stay in Vilnius: ROOMA Apartments (9.9/10) / Neringa Hotel (9.4/10)
• Best Vilnius tour: Explore Vilnius: Old Town and Uzupis Guided Walking Tour
• Best day trip from Vilnius: Full-Day The Hill of Crosses Tour from Vilnius
• Get insured for your trip to Lithuania with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania

The list of Vilnius things to do can be long but I will limit it only to top 10 Vilnius must see attractions as usually travelers don’t have enough time in the city (and it offers so much more than it seems at first!). So without further ado here’re the best places to visit in Vilnius!

An absolute must in Vilnius! The self proclaimed republic and the bohemian heart of the city. Uzupis has its own president, currency, flag, army (around 11 men) and so on – all the attributes that a country should have.

But the biggest attraction is the constitution of Uzupis – 39 articles that tell you the rights of the place, such as everyone has the right to be happy and a dog has the right to be a dog. You can find the whole text, translated into couple of languages, on the wall along Paupio street.

One day might not be enough to wander around Uzupis if you want to explore the area properly, step into courtyards, check all the quirky pubs, spot some original street art around and just enjoy the bohemian feel and slow life of this neighborhood. That’s definitely my favorite part of Vilnius!

No matter how bad this might sound Vilnius has some really beautiful cemeteries. Two of them that are really worth a visit are Bernardine Cemetery in Uzupis and Rasos Cemetery not far from the train station. Both of them look similar, are located on the hillsides and are equally old (18th-19th century).

I can’t say which one has more stunning tombstones (usually dating back to the beginning of the 20th century) and which one is prettier so I’d just say – visit both of them!

Vilnius is often called “the city of churches” and this is very accurate. There are so many of them in the Old Town , you stumble across one every few steps, and most of them are so beautiful!

But once you step inside things get even better! The majority of Vilnius churches was built as great examples of baroque style and they are sated with rich adornment. I always feel overwhelmed by the beauty of them and don’t know where to look, every tiny detail seem to be important and so interesting!

Not far from the Old Town there’s one more church well worth visiting – St. Peter and Paul’s in Antakalnis district – another masterpiece known for its 2.000 stucco figures!

St. Anne’s Church

This little church deserves it’s own point! Built in the Gothic style hasn’t changed for over 500 years! It is so extremely beautiful everyone falls in love with it, including Napoleon Bonaparte. He was so much under the charm of the building that wanted to take it to Paris with him (on the palm of his hand…).

Gates of Dawn

Another religious place but a very important one (especially for Polish people) and known all over the world. But despite being so famous it’s very easy to miss the place – the shrine is hidden inside the gate (the last remaining one of the Vilnius city walls). To get close to the painting of Blessed Virgin Mary you need to enter the random door on the left side and then go upstairs.

Even if you’re not a religious person the Gates of Dawn will impress you. Try to be there in the evening, when all the tourist groups are gone and there are only older ladies praying in front of the painting.

Wander around the Old Town

This is a pure pleasure! The Old Town in Vilnius is fairly big and it’s easy to get lost there: the maze of narrow streets leads you next to churches, beautiful houses and suddenly you might not know anymore where you are! The best thing you can do then is stopping by at one of many cafes to figure out your way around.

When discovering this part of the city don’t miss Literatu street with quirky and funky tiles on the wall, commemorating poets and writers connected to Lithuania (both local and foreigner)!

View from Giedyminas’ Tower

I’m always a huge fan of looking at the city from above and Vilnius has some great points to admire the city’s beauty. The most known is the Upper Castel with Giedyminas’ Tower and no wonder this place is so popular! The view all over the town is stunning with rooftops and church towers on one side and Neris river with modern downtown in the background on the other.

For even better view go to the top of the Giedyminas’ Tower (entrance 2€, including the museum). Alternatively you can climb the Three Crosses Hill nearby, the view isn’t bad from here either!

Giedyminas Avenue

The representative street of Vilnius, with beautiful architecture from the end of 19th/beginning of 20th century. Most of the fancy shops and public institutions are located in here. I especially like the view from the Avenue towards the Cathedral Square!

Vilnius street art

It’s no surprise I’m a huge street art fan and try to find it just about everywhere. But Vilnius has a really good street art scene with variety of forms and a really big creative outburst. It can be found all over the Old Town and Uzupis – you just need to look carefully to find it in the hidden lanes and gates!

One of the best murals I’ve ever seen – “Think” – is also in Vilnius on Odminiu street. But except of traditional street art forms the city has some quirky monuments too, like the lucky belly, angel of Uzupis or an apple. Try to find as many of them as possible!

One of the best day trips from Vilnius – Trakai

Only 30 kms away from Vilnius a small Karaim town of Trakai can be found. It is a true gem as the place is not only incredibly picturesque with the lake and the castle built in the middle of it but also with the unique Karaim culture.

This ethnic group came to this area in the 14th century and preserved their traditions, culture and cuisine up until now. In Trakai you will find some beautiful Karaim wooden houses where local restaurants are located, your best options to try this unusual dishes!

So these are my top 10 things to do in Vilnius and a little overview of Vilnius sightseeing for the first time visitor. You don’t need to wonder what to see in Vilnius, it’s all here. If you’re looking for more unusual things there’s a great alternative Vilnius side too!

Visit Vilnius – practical information

How to get to vilnius, lithuania.

Vilnius is very well connected by air with numerous places all over Europe and beyond. You can find the best deals on flights to Vilnius at Skyscanner or Momondo, that’s where I always look for my flights too!

The airport is well connected by train and bus with central Vilnius. You can also book the private transfer from the airport to avoid all the hassle after the arrival. Click here to see the details and book the trip.

There’re also numerous bus and few train connections between Vilnius and nearby capitals: Riga , Tallinn, Minsk or Warsaw. You can find the schedules and book the tickets here . Bus and train stations are located next to each other, some 10 minutes walking from the Vilnius Old Town.

How to get around Vilnius

You will not really need public transport when you visit Vilnius but just in case here’s the website with all the details. I highly recommend downloading maps.me application as it works offline and it never disappointed me.

Vilnius accommodation

During my latest visits I stayed in the private room at Downtown Forest Hostel & Camping (8.7/10 rating on Booking) . It was some 10-15 minutes walking to the Old Town, much closer to Uzupis but the hostel was such a lovely place. I can definitely recommend it! Click here to see details and book the place.

Other recommended accommodation:

• Hotel Tilto (9.0/10 on Booking) – travelers who stayed there enjoyed the location, cleanliness and free wifi. Click here to see current deals and book the place.
• Shakespeare Boutique Hotel (9.2/10 on Booking) – it is highly valued for the location, comfort and free wifi. Click here to see the reviews and book the place.
• Hotel PACAI (9.4/10 on Booking) – recommended for the comfort, location and staff. Click here to see the details and book the place.

Where to eat, have a coffee or beer in Vilnius

Best restaurants:

• Aline Leičiai
• Būsi Trečias
• Baras Snekutis – Kaimisko alaus barai

Best cafes in Vilnius:

• BREW | Kavos virėjai
• Huracán Coffee
• Backstage Cafe
• Taste Map Coffee Roasters

Best craft beer in Vilnius:

• Nisha craft Capital
• Craft Beer Merchants

Vilnius tours

You can do some Vilnius sightseeing with a guide or as part of the tour. Here are some of the best, most interesting and highly rated Vilnius tours I’ve found:

• Vilnius: Half-Day Sightseeing Tour to Trakai
• Vilnius: Sightseeing Audio Tour Once Round
• Undiscovered Vilnius with a Local
• Vilnius Old Town 2-hour Ghost Tour
• Flavors of Vilnius 3-Hour Food Tasting Tour
• Vilnius Panoramic walking tour
• Vilnius: 2.5-Hour Catacombs Tour
• Vilnius: Soviet Stories Small-Group Tour with a Local
• Vilnius Private Walking Tour
• Vilnius: 3-Hour Jewish Heritage Tour
• Alternative Vilnius walking tour
• Vilnius Courtyards Tour
• Vilnius: Local Market Snacks & Bites
• Vilnius: Premium Lithuanian Craft Beer Degustation Tour

Vilnius map

Here’s the map with all the things to see in Vilnius (minus Trakai)

Further reading

I published many articles about Lithuania that you might find useful when planning your trip there. Here are some of them:

• Guide to Soviet Architecture in Vilnius, Lithuania
• Mini guide to quirky, alternative Vilnius
• 29 Great Things to Do in Kaunas, Lithuania
• Guide to Impressive Modernist Architecture in Kaunas, Lithuania

If you are looking for articles about a specific destination – check out the map with all the articles I’ve published (and their locations). You can also join my Facebook group about traveling in Eastern Europe and ask your questions there.

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68 Comments

Anna @AnnaEverywhere

Last time I’ve been to Vilnus was 20 years ago so I don’t remember much – can’t believe it was that long ago actually :P St Anne’s Church looks stunning – I feel like I have o revisit Vilnus.

you definitely should go there when you’re around! I bet it had changed a lot since your last visit ;)

Olka Zagórska

Planowaliśmy dotrzeć do Wilna na sylwestra, a ostatecznie wylądowaliśmy w Albanii. Nie to, żebym narzekała, ale jakoś w kierunku Litwy ciągle się zebrać nie możemy. A patrząc po Twoich zdjęciach, to możemy powiedzieć “szkoda, że nas tam jeszcze nie było”.

Agnieszka Ptaszyńska

park na rzeką w centrum miasta, a tam polecam usiąść z butelką whisky i cygarem. Polecam robić to wieczorem i polecam trafić akurat tak, że jakiś student będzie akurat grał na saksofonie. Polecam być wtedy z nieznanym wam wcześniej mężczyzną, bo z takiego wieczoru zrodzi się fajna, platoniczna przyjaźń

Vilnius is one of my favorite city breaks in Europe and I always discover new things when I’m there! My other favorites in the city are Three Crosses hill (mentioned above but I think the scenery on the way up is what is the most amazing), the Genocide museum (I’ve been to a lot of these, sadly, and think this is one of the very best, yet most somber), Snipiskes and Zverynas for wooden architecture and charm of real Vilnius that you don’t find in touristy Old Town, and the Palace of Concert and Sports for those into Soviet architecture (sheepishly raises hand haha). Can’t wait to make my fifth trip back to Vilnius :)

omg, I loved Palace of Concert and Sports!!! Seriously, I couldn’t get over how beautiful this building actually is! ;) and I don’t know why but I didn’t make it yet to the Genocide museum (even if I usually visiting this kind of places is my priority). Need to write it down for my next visit to Vilnius! I’ve been there 4 or 5 times and there’s always something new to discover there! Can’t wait to go there again! We should plan a trip together!!

Krzysiek Filipiuk

ah, small, paved streets on one hand and the amazing street art on the other… something definitely to look in, when I’m back in the north!

I was loving all of the small little streets, and then you posted that photo off the river with all the modern buildings, and it threw me off! But it actually made me love this place even more. I love cities that offer nice sleek modern areas, but still preserve their old towns.

The best thing (well, one of many) about Vilnius is that the modern and old parts are divided very well and you can focus on just one of them, moving back in time in the old town without feeling the shadow of the skyscrapers on your back ;)

Danuta Starwars

Piekne, piekne miasto…

Sylwia Pietrzykowska

starówka ,okolice są warte obejrzenia oraz cmentarz na Rosie

Karol Werner

Poleciłbym coś, ale… byłem tam 1godzine :D

Marcin Wesołowski

Oooo, to może się przekonam i dam jeszcze jedną szansę temu miasto. Litwini to naród do którego nie pałam szczególną miłością.

Przekonaj sie koniecznie Wilno jest piekne ! :)

Pola Henderson

Bylam dawno, dawno temu i podobalo mi sie. Chcialabym pojechac znowu i zobaczyc zmiany.

Łukasz Kędzierski

przyda się, bo jakoś tak wyszło, że jeszcze tam nie byliśmy…

I’m bummed I didn’t hit up Vilnius when I was there last year! I visited Tallinn and Riga…I honestly don’t know why I didn’t make time for Vilnius because I enjoyed the others. Looking at your photos I’d probably like here too…St. Anne’s church is gorgeous!

ah, too bad you didn’t go there when you were around. What I like the most about Baltic capitals is that they all are so different from each other even if they are kind of similar! But since you enjoyed both Riga and Tallinn I guess you’d love Vilnius too! At least you have a reason to go back!

Vilnius looks like a great town! I would love to climb the tower for those views and the street art looks fantastic! The day trip to Trakai sounds great as well!

It really is great yet so underrated! Tallinn gets all the interests for the most beautiful Baltic capital (and it really deserves it) but Vilnius still might be my fave :)

Meg Jerrard

Totally agree that Central Europe is both fascinating and underrated – Eastern Europe as well. I would love to have the chance to explore Vilnius, I’ve heard really great things about the whole Baltic region. Thanks for the tips!

Then you should definitely plan a trip to this area! The sooner, the better as I assume the whole region will be discovered by crowds in two shakes!

Your photos of this city are fantastic. The historical buildings are extremely eye-catching, I think I would really enjoy wandering these streets.

Thank you! you’d definitely enjoy Vilnius, it’s just so charming!

Blondynka z Krainy Teczy

I love the streets – so beautifull.

I have to agree :)

Agnieszka Malonik Taggart

Przepiekna ta starowka, musze sie kiedys wybrac przy okazji pobytu w Europie

Elaine J. Masters

This part of Europe is such a mystery to me. I need to arrange a long visit and wander.

Definitely do that! It’s such an interesting area and sooo beautiful!

I am a HUGE street art fan! I love cities that have beautiful art everywhere. I need to make it to Vilnius!

Vilnius was actually one of the biggest street art surprises for me as the local scene is pretty exceptional there! You’d love it there for sure!

Anne Klien ( MeAnne)

This reminds me my amazing time in Lithuania last year….. one of the place I wanted to revisit such a beautiful place full of history.

Where have you been to Lithuania? So far I only visited Vilnius, Trakai and Kaunas but I’m already thinking of going back to see more of the country! It’s such an unknown gem of Europe, isn’t it?

Gina Zammit

The teapots in the alleyway are so charming!

They always make me smile :)

You’re right, I hadn’t seen much about Vilinus but from your pictures it looks absolutely charming.

It really is charming!! Too bad it doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves!

Sammi Wanderlustin'

I loved Vilnius! It was my favourite by far of all the places I visited, but so unknown still. The € didn’t make a great deal of difference, I don’t think to begin with, but probably will do soon. As with everywhere else. I didn’t make it to Trakai, it was pretty cold whilst I was there (-18c) but there is always next time. Vilnius I want to go back to with my boyfriend.

At least you have a reason to go back :) Both times when I was in Trakai the weather was pretty gloomy so I’d love to see the place in the sunshine for a change! I’m glad you share my love for Vilnius, seems like not many people know about it…

Uzupis – yeah, definitely my favourite! <3 And that wall with teapots :) I spent a while photographing it in amusement :)

I could go back to Vilnius over and over again just to hang out in Uzupis!! such a cool place!

We were just in Germany and the cities look very similar. I love the cobblestone and old world streets

It is a little bit similar. But with the troublesome European history everything is possible :) Where in Germany have you been to?

What a great post and collection of photos. Vilnius is so old world with historic charm. I have not been there but it is a place, a region, I would love to visit.

Thanks! I really hope you will be able to visit this part of the world soon, it’s really interesting!!

antonette - we12travel

Trakai looks lovely and so closeby, it would definitely be my pick for the day :-)

It’s the most perfect day trip you can ask for :)

Europę zostawiam sobie na emeryturę. Jakoś bardziej mnie ciągnie Azja, zwłaszcza południowo-wschodnia.

Z Europą, i to tą bliską, jest jeszcze o tyle fajnie, że można na szybki weekend wyskoczyć :)

Marek i Kasia

We have been there once for 3 days and it was amazing. We loved the food and all the history around. Great place!

It is great indeed! And the food is so good, I agree! :)

Chanel | Cultural Xplorer

Beautiful photos Kami and I love the murals on the walls :D

Thank you! :) The street art scene was so cool there!

Heather @ Ferreting Out the Fun

Perfect timing, I’m hoping to visit Vilnius next month!

Fingers crossed you will get there and I’m sure you’ll enjoy it then, it’s a beautiful city and spring time there must be great!

someday, someday…My travel dream for a long time. Pretty weird – I’ve been to several Lithuanian cities but never in Vilnius. Do my best to visit it next year.

This is definitely weird! You can easily go there even only for the weekend! Take a look at Simple Express, they have some really good offers every now and then and you can travel to Vilnius for a really cheap price!

Thank you, Kami, for so nicely describing my city :) if you are planing to come to Lithuania again – Klaipeda and Curonian Spit are the places not to miss. good luck in your future trips!

Thank you for your nice comment Jurga! I really would love to see those places in Lithuania, hopefully will do that soon!! Your country is really beautiful and unfortunately so underrated!

I was able to spend 4 days in Vilnius last year on a choir tour. Visited all of the Baltic States, and Poland, but Vilnius was my favorite city! So beautiful, and such friendly people! I visited many of the sites on your list, but my favorite was St. Catherine’s Church, which is now a concert hall. Absolutely beautiful! If you haven’t been, be sure to visit!

I can see why you liked Vilnius so much Andrea, it’s a wonderful place! I passed by St. Catherine’s Church few times but have never really been inside! Will go there next time I’m in Vilnius! Thank you for telling me about that place!!

Labas ir sveiki atvykę! (Hello and Welcome) – colorwithstacia

[…] Kami and The Rest of the World […]

Hello Kami, I found your blog as I am here in Vilnius right now (coming from Germany through Poland by a campervan) :) You have a really great blog, I am a German travel blogger and as well for female solo travel. Nice to meet you here and I’ll follow you from now on. What camera are you using? Your pictures are so nice! Wish you pleasant journeys and best wishes from Vilnius! Ute

Hello Ute! Thank you for your nice comment. I hope you enjoy your trip around Baltics, it’s such a great and underrated part of the world. I use Nikon D3200 so nothing really amazing but I still like it :) Happy travels!

Wow, wonderful photos and article! Also, Vilnius is not the only great city in Lithuania. I would definitely recommend you to visit Klaipeda. It’s an amazing city aside the Baltic Sea. Also, there is an awesome opportunity to have a trip in the Curonian Spit which is inscribed to the List of World Heritage. So, you’re very welcome to visit my homeland once again ;)

I’ve been hoping to go to Klaipeda and Curonian Spit for so many years! Hopefully this will finally happen this year!

HI KAMI , very insteresting review of Vilnius ! Im going to the city in a few days and will explore it according some of your recommendations, sure looks like a beautiful city to go around! regards from Argentina Juan

Hope you will enjoy Vilnius! Have a wonderful time there!!

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Kami and the rest of the world

Vilnius: From ‘90 to now

Check the calendar below for available dates.

Tour details

Pay what you want

Starts in May

Wed & Sun 3pm

2.5-3 Hours

Hales Market (Pylimo st. 58) The guide waits near the main entrance (stairs) from Bazilijonu street

• NB! Lots of walking involved!
• Explore Vilnius Stotis district before its dramatic transformation
• Investigate the cultural and societal shifts facing Vilnius
• Discover thought-provoking street art
• Hear the locals’ perspective on what it means to be Lithuanian in the 21st century

What to expect from Vilnius: From ‘90 to now

NB! If you wish to book a private walking tour within 48 hours, please send us an email to [email protected] first to check if we have any available guides in such a short notice.

Have you heard the news? Lithuania has made it into the top 20 happiest countries in the world! It's quite a journey from the turmoil and uncertainty of the '90s, and there's no better place to witness this transformation than in the Vilnius Stotis district.

Once considered a dangerous and rundown neighborhood, it's now undergoing a dramatic transformation. The area has become a hotspot, bustling with hipster bars, trendy cafes, alternative music, and a vibrant community of young people. And there are even greater infrastructure projects planned in the near future! But what lies beneath these shiny new facades? Is the rest of Lithuanian society changing at the same pace?

Join 2.5-hour 'Vilnius: From ‘90 to now' tour and explore contemporary Vilnius, its society and the cultural shifts we are facing. In the bustling Hales market, which symbolizes both tradition and change, we'll investigate the transition from a planned economy to capitalism. We'll reflect on the challenges and opportunities this shift has brought. As we continue the journey through unpolished Kaunas Street, we'll delve into the transformations that have shaped both the Stotis district community and Lithuanian society at large. In addition, we'll examine the impact of migration on our understanding of Lithuanian identity.

In this tour we won't shy away from the tough stuff either. While visiting the Open Gallery, adorned with thought-provoking street art, we'll tackle modern issues like social exclusion, poverty, and alcoholism. Moreover, we'll reflect on the growing disparities between Vilnius and the rest of Lithuania, exploring the implications of this divide on our shared future.

Don't miss the opportunity to meet our local guides who have grown up in independent Lithuania. Each of us comes from different backgrounds and has faced these cultural and societal shifts differently. Engage in discussions with us and other travelers about the challenges and opportunities communities face today.

Join 'Vilnius: from the '90 to now' tour, if you're keen to explore contemporary Lithuania and the cultural shifts our society is facing. We promise you a local perspective on what it means to live as a young person in Lithuania.

Please note that by booking Vilnius: from the '90 to now' free walking tour you consent to share your personal data to receive TripAdvisor or Google review solicitation email. We promise not to spam you and just to send your one email after the date you booked the tour :)

FAQ about 'Vilnius: from the '90 to now' Free Walking Tour 

It is best if you pre-book so that we can see the number of participants and know if we need more guides. Just click on the day you are interested in. However, people without bookings are also welcome to join on the spot.

Click on the date you are interested in on the calendar above. If you cannot select the date, it is not available. After you click on available date, the form will appear to fill your details to book the tour. If you want to book a private tour, please select PRIVATE on the top of the calendar.

'Vilnius: from '90 to now' free walking tour starts   from Hales market (Pylimo g. 58)  and finishes at Loftas(Švitrigailos g. 29)  . Look for the guide next to the main entrance to Hales market from Bazilijonu street.

We are professional licensed guides in Vilnius, so you are in safe hands :) We are all full of enthusiasm, love our job and want you to have a great time with us!

Yes, we never cancel tours because of the weather. Do not forget to bring an umbrella or dress appropriately and let's discover Vilnius together no matter what the weather is.

Our guides have yellow name tags or a yellow sign with the name of the tour, a yellow “Vilnius with Locals Tours” sign or a yellow "Vilnius With Locals Tours" bag. It is impossible to miss us :)

'Vilnius: from '90 to now' free walking tour is in English.

Pay-what-you-want is a popular tour concept all over the World. This tour doesn’t have a fixed price, you can decide yourself how much you pay your guide at the end of the tour. You can give 5 EUR to you guide or you can give 50 EUR whatever you feel the guide deserves :) 

We are not supported by the city, we can run these tours because of the travellers who like our idea and work. That’s why we always do our best to give the best tours we can.

On free tours we normally have groups from 10 to 20 people. 

There is a place to leave your luggage at the bus station ( Sodu g. 22 ) which is less than 10 min walk from Hales Market.

You can give the tip to your guide at the end of the tour cash or by card. Most of our guides have card readers!

If you have to leave the tour earlier, you can approach the guide and also give the tip cash or by card before leaving.

It is also possible to sent the tip online to our PayPal account [email protected]. 

DIRECTIONS TO THE MEETING POINT (HOTELS):

Comfort Hotel LT Rock'N'Roll Vilnius   |  Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva  |  Novotel Vilnius Centre  |  Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius  |  Hilton Garden Inn Vilnius City Centre

DIRECTIONS TO THE MEETING POINT (HOSTELS):

Downtown Forest Hostel & Camping  |  Jimmy Jumps House  |  Hostel Gate  |  Pogo  |  B&B&B&B&B  |  Mikalo House

AFTER THE TOUR:

MO  MUSEUM  |  Vilnius Bus Station   |  Vilnius Town Hall   |  Lunch

Meeting point

• Active Leisure
• Guided Tours
• Exclusive Activities
• Stag & Hen Parties
• Special Services

Discover Lithuania with us! Unforgettable trips to Vilnius, Trakai, Palanga, Curonian Spit, Druskininkai and other places in Lithuania

Alternative Vilnius Tour

Vilnius Alternative Tour

Vilnius is not only an open-air museum. It is also a modern capital, in which the life and traditions of dozens of peoples, cultures and modern subcultures are intertwined. During Alternative Vilnius Tour you can an overview the most unusual places in the Lithuanian capital. We will show you the places that you cannot see during standard sightseeing tours in Vilnius.

Why might this be of interest to you?

Are you planning a trip to Vilnius? Are you planning to see the most interesting places? Have you already seen the Vilnius Old Town and you want something alternative and modern? Then this tour is for you! We will plunge you into a completely different world and show those places where tourists cannot always be seen.

What will we see during the tour of alternative Vilnius?

There is no standard program on our Alternative Vilnius Tour. Why? Because we are guided by the request of the client, namely his wishes. We can show you:

– thematic places, for example, associated with subcultures, street art, or with one or another people or culture; – places where you can take the best photos on Instagram; – exclusive and secret places that not all locals know about; – interesting places in the vicinity of Vilnius.

During the tour you will learn many interesting facts that most of the city guests do not know about!

How can you organize an Vilnius Alternative Tour?

Just fill out the application on the Vilnius Relax website and give us all organizational chores. Indicate what you would like to see in Vilnius. After that we will organize the best route for you!

How much does a guided tour of Vilnius cost?

2-3 persons – 50/40 Eur/person; 4 persons – 35 Eur/person; 5-8 persons – 30/22 Eur/person; 9-15 persons – 20/12 Eur/person; 16-20 persons – 10 Eur/person; 21-25 persons – 7 Eur/person; 26-36 persons – 5 Eur/person; 37-45 persons – 4/3 Eur/person.

Note! For the organization of some routes, a transfer may be necessary, since the distances can be quite large. In some cases, you can rent bicycles and have a guided tour.

Additionally , you can order photo or video shooting services, as well as a shuttle service.

Traveling to Vilnius is a must in Lithuania. Vilnius is rightfully considered not only a pearl of the Baroque style, but also a modern capital with a diverse cultural life! Our team will give you a great opportunity to see all the most beautiful and interesting places!

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

• Guided tour (3 hours)
• Visiting unknown sights of Vilnius
• Booking services
• Minimum number of persons: 2
• Maximum number of persons: 45
• Additionally available: transfer, photo or video shooting.

SIMILAR SERVICES

SIGHTSEEING VILNIUS GUIDED TOUR

UZUPIS GUIDED TOUR

VILNIUS PANORAMIC TOUR

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50 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Vilnius

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Are you looking for things to do in Vilnius ? Dazzling travelers for decades with its historic Old Town, charming countryside nature, and fascinating historical resilience – Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania, has a little bit of everything.

A stroll through the picturesque Old Town is a step back in time (1387 to be exact!) as it’s known as one of the best preserved historic old towns in Northern, Eastern, and Central Europe. Vilnius is an incredibly walkable city that only deserves to be explored, whether on a walking or bike tour.

Walk past the stunning Cathedral Square to see local events take place or do a bit of people-watching. Head to the last remaining gates that formed the great wall that once enclosed the city from enemies.

Known as “the Jerusalem of the North” for its large Jewish community at the beginning of the 15th century, a stroll through the Jewish quarter is necessary to get the full spectrum of the Lithuanian history.

So pack your bags, and get ready to explore the next destination on your bucket list, Vilnius!

1 – Check out the impressive artwork and views at the Vilnius Cathedral & Bell Tower

Centered right next to the historic Old Town, the Vilnius Cathedral is a church dedicated to the saints Stanislaus and Ladislaus, dating back to the 19th century.

Besides being known as where the Grand Dukes of Lithuania held their coronation ceremony, the church is a house of beautiful art.

Inside, you’ll see many paintings between the 16th-19th centuries, from frescoes to various other religious artworks. Step in a bit further, and you’ll also see remnants of the church’s previous use as a pagan temple, like the original floor and altars.

Next, stop by the 57 meters tall bell tower for epic city views, including all of Cathedral Square down below.

2 – Take a stroll through the charming Old Town

Enjoy a walk through the Old Town of Vilnius, northern Europe’s most extensive and continuous medieval town, founded in 1387.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is an assortment of cultures, religions, and architecture that enchants visitors left and right with sights like Town Hall Square and the Gates of Dawn.

Discover unique sites like Vilnius University, the oldest Baltic education institution, on a walking tour! Stroll Gediminas Avenue and Pilies Street, and the restaurant-lined Vokieciu Street.

Afterward, pop into a store for some hand-crafted souvenirs, or sit in at a restaurant to sip on a beverage of a traditional Lithuanian drink like kvass, a low-alcohol drink, or coffee.

• old town walking tours

3 – Shop for local goods at Hales Market

Check out the fresh ingredients and wonderful food aromas at indoor Hales Market – Vilnius’ most prominent and oldest market!

Located in the heart of Old Town, spend a few hours looking through the food stall and checking out other items typically sold, like handcrafted home goods items.

The market is famous for selling authentic ingredients and organic produce and works closely with local farmers using best practices. Hungry? There are tons of cafes and restaurants to dine at to your heart’s content inside!

If market hopping is on your list of things to do in Vilnius, check out Kalvariju Market next! A cash-only, smaller local market overflowing with local vendors, local ingredients, and more.

4 – Stop and smell the roses at Bernardine Garden

Bernadine Garden is a breath of fresh air in central Old Town. The garden covers 9 hectares of plants and flowers of all shapes and colors, including a 400-year-old oak tree (the oldest in Vilnius!).

Also known as Sereikiškės Park, Bernadine Garden comes from the Bernadine monks who visited the garden. Bernadine Garden was officially opened to welcome them in the 15th century.

Since then, the garden has been a favorite place for locals to get together. Today you can stroll through the idyllic park with a beautiful square, giant fountains, a botanical garden, ponds and meadows, and much more.

Entry to the park is free, and opening hours are from 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM.

5 – Learn about the Lithuanian fight for freedom at the KGB Museum

Learn about the Soviet influence and the fight for freedom in Lithuania at the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights.

Divided into two floors, get an idea of the day-to-day life of those who lived through the war between 1940-1953. The museum is inside the former office of the KGB Deputy Chief, where locals were held captive if there was any suspicion of rebellion.

The KGB Museum is immensely impactful, engaging, and an excellent opportunity to learn about the 50-year Soviet regime with detailed exhibits, artifacts, and stories from those kept captive inside.

The museum is open every day except for Monday and Tuesday. Tickets are 6 euros per adult.

• walking tours in Vilnius

6 – Visit the important site of The Hill of Three Crosses

The Hill of Three Crosses is a famous monument in Klanai Park – an 8-minute drive from Old Town Vilnius. The symbolism dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries when a group of Franciscans died as martyrs on the hill. Today the crosses honor their deaths.

Nowadays, the monument has become a national identity amongst Lithuanians. Today, you can walk by the memorial and see it for yourself. Pass the monument during sunset, and the crosses will illuminate beautifully, and sometimes in different colors, to celebrate a holiday.

From the Hill of Three Crosses, you can get spectacular views of the Old Town, so don’t forget your camera!

7 – Check out St. Anne’s Church, the most famous church in Vilnius

Sitting close to the right bank of the Vilnia River is St. Anne’s Church, a church with Gothic architecture in red brick and stunning detail.

The 500-year-old church has a few interesting stories and legends, including gunshot holes on the walls.

Though the outside may be impressive, the inside isn’t as much. After the fires and war destructions, the interior has changed a lot.

However, it’s still worth going inside and checking out the remnants of the Baroque interior and the frescoes inside that have since been redone.

The church is free to enter anytime between Tuesday-Friday – 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM.

8 – Check out the royal digs inside the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania

Only a 2-minute walk from the Gedimina’s Tower is the 15th-century Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania .

The lavish palace was built as the home of the future Kings of Poland and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. However, it was demolished in 1801 after it was used for various other administrative purposes.

You can visit the modern, Renaissance-style Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, which was rebuilt in 2002 and completed in 2018. It sits today where the original once stood.

Inside, you’ll see archaeological remains of the original palace and rooms restored to their original medieval design. You’ll learn more about the day-to-day life and purpose of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania.

9 – Take in the stunning Lithuanian countryside on a Hot Air Balloon Flight

Enjoy the views of Vilnius and fly over the picturesque landscape of dozens of lakes, rolling hills,  and even the Trakai Castle on a magical hot air balloon ride!

Witness the beautiful views of Trakai, a beautiful historic town with a quaint lake right beside it. Take a peek at the Trakai Castle, which sits on its little island!

On your hot air balloon experience, you’ll be able to celebrate with a glass of champagne as the sun starts to set its rays on the beautiful Lithuanian countryside. When you book a hot air balloon experience, you will also receive roundtrip transportation from your hotel for your convenience.

The experience lasts around 2 hours.

• hot air balloon rides over Vilnius

10 – Experience the Trakai Castle, the only castle built on a lake in Eastern Europe

The famous Trakai Castle is a stunning piece of medieval architecture dating to the 14th century, situated on Lake Galvé, the deepest lake in Lithuania. Found on an island, the way to get to the castle is on foot using the bridge.

Inside the castle, you can discover some of the exhibitions which hold the history of the previous residents of the castle, the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. Get to know how they lived inside the Trakai Castle, how long they lived there, and peek at a few of their belongings.

Make sure to check out a tour from Vilnius, which includes a stop at the Paneriai Memorial Park, the sight of the Ponary massacre.

• Trakai Castle tours from Vilnius

11 – Explore the inside of the rich Užutrakis Manor

Visit the beautiful Užutrakis Manor , known as one of Lithuania’s most well-preserved mansions and parks. Complete with French-style interiors, dreamy terraces, and stunning views of the Trakai Castle from the estate.

The park is a stunning mix of antique sculptures, busts, and various plants and trees. To get to the mansion, the noble family used a boat to traverse Lake Galve rather than take the road to the estate on the peninsula.

The manor was restored recently to its glory days, and the park, with its French landscape touches, grew to 80 acres.

The mansion hosts some concerts and events, so check them out!

12 – Get panoramic views of Vilnius from Gediminas’ Tower

Sitting atop Gediminas Hill is the last bit of the defense castle called the Deminias Tower. Named after the founder of Vilnius, the Grand Duke of Gediminas, the tower dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries.

The legend says that he ordered the tower’s construction after he had a dream of a howling iron wolf, which signifies a strong capital city.

Check out the museum inside and the exhibitions that display artifacts from the tower, like art, items, and letter archives. Don’t forget to also check out the events hosted inside!

The Gediminas’ Tower is a favorite local spot to catch a stunning sunset and 360-degree views of Vilnius.

13 – Enjoy the great outdoors at Pavilniai Regional Park

Enjoy a scenic trek through the Pavilniai Regional Park, renowned for its beautiful natural landscape and sights.

Check out the Pūčkoriai Exposure, the highest exposure in Lithuania of 65 meters near the Vilnia River, and the Pūčkoriai Dam, a fascinating geological sight. You’ll see tons of hikers, walkers, people fishing, and even four-wheeled motorcycles in the distance, taking advantage of the park’s beauty on a sunny day.

Visit the fun Ribiskes Labyrinth inside the Pavilniai Regional Park. If you’re visiting in winter, Minsk Liepkalnis Hill is famous for skiing.

Book a mountain bike tour through the park, seeing more geological and historic sites at the park, with the guidance and instruction of your tour guide.

14 – Climb to the top of St. John’s Bell Tower

Tucked into the corner streets of Old Town is one of the most beautiful churches, St. John’s Church Bell Tower .

Aside from its beautiful Baroque architectural style, and stunning interiors, one of the highlights of visiting the church is the spectacular views from the bell tower.

You can climb the 193 original steps or take the elevator to the top of the tower for incredible views of Vilnius’ famous red roofs and curvy streets.

The bell tower is the tallest building in Old Town, reaching 45 meters high! You can find this must-see spot on Pilies street. Adult tickets start at 5 euros for adults and 3 for students.

15 – Take a look at the ancient texts inside Vilnius University

Explore the oldest university in the Baltics, Vilnius University , adorned in various architectural styles, from Baroque Gothic to Classical.

Perhaps one of the treasures inside the university is the library, as it’s one of the largest in Lithuania. The library predates the university, as the Jesuits founded it in 1570.

Visit the library , and look at some of the books inside, some as old as 400 years. Also, inside the library, you can find documents, archives, and other fascinating literature pieces.

Look at the ancient texts in the library, and look around at the impeccable ceiling, wall frescoes, and intricate chandeliers.

The library is 6 minutes away from Old Town.

16 – Learn about the early Jewish community at the Jewish quarter

Travel 8 minutes north of Old Town to explore the  “Jerusalem of the North.” In the early 15th century, Lithuania saw a rise in Jewish immigration, most settling in Vilnius.

Back then, there was an opportunity to grow in Vilnius for the members of the growing Jewish community. They built their neighborhood and even constructed their synagogue, which today is the Great Vilnius Synogague.

Today, you can roam the streets of the Jewish quarter and read some of the commemorative plaques and memorials set out around the streets.

You can deepen your knowledge of the Jewish quarter by booking an engaging tour of the Jewish quarter. Learn about remarkable Jewish community members and their life in Vilnius.

• Jewish tours in Vilnius

17- Wander inside The Church of St. Francis and St. Bernard

Look at the intricacies inside the Church of St. Francis and St. Bernard, even after years of changes.

The church was restored to its original glory in 1994, with a few items saved from the original church worth checking out.

The Bernadine Monks founded the Church of St. Francis and St. Bernard in the middle of the 15th century.

Be greeted by wood altars in late Baroque style and see brilliant examples of frescoes from the 16th century depicting Bernadine religious imagery. Look at the original cross and a replica of the Holy Steps directly from Jerusalem.

The church is 9 minutes from Old Town, and mass is available in English for those interested.

18 – Plan an escapade to Kaunas

Kaunas is a historical and picturesque city 1 hour and 20 minutes northwest of Vilnius. It is known for its medieval charm, fortresses, castles, and quaint streets. There are many things to do to get lost in Kaunas for the day!

Explore the streets of Old Town, checking out the differently mixed architectural styles, enchanting cobblestone streets, and dozens of shops and restaurants to tuck in for a pick-me-up.

Visit the Kaunas Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, a Gothic church from the mid-15th century, or stroll through The Kiemo Galerija – The Courtyard Gallery for a peek at modern art in Kaunas.

Take a train or bus to Kaunas, costing between 5-9 euros one way.

19 – See a holy image of St. Casimir at The Pink Church of St. Casimir

The Pink Church of St. Casimir owes its name to its slightly pink-tinged facade and the mix-match of different architectural styles.

Like many other churches, the pink church of St. Casimir underwent many changes, from fires to war, but today, it has been restored as a Catholic church to honor St. Casimir.

Step inside to see an interior as beautiful as the outside. The Baroque interiors showcase beautiful dark marble mixed with pink stonework. You can also see a few images of St. Casimir and an icon surrounded by silver.

Some locals believe the icon of St. Casimir, also known as “Three-Handed St. Casimir,” grants miracles, so don’t be shy to ask for a wish!

20 – Get trippy inside the Vilnius Museum of Illusions

Step into an alternate reality when you visit the Vilnius Museum of Illusions , from upside-down rooms, optical illusions, and other activities that blend science and fun like nowhere else.

Check out the exhibitions, where you can see interactive art, solve tricky riddles, see lights and shadows, and do funky science experiments. The exhibits are constantly changing with new activities, so there’s always something new to see!

Once you’ve explored, have a cup of coffee inside the funky 2D cafe, and don’t forget to take a selfie inside!

Tickets are available for purchase online, starting at 12 euros per adult. The museum is open every day of the week, beginning at 10:00 AM.

21 – Get on the Swing of Destiny at the Free Republic of Užupis

Stop by the unique district of Užupis – the smallest community 12 minutes away from Old Town that recently underwent an artful transformation.

The Free Republic of Užupis was a dodgy neighborhood in the early 90s. However, towards the end of the decade, it all changed when a group of artists got together to create an art space called in the community called Užupis Art Incubator.

Today, the colorful, artsy, and innovative district attracts visitors to check out the art scene of sculptures, paintings, and creative installations at the Užupis Art Incubator.  Locals also recommend swinging on the “Swing of Destiny” under the Užupis Bridge. While there, you’ll also hear about the legend of the Mermaid of Užupis.

22 – Take a walk to explore the Street Art scene

Vilnius has many art displays on almost every corner, from art sculptures to murals and funky arrangements.

You already know about Užupis being a hotbed for creatives and the best art scene. However, there are other places to scope out as you go through the city.

Check out the mural of Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin on the wall of the barbecue restaurant Keulė Rūkė called “Make Everything Great Again.”

Walk through the Graffiti Alley of Vilnius, also in Užupis, a walkway covered in different art mediums and colorful murals.

Check out the “Think” mural in the Old Town, an inspiring work of street art, or the #WALLSTHATREMEMBER – a mural dedicated to honoring the once-growing Jewish community.

23 – Take a tour of the historic Lukiškės Prison

Check out the interiors of the Lukiškės Prison , an active detention center from 1904 until it closed in 2019.

The prison was known to be the first prison to have different religious worship centers inside, as well as for keeping some of the worst political prisoners from Lithuania and surrounding countries.

The prison underwent a cultural transformation and recently opened as an art center with multiple works of art inside by local artists. Along with art galleries, you can also check out a concert inside, and grab a drink and snack, all while exploring the former prison.

Check the website to book your entry to the events inside, see what’s happening, or book a prison tour.

24 – Get wild at Zoopark

If you have kids, you should add a trip to the Zoopark to your list of things to do in Vilnius and learn more about the local ecology and wildlife.

With over 80 different animal species living at Zoopark, you’ll be able to see and learn more about the natural habitats of local animals and a few exotic animals. Additionally, you can book a guided zoo tour to enrich your experience and even feed a few animals their favorite food!

If you have kids, the guided tours are entertaining, as the guides will typically offer fun trivia throughout the experience! Tickets and tours are available on the zoo’s website.

25 – Take a peek at Lithuanian heritage at the National Gallery of Art

Get an expansive view of Lithuanian art and experience the works of art through the years at the National Gallery of Art , located only 9 minutes from Old Town.

Explore the many exhibitions, both permanent and temporary, dating back to the early 20th century to today.

Each piece is organized chronologically to follow Lithuania’s art timeline, making it a great experience to walk through. It feels like the artist paints the country’s history and society before your eyes!

Tickets to visit the art museum start at 8 euros per adult, but entry is free if you visit on the last Sunday of the month!

26 – Sit for a while at Town Hall

Check out Town Hall in the center of Old Town, an administrative Neoclassical architectural building that dates back to 1432. The Town Hall is where Lithuanian government officials meet with other world leaders when visiting Lithuania.

The Town square on any other day is a lovely place to enjoy, and sit at one of the nearby cafes or restaurants and do some people watching.

On some occasions, Town Hall square is famous for street performers, from acrobatics to musicians.  Locals recommend taking a break at a cafe in the square to relish the architecture.

Other activities that take place outside of Town Hall are outdoor markets and different types of cultural festivals.

27 – Walk through the Hill of Crosses

Located a little under 3 hours north of Vilnius is the fascinating site of the Hill of Crosses . When you get there, you’ll be surprised to see a scene of many crosses placed in one place.

The tradition is that families place each cross for a loved one who passed, and it is a tradition that started as early as the early 1800s.

The practice began as an act of faith and a way for the families to honor their recently departed. The ceremony is said to have roots within the Šiauliai religion. For them, the cross is a symbol of love.

To see the site thoroughly, book a tour of the Hills of Crosses site from Vilnius!

• Hill of Crosses tours from Vilnius

28 – Take a tour inside the Presidential Palace

Book a tour to explore the Classical-style Presidential Palace .

It is a beautiful example of Classical style architecture built in the 18th century as the residence of a Lithuanian nobleman. However, today, it’s the official office of the President of Lithuania.

The free palace tours, typically between 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, are on Saturdays and Sundays. Also open on Saturdays is the park near the palace. Admission into the palace is free.

Stick around for the flag hoisting ceremony every Sunday at noon for 5-10 minutes. This event commemorates the Lithuanian Armed Forces, appearing in full uniform. There is also a Changing of the Guards happening daily at 6:00 PM.

29 – Dress up for a night at the Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre

Bring your best outfit to attend a show to remember at the Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre !

After the first ballet concert in 1636 in the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, Vilnius became one of the first European cities to host this type of entertainment.

The Lithuanian National Opera House then opened in the 18th century to host many more ballet performances inside its Ballet Theatre, including opera concerts and even hosting film premieres.

Browse the performance calendar and dates and select a show that catches your eye! Tickets can be purchased online or by phone.

Pro tip: Book your tickets 14 days before the performance date.

30 – Admire the details at the Gates of Dawn

The Gates of Dawn was originally part of the city’s defensive wall, dating back to 1503, comprised of 10 gates. The only one standing is the now-famous Gates of Dawn, which has become a sacred space to gather for many locals.

Walking by the Gates of Dawn, you’ll notice a beautiful image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a cross at the top of the gate, and an overall light blue tone with gold details.

The image of the Virgin Mary is known worldwide across several religions; therefore, you may bump into a crowd when visiting.

The gates are located only a 7-minute walk from Old Town.

31 – Appreciate the art on Literatai Street

Lovers of art and curiosities must visit Literatai Street, only a 6-minute walk from Old Town, overflowing with numerous expressions of art using different mediums, from painting, woodwork, and glass sculptures.

It’s believed that the Lithuanian poet Adomas Mickevičius lived on this street in the 19th century. However, it wasn’t until 2008 that a group of local artists paid homage to Mickevičius, other artists, and the arts by adding different art forms throughout the street.

Since 2011, Literatai Street has become one of the most visited avenues in Vilnius to observe so much public art and learn about its inspiration. In addition, the walls are updated with new art, so visit it often, even if you’ve seen it before!

32 – Take a close look at 16th-century war artillery at City Bastion

The City Bastion is a museum showcasing the interesting history of the weapons and defense tactics used by the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

The museum is inside a replica of what the defense fortification would have looked like. It shows many examples of the different types of artillery used during the 16th century to fend off foreign enemies in Lithuania and most of Europe.

Walk through the brick tunnel hallways, glance at the cannons, and learn about the difficulties of war.

The museum tickets start at 6 euros per adult and 3 euros for children. The museum is only a 7-minute walk from Old Town.

33 – Learn about the currencies of the world at the Money Museum of the Bank of Lithuania

Learn about the history of money and the world’s different currencies inside the fascinating Money Museum of the Bank of Lithuania .

Dig deep into the more than 50 exhibits, each showing different types of currencies worldwide, from the early days of trading to the future of money.

See the history of the euro and why it became the main currency of more than a few European countries. Then, visit the interactive and digital displays of money, including fun money games.

Don’t forget to check out the record-breaking and largest coin pyramid, made of 1,00,935 coins using Lithuanian one-cent coins.

Entry is free to the museum.

34 – Bike tour your way around Vilnius

You could walk around Vilnius, but how about biking it instead?

Book yourself on the next bike tour to explore the historic Old Town of Vilnius, plus a few other parts a little outside the historic city center, fast on a bike tour.

You’ll ride behind a knowledgeable and local tour guide as you pass by the famous landmarks from Gedimino Avenue to the artsy Literatai Street, the Gates of Dawn, and more.

If you’re up for a different biking adventure, take a mountain bike tour to Pavilniai Regional Park for incredible nature views and slightly rugged paths. On your way to the park, you’ll stop by the artsy district of Uzupis.

• Bike tours in Vilnius

35 – Get to the top of the TV Tower of Vilnius

Reach new heights when you visit the top of the tallest structure in Lithuania, the TV Tower of Vilnius .

The 1974 TV tower was built to be a television transmission antenna, but today hosts several attractions and activities to check out inside.

Start with the panoramic views from the 19th-floor observation tower. If you’re visiting on a clear day, you’ll be able to see the best views of Old Town and the countryside near Vilnius. Also up there is the Milky Way restaurant, which serves primarily European food.

The Fight for Freedom Museum shares information on the Lithuanian fight for independence and is also inside the tower.

Entry inside ranges between 11-14 euros per adult.

36 – See how the different classes of Lithuanians lived at The New Arsenal of National Museum of Lithuania

Visit The New Arsenal of National Museum of Lithuania . This 2-floor museum encompasses Lithuanian cultural and ethnic artifacts, from archived documents to furniture pieces that belonged to the Duchy of Lithuania and much more.

Learn about Lithuanian history uniquely through items and imagery of what life was like between the 18th-20th century, not only for the noble class but also for the everyday laborer. Take a look at folk clothing, art, and typical items that decorated the homes of Lithuanians.

The museum is a short 5-minute drive from Old Town, and tickets start at 5 euros for adults and 2,50 euros for students. The museum is open every day except Mondays.

37 – Take a tour of the Scenarios of Chernobyl HBO Mini-series

Did you know that the HBO mini-series called Chernobyl was filmed in Vilnius?

To date, it’s considered the most significant film project that’s taken place in Lithuania. In preparation, various neighborhoods where the mini-series was filmed transformed back to the Soviet era that Lithuania experienced.

Want to get a behind-the-scenes look at the mini-series? Check out the various tours hosted by a few locals that will show you the neighborhoods where the filming takes place and a bit about the real Soviet history and the filming process of the mini-series.

Check out the tour list, each granting a unique view of this real era that affected Ukraine and Lithuania.

38 – Stop by the other Churches

The 14th-century Holy Trinity Church is in the heart of Old Town. The church’s interiors reveal stunning frescoes and an ornate, gold-detailed altar.

Situated close to the Gates of Dawn is the Church of St. Theresa, overflowing with fascinating stories and sights to see. Walk near the Crucified sculpture and look at the legs, which have faded from the kisses it receives from its devotees. The church also has impressive artwork inside and even a few crypts underneath.

Visit what is known as one of the most beautiful Baroque churches in Vilnius, the Church of St. Peter and Paul in the Antakalnis neighborhood. Inside you’ll find a variety of sculptures decorating the interior.

39 – Attend an event at Medininkai Castle

Medininkai Castle is a historic defense fortification built in the first half of the 14th century. However, the castle’s impressive exterior is no match for the many activities and fun attractions to see inside!

From musical performances to interactive castle games and dozens of cultural events, there always seems to be something happening at the castle worth exploring.

Undoubtedly, one of the main attractions is the observation deck, which gives optimal views of the Medininkai neighborhood and around the castle itself.

What’s more, the castle is near one of the oldest roads used as a trading route between Russia and Lithuania. Learn about all this and more when you stop by the Medinikai Castle!

40 – Stimulate your mind with the art inside MO Museum (Modern Art Museum)

Mostly housing modern and contemporary art, Mo Museum in Vilnius is one of Lithuania’s most significant private art collections, housing over 5,000 pieces.

Most art pieces are thought-provoking, with a select group of paintings considered entirely rejected by the Soviet authorities for various reasons. Today, many paintings inside are art pieces that have circulated the world for their message, often resonating as well as they did when they were first created.

Step inside, and check out upcoming events and gallery displays at the museum. Tickets can be purchased online, starting at 11 euros. Make sure to buy tickets at least 30 minutes before the museum closes to have sufficient time to explore the pieces yourself.

41 – Pay your respects at the Monument to Frank Zappa

Of course, visiting the Monument to Frank Zappa has to be one of the most interesting things to do in Vilnius, as the famous busts of the American musician hold a fascinating story.

Locals say Frank Zappa didn’t have a direct connection to Vilnius or Lithuania entirely. However, his contemporary, free-form musical styles inspired many Lithuanians, and Zappa accidentally became a symbol of freedom for Lithuanians.

The bust was created and unveiled in 1995, after the death of Zappa, and today, many locals look to the bust with fondness. The figure serves as a reminder of freedom, especially post-Soviet occupation.

You can find the bust 12 minutes away from Old Town.

42 – Go to an outdoor concert at Vingis Park

Vingis Park is a popular spot amongst locals, as the park hosts the most extensive outdoor concerts, and other special events in Vilnius.

When the green space isn’t hosting a show, the park is an ample open space with walking paths for cyclists, runners, and skaters to enjoy a moment in nature. In the summers especially, the park becomes the favorite local spot to enjoy a picnic with friends.

Also, in the summers, the park opens up an amusement park with a small zoo, and if you’re up for it, you can rent some sports equipment to enjoy the park even more.

The park is dotted with adorable lunch and coffee shops nearby as well!

43 – Learn about the fight for Lithuanian independence at The House of Signatories

Visit The House of Signatories , which was the backdrop of the moment in which the Act of Independence of Lithuania was signed in 1918.

Inside the House of Signatories, you’ll see examples of what the independence of Lithuania brought back to the country’s people, from speaking their language to using symbols that represent the country.

Check out the exhibits and objects, diving deep into the fight for independence with interactive technology.

Guided tours are available in English and can be arranged ahead of time via email for an additional price.

You can buy your tickets in person or online, which starts at 4 euros per adult. The museum is open every day except for Mondays.

44 – Spend a day visiting other fascinating Museums

Learn about the history of toys, specifically dating back to the 19th-20th century, at the Toy Museum . See a collection of Lithuania’s oldest toys, with original and replica toys.

Train enthusiasts, check out the Railway Museum of Lithuania, which covers the history of trains in Lithuania. The museum has an indoor exhibit with examples of train parts, while the Outside has real-life examples of historic trains.

The Church Heritage Museum combines religious art with Lithuanian culture. See the exhibits with various documents, art, and religious artifacts belonging to some of Lithuania’s most influential churches.

Visit the Energy and Technology Museum to look at the future of industrial machinery utilizing solar and wind power to create an alternative energy source.

45 – Browse the books inside Martynas Mažvydas National Library of Lithuania

Visit the Martynas Mažvydas National Library of Lithuania to see different archives, documents, and artifacts that create the written history of Lithuania.

The library is 14 minutes away from Old Town by car. It is a popular place to visit because of the amount of information inside and how much it spans different areas of Lithuanian identity.

From education to science and economy, it’s a library that stores all of this information to educate the public.

Step inside to see the different activities to encourage locals and visitors to learn about Lithuanian culture and information. There are activities for children and adults, from free guided tours to heritage events and hands-on activities for children.

46 – Step on the Stebuklas for good luck

Take your spin and wish for your desires to come true when you spin on the lucky “Miracle” tile!

Located in the heart of Old Town in Cathedral Square is the “Miracle” Tile that locals and tourists believe bestows good luck upon those who visit it.

Spinning on the tile for good luck has gained more popularity with time and the internet. You’ll know you found it if you see a large crowd huddled near a tile!

The belief stems from the Soviet occupation of Lithuania and other countries. In 1989, the largest human chain was created across several nearby countries, beginning near the Stebuklas tile.

The brown tile itself says Stebuklas meaning Miracle in Lithuanian.

47 – Get your tickets to attend The Christopher Summer Festival

Visit Vilnius during the 2-month music festival called The Christopher Summer Festival. The concerts occur throughout Vilnius and are the country’s most significant musical event.

The genres of music at the festival range anywhere from classical to jazz and rock and electronic music, so there’s genuinely a genre for everyone!

Aside from different sounds, you can expect international musicians to take on the festival from flamenco to fado.  Concerts take place in some of the most beautiful spaces in Vilnius, from cathedrals to riverside outdoor areas.

The festival’s central theme is diversity in sounds and musical genres as a way of social inclusion.  The festival takes place from July to August, so don’t miss it if you can!

48 – Do a refreshing Beer Tasting

Sip on the best brews of Vilnius on a beer-tasting tour! Travel around the neighborhoods near Old Town and step inside the best bars and pubs serving local beer while learning about local drinking customs.

Try the most famous beer in Lithuania, Tanker Father Midnight, and learn about some of the exciting legends surrounding beer drinking in Lithuania straight from the bartenders and pub owners.

Learn about the process of making local beer, see how it’s changed throughout the years, and sample a few of Lithuania’s traditional and new beers. The tours last anywhere between 1-3 hours.

Join a group of like-minded travelers, and explore this unique (and refreshing) side of Vilnius!

• beer tasting in Vilnius

49 – Plan to hit up the best bars

Make your way to the “Beer Library,” Alaus Bibloteka , an infinite source of the best beers and cocktails you could ask for, from local drinks to international favorites. The “librarians” will happily help you decide on your drink from the detailed menu.

SOMM is the place where wine lovers get together. Located in Old Town, SOMM delivers not only a menu of over 400 wines but a great food selection to choose from. Allow the help of the in-house sommeliers to help you create the best food and wine combo.

Looking for something trendy? Check out Distilerija and Youngs Club , offering exquisite drinks (Distilerija is known for their whiskey!), snacks, and a long evening ahead of dancing.

50 – Devour local delicacies at the best Restaurants

Share a traditional meal at Džiaugsmas , voted one of the best restaurants in Lithuania. Enjoy biting into local and organic ingredients in dishes like Cepelinai (potato dumplings with minced meat).

Check out Ertlio Namas and Senoji Trobele and try classical old European dishes, some of which stem from the recipe books of the country’s noble class. Try a four-course dinner, or go all in with the 6-course dinner with an exquisite wine pairing fit for a king.

RoseHip is the perfect eatery for vegans and vegetarians, serving plant-based burgers and other hearty dishes made with the freshest plant-based ingredients.

For an authentic Lithuanian gastropub experience, check out Šnekutis for a sip of Lithuania’s best beers and traditional dishes.

How to get to Vilnius?

The main airport you’ll arrive at is Vilnius International Airport. From there, you can take a few buses that will take you to Old Town.

The best way, however, to ensure your transport to your hotel is to book an airport transfer ! Arrive well knowing that your airport transfer is waiting for you instead of looking for other public transport.

Where to stay in Vilnius?

Check out Grotthuss Boutique Hotel Vilnius , in the heart of Old Town. A mix of historic and modern, the clean rooms at this hotel is one of the things past guests enjoyed the most. Guests can enjoy the complimentary airport transfer with their stay!

Book a night at Artis Centrum Hotels , offering guests a hearty complimentary breakfast and free airport transfer. Try some traditional Lithuanian and European dishes and drinks at the on-site restaurants and replenish your energy with a treatment at the spa inside the hotel.

Stay at Old Town Trio , a beautiful and minimalistic hotel in the historic Old Town! Be a few moments away from a few central sites like the Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theater, Gediminas’ Tower, and more.

Check out Domus Maria , a previous monastery-turned-hotel with all the modern amenities for a comfortable stay and classical furnishings.

• best hotels in Vilnius

Visiting Vilnius on budget?

Get the most bang for your buck while traveling Vilnius, and book a free walking tour of the city! Walk to all the significant landmarks, passing through some main avenues and charming corners. Ask about the artsy districts, and pass by a few murals!

View local life as you pass the markets and restaurants, and ask your tour guide for a few recommendations!

Where to go next?

Warsaw is a city full of history with a modern twist. Walk through the Multimedia Fountain Park, decked out in 295 LED lights, or take an old-school stroll through the charming historic Old Town.

Walk through the long shopping avenue, Dlugi Targ, in Gdańsk, Poland, taking in the lovely architecture of the colorful houses lining the street. Climb to the top of the Main Town Hall for panoramic views of Gdańsk.

Feel enchanted by the art inside the Musee Art Nouveau in Riga , Latvia. Climb to the top of the Soviet-style building, the Latvian Academy of Sciences, for epic city views!

Jump over to Tallinn , Estonia, and get on a scenic Ferris wheel ride on the Skywheel of Tallinn. Then, go shopping for local crafts at Telliskivi Creative City.

Step inside the quaint and modern Temppeliaukion Church in Helsinki . Afterward, peek at the food and craft stalls at Market Square.

Final thought

From a bustling art scene to historic churches, and a variety of unique museums to visit, it’s safe to say that Vilnius surprises even the most seasoned traveler with numerous activities to do!

We hope you enjoyed our list of the best things to do in Vilnius and that you make it to the capital city of Lithuania soon.

Happy travels!

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Looking for unusual / alternative sightseeing in Vilnius - Vilnius Forum

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Hello friends,

My friend and I will be visiting Vilnius for the first time May 1-3. Of course we want to check out the traditional sights like the beautiful Old Town, St. Anne's Church, Castle Hill, etc.

However, I'm also interested in seeing "Alternative Vilnius" and would appreciate your suggestions. Some of my interests are - Graffiti and street art, dive bars, relics from the soviet occupation, punk rock clubs, abandoned or re-purposed factories, etc.

A few places that sound interesting to me are: KGB Museum, Uzupis, and Snekutis Bar.

If anyone has more suggestions or comments about the places above, I would be very grateful.

Thanks a lot!

Uzupis may have been "alternative" a few years ago, but it is now firmly on the tourist trail. Not to say you shouldn't visit, but don't expect that you are seeing some "unusual" part of Vilnius. Actually, I would recommend you visit the area.

The Frank Zappa memorial should be on your list. There's not much to it - and if you don't look carefully, you'll miss it. Zappa had nothing to do with Lithuania - the little statue of him was put up after Lithuania gained its independence in the 1990s, as a test of free expression under the new government. There is some graffiti on the wall nearby. It will take you longer to get there than you will spend at the site itself. On the other hand: it's pretty cool that there's a Frank Zappa statue in Vilnius, isn't it?

A much more substantial site outside of town is the huge Antakalnis Cemetery in the woods. It is filled with interesting grave markers, many of them several centuries old, and several areas devoted to war dead in various eras. The cemetery is reachable by bus from the center of town and about a 15 minute walk from the bus stop (which is how I did it).

Thank you, Andrew, for the good suggestions! Regarding the cemetery - was there anything tricky about taking the bus there? Can you just buy the bus ticket from the driver, or do you need to buy the bus ticket in advance from a kiosk or shop? And do you happen to remember which bus stop is the closest to the cemetery? Thanks again!

I bought a multi-day bus pass at the airport the day I arrived from a little convenience store at the airport, so I didn't have to worry about bus tickets. Sorry, I don't remember whether/how you would buy individual tickets or whether you can buy them on board. The bus system seemed reliable and easy enough to use.

You can use Google Maps ahead of time on a regular computer to do the same thing, basically - it knows the Vilnius bus system. So it would tell you various bus options from the center of town to the cemetery and show you how to walk from the bus stop to the cemetery. (And give you options for different bus numbers.) You could print that map out ahead of time, have the name of the stop and its location. But if you could bring a smart phone and do what I did, that would make it easier!

I don't know that a day pass or multi-day pass for the bus system is needed for Vilnius or Tallinn - it's easy enough to walk most places other than the cemetery in Vilnius. I bought the passes anyway just to save my feet, because I still did lots of walking, and the passes weren't expensive. Riga is bigger than the other two cities and more spread out, so a bus really makes more sense to get from place to place.

I agree with Andrew that Uzupis is not that alternative anymore. Although, if you go a bit deeper into it, if you go up the hill, there's a hidden hill with great view and all the houses look more like a village than a part of the capital city of an EU country. There's also a cemetary in Uzupis http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/what-to-see/places-to-visit/places-of-interest/bernardine-cemetery/?lang=en . It's an old one and it's kind of abandoned now. You might find that interesting. You can just walk there, no need for public transport.

You can also just visit some district of Soviet block apartments. Try the area around the TV tower (the tower itself is also an interesting building). But to get there you need to go by public transport or just take a taxi.

Check out Šnipiškės district, there are many old wooden houses there that are surrounded by newly built skyscrapers. Not far from there there's also a local famous Soviet building called Hall of concerts and sport (Koncertu ir sporto rumai in Lithuanian). You can see some of it's photos here http://www.15min.lt/naujiena/aktualu/lietuva/vilniaus-koncertu-ir-sporto-rumu-istorija-kaip-jie-virto-griuvena-56-638451 Although the article is in Lithuanian and it's about the building's reconstruction, it has quite a few photos.

Check out the area around bus and train stations for street art. We have a continuous project here called Vilnius street art festival where both local and foreign artists contribute to Vilnius becoming more colourful. Their website is not working at the moment, but you can find some of their works on their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/VilniusStreetArtFestival/

Even the old town has a lot of good spots for alternative shots. There are all kinds of abandoned courtyards or churches that were closed during the Soviet times and are still closed today. Try googling Augustijonu Baznycia in Vilnius (Augustijonai church in Vilnius), to see one of those churches. Check out the alternative tour ( http://www.vilniuswithlocals.com ) in Vilnius, you will enter places that many foreigners don't manage to find themselves in English. It's also a lot about street and all kinds of random statues.

One more thing about getting around here. Vilnius is not too big, it's easy to walk to most places. You can also just rent a bike to getting to more distant areas. In general, at least the centre of Vilnius is becoming a beautiful old town. If you want something totally different it might be worth going to some smaller towns or villages.

By the way, the castle hill that you mentioned among the traditional sights is closed at the moment.

just to add a few places that might interest you:

- the oldest cemetery Rasos, where the famous persons were buried:

http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/what-to-see/places-to-visit/places-of-interest/rasos-cemetery/?lang=en

- Literatu street

http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/what-to-see/places-to-visit/places-of-interest/literatai-street-2/?lang=en

- Vilnius talking statues, the project you can use your mobile for:

http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/what-to-see/routes/vilnius-talking-statues/?lang=en

Vilnius tourism information website is quite good and informative and you can find a lot of useful information.

Another option to see a different Vilnius is to go to Hales market, the place selling meat, dairy, fruits, flowers and all other stuff:

http://www.halesturgaviete.lt/en/

If in Uzupis stop for a beer in Spunka:

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g274951-d8746427-Reviews-Spunka-Vilnius_Vilnius_County.html

Using public transport is easy, you can buy the ticket from the driver, 1 euro.

Maybe i misunderstood, but didn‘t OP ask about alternative objects, that is, the ones which are not regular ones? Like “graffiti and street art, dive bars, relics from the soviet occupation, punk rock clubs, abandoned or re-purposed factories, etc”?. I‘m not sure what does “re-purposed factory” mean, that is, it‘s no longer abandoned, just a regular building or what? By “abandoned factory” i imagine that so called “urban exploration” was meant, probably without much expectations. Or am i misunderstanding?

Generally, abandoned buildings (like Concert Hall) are not the objects of “urban exploration“ because they are safeguarded in one or other way. When that Concert Hall was still operating we climbed up onto the roof during the concert and found a hatch above the stage, well it was fastened with metal chain from the inside, and we didn‘t have a hacksaw... I suspect now it is impossible to climb up, you will be detected by security cameras. Those “Locals” do not offer tours there either. What they offer is the reasonable route that combines regular tourist routes with some shortcuts that only locals know (usually know well). Not bad. And i understand that OP is not asking about that, no?

For graffiti one can start from 54.671991, 25.287414 , say, starting from the train station and proceeding that street downhill (more convenient than other way round). Graffiti of comrade Trump and colonel Putin, i guess, is still in tact there. I don‘t see it every day, just hope that nothing happened to it. Also, some graffiti by Os Gemeos.

Graffiti on the former taxi fleet building with the writting about the 15 min fame can be seen at 54.666606, 25.272633 if you look south. So if you go FROM the airport you have to look backwards then. So these are famous graffiti, along with the one near Zappa sculpture.

If “dive bars“ mean “disreputable bars”, well, better go to Naujoji Vilnia and visit any cafe or bar, i try to avoid this district. Because it is far from where i live. I think others (including foreigners) can confirm that in Naujoji Vilnia district everything is disreputable, even when it‘s not.

Relics from soviet occupation... This one can be found literally everywhere. No need to go anywhere. Stand where you are, look any direction and you‘ll see the relics of soviet occupation. Just understand what you see. I‘m talking about Vilnius. Vilnius air port building is a soviet relic. The building is a dual one – the old part was built soon after WWII, the new part was designed and almost completed before the “perstroika”, in eighties. The train station is not, it is an old building, not a soviet one. But the “square” in front of it is the soviet relic, just the statue of comrade Stalin is absent. The square was designed for that statue. Well, gaps between the buildings in the old town or the insertions of modern buildings between the old buildings in the Old Town – these are consequences of soviet bombing and firing at the end of WWII. The trend was to fire first, and only then enter the town to see whats left. So gaps are well visible. Some are restored, some not. It makes certain effect on eyes when you look around. Some sort of sense of unpredictableness.

Punk rock clubs, well, not exactly but 2 ones come to mind – Kablys (https://www.facebook.com/kablysvilnius/ ) and Metro (https://www.facebook.com/metroclublt-325240770534/ , coordinates 54.686694, 25.273015) . Both are in central districts of Vilnius.

Abandoned factories. Only abandoned bunkers come to my mind, those in Antakalnis, and actually those at the foothill of “Akropolis hill”. Genuine bunkers of Vilnius Entrenched Camp. So not factories. There are re-purposed factories, well, for example the renovated business block in the New Town district, which originally was constructed before soviets but during soviet times it was converted into a well known top-sectret military enterprise PO-Box-555, that is, a factory of radio electronic devices. Now there are at least several hotels/hostels, cafes, etc. Buildings still intact. Some renovated so that one can suspect that such a sleek buildings could not be built in soviet times. There are sveral more such kind of factories or enterprises, but what was meant by “re-purposed factories etc” ?

As for cemeteries... are they alternative objects??? :) . There are several old cemeteries, not so far from each other, but they are old regular ones. Alternative would be, i guess, a Purgatory or a phisical entrance to it... Would be tough but probably risky...

Finally, a physical ticket for 1 ride in public transport is to be bought from the driver directly (and then stampped).

I thought Naujoji Vilnia doen't have this bad fame anymore :D I used to live there. you don't need to go to Naujoji Vilnia to go to bar, they are not different from the ones close to Kalvariju market and from Kalvariju market you can at least take taxi when you want to escape. But you can come to Naujoji Vilnia for factories, they were quite a few there during Soviet era, some of them are probably possible to visit (not sure if legally, butin one there was some building materials shop few years ago, don't know if still). these factories were mostly located on Pramonės street (n. 3, n. 49, n. 97 and n. 141). None of them id having its primary function, but I think some may be rented for some smaller companies like the shop I have mentioned.

There are also two older factories close to Naujoji Vilnia. One is cannon factory: http://www.pbb.lt/2014/07/10/puckoriu-patranku-liejykla/

it is located on the walking path in Pūčkoriai, so you can combine visit to it with nice walking in the forest and see highest in Lithuania exposure. I was in that cannon factory last spring, it was still possible to go inside, not checked after.

there is also paper factory nearby: http://pamirsta.lt/kuckuriskiu-popieriaus-fabrikas/

I have never been inside as it is closed actualy, but as you see some people don't bother about fences :)

adding to the bad fame of Naujoji Vilnia, there is a psichiatric hospital. nothing special, you can walk around it, there is a park, if weather is good you can see some young people drinking beer there (alcohol consumption is prohibited in public places, but...)

Many thanks Andrew, RadE444, endis, tadasmm, and Cloud Nymph for all the great, detailed suggestions! I really appreciate everyone taking the time to respond to my post. I'm putting together a Google Map right now so I don't miss anything. Thank you all again for your help! :-)

Also you can spend a day in a Gruto parkas. It's outside of Vilnius near Druskininkai - 130 km. http://grutoparkas.lt/en_US/about-us/

Check out "gatves gyvos" (living streets) on Facebook, they are doing regular non-profit tours to abandoned places, objects and quarters. They even published a book recently.

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Vilnius Hotels and Places to Stay

The 15 Best Things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania

Hidden away on the Baltic edge of Europe, Vilnius is fast becoming a tourist hotspot in the continent’s northeast. The Lithuanian capital, with its petite population of 600,000, might pale in comparison to the size of other European cities, but don’t worry because there are almost too many things to do in Vilnius!

History is always top of the itinerary in Vilnius. The city dates back to at least the 13th century AD when it was founded by the earliest Lithuanian monarchs as a trading post and fortress on the confluence of the rivers Neris and Vilnia. 

It soon became the capital of the Kingdom of Lithuania, then the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, and was one of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth’s central cities for centuries (which in the 17th century was one of Europe’s largest empires).

Find out more with a tour of the Old Town, which is a tapestry of medieval architecture and baroque beauty. Visit the capital’s glorious Catholic churches, delve into the past at the Old and New Arsenals, and make the hike to Gediminas Tower, where you can look out across the city from one of its oldest structures. 

Fill up on a food tour of Vilnius (have you ever tried a Zeppelin?), learn about the communist era at the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, and then explore the quirkier side of the city with a walk around the self-declared Republic of Uzupis. 

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to begin. That’s why we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Vilnius for you. Stick to these fun and unique Vilnius bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this beautiful Baltic capital!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to do in Vilnius 

1. take a walking tour of the old town.

A walking tour is one of the best ways to introduce yourself to a new city, and there’s no better way to discover Vilnius’ Old Town than with a guided stroll.

The Old Town’s history dates back centuries, and with centuries-old buildings to match, it’s no real surprise that this historic part of Vilnius has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A free walking tour starts from the Gediminas Monument in Cathedral Square every day at 10:30 am. It’s tips based, so you’ll only pay what you believe the tour was worth at the end of it. 

You’ll start by learning about the city’s medieval origins, and you’ll see where the first inhabitants founded the earliest settlement in the area around Cathedral Square. You’ll visit the Presidential Palace, Town Hall Square, Vilnius University, and other important Vilnius attractions as you explore what is the largest old town in Northern Europe.

Along the way, you’ll hop into catholic and orthodox churches alike, you’ll be awed by the diversity of architectural styles – baroque, gothic, renaissance, and many more styles sweep through the Old Town – and you’ll even have a look inside Uzupis, the city’s most unusual district (more on that later!). 

Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be on your feet for at least 2.5 hours as you uncover the secrets of Vilnius’ gorgeous Old Town.

2. Take a Peek Inside Vilnius Cathedral 

One of the best sights in Vilnius is the cathedral, so don’t forget to take a peek inside when you’re in the square. Vilnius Cathedral towers above Cathedral Square, and it’s one of the grandest, most beautiful, and most historic buildings in the city. 

You’ll love the unorthodox neoclassical design. Tall Greco-Roman columns greet you as you walk up the steep steps leading to the grand entranceway. This is where the Grand Dukes of Lithuania were crowned in centuries past, and even decades of communist rule in the 20th century couldn’t stop locals from revering this religious icon.

The history of Vilnius Cathedral is long. It’s thought that there was a pagan altar here centuries before Catholicism arrived in Lithuania, but from the 13th century onwards, it became the primary place of Christian worship in the region. 

Many of Lithuania’s most famous dukes and royal characters have been buried here, and deep in the crypts lies the heart of Władysław IV (gruesome, we know). The extravagant architecture you see today was predominantly built from 1779 onwards, and it’s a lasting monument to the power and wealth of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

3. Stroll Through the Gate of Dawn

One of the most important things to see in Vilnius is the Gate of Dawn. You should see this historic site on a walking tour, but just in case you don’t, make sure to stroll under its beautiful archway later on. 

The Gate of Dawn is one of the Old Town’s most iconic locations, and it has a long history dating back to the early 16th century. The gate itself was built as part of the city’s fortifications, and, of course, back then, it marked the entrance and exit to the Old Town.

Religiously, it’s more important than this, though, and the Gate of Dawn is also home to a unique Catholic shrine. Look up as you walk under, and you’ll see the Icon of our Lady of the Gate of Dawn. Even today, the shrine draws pilgrims and worshippers on their way into Vilnius, and they’ll stop here before proceeding onwards to the chapels, churches, and the cathedral inside the capital.

4. Walk to the Top of Gediminas Tower

Look up toward the hill that rises above the banks of the Neris River, and you’ll spot a distinctive tower reaching to the heavens. This is Gediminas Tower, and the red brick bastion is all that really remains of Vilnius’ Upper Castle fortifications.

Gediminas Tower is one of the most important Vilnius attractions. It’s a symbol of the city’s history and identity, and you have to make the walk to the top to admire it up close. The original tower is said to have been built on the orders of Gediminas, a Grand Duke of Lithuania, in 1409. 

Local legends abound, and the popular story goes that the Duke spent a night on the hilltop after a hunting trip, where he dreamt of a wolf made of iron that howled madly into the darkness. After the dream, he built the tower, which then evolved into a larger castle that once overlooked Vilnius. 

The castle was rebuilt in 1933, and then in 1988, the Lithuanian flag was raised from the rooftop when the nation declared its independence from the USSR. You can visit the museum inside the tower to learn more and see how it’s changed and evolved over the centuries. 

5. Visit the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania

When you’re at the top of Gediminas Tower, look directly down, and you’ll see the elegant renaissance-style rooftops of the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania .

Okay, so this is one of the top things to do in Vilnius, but before you do pay the entrance fee (which is very reasonable), you should know that this is a replica. Unfortunately, the palace was destroyed in 1801, and its bricks were carted off by the Russian Empire to ensure no trace of the dukes remained in Vilnius.

For the next two centuries, Lithuania fell under the yoke of Russia, and it wasn’t until independence that they began seriously thinking about bringing back what was once a symbol of national sovereignty. After years of planning and building disputes, the palace was painstakingly rebuilt in the 2000s and finally opened to the world in 2013.

Visit the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania during your trip to Vilnius, and you’ll learn all this and more. While the current building is a restoration, it’s just one more reincarnation of the palace going back to the 13th century. 

The original was made from humble stone, designed to repel invaders, while later editions brought it into the renaissance and baroque styles that were popular in Vilnius in the 16th and 17th centuries.

6. Explore Lithuanian History at the Old Arsenal and New Arsenal 

In the shadow of Gediminas Tower, you’ll find both the Old Arsenal and the New Arsenal. For history lovers, these two museums are two of the best sights in Vilnius, and you’ll have plenty to see if you’ve got time to explore both!

Both are operated by the National Museum of Lithuania, and they delve into different periods of history and culture. The Old Arsenal takes you back some 12,000 years to the dawn of humanity’s prehistory in Lithuania. There were people here long before the Grand Dukes of Lithuania made their mark on the land, and you’ll learn about millennia-old pagan rituals and stone age archeological finds.

The New Arsenal is dedicated to (slightly) more recent history. Here you’ll find the Museum of Antiquities, which showcases a wonderful array of relics dating back as far as the 13th century when modern Lithuania began to take shape. The museum then moves through the centuries, offering a unique overview of Lithuanian history to modern times. 

7. Hike to the Top of Three Crosses Hill 

The skyline of Vilnius is defined by the hills that surround it, and there’s no more famous viewpoint than Three Crosses Hill. Located a 20-minute uphill walk from the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, you’ll spot the enormous white crosses long before you reach the summit.

The crosses are said to have been here for centuries (in some shape or form), and legend has it that they mark the spot where early Lithuanian Christians preached the gospel before being beheaded by pagans. It’s a gruesome tale and one of many that abound in the surroundings of Vilnius. The current crosses were added more recently, though, and date back only to 1989. 

Take a hike to the summit, where on a misty morning, you’ll very much feel a part of Lithuania’s legendary history. Once the mist has cleared, you can admire the view stretching out ahead of you across the city, which we have to say is one of the best views you’ll have of Vilnius!

8. Learn about the KGB at the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights

It’s hard to imagine now, but just over three decades ago, Lithuania was still part of the USSR. For much of the 20th century, Lithuanians were subject to surveillance, trials, imprisonment, and even execution at the hands of the infamous KGB, communist Russia’s secret police.

Following independence in 1991, many secrets began to surface as the KGB files were opened. At least 1,000 Lithuanians were executed in the basement of the KGB’s headquarters, which became a museum of remembrance and education in 1992.

The Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights (generally shortened to the “KGB Museum”) is now located within the KGB prisons, and it’s one of the most moving things to do in Vilnius. 

Learn how Lithuania spent a century under Imperial Russian control, followed by another century of communist control. Different exhibitions explore Lithuanian resistance to communist rule following World War II, while the most heartbreaking exhibit exposes the Holocaust that occurred here under Nazi occupation . 

9. Have Some Optical Fun at the Museum of Illusions 

If you’re looking for something a little more light-hearted during your stay in the city, then a visit to the Museum of Illusions is one of the top things to do in Vilnius. 

This one is fun for everyone in the family, so don’t forget your camera if you want some quirky photos from one of the city’s coolest attractions. As the name suggests, this museum is all about the optical illusions, and you’ll be amazed by your change in perception as you make your way through the galleries.

Rooms are turned on their head at this museum, where you won’t quite know what’s real and what’s an illusion, and where’s up and where’s down. Optical tricks will amaze and confuse you in equal parts, as you struggle to work out how exactly your mind has been played!

10. Eat Your Way Around Vilnius on a Foodie Tour

The Lithuanian capital is best known for its Old Town, and the food here is seriously overlooked. We recommend joining a foodie tour of the city to dig deep into the capital’s culinary prowess, and trust us when we say you won’t be disappointed. 

You’ll be guided around the best local eateries, food shops, and bars in the city as you eat your way around Vilnius. You’re in the Baltics, of course, so you can expect this to be a carb-heavy day, but the cuisine here is so much more nuanced than potatoes. 

On the menu today, you’ll be treated to local delights like Cold Beetroot Soup (it’s often bright pink, but always delicious), Potato Pancakes, and Kibinai (a type of meat and veg pasty). It’s typically said that the national dish of Lithuania is the Cepelinai (or the “Zeppelin”), a Zeppelin-shaped potato dumpling that’s packed with meat or veg fillings before being boiled or fried (or both!). 

11. Escape the City with a Day Out in Vingis Park

If you need a break from Vilnius, then you’re in luck because there’s a beautiful park on the outskirts of the city. Spend the day at Vingis Park, where 400 acres of gardens, forests, and event spaces await you, and you’ll leave revitalized and refreshed!

Vingis Park is one of the best outdoor attractions in Vilnius, and you’ll cross a wonderful pedestrian bridge spanning the River Neris to reach it from the city. When you cross over the river, you’ll find miles of hiking and biking trails just begging to be explored.

The park is also home to Vilnius’ amphitheater, which hosts everything from traditional midsummer celebrations to hard rock concerts. You can also pop into a section of the Botanical Garden of Vilnius University, where you’ll find a unique array of flora in a colorful, peaceful environment.

12. Cross the Border and Visit the Republic of Uzupis

Crossing “the border” to visit the Republic of Uzupis is one of the most unique things to do in Vilnius. This self-declared “nation” became an “independent” republic following Lithuania’s independence from the Soviet Union, and the small suburb is now home to artists, bars, and dreamers.

The Republic of Uzupis is located across the River Neris in a section of the Old Town that was run down and largely abandoned in the 1990s. Then squatters and artists began to move in and slowly started building their own unorthodox communities. 

The community lives by the laws of the Constitution of Uzupis, which you’ll find in large writing by the main square (near the Uzupis Angel). The somewhat quirky constitution states that everyone has the right to be happy or unhappy, a dog has the right to be a dog, everyone may be independent, and everyone has the right to love, and much more. 

Visit the art galleries (of which there are many), enjoy a craft beer or two, and then get your passport stamped at the visa office!

13. Take a Day Trip to the Stunning Lakeside of Trakai Castle

If you’ve still got time after ticking off the must-do things in Vilnius, then you can’t beat a good old-fashioned day trip. One of the best sights nearby is Trakai Castle, where a stunning castle is found in the middle of a serene lake.

You can hop on a train or take a bus to Trakai, which is an easy 40-minute drive away from the capital (less if the traffic is on your side!), then take a short stroll to the castle. A long causeway leads across Lake Galva to the gatehouse of Trakai Castle, which is entirely located on the island.

Tall trees rise above the walls, while the fairytale spirals of the towers reach upwards to the heavens. It’s quite the sight, and you can join a boat tour, hire a rowing boat, or just walk over the causeway to explore more. Construction began in the 14th century, and Trakai Castle became an integral defensive stronghold of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. 

Despite its seemingly impregnable location, you’ll be surprised to learn that the castle was destroyed and fell into ruin. It was restored again following World War II and is now one of Lithuania’s most picturesque attractions.

After visiting the castle, you can hike around the lake, try a local Kibinai (a type of pastry packed with meat and veggies), or pop into the small museum that tells the unique story of the Karaim Jews who once called Trakai home. 

Take a Tour to Trakain Castle

14. Have a Night Out in Vilnius

If you love exploring a city’s nightlife scene, then Vilnius has plenty to offer. This is one of the best nights out in Europe, and you can find parties, bars, and clubs almost any day of the week in the “Nightlife Triangle.”

The triangle is made up of three bar-heavy streets, which are Vilniaus Street, Islandijos Street, and Vokiečių Street. You could even join a bar or pub crawl to make a few friends and make sure you visit the best nightlife spots in the city.

If you prefer a quiet night out, then we recommend taking the elevator to the 22nd floor of the Radisson Blu Hotel in Vilnius. This is one of the tallest buildings in the capital, and you can enjoy dinner and cocktails with one of the best panoramic views in Vilnius.

Book a Stay at Radisson Blue Hotel

15. Embrace the Festive Season at Vilnius Christmas Market

Lithuania is a cold, cold destination to visit in the winter, but brave the icy weather, and you can embrace the festive season at Vilnius Christmas Market. 

The Old Town is lit brightly through the winter by festive lights, and the city’s Christmas trees tower high into the dark night sky. You’ll be tempted by roasted almonds, traditional gingerbread treats, and of course, mulled wine.

The largest markets take over Cathedral Square and Town Hall Square from the end of November to the start of January. Unlike the more commercial markets in many other European capitals, the markets in Vilnius still manage to stay small, local, and vibrant! 

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Vilnius. What’s your favorite thing to do in Vilnius?

Planning a trip to Lithuania? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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Vilnius Alternative Tour

• Local and professional guide
• Hall Market, Pylimo g., 01136 Vilnius, Lithuania Look for a guide with a yellow bag/sign on the stairs of Vilnius Town hall
• Let us know where you will be staying and we will suggest a meeting point
• Vilnius Old Town, Vilnius, Vilnius City Municipality, Lithuania Agree with your guide where you want to finish the tour in the Old Town
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera
• Pricing is per group pricing
• A maximum of 10 people per booking
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

• OwlQueen 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour and introduction to Vilnius! Ieva was a truly fantastic guide! With her history degree background and several years’ of experience, she offered us a very good introduction to Vilnius, Lithuania, and the way of life, both past and present. This tour is highly recommended! Read more Written 19 May 2024
• H5331LWdavidt 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Very disappointing tour My partner and I took the Jewish walking tour of vilinius on may 13, we left after forty minutes, the tour guide had scant knowledge of the subject, the delivery was all over the place, and very poor, there was no real factual information on this important subject, and what was delivered was done in a very amatuer style, for €36 for two people very disappointing. Read more Written 13 May 2024
• Bfitz3450 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Informative Our guide Milda was fantastic: so knowledgeable, enthusiastic and with a sense of humour. This was a fabulous introduction to this beautiful city. Thoroughly recommended. Read more Written 12 May 2024
• T7716XBhenkk 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A dive into national pride and resentment against Soviet occupation Got to know a part of Lithuanian culture and heritage i couldnt get anywhere else. The tour was presented very well and information was substantiated and expanded by personal stories. Read more Written 6 May 2024
• JackZvi1964 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Very interesting tour of Jewish Vilnius. Highly recommend. Sarunas was an excellent guide. He had extensive knowledge about the history of Jews in Vilnius and about the Holocaust. The walk through the ghettos and hearing about different sites on the way was very interesting. The synagogue was open so we were happy to be able to go into it. Read more Written 5 May 2024
• mikizvi 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Recommended: get the feel of Jewish Vilnius quickly and easily Saronas gave us a wonderful tour. Thoroughly recommended. He took us to all the import sites, and his candid narrative was an eye opener and much appreciated. Read more Written 5 May 2024
• barbgonick 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Stroll through Jewish history of Vilnius Knowledgeable tour guide offered a fascinating overview of the history of Jewish Vilnius. It was extra special to visit the last remaining synagogue in Vilnius Read more Written 30 April 2024
• chavesj2022 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Very expert guides The guide was amazing, historian and passionate about history! Very interesting conversations on current political system too Read more Written 22 April 2024
• raemig 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Vilnius with Local Tours Highly recommend this tour while in Vilnius. We booked the night before, appreciative of the ability to join the tour with short notice. We’ve been doing the free city tours around the Baltics and this one was fantastic! Our tour guide was Arminas, and he was excellent! He gave us a brief history of Lithuania to ground us in how the borders of this beautiful country changed over the centuries, then navigated us through the Old Town and Uzupis. We covered some of the major sites of the city, with Arminas teaching us about culture, history, and politics along the way. Highly knowledgeable and engaging, if Arminas is your guide, it’s sure to be a great time! Read more Written 19 April 2024
• ryankF8959LP 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing! Kristina was the best tour guide ever! Highly recommend this tour with her. Enjoyable and educational. Got to see a Vilnius in a new light. Read more Written 15 April 2024
• Peter H 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Outstanding tours I did 2 tours with this company and both were outstanding. The free Old Town tour with Andreye (spelling?) was probably the best tour I've ever done anywhere. She was an excellent guide, very knowledgeable, funny and friendly, and at no times did the tour feel rushed or overbearing. I also did the Soviet Communism tour with Tadas, who was also an excellent guide and could give us his insight on growing up under Soviet occupation. This tour takes you out of the old Town and involves quite a bit more walking, but is also fascinating. Thank you to both guides for making my time in (beautiful) Vilnius so much fun and so interesting! Read more Written 13 April 2024
• 625MattG 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Really enjoyed the Soviet walking tour I really, really enjoyed the Soviet walking tour of Vilnius. The guide was knowledgeable and a great storyteller, and the group (who had never met each other before doing this tour) got on so well. Most of the other guests on the tour were super interested in the topics being discussed and we enjoyed some great discussions and learned a lot. A highlight of my time in Vilnius. Read more Written 12 April 2024
• Happiness58596657109 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Outstanding Jewish city tour What a great tour!! Our guide, Milda, was outstanding, very knowledgeable and made sure the tour flows, easy pace and lots of explanations. Love it and highly recommend it 🙏 Read more Written 25 March 2024
• 925siobhans 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great insight into a lost world A fantastic insight into the almost total eradication of a people. Our guide was superbly knowledge and friendly and answered our many questions. Great to see Lithuania remembering the important contribution made by Jews to the life of Vilnius. Would highly recommend. Read more Written 25 March 2024
• Julala_20 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend this tour Very interesting tour focused on the Jewish history of Vilnius. Great guide :) She was very knowledgable and answered all our questions. Read more Written 22 March 2024

More to explore in Vilnius

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Vilnius Alternative Tour provided by Vilnius With Locals Tours

40+ Unique Things to Do in Vilnius Lithuania (2024 Guide) – The Ultimate Bucket List!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories VILNIUS , LITHUANIA

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

I didn’t know much about the capital of Lithuania before I landed in this city.

But, once I arrived and experienced all the unique and amazing things to do in Vilnius, I fell head over heels in love with it!

Vilnius is not the typical destination people think of when booking a trip to the Baltics. But, I think it’s incredibly underrated and worth exploring.

From an Old Town that looks like something from a fairytale, gothic castles, and breathtaking viewpoints.

Colourful churches on every street corner, an epic craft beer scene, and some tasty local cuisine; there is enough to keep you occupied here for weeks!

So, without further ado, here are all the amazing things to do in Vilnius on your trip.

Heads up: my accommodation in Vilnius and some tours were sponsored by Tinggly , who is an awesome gift card experience company! Although I was a guest, all opinions are my own.

Some top tips before you visit Vilnius

• If you’re travelling to Vilnius, don’t forget to take out Travel Insurance. I use World Nomads which can cover you for every type of trip.
• In Lithuania, they use the Euro. Although many businesses and attractions here do take cards, I would have cash on you at all times. 
• If you’re going to need WiFi, make sure you ordered this hotspot that can keep you connected and keep those roaming bills capped!
• I travelled to Vilnius from London with Ryanair and the prices in December were incredibly cheap at £30 each way. I always use Skyscanner to book flights . 

How to get around Vilnius city centre

Vilnius Old Town is really easy to get around on foot. So, once you reached the meeting point in Vilnius Cathedral Square you shouldn’t be walking more than a few kilometres to reach some of the main sites. 

I always use Google Maps if I have WiFi, or download Maps.Me if I’m going to be offline. 

If you’re going further afield, you may want to invest in a Vilnius City Card that will get you FREE transport and access to some of the local museums. It’s a great investment. You can also download the Trafi App for times and directions. 

Uber and the competing app Bolt work in Vilnius to get you around the city too. It was cheap and convenient. I preferred Uber as I found it cheaper and more reliable. 

40+ things to do in Vilnius

1. browse vilnius cathedral square.

In Vilnius, all roads lead in the Old Town lead to the Cathedral Square!

My guide on a Vilnius walking tour also told me that you can always navigate your way around the city by heading down to this spot.  

You see, the city is actually quite hilly and so if you’re heading downwards, you’ll know you’re on the right track to the square!

Usually considered as a meeting point for locals, the Cathedral Square sits at the heart of the Old Town. It is home to the Vilnius Cathedral, the Clock Tower, the Palace of the Grand Dukes, and lots more.

So if you want a nice little introduction to Vilnius, this is your first stop.   

Years ago, before Duke Gediminas united and founded Vilnius, it actually used to be a series of villages. Even today, there are markers where those used to be in the square.

Throughout the year, this is also the location of many community events like Concerts in the Summer and in December it comes alive with the annual Christmas Tree and Markets!

I visited in December and loved the festive feel of the square. They have a show stopper of a Christmas Tree all lit up and there is a lot of festive cheer around this area too. 

Read more – why you need to visit Vilnius in December

2.   Find the Magic Brick and make a wish!

Now, when you’re wandering around Cathedral Square you may find some bits a little interesting. Including a few tiles that look different from the rest.

One of those is a set of footprints. This is to represent the Baltic Way which took place in 1989.

It was a peaceful protest against decades of Soviet Rule which saw thousands of people unite together holding hands across Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. 

This event showed the world that the Lithuanian people were tired of being occupied by a foreign country and wanted their independence. 

Just over a year later, Lithuania was granted independence in 1990.

As this act was seen as a miracle, a special tile was placed in the Cathedral Square which people now call the ‘magic tile’.

Lithuanians step on this tile facing the cathedral, spin around 3 times, all the while making a wish! So, make sure you try it out for yourself while you’re here.

3.  Visit Vilnius Cathedral (Cathedral Basilica of St Stanislaus and St Ladislaus of Vilnius)

This Cathedral is seen as the most important icon of Roman Catholicism in the city and is a top pilgrimage site for catholics in Lithuania. 

When you enter the cathedral, you’ll often find pilgrims falling to their knees in prayer. The Cathedral Basilica of St Stanislaus and St Ladislaus of Vilnius is seen as the heart of Catholic spiritual life. 

Years ago, the Grand Dukes of Lithuania was crowned here and many famous icons in Lithuanian history have graves inside its walls. 

The original cathedral was built all the way back in 1251 when the majority of Lithuania was Pagan. Then, when Lithuania converted to Christianity in the 14th century the cathedral was expanded. 

By the 17th century, the foundations were falling apart and it was reconstructed into the Neo-Classic style.

During the Soviet Era, it was converted into a warehouse. But, masses started again in 1988.

As well as religious monuments and memorials, there are over forty pieces of art by famous Lithuanian painters. 

It’s truly a beautiful place to visit and the architecture is breathtaking. You must remain silent inside out of respect and dress modestly. 

Vilnius Cathedral is FREE to visit and is open 7am – 7pm all week. It may be closed to visitors during mass times.

4. Climb up the Vilnius Cathedral Bell Tower

Just outside the Cathedral Basilica of St Stanislaus is the Vilnius Cathedral Bell Tower. This was an important part of the cities defense walls and the historic Lower and Upper Castle in the 13th century.

Only the bottom part of the Bellfry tower is original, the rest is a reconstruction from the 19th century. 

As the tallest and oldest tower in Vilnius, it stands approximately 52 metres high and overlooks the whole of the Old Town. 

You can pay to enter the Bell Tower and learn about its history inside, but the real payoff comes from the views from the top. 

Here, you can see a beautiful panorama of the Old Town, the Cathedral, the Palace of the Grand Dukes, and Cathedral Square! 

Read more – the best viewpoints in Vilnius

The Vilnius Cathedral Bell Tower is open from 10am – 7pm in summer and 10am – 6pm in winter. Entrance is 4.50 Euros.

5. Visit the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania 

The Palace of the Grand Dukes is a reconstruction of the original palace that used to sit in the Lower Castle from the 15th – 17th centuries.

At this time, Lithuania was known as the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. This was a state that was founded by Lithuanian people but formed unions with kingdoms like Poland, Prussia (Germany), and Austria. 

It was one of the most successful warrior states at that time and used Vilnius as its capital. 

The Palace used to be the centre of the political, diplomatic, and cultural aspects of the state and home to the Grand Dukes of Lithuania too. It became one of the most famous palaces in Europe at that time. 

Unfortunately, it was destroyed in the 18th century and what we see today was a huge reconstruction of the original building that used to sit here. Even today, you can find people excavating artifacts from the original foundations!

The Palace is HUGE so you’ll need at least a few hours to explore. Perfect for a rainy day. It’s split up into 4 sections, so if you didn’t want to see all of it, you can pay less for just one of the routes.

But, I would recommend seeing the whole thing. There are historical exhibitions, excavations, lavish reconstructed rooms (my favourite part) and also artwork too! 

Tickets for the Palace cost 2 Euros per tour route, or you can pay 7 Euros for all 4. Guided tours cost extra. See the official website for opening times.

6. Climb up the Gediminas Castle Tower to take in the views

If you want to learn some more history about the Upper Castle of Vilnius, then head up to the iconic Gediminas Castle Tower.

If you haven’t got the memo yet, Duke Gediminas is pretty popular around these parts. That’s because he is known as the founding father of Vilnius!

He had a prophetic dream on a hunting trip where he dreamt of a wolf made of iron, howling with the power of a thousand wolves. A Baltic Shaman then translated his dream and told him he needed to create a strong city like the wolf and it would be talked about for centuries, hence the howling. 

So, Gediminas united the villages, and Vilnius was born! 

The Gediminas Tower of the Upper Castle is the last remaining part of his legacy here. Years ago the whole upper castle was a defensive fortification built by Gediminas’ grandson, Duke Vytautas.

Today, you can climb up to the tower to find incredible views of the whole of Vilnius! The cherry on top? It’s completely free! 

There is a castle museum that is chargeable if you want to go inside which has a better view from the top. But, if you weren’t fussed the views from the bottom of the tower are pretty amazing too. 

Read my complete guide for Gediminas Castle here

7. Visit the National Museum of Lithuania

A short walk from Cathedral Square will take you to the National Museum of Lithuania. 

Outside, you’ll see a statue dedicated to King Mindaugas. He was the first and last Lithuanian King in the short-lived Kingdom of Lithuania in the 13th century. 

This is a chargeable museum but there are hundreds, if not thousands, of artifacts inside! Making it the largest collection of Lithuanian historical and cultural heritage in the country. 

The exhibits will take you on a journey of Lithuania from the prehistoric age to the present. So, it’s well worth checking out if you want to learn all about it!

The National Museum costs 3 Euro a ticket and is open from 10am – 6pm Tuesday through Sunday.

8. Climb up Three Crosses Hill 

Another amazing viewpoint in the city is the incredible Hill of Three Crosses in Vilnius. 

There is a legend surrounding this hill (known as Bleak Hill) that 14 Franciscan monks were invited to Vilnius and started preaching about God. At that time Lithuania was Pagan and the people didn’t really appreciate the monks bad-mouthing their Lithuanian Gods. 

So, the people revolted and kill them all. 7 were executed and thrown from Bleak hill and the other 7 were crucified thrown into the Vilnia River. Today, they are known as the Franciscan martyrs of Vilnius. 

This monument is a memorial to them that was torn down twice during the Soviet occupation. Today, it’s a popular viewpoint where you can see the whole of the Old Town.

Out of all the views in Vilnius, this one was my favourite. This is because you can see the whole of the city from there and the best attractions, like the Gediminas Tower.

It’s easy to walk up, open 24 hours a day, and is completely FREE to visit. 

Read my complete Three Cross Hill guide here

9. Take a walk down Pilies Street 

Once you’ve finished exploring the Upper and Lower Castle, make sure you head down Pilies Street. “Pilies” means Castle in Lithuanian and this historic cobbled area used to lead directly down the castle years ago.  

Today, this picturesque street is home to historic architecture, boutique stalls, coffee houses, restaurants and so much more. If you carry on to the end, you’ll find the Vilnius Town Hall. 

There is so much life happening in this part of town and so I would recommend scheduling time to explore a few places.

My favourite part of Pilies street was veering off down the small pretty side streets, courtyards and alleyways. You never know where it may lead!

10. Have some cheap eats or Lithuanian Mead at Snekutis 

I think if there is one bar or restaurant you need to visit while in Vilnius, it’s the quirky and eccentric Šnekutis!

There are 3 of them in the city and all have a fantastic selection of craft beers and a cheap and cheerful menu serving up traditional Lithuania cuisine. 

It’s a great place to sample a few dishes as the prices won’t break your budget! Some of their specialities at their Cold Beetroot Soup and Potato Dumplings are known as Cepelinai. 

The one reason why I popped into Šnekutis was to sample their Lithuanian Mead! Mead from the Baltics is one of my favourite drinks and so whenever I have the chance to drink some I snap it up! It’s delicious and I would highly recommend trying.

You can take a look at Šnekutis’ menu here and which bar you want to visit!

11. Visit the Free Republic of Užupis 

One of my favourite areas of the city was the bohemian Free Republic of Užupis! 

Once upon a time, this area was one of the poorest parts of the city, it was home to Jewish migrants and labourers. Once the Nazi occupation came around, unfortunately, a lot of the residents were deported to hard labour and concentration camps. 

So, the town became derelict making way for less desirable members of society to move into the neighbourhood and it got a bad name. In fact, during the Soviet era, it was the most neglected part of the city!

When Lithuania got its independence, a lot of the artists took advantage of the cheap housing that became available there. It was then a huge art district. 

Then in the 1990s, they declared the district the Free Republic. Although many see this as a little tongue-in-cheek, they do have border control, their own flag, priests, churches, and parliament! It also has a resident mermaid and an angel who guards them all. 

Užupis is an awesome place to explore and you can find street art murals and installations, boutiques, art galleries and so much more.

Make sure you take a bucket list selfie in the Užupis consitution. It means you’re officially a resident of Užupis! 

Read more – the top attractions in Užupis!

12. Find some epic Vilnius street art 

Street art in Vilnius is a big thing here and you can find a lot dotted around the city and in Užupis too. It speaks in Vilnius’ own unique voice and makes some awesome photo opportunities too. 

The most famous mural that Vilnius is known for is the shotgun mural of Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin called “Make Everything Great Again” by artists Dominykas Čečkauskas and Mindaugas Bonanu. 

It sparked worldwide media attention and was extremely controversial at the time. But, the President of Vilnius celebrated the work, claiming that the people of Lithuania are not “silenced censorship”. 

This could be found on Pylimo Gatvė outside Keule Ruke a popular restaurant in Vilnius. But, it has been taken down in 2019 with a pink mural that reads “make compassion great again”

13. Take a stroll down Literatu Street 

If you’re looking for unique finds in Vilnius, then head down to Literatu street in the Old Town – it’s sure to spark some curiosity!

The wall first began in 2009, when a group of artists decided that Literatu Street should live up to the name. This street is like a temple for those that are fans of Lithuanian literature as there are artworks mounted to the wall dedicated to Lithuanian writers! 

They started small and placed a few artifacts, like tiles, paintings, abstract symbols, excerpts, and even FALSE TEETH!

Over the years, this has been expanded and now there are over 200 plaques dedicated to authors who have a connection with Vilnius and even those from around the globe.

Literatu Street is open to the public, is FREE to visit, and accessible 24 hours a day

14. Visit the Gate of Dawn

The Gate of Dawn, or Sharp Gate, is one of the most important religious and historical monuments in the whole city. It’s located on Ausros Vartu Street and was one of five gates in the cities defense wall that were built during the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

As was tradition, many of these gates had religious artifacts inside to protect the city from attacks and bless travellers that walk through them.

The chapel inside the Gate of Dawn contains a portrait of The Blessed Virgin Mary Mother of Mercy or the “Vilnius Madonna” who is said to perform miracles. Even today, when you walk through the gate, you’ll see many locals pause and say a little prayer towards her portrait that can be seen through the window.

It’s lucky that this gate survived at all, because all the others were destroyed on orders from the government in the 18th century! 

Today, you can cross under the gate and visit the small chapel above the archway. I’d try to avoid mass times but the portrait is definitely worth a peek! 

The Gate of Dawns is open 24 hours a day to take photos from the outside.  The Chapel  is FREE to visit and is open from 6am – 7pm Monday to Sunday.

15. Admire the Pink Church of St Casimir

Ah, the effortlessly pretty pink church of St Casimir. As there are SO many churches in Vilnius, I’d try to visit just a few while you’re here. This is one of them. 

It’s located just off the Town Hall Square in the Old Town and is a Roman Catholic temple. 

As the oldest baroque church in Vilnius, it was built in the 17th century by the Jesuits and is dedicated to the holy prince Saint Casimir.

It has had quite a colourful history since it was built, becoming an Orthodox church, a museum about Atheism during the soviet era, and then going full circle back to a Catholic Church today. 

You can visit the inside of the church during the restricted opening hours, but even if it’s closed it’s worth stopping here for a photo! 

The Church of Casimir can be shot from the outside 24 hours a day. It’s also FREE to visit. From April – September it’s open 10am – 6.30pm Mondays to Fridays and 8am – 6.30pm on Sundays. From October – March it’s open 4pm – 6.30pm Mondays to Fridays and 8am – 2pm Sundays.

16. Visit the streets of the Vilna Ghetto (Jewish Ghetto)

Stikliu, M. Antokolskio & Žydu streets were all part of the Jewish Ghetto in Vilnius established during World War II. You can access this from Town Hall Square.

You’ll notice Hebrew on the signs and you can visit the spot where the Great Synagogue was destroyed during the Nazi era.

Look out for the ‘The Walls Remember, People Tell’ street art around here, these are paintings inspired by real people who used to live in the area.

All of them have small QR codes to scan to learn a little more.  See some more details here .

Today, the streets around here are incredibly quaint and colourful with cafés, bars, and boutiques for shopping. 

Throughout the summer, you’ll often find beautiful installations like umbrellas or lanterns hanging above you! 

My favourite café was the Augustus Ir Babora Café which I’ll explain more about below. It had the most EPIC Christmas decorations, but also has a gorgeous interior throughout the year. 

17. Have a Instagrammable lunch at Augustus Ir Babora Love Story Café 

One of my favourite coffee houses in Vilnius was the Augustus Ir Babora Love Story Café!

I was first introduced to it on my Vilnius walking tour and couldn’t help gawking at the pink exterior, with loads of shiny baubles and PINK UNICORNS!

Check out my complete guide for this café including the love story here!

Then, when I popped my head inside, I knew I HAD to pop back and have lunch there so that is exactly what I did. The interior is just as pretty with flowers and trellises and I made sure I was first there for photos! 

Their menu serves up breakfast, lunch, dinner, champagne, pastries, coffee, and the most exciting cakes too! It was so tasty and I would go back in a heartbeat.

Check out their page here. The café is open from 9 am – 11 pm daily. Reservations are recommended for large groups and at peak times.

Read more about the most Instagrammable places in Vilnius here

18. Visit the Frank Zappa Memorial

I am a long-time fan of Frank Zappa, throw back to me at 14 first listening to “Hungry Freaks, Daddy” and being hooked from there!

So, when I found out that there was a memorial dedicated to him in Vilnius I had to check it out.

Frank Zappa is American, so I wasn’t sure why his bust would be in the capital of Lithuania but I was sure there was a good reason for it. 

I later found out that the statue was erected in 1993 after his death to mark a new era of Post-Soviet Lithuania. 

Frank Zappa often spoke of revolution in his songs and became an icon to the youth in the city after their newfound freedom! 

You can visit the memorial on K. Kalinausko g. 2B, but it’s quite hard to spot at first. Look out for the amazing graffiti surrounding it. 

19. Lean about Lithuanian history at the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights

An important place that I feel every tourist should visit in Vilnius is the Museum of Occupations. This former gymnasium was the headquarters of both the Gestapo and the KGB. 

Lithuania has a long history of foreign forces occupying their country for centuries like the Teutonic Knights of Prussia (Germany), Russian Moscovy troops, Nazi invaders, and finally the Soviet Union, or the KGB. 

This museum highlights what life was like during the Nazi and Soviet eras. How the KGB converted the country to Atheism and communism. How many of the churches were destroyed and how so many Lithuanian people were deported to hard labour camps, imprisoned, or killed.

There was no freedom during these times. there was no listening to popular music, watching mainstream TV, freedom of speech. 

Lithuanian language and text were banned. Corruption was everywhere and you didn’t know who to trust. People were watched at every moment. This was shockingly even until the 1990s!

Many Lithuanian freedom fighters fought against the Soviet troops and were jailed and killed. Parents were separated from their children and sent away. Children were deported to labour camps in Siberia that saw just over 100 days of daylight a year and subzero temperatures.

A lot of the exhibitions are memorials to those who fought for Lithuania’s freedom at that time.  

Head into the KGB Prison

The most disturbing part of the museum is the KGB prison in the lower decks. Here you can see where prisoners were kept. How they were held in tiny cells, tortured and you didn’t know if tomorrow would be your last.

The tiny courtyard outside shows the place where inmates would walk for 15 minutes a day.

The part that really gave me the chills was the death chamber. Inside they play a short film that re-enacts what it was like. You were brought to the room and without a word shot. It was shocking and heartbreaking.  

But, I feel that although these are dark places, learning about history is necessary so these things do not happen again. It’s an enlightening visit. 

The Museum of Occupations is a must-visit. It costs 4 Euros and is open from 10am – 6pm Wednesday to Saturday. 10am – 5pm Sundays.

20. Take a food tour of Vilnius

During my week spent in Vilnius, one of my favourite tours had to be the ‘Flavours of Vilnius’ tour that I took with Urban Adventures. 

On our three-hour tour, we explored and ate our way through the Old Town. Trying all sorts of Lithuanian cuisine and alcohol as we went! 

We got to learn the history behind a lot of the Lithuanian dishes, like Zeppelins or Cepelinai, and other popular foods like Rye bread too.

It was a great introduction to Lithuanian dishes as I really didn’t have a scooby about what sort of food they ate in the country before that. 

I would highly recommend it and you can book onto the tour here. Make sure you arrive hungry!

Read my full review of the Vilnius food tour here!

21. Go on a walking tour of Vilnius

I love a free walking tour as they are a nice introduction to the city. You get to orientate yourself, know the area, learn about the history and visit some of the top attractions too!

Vilnius with locals run a fabulous free walking tour that runs from the Cathedral Square daily at 10am and 12pm. 

This classic walking tour will take you through the quaint Old Town of Vilnius and Užupis too! Like with most ‘free’ walking tours you pay what you feel the tour is worth (I usually tip around 10 Euros per head).

If the Old Town isn’t your bag, why not go on an alternative tour of Vilnius ? This will take you through the street art areas, Halle Market, and some of the vibrant streets of Vilnius New Town. 

I went on a private walking tour with them which I would also highly recommend if your budget can stretch.

I had a knowledgeable guide who customised the tour with some classic sites and what I was interested in. As it was private, I got all the time to ask any questions I needed to as well. 

Click here to see all the tours provided by Vilnius with Locals!

22. Have a massage at Azia Spa 

If all that exploring has taken its toll, or you’ve booked in for a relaxing break in Vilnius. Then I would book yourself in for a relaxing massage at Azia Spa. 

This zen space can be found in the heart of the Old Town and is extremely popular. There were people coming in all the time for treatments and massages. 

You can have a Thai massage, Segmented massages, facial treatments, and body scrubs too.

I visited Azia Spa as one of my experiences with Tinggly. I had a one-hour body scrub and full body massage treatment. It was really relaxing and just what I needed after some busy days exploring! After my massage, I was treated to some green tea and I felt so refreshed.

Prices start from 45 Euro for a one-hour treatment which is really reasonable for full-body treatments.

Click here to check out packages and treatments at Azia spa

23. Have dinner in the highest building in Lithuania (TV Tower)

The Vilnius TV Tower is the tallest building in Lithuania and an attraction in the new part of the city. It is HUGE at over 1,000 feet high, so you’re bound to feel like you’re up in the clouds.

As well as simply visiting for the views alone, you can also enjoy a delectable dinner up in the air too.

Traditional Lithuanian dishes start on their menu at 7 – 8 Euros, so I would definitely make a booking if you’re keen.  Here’s their menu. 

If you want to know what you can expect, they have a nifty  3D tour here . Or, I’ll leave it as a surprise!  Reservations in advance  are highly recommended. 

Tickets to visit the 19th floor of the TV tower and Freedom museum cost 8 Euros for adults and concessions are cheaper.

24. Visit the film locations of the Chernobyl series 

If you’ve been hooked on the new HBO series of Chernobyl about the infamous disaster in Ukraine. Then you may be interested to know that a lot of it was filmed in Lithuania, mostly in Vilnius! 

This is due to the fact that Vilnius has some perfect Soviet backdrops in the city. The mini series took over 1000 hours to film and is one of Lithuania’s biggest productions to date. They even have location tours now.  

The Fabijoniškės district plays the part in the infamous Pripyat, The Museum of Occupations plays the KGB prison and a few of the former government buildings and guest houses were transformed into courtrooms and hotels. 

25. Buy some food with the locals at Halés Market

If you really want to experience something local then Halés Market (Halés Turgis) should be your place. 

Originally set up as a horse market in the 15th century, it then became a grain market in the 16th. But, things really took off at the beginning of the 20th century and it became a huge food market in 1906. In 1914 it was officially known as Halés Turgis. 

It’s the oldest market in Vilnius that is still thriving today and sells everything from all sorts of meat including pigs ears, fruits, cheese, mushrooms, bread, to clothes and electricals. 

But, there are some food stalls in the market as well that sell tasty bagels, pressed juices, a cheese tasting stall, and “KEULĖ RŪKĖ” who sell all sorts of alternative burgers and craft beers.

It’s well worth putting this stop on your itinerary for lunch to do what the locals do!

Halés market can be found on Pylimo gatve and is open from 7am. But, most of the food stalls will not open until 9/10am. It shuts around 6pm each evening and is closed on Mondays.

26. Climb up to the City Bastion 

The City Bastion used to be a stronghold as part of the city defense walls during the Duchy of Lithuania but later on, it became a barracks for the garrisons of German troops during World War II. 

Today, the hill by the City Bastion is a popular park and viewpoint in the city and from here you get a great view of the churches, Užupis, Gediminas Tower, and beyond. 

This viewpoint around the area is FREE but if you wanted to visit the terrace in the City Bastion museum this is chargeable. 

In the museum, you can learn about Vilnius as a fortification and the history of its defenses through the ages. 

The City Bastion Viewpoint can be visited 24 hours a day, but if you want to go inside  the museum  or onto the terrace, this is only open from Tuesday – Sunday from 10am – 6pm

27. Visit St. Anne’s Church 

Another church that really caught my eye here in Vilnius was the flamboyant Gothic church of St Anne. Made with red bricks, it is one of the finest examples of a Gothic building in Lithuania.

This church is the reason why Vilnius Old Town is included on the UNESCO world heritage list as it hasn’t changed in over 500 years! It was originally built for Anna, the Grand Duchess of Lithuania, and the wife of Vytautas the Great.

There is a popular legend that Napoleon Bonaparte fell in love with this church and he wanted to take it back to Paris “in the palm of his hand”. But, the reality is that the French soldiers used it for shelter during the Napoleonic wars. Not as romantic as all that!

There is still no evidence to whom the exact architect was behind this church but many believe it was Michael Enkinger.

I will warn you that the church is located next to a busy road. But, there is a grassy area opposite to take a nice photo. Just be patient with the traffic and masses of tourists using the crossroads!

St. Anne’s Church is FREE to enter and open daily. May – September from 11am – 6pm and October – April from 5-7pm.

28. Try Lithuanian Mead or Craft Beer 

Oh, Baltic mead, how I have missed thee! 

Lietuviškas Midus is the main brand of Lithuanian Mead served up around here and I was on the hunt for the best spot to try some. Šnekutis came highly recommended, so that’s where I went! I wasn’t disappointed. The mead from here was incredible. 

In England, our mead is served up like a wine. So, I can’t drink it in huge quantities without falling flat on my face. But, with traditional Lithuanian mead, you can drink it cold and by the pint; it’s absolutely delicious! 

It’s made light with honey, but it’s deceiving as it’s also really strong. You could drink a few pints like juice and then be absolutely trashed.

If you want to go in for a proper tasting session, I would recommend visiting Lietuviškas Midus’ Brewery. They have slots available daily. See here for details.

29. Eat at Drama Burger 

OMG, I am still dreaming about my meal at Drama Burger!  

Drama Burger is an epic chain of Lithuanian burger joints in the city and you can find the best one on Gediminas Avenue. 

Inside they serve up gourmet burgers, signature fries, and even beers on tap! 

I had their Phillie cheese steak burger and it was layers of bread, juicy beef, and layers of yummy cheese with jalapeño sauce. Heaven.

All I will say is just GO, you won’t regret a thing.

Click here to see Drama Burger’s website and menu.

30. Visit the Presidential Palace of Lithuania

The Vilnius Presidential Palace is located in the Old Town and, as the name would suggest, is the office of the President of Lithuania! 

The palace has a long and noble history and has stood here since the 14th century during the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. But, through time, the building suffered major fires and had to be reconstructed. 

During the 19th century, this building was home to many important Russian governors. It was even used by both Tsar Alexander I and Napoleon while they were in Vilnius! 

During the Soviet Era it was used as a Military office until finally in 1997, it became the official seat to the Lithuanian President. 

Every Sunday at 12 pm you can see a solemn flag hoisting ceremony, where soldiers of the Honour Guard Company of the Lithuanian Armed Forces dress up in Medieval attire. They dress up in reconstructed uniforms from the Grand Duchy of Lithuania in the 14th century as part of an ancient tradition. 

There are free tours to go inside the Palace on Saturdays. But, it’s also a nice stop on your tour of Vilnius Old Town for a photo opp!

31. Take a tour of the Vilnius University Library

This library is one of the oldest and largest academic libraries in Lithuania founded in the 1570s by the Jesuits. 

It now holds over 5.7 million documents and its bookshelves cover a whopping 166 kilometres.

Due to its long history, it’s also beautifully decorated with paintings, chandeliers, and portraits in rooms such as the astronomical observatory and the Philology Room.

I was gutted I didn’t get a chance to explore the inside of the library, but you can go inside on an organised tour if you’re interested.

You will need to fill in a form and then you pay 8 Euros for a tour that will take you around the Library, University Halls and Courtyards too. 

Click here to find out more about booking a tour of the library

32. Climb up the Church of St John’s Bell Tower

The Church of St John’s is meant to have the most amazing views from the top of its bell tower. So, it’s a pity that it is only open during the summer season.

Unfortunately, I took way too long to find it before I realised that it was completely closed! 

This bell tower has unobstructed open views from its windows at the top which is why people prefer it over the Cathedral Square Bell Tower.

It’s also in the centre of the old streets. So, you get a birds-eye view of the gorgeous rooftops, cobbled streets, and church spires.

You will have to climb up 193 wooden stairs to reach the peak which is around 45 metres high. So, if you’re relatively fit and not scared of heights it’s perfect.

If you’re interested this church was built in 1387, so it has a lot of history to tell and is worth popping in to have a look too. 

Tickets cost 3 Euro’s and it’s only open in the Summer.

33. Walk through the Bernadine Gardens

As I visited Vilnius in December, I didn’t get to visit these gardens for long. But, in the summer I reckon this will be a small green oasis in the heart of the city.

The park is a reconstruction by Vladislovas Štrausas in the 19th century of the gardens that stood here from the 15th century all the way up to World War II. 

They were originally set up by Bernadine Monks that were invited to Vilnius. The gardens were built as part of their monastery.

Finally, in 1870, the three parks that were next to each other, the Botanical Gardens, the Cathedral Park, and Bernadine gardens, all became one park.

Today, you can find fountains, sculptures, flowers, benches, and grass to sit on or have a picnic!

It’s a lovely peaceful part of the city with great views of the Gediminas Castle and Hill of Three Crosses. 

The Bernadine Gardens are FREE to visit and open from 7am – 10pm all week

34. Visit Town Hall Square 

Once Lithuania became a Christian state in the 14th century it was granted Magdeburg rights.

This was a decree of the Flemish rule which granted certain members authority in the city. Vilnius needed a headquarters for the authorities and so the Town Hall was born.

It was a place that housed the local magistrate, held city meetings, had a courtroom and there was even a prison underneath in the basement. 

Originally it was built in the Gothic style but the style we see today is a Neoclassical reconstruction by Laurynas Stuoka-Gucevičius.

Today it serves as a community-building with events held throughout the year. You can see a concert, visit an art exhibition, literature events and much more! 

Make sure you have a look on the Vilnius Town Hall website for what’s on while you’re here.

35. Stroll down Ausros Vartu Street 

One of my favourite streets in the whole of Vilnius is Ausros Vartu Street. I think if one street captures the essence of Vilnius, this is the shot.

You’ve got the Gate of Dawns in the background, a whole range of historic architecture including the Philharmonic building, church spires, and cobbled streets. It really is as pretty as a postcard.

Of course, as well as capturing it there are a lot of shops, restaurants, and chapels you can pop into to pass the time too. 

I particularly loved the chapel in the Gate of Dawn where you can see the portrait of the Blessed Mary. 

36. Admire the Basilian Monastery 

With its striking shade of yellow and beautiful baroque design, you’ll notice the Basilian Monastery it in an instant, even from afar!

The first church that stood here was to mark the spot where the three Lithuanian Christian Martyrs (Anthony, John, and Eustace) died. According to legend, in 1347, the Grand Duke Algirdas’ wife Julijona built a wooden Orthodox Church in their honour.

Later, in the 17th century, the church belonged to the Uniates of the Basilian Order. Then it switched hands to the Orthodox Church in the 19th century and eventually, after the independence, went back to the Uniates! 

So, this seemingly small but beautiful gate on Ausros Vartu street has a big history to offer beyond a pretty photo spot. I didn’t end up going inside as it was closed, but the church itself has a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Russian Byzantine styles. 

37. Step inside the Church of St Peter and St Paul

Another church you must add to your list is the 17th-century Baroque church of St Peter and St Paul. 

The architecture on the outside of the church is stunning, but when you go inside you can see what the church is famous for; over 2,000 stucco figures and a Rococo pulpit! 

It was included amongst the world’s most beautiful churches on Churchpop , alongside cathedrals in England and Italy. 

According to legend, before a church was placed here, it was a site of a Pagan temple dedicated to Milda. But, it was destroyed and burned down due to the Russian invasions.

The Church is open from 6am – 6.30pm Monday to Friday.

38. Browse an Art Gallery Museum

As well as the historical architecture of the Old Town, the New part of Vilnius has many art galleries that exhibit all sorts of art from classical portraits to contemporary works and installations.

If you only have time for one, I would recommend visiting either the National Gallery of Art (LAM) or MO Museum.

MO is filled to the brim with contemporary artwork and regularly holds new exhibitions to visit. LAM highlights Lithuanian and international painters through time. 

Browsing an art gallery is something I LOVE to do in cities and I had my heart set on the MO museum. But, unfortunately, I ran out of time. 

39. Hop around the pretty courtyards and streets of the Old Town 

Courtyard shopping or walking down old streets maybe your next favourite hobby while you’re in Vilnius. 

A short walk on Pilies Street could turn into a few hours if you get lost down the small alleys and the labyrinth of laneways in the Old Town. 

Here are a few of my favourite streets and courtyards in the old town;

• Pilies Street  (Above) – Or, Castle Street is as the name suggest a street that leads to the castle or..what’s left of it now.
• Bernardinu Street –  Just of Pilies Street this gorgeous alleyway is packed full of historic buildings, cute alleyways and oil lamps. It’s perfect for those photographers who like to seek out all the photoworthy nooks and crannies.
• Stikliu, M. Antokolskio & Žydu (Jewish Ghetto) –  If you get to the end of Pilies Street opposite the Town Hall, take a left turn and you’ll find yourself in the Jewish Ghetto. 
• Courtyards –  The hidden courtyards in the historic part of town have often been a favourite of photographers. Some popular ones are the Alumnatas Courtyard and the courtyard of Sidabrynas Antique Shop.

Click here to book a courtyard tour of Vilnius

40. Go shopping on Gediminas Avenue

Another famous street that leads off from Vilnius Cathedral Square is Gediminas Avenue. Compared to the Old Town, this street was only built in the 19th century. 

It was made when the railway line between St Petersburg and Vilnius was built and the development of the city demanded it. It was built during the Russian occupation, so it was originally called A. Mickiewicz. It then changed to Stalin avenue and Lenin Avenue. 

Eventually, when Lithuania was granted its independence it was renamed Gediminas Avenue after the Grand Duke Gediminas who founded Vilnius. 

Today, it is the home to many government authorities in Vilnius but it’s also home to hundreds of retail outlets, restaurants, cafés, and the Museum of Occupations. 

There is so much to do on Gediminas Avenue it may take you a while to browse around!

Recommended day trips to take out of Vilnius

So that’s all the things to do in Vilnius, but if you’re here for a few days and fancy a day trip, there are lots to choose from.

Lithuania is a small country and so most big cities and attractions can be reached in less than a few hours from the capital.

During my week here, I got to explore many cities and attractions outside of Vilnius and wrote helpful guides for each of them;

Europos Park

Europos Park is a contemporary art museum founded in 1991 and set in nature. It can be found around 19 kilometres out of Vilnius City Centre.

There are around 100 sculptures that can be found throughout the park all created by international artists. It even has the largest sculpture made by TV sets that earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.

You can get there by taking bus number 66 straight to the location of the park. Entrance is 11 Euros an adult. 

Visit the official website for visiting times and prices for Europos Park

Trakai 

Home to Eastern Europe’s only Island Castle, Trakai used to be the capital of Lithuania years ago. It was founded by Gediminas, built upon by his son Kystus and eventually expanded by his son Vytautas. 

The romantic island castle you find in Trakai today in the middle of Lake Galvé is a reconstruction of the gothic one built in the 15th century.

It’s one of the most popular attractions in Lithuania, so you really can’t miss it! Plus its only 30 minutes from Vilnius making it the perfect day trip.

As well as the castle, you can explore Lithuania’s smallest national park, learn about the Karaite community, sample Kibinai pastries and hop around historic mansions.

Read my complete Trakai guide here and the best way to get there here from Vilnius !

Kaunas is often called Vilnius’ quirky brother and, as the second-largest city in Lithuania, it’s well worth checking out. 

Not only does this city have its own epic castle, but there are also some unique attractions to explore like Fort IX, the world’s only Devil Museum , and neighbourhoods covered in street art!

It’s only an hour and a half by train, so I highly recommend getting up early and making the most of it. If you happen to go on a Saturday, there’s even a FREE walking tour!

Read the top attractions in Kaunas here and where to find the best street art

The Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses is one of the most important attractions in Lithuania and is a symbol of light and hope. It’s a testament to the strength of the Lithuanian people despite their dark past. 

There are thought to be over 250,000 crucifixes that have been left at the site. Most to remember loved ones who passed away or to symbolise a body they could not bury. Some leave crosses as a sign of love. 

I went on a day tour to the Hill of Crosses from Vilnius but you can do this self-guided too. Make sure you read my guide all about it below.  

Read my complete Hill of Crosses travel guide here

Heading around the Baltics? 

I love Baltic countries and have had the pleasure of visiting a few during my years of travelling.

If you’re heading around some of the neighbouring countries, make sure you browse some of my blog posts;

How to spend one day in Tallinn

The best views of Tallinn

A photography guide to Tallinn

Top attractions in Helsinki 

A foodie guide to Helsinki

A photography guide to Helsinki 

Moomin Cafe: why you need to visit one in Helsinki !

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Sunday 7th of May 2023

#33 Bernadine Gardens, having visited the gardens myself during spring, summer and autumn, I agree that they are indeed an oasis of green and well worth a visit, whether solo travelling or as part of a group. Belmontas is also worth a visit an opportunity for walking in nature and good quality food.

Sophie Pearce

Wednesday 28th of June 2023

Thanks for the recommendation Steve! Sophie x

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12 Best Things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Lithuania’s capital and largest city, Vilnius, is steeped in history, with lots for visitors to see and do. Located in the southeast of the Baltic state, the city straddles the banks of the Neris River and has long attracted traders and travelers to its ancient streets. Consequently, there is a very multicultural feel to it, with German, Polish, Russian, and of course, Lithuanian influences all on show.

Home to impressive churches and cathedrals, cozy cafes, and quirky art installations, Vilnius boasts one of the best-preserved Old Towns in Europe. While it was once known as ‘the Jerusalem of the North,’ its thriving Jewish population was sadly wiped out during the Second World War. A number of historic tourist attractions, cultural landmarks, and fascinating museums are tragically all that remains of the sizeable community.

Nowadays, however, it is a very pretty and peaceful place, with plenty of parks and green spaces dotted around. It is this lovely, laidback feel that make the things to do in Vilnius a delight to explore.

12. Vilnius University

One of the oldest higher education institutions in the whole of Central Europe and the Baltics, Vilnius University was remarkably founded all the way back in the 16th century. As various buildings, courtyards, and galleries were added over the years, it showcases a wide range of architectural styles.

Wandering around the campus is a treat as you pass wonderful Baroque, Classical, and Gothic features. The two main attractions are its lovely library and the Church of St. John, both of which make for majestic sights. While the university may be centuries old, it still hums with life as students and tourists alike congregate in the Grand Courtyard.

11. Vilnil Museum of Illusions

Only opened in 2016, the Vilnil Museum of Illusions is a fun and fascinating place to visit that is dedicated to a rather unique and unusual field. As the name indicates, the museum looks at optical illusions. Some of its interactive exhibitions really are mind-boggling to behold.

Perusing its creative, perspective-altering installations, 3D paintings, and virtual reality displays make for a cool experience. In addition to this, the museum also hosts amazing LED dance shows and performances every week.

10. Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania

Once the cultural and political center of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, this fantastic palace actually only dates to 2018. This is because the original was destroyed in 1801 after having stood in the same spot since at least the 15th century. Located within Vilnius’ Lower Castle, the reconstructed palace now features some marvelous Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance-style ceremonial halls and serves as an excellent museum.

While exploring its grounds, you’ll get to see the ruins and remnants of the former palace and lots of interesting exhibitions on the history of Lithuania. With so many wonderful artifacts, artworks, and architecture on show, the Grand Duke’s palace has something that will interest everyone.

9. Gediminas Tower

Boasting one of the best views of the city, Gediminas Tower has watched over Vilnius and the Neris River ever since 1409. Set upon a prominent hilltop, the tower is one of the only remaining parts of the Upper Castle still on show and was rebuilt in its current form in 1933. The three-tiered red brick tower looks very distinctive. Inside, there are some fabulous models of what the castle used to look like.

The main highlight, however, is the breathtaking view you can enjoy from its observation deck. To reach Gediminas Tower, visitors can take a delightful little funicular ride up the side of the hill to the important and historical sight, which acts as a symbol of the city.

8. Uzupis Statue

Surrounded on three sides by the Vilnia River which loops around it, Uzupis is the artsiest and most bohemian neighborhood of the city. Meaning ‘beyond the river’ in Lithuanian, the self-proclaimed ‘republic’ certainly has its own distinctive look, feel, and identity. This is perfectly encapsulated in the magnificent statue that lies at its heart – the Angel of Uzupis.

While the angel blowing on a horn was erected in honor of Zenonas Steinys, a local animator, the bronze sculpture has since come to represent the rejuvenation and revitalization of the quirky district.

7. Gate of Dawn

Built between 1503 and 1522, the gorgeous Gate of Dawn is the only remaining part of Vilnius’ city wall still standing. Not only a significant historical and cultural landmark, the gate is also a popular pilgrimage site as it is home to a famous and revered chapel of the same name.

Within the chapel is an exquisite painting and icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and many people come here to pay their respects or pray for miracles. Entering Vilnius for the first time through such a monumental gate really is an unforgettable way to start your trip.

6. Vilnius Cathedral

Glimmering in the light, the bright white Vilnius Cathedral and beautiful belfry before it are one of the main symbols and sights in the city. While a wooden cathedral was first erected here all the way back in 1387, the current Neoclassical building only dates to 1783.

Very elegant to gaze upon, it is here in the cathedral that the Grand Dukes of Lithuania used to be coronated. Fitting of such an auspicious occasion, the interior is lavishly decorated, with lots of splendid artworks and frescoes on display. Its crypts and catacombs are also well worth exploring: these house the remains of many of the nation’s most famous figures, and the tombs themselves make for a magnificent sight.

5. KGB Museum

Recently renamed the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, the KGB Museum (as it is informally known) certainly looks at a tough, troublesome, and tragic part of the country’s history. Located in a huge building that once acted as the KGB’s headquarters in Vilnius, the museum houses lots of harrowing displays that document the country’s 50-year occupation by the Soviet Union.

Its vast collection includes artifacts, photos, and the prison cells themselves in which the Lithuanian resistance were tortured and executed. Although it is not for the faint-hearted, the KGB Museum is definitely worth visiting for the important light it sheds on Lithuania’s troubled past.

4. Church of St Peter and St Paul

Although the Church of St Peter and St Paul does not appear all that special at first sight, visiting it really is a must when in Vilnius. This is because its breathtaking Baroque interior boasts some spectacular stuccoes, with around 2,000 intricately carved figures on show. It is this huge number that makes the church unique in Europe.

Painted in a dazzling bright white, its interior sparkles before your eyes and looks very elegant and ornate. Interspersed among the never-ending stuccoes are some wonderful frescoes for you to enjoy, as well as a fantastic Rucoco pulpit. Built between 1675 and 1704, the Church of St Peter and St Paul offers a visual extravaganza with so many sculptures and stuccoes for you to take in.

3. Hill of Three Crosses

Towering above Vilnius, the Hill of Three Crosses boasts brilliant 360-degree panoramas of the city and its surroundings. While its viewpoint is the main attraction, the hill and the three crosses set atop it are actually an important historic site, and symbol of the country’s rebirth.

As the legend goes, wooden crosses were erected atop of the hill all the way back in the 17th century to commemorate seven Franciscan friars who were beheaded here. In the fifties, however, the Soviets removed them, with the current monuments only being built in 1989 as the union was collapsing. As such, the Three Crosses came to symbolize the nation’s reawakening. Popular among both tourists and locals alike, many people come here in the evening to watch the sun set over the city.

2. St. Anne’s Church

Lying on the banks of the Vilnia River, St. Anne’s Church is undoubtedly one of the most impressive and beautiful buildings in the city. Dating to the year 1500, the church was built in a Flamboyant Gothic style, and this is what makes it so appealing. Flanked by two towers, with a delightful spire lying between them, its elegant red brick facade really does make for a beautiful sight.

While its Baroque interior is somewhat plain in comparison, its main altar is well worth checking out. One of the most prominent landmarks in Vilnius, the gorgeous St. Anne’s Church lies just a stone’s throw away from many of the Old Town’s most important sights.

1. Old Town

One of the largest and most well-preserved historic centers in Northern Europe and the Baltics, Vilnius’s Old Town is a treat to explore, with marvelous medieval buildings wherever you look. Encompassing some 74 different quarters, it is home to a wide array of different architectural styles. You’ll find Baroque and Classical palaces and artisans’ guilds on show alongside Gothic and Renaissance churches and cathedrals.

Interspersed among its many historical sights and cultural landmarks are atmospheric cafes and restaurants that also date back centuries. With numerous different sides to it, you can be walking through the castle complex one minute, Cathedral Square the next, before finding yourself in the Vilnius Ghetto. With so much for you to see and do, Vilnius’ Old Town is the highlight of any trip to the city.

Best Time to Visit Vilnius

Tucked away in the southeast of the country, Lithuania’s capital Vilnius sees the most people visit in both summer and winter. While July and August are perfect for sightseeing, outdoor dining and making the most of the warm weather, December sees magical Christmas lights and sometimes snow transforms the Old Town into a winter wonderland.

With average temperatures reaching 16 to 22°C (61 to 71°F), May through September is by far the best time to visit Vilnius. Many of its biggest events like the Capital Days Festival and Vilnius Culture Night also take place. Along with Christmastime, this is the busiest and most expensive period.

Although the city is already greyer and darker, many also visit for the Vilnius Jazz Festival in October. Its glittering golden trees also make for some great photos alongside its beautiful Baroque buildings.

From November to early January, the city’s cozy Christmas market and colourful decorations convince many to brave temperatures of -3 to 4°C (26 to 39°F). A festive atmosphere prevails despite the long dark days.

After the New Year’s Eve celebrations, the city sleeps until spring when its pretty blooming flowers appear again.

Map of Things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania

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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 .

Free Vilnius Alternative Street Art Tour

Explore Vilnius in a Different Lens

Why Tour with Us

• There’s Never a Lack of Destinations: With years of experience in local culture and modern art, we have explored the streets so that we can take you straight to where the treasures lie.
• Competitive Prices:  When it comes to pricing we make sure you get the most affordable fixed price for our unbeatable services. Rest assured that you’ll be getting extra value for your money.
• Enthusiastic Tour Guides:  Our tour guides come to you with matching energy and a terrific attitude. You can expect the sweetest stories about every piece of art you encounter on the tour.
• Only the Best Sights:  We make sure you don’t miss out on any of Vilnuis’ marvels. You will see all of the special pieces of under-appreciated art that make this town an artists’ dream destination.
• Fast Booking:  Book your tour in less than 5 minutes with our app or user-friendly website.
• Customer Support:  We know that at any given time, concerns may arise and you may have questions. So, we are here to give you our full support until your mind is at ease.

Perfect for:

• Lovers of art
• Backpackers

Experience Vilnius from a Fresh Perspective 

This Free Vilnius Alternative Street Art Tour may be artistic and weird but truly, it is unique and different! It is a must-see for travelers and locals alike. It gives you the freedom to discover the city’s alternative culture and street art in a friendly and social environment that is informative, interesting, and immersive.

Get to know the districts and streets where the young and young-at-heart come out to play. Our Free Vilnius Street Art tour provides tour guides who will acquaint you with the city’s modern culture as best as possible, socialize with other travelers while taking the time to make sure you see the best sights the city has to offer.

PS:  Vilnuis has the finest restaurants, most active clubs, and great live music! If you’re looking to experience the nightlife in the city we’ve got you covered. We will arm you with all the inside information, so you can have the best time.

If you’re looking to have more group experiences, then join us at night for our Free Vilnius pub crawl to experience the nightlife at its peak.

N.B.: The tour may take one of the several routes through the city depending on the guide, the needs of the group, and the weather on the day.

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Tourism in Vilnius

Hotels in vilnius.

Vilnius has many faces – its labyrinthine Old Town, its sleek business district, its elegant centre, its many open squares and parks, its historic suburbs – all of which blend together into a seamless complete city. The city’s charm is in its harmonious sense of unity – it just feels right whichever way you look at it.

The historical centre of Vilnius, is one of the largest old town centres in Eastern Europe covering almost 360 hectares. The Old Town is situated in a picturesque valley of Vilnia and Neris rivers, at the crossroads of trade roads, next to the fort, which was guarded by Vilnius castle in the past.

Vilnius offers different museums of art, nature, architecture, history, science, theatre, music and cinema, literature, as well as memorial museums. Those who love impressive sights should visit Gediminas’ Castle or the Campanile of St. John‘s and enjoy an impressive panorama of Vilnius. The Gates of Dawn is famed for a painting, which is said to have miracle-working powers and the apparition of the Virgin Mary.

To make your visit unforgettable take part in Vilnius walking tours, or be blown away by a bus sightseeing tour. Don't miss the opportunity to take to the air and discover the medieval city centre and beyond with a hot air balloon ride. Touch "Lithuanian gold" (amber) in the galleries and view museum displays, both indoors and outside. Experience extreme fun in adventure parks, take a break with a glass of beer or wine, try out our national cuisine and experience the vibrant nightlife!

Vilnius has always been a city open to dialogues of different cultures. Profound traditions and experiences of ethnic culture are creatively incorporated into modern art forms – theatre, music, visual arts, and dance – and render a new quality of art. Lithuanian artists are known throughout Europe and worldwide.

Lithuanians are a highly cultured people and Vilnius is something of a Mecca for the arts. Vilnius boasts some of the best contemporary theatre in Europe and its innovative productions are routinely sold out. Likewise, barely a week passes without a music festival or major concert taking place, whether it be jazz, blues, classical, rock, alternative music, gospel or...well, the list could go on.

The city is beautiful in all seasons. However, it becomes especially attractive and lively during the time of the festivals. Crowds of people fill the streets, live music is played in the squares, parks, churches and concert halls during the Kaziukas mugė (St Casimir’s Fair), the Folklore Festival Skamba skamba kankliai, Cultural Night, Capital Days, or the Kristupo festivalis (St Christopher Festival).

Best hotels deals

Grand Hotel Kempinski  ★★★★★

The Cathedral Square is 100m away

Fitness centre and a spa & wellness centre

Hotel Vilnia  ★★★★

The Cathedral Square is 400m away

Couples particularly like the location

Artagonist Art Hotel  ★★★★

rooms are decorated with handmade artworks

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Top things to do

Palace of the grand dukes of lithuania.

The residence of the grand dukes of Lithuania was build at the turn of the 15th–16th centuries. During 16th century the palace underwent two reconstructions. It was rebuilt in renaissance style with a closed inner courtyard. In the 16th–17th centuries, it served as a centre of political and cultural life of old Lithuania.

Gediminas' Tower of the Upper Castle

The castle tower named after Grand Duke Gediminas, the founding father of the city, is a symbol of the capital. The museum in Gediminas Castle Tower hosts an exhibition that includes reconstructed models of the 14th–16th mentury. The panorama viewed from the roof of the Castle Tower attracts a lot of visitors.

Ensemble of Vilnius University

Vilnius University is one of the oldest universities in Central and Eastern Europe. It was faunded in 1579. The complexes of Vilnius University were formed over several centuries and, as a result, consist of the buildings built in Gothic, Baroque and Classical styles. The exclusive panoramic view of Vilnius can be admired from the highest building in the Old Town – the campanile of St. John’s Church.

Užupis “Republic”

The Vatican is not the only state within a city. Vilnius has its very own Republic of Užupis! Although this republic is not officially recognized as a sovereign state, it does have its own constitution and national anthem. While wandering around you will notice the Užupis Angel, which is considered the guardian of Užupis.

Pilies Street

Pilies Street is the oldest and most flamboyant street in the Old Town of Vilnius. This was the main road to the castle, with its branches finally turning into side streets. Kings, legates of the Pope, and envoys from other countries passed this street on their way to the castle. Noblemen and rich citizens built their houses in Pilies Street. The Botanical Garden of Vilnius University was established in one of the courtyards at the end of the 18th century. The street is distinguished for its architectural variety.

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Must-see attractions in Vilnius

Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania

If you only see one museum in Vilnius, make it this one. On a site that has been settled since the 4th century AD stands the latest in a procession of…

Vilnius Cathedral

Stately Vilnius Cathedral, divorced from its freestanding belfry, is a national symbol and the city's most instantly recognisable building. Known in full…

Vilnius University

Founded in 1579 during the Catholic Counter Reformation, Vilnius University was run by Jesuits for two centuries. During the 19th century it became one of…

Museum of Genocide Victims

This former headquarters of the KGB (and before them the Gestapo, Polish occupiers and Tsarist judiciary) houses a museum dedicated to thousands of…

Cathedral Bell Tower

Climb the creaky stairs into the free-standing belfry of Vilnius Cathedral, once part of the city's 13th-century defences. Towering 57m high, it's one of…

Cathedral Square

Katedros aikštė buzzes with local life. In the 19th century markets and fairs were held here and a moat ran around what is now the square’s perimeter so…

Tolerance Centre

One of the main branches of the Vilna Gaon Jewish State Museum, the Tolerance Centre is simultaneously a museum of Jewish history and culture, and a…

Sts Johns' Church

The full name is 'Church of St Johns, St John the Baptist and St John the Apostle and Evangelist', but 'Sts Johns' (plural) will do nicely. Founded in…

Užupis Art Incubator

One of two branches of the creative powerhouse of the Užupis Republic, the Galera shows exciting temporary exhibitions by local talent and invites artists…

Opened in October 2018, this assemblage of contemporary Lithuanian art and photography is the country's first private museum. An orderly union of sharp…

This landmark statue depicts the early unifier of the Lithuanian tribes in the mid-13th century and the country's first king.

Antakalnis Cemetery

In this leafy suburb, little-visited by tourists, Antakalnis Cemetery is the final resting place of Lithuanian luminaries and locals lost to war…

Gediminas Castle & Museum

With its hilltop location above the junction of the Neris and Vilnia Rivers, Gediminas Castle is the last of a series of settlements and fortified…

Gates of Dawn

The southern border of Old Town is marked by the last standing of five 16th-century portals that were once built into the city walls. A suitably grand way…

St Casimir's Church

This striking church is the city’s oldest baroque place of worship. St Casimir’s dome and cross-shaped ground plan defined a new style for 17th-century…

St Anne's Church

Flamboyant and Gothic St Anne's Church, a vision of undulating lines and red-brick arches, was built in 1500 on the site of a wooden church that burned to…

Holocaust Exhibition

The 'Green House' exhibits the unvarnished truth behind the destruction of Lithuania's once-vibrant Jewish community, the Litvaks. The displays – mostly…

West of Jasinskio gatvė across the Neris River is this kenessa, a traditional Karaite (sect of Turkic Jews) prayer house, built in 1911. It's one of three…

National Museum of Lithuania

This wide-ranging museum (inside the New Arsenal) exhibits art and artefacts from Lithuanian life from Neolithic times to the present day. Early history…

Presidential Palace

The Bishops of Vilnius’ Palace in the 16th century, this classical edifice now houses the president and chancellery. It gained its current Russian empire…

St Michael the Archangel Church

This grand early-17th-century chuch, built by the Sapiega family, now houses a wonderful museum of sacral art. The building itself, with its single Gothic…

Three Crosses

Crosses were first erected in the 17th century, in memory of a group of monks martyred by pagans three centuries earlier. The current crosses replace…

Užupis Republic Constitution

The 'Republic' of Užupis's Constitution is engraved in English, French, Lithuanian and several other languages on plaques running along Paupio gatvė. It…

Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit

The peachy facade gives an understated first impression but there's an electric atmosphere inside Lithuania’s chief Russian Orthodox church. The 16th…

Bernadine Church & Monastery

The massive buttresses and towering walls of this, one of the most impressive churches in Vilnius, are capable of providing defence as well as worship…

It’s hard to miss the 326m TV tower on the city’s western horizon. This tall needle symbolises Lithuania’s strength of spirit: on 13 January 1991 the…

Make Everything Great Again Mural

In 2016 the mural by artist Mindaugas Bonanu, depicting Trump and Putin kissing and the slogan 'Make Everything Great Again', went viral. It was a…

Museum of Applied Art

The Old Arsenal, built in the 16th century and restored in the 1980s, houses temporary exhibitions and a permanent collection showcasing 15th- to 19th…

Choral Synagogue

Vilnius' flourishing Jewish communities and 100 synagogues gave the city the nickname 'Jerusalem of the north' until WWII. The Choral Synagogue, built in…

Chapel of the Gates of Dawn

Above the Gates of Dawn you'll find this 18th-century chapel, aka the Gates of Dawn Chapel of Mary the Mother of Mercy. Inside is a venerated painting of…

Theatre, Music & Cinema Museum

Artefacts of Lithuanian song, stage and screen are the stars of this museum. Three centuries of notable instruments – including the pūslinė (a primitive…

Samuel Bak Museum

This art gallery, a branch of the Jewish State Museum, showcases the bold, vivid, somewhat surrealist paintings of renowned artist Samuel Bak, whose works…

House of Signatories

Lithuania's Declaration of Independence was signed here on 16 February 1918. Today, across 14 rooms of this 18th-century house, you'll find a reverent…

Amber Museum-Gallery

Dedicated to Baltic gold and the beautiful things it can be crafted into, this enthusiastic little museum occupies a 17th-century baroque house. Upstairs…

Frank Zappa Memorial

West of Vilniaus gatvė, rock 'n’ roll legend Frank Zappa is immortalised in a bronze bust atop a 4.2m-high stainless-steel pole. It was the world’s first…

St Nicholas Church

Lithuania’s oldest church, this red-brick Gothic pile was built by German Christians around 1320, when the country was still pagan. From 1901 to 1939 it…

Kazys Varnelis Museum

During his 50 years in the US, Kazys Varnelis earned fame and fortune with his optical and three-dimensional paintings. This museum shows his personal…

St Peter & Paul Church

Don’t be fooled by the uninspiring exterior of this church. Its baroque interior – a riot of over 2000 stuccoes created by Italian sculptors between 1675…

Gediminas Hill

Vilnius was founded on 48m-high Gediminas Hill, topped since the 13th century by a red-brick tower. To reach the top of the hill, clamber up the rocky…

Contemporary Art Centre

With 2400 sq metres of space for photography, video, installations and other exhibits, plus a program of lectures, live music and film screenings, this is…

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