Vilnius Travel Guide

Introduction

Vilnius, the capital and largest city of Lithuania, is situated in the southeast of the country at the confluence of the Vilnia and Neris rivers. Founded in the 14th century, the city boasts a rich history reflected in its diverse architecture, ranging from Gothic and Renaissance to Baroque and neoclassical styles. The Old Town of Vilnius, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Northern Europe, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and numerous churches. Key landmarks include Gediminas Tower, Vilnius Cathedral, and the Gate of Dawn. As Lithuania's cultural and economic centre, Vilnius offers a variety of museums, theatres, and art galleries, as well as a burgeoning tech sector. The city is known for its green spaces, including Vingis Park and the Hill of Three Crosses, and hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Interesting Facts about Vilnius

• Vilnius is one of Europe's greenest capitals, with a significant portion of its area covered by lush forests and parks, offering a unique blend of urban and natural environments.
• The city's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring one of the largest and best-preserved medieval areas in Central and Eastern Europe.
• Vilnius was once known as "the Jerusalem of Lithuania" due to its historical significance as a major Jewish cultural centre.
• The city hosted the 2023 NATO Summit, highlighting its role as a global diplomatic hub.
• Vilnius is renowned for its vibrant arts and culture scene, having been a European Capital of Culture in 2009.
• The city's architecture includes a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles, reflecting its multicultural heritage.
• Vilnius has been used as a filming location for several major productions, including HBO's *Chernobyl* and *Catherine the Great*.
• The city is home to the Vilnian Baroque architectural style, named after its unique and influential buildings.
• Gediminas Castle Tower is a prominent symbol of Vilnius, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Vilnius allows hot air balloon flights over the city, providing a unique perspective on its historic landscape.

History

Legend has it that Grand Duke Gediminas founded the city in 1323 after dreaming of an iron wolf howling atop a hill. This dream was interpreted as a sign to build a great city, and thus Vilnius was born. The city quickly grew into a significant political and cultural centre, becoming the capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, which at its peak was the largest state in Europe.

Throughout the centuries, Vilnius has been a melting pot of cultures and religions. Its strategic location at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe attracted diverse communities, including Lithuanians, Poles, Russians, Jews, and Germans. This multicultural heritage is reflected in the city's architecture, with its stunning blend of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles. The Old Town of Vilnius, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Northern Europe, boasting over 1,500 buildings of historical significance.

Vilnius has weathered numerous challenges throughout its history, including invasions, fires, and political upheavals. The city suffered greatly during World War II and the subsequent Soviet occupation. However, it played a crucial role in Lithuania's fight for independence in the late 20th century. The Vilnius TV Tower became a symbol of resistance during the January Events of 1991, when Soviet forces attempted to crush the independence movement. Since Lithuania regained its independence, Vilnius has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a modern European capital while preserving its unique historical character. Today, visitors can explore its winding cobblestone streets, admire its beautiful churches, and experience a vibrant cultural scene that celebrates both its rich past and dynamic present.

Main Attractions

Old Town

Vilnius Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering 3.6 square kilometres. It features well-preserved medieval architecture spanning Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. The area is characterised by its narrow, winding streets, hidden courtyards, and a mix of religious and secular buildings that reflect the city's diverse history.

Key areas within the Old Town include Cathedral Square, the central plaza dominated by Vilnius Cathedral and its free-standing bell tower. The square often hosts public events and is a popular meeting point. Pilies Street, the main thoroughfare, is lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, offering a glimpse into both the city's past and its contemporary culture. Town Hall Square, another important public space, is surrounded by colourful architecture and features the neoclassical Town Hall building.

The Old Town is also home to numerous churches representing various denominations, reflecting Vilnius's historical religious diversity. Visitors can explore the Jewish Quarter, which preserves the memory of the city's once-thriving Jewish community. The area's layout and architecture provide insight into medieval urban planning and development.

Gediminas Tower

Gediminas Tower is a 15th-century structure that sits atop Gediminas Hill, offering panoramic views of the city. It's a symbol of Vilnius and Lithuania, featured on the national currency. The tower is all that remains of the Upper Castle, which once stood on this site.

Visitors can climb to the top of the tower or take a funicular railway for easier access. The tower houses a museum detailing the history of Vilnius and the castle. From the viewing platform, one can see the Old Town, the new city centre, and the surrounding hills.

The hill and tower are named after Grand Duke Gediminas, the founder of Vilnius. According to legend, Gediminas dreamt of an iron wolf howling on this hill, which he interpreted as a sign to build a city at this location.

Vilnius Cathedral

Vilnius Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Ladislaus, is a majestic landmark in the heart of Vilnius, Lithuania. Its history dates back to the 13th century when King Mindaugas ordered its construction after his conversion to Christianity. The cathedral has undergone numerous transformations due to fires and wars, with significant rebuilds in the 15th and 18th centuries. Today, it stands as a testament to Classical architecture, designed by Laurynas Stuoka-Gucevičius, while retaining elements of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The cathedral's exterior is adorned with sculptures, including those of St. Helena, St. Casimir, and St. Stanislaus, while its crypts house historical relics and are believed to contain the remains of notable figures like Grand Duke Vytautas. This iconic site is a must-visit for its historical significance, architectural beauty, and the mysteries it holds within its ancient walls.

Presidential Palace

The Presidential Palace is the official residence of the President of Lithuania, located in the Old Town. While the interior is not open to the public, visitors can view the exterior and watch the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place on Sundays at noon.

The palace has a long history, dating back to the 14th century when it was the residence of Vilnius bishops. It has undergone numerous reconstructions and has served various functions over the centuries, including as a residence for Russian tsars and Napoleon during his invasion of Russia.

The building's current Classical style dates from the early 19th century. The square in front of the palace often hosts official ceremonies and is adorned with flags of Lithuania and the European Union.

Vilnius University

Vilnius University, founded in 1579, is one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe. Its architectural ensemble spans 13 courtyards and represents various historical styles including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical.

The university's oldest courtyard, the Grand Courtyard, is surrounded by some of the institution's most significant buildings, including St. John's Church. The Astronomical Observatory, established in the 18th century, is another notable feature of the university complex.

Visitors can explore many parts of the university, including the historic library which houses rare books and manuscripts. The university's Aula Magna, or Great Hall, is particularly impressive with its frescoes and chandeliers. The university remains an active educational institution, blending its historical significance with contemporary academic pursuits.

Gates of Dawn

The Gates of Dawn is the last remaining gate of the city's medieval defensive walls, built in the early 16th century. It houses a chapel containing a sacred painting of the Blessed Virgin Mary, known as Our Lady of the Gate of Dawn, which is visible from the street below.

The gate has significant religious and cultural importance, attracting pilgrims from many countries. The painting is believed by some to have miraculous powers. The chapel is open to visitors, and mass is celebrated there in Polish and Lithuanian.

The area around the gate is a busy part of the Old Town, with numerous shops, cafes, and other points of interest nearby. The gate itself is an impressive piece of architecture, blending defensive and religious functions.

St. Anne's Church

St. Anne's Church is a striking example of flamboyant Gothic architecture built in the early 1500s. Its elaborate red brick facade is considered one of the finest in Lithuania. The church features 33 different kinds of brick arranged in a variety of patterns and shapes.

The interior of the church is relatively modest compared to its exterior, with three altars and a nave separated from the aisles by slender pillars. The church has survived numerous invasions and occupations largely unscathed, including Napoleon's invasion of 1812, when the French emperor was reportedly so impressed by the building that he wished to take it back to Paris "in the palm of his hand."

St. Anne's Church is part of a larger architectural ensemble that includes the Gothic Church of St. Francis and Bernadine, and the Bernardine Monastery.

Užupis

Užupis is a bohemian neighbourhood that declared itself an independent republic on April 1, 1997. Known for its artistic community, quirky constitution, and relaxed atmosphere, it's often compared to Montmartre in Paris or Freetown Christiania in Copenhagen.

The district is located just east of the Old Town, separated by the Vilnia River. Its name means "beyond the river" in Lithuanian. The area features numerous art installations, murals, and sculptures scattered throughout its streets and public spaces.

Užupis has its own flag, currency (used symbolically), president, and constitution, which is displayed on a wall in the main square in multiple languages. The constitution includes whimsical articles such as "Everyone has the right to be unique" and "A dog has the right to be a dog." Despite its claims of independence, Užupis remains a part of Vilnius and Lithuania, with its "independence" being more of a artistic and cultural statement than a political reality.

St. Peter and Paul Church

St. Peter and Paul Church is an ornate Baroque church built in the 17th century, renowned for its intricate stucco decorations and sculptures. The church contains over 2,000 stucco figures, representing religious, mythological, and historical scenes.

The interior is almost entirely white, creating a striking visual effect. The central nave is particularly impressive, with its barrel-vaulted ceiling covered in sculptural decorations. The church also features a grand Rococo-style altar and an ornate pulpit.

Located in the Antakalnis district, slightly away from the Old Town, the church is surrounded by a former monastery complex. The church's construction was funded by Michał Pac, Grand Hetman of Lithuania, as a gesture of gratitude for his victory against the Russians.

Three Crosses Monument

The Three Crosses Monument is a prominent hilltop landmark featuring three large white crosses. Originally erected in the 17th century to commemorate martyred monks, the current version was built in 1989, replacing a Soviet-destroyed monument.

The hill offers panoramic views of Vilnius, particularly the Old Town. It's accessible via walking trails through Kalnai Park, providing a pleasant nature walk close to the city centre. The monument is illuminated at night, creating a striking visual effect visible from many parts of the city.

The Three Crosses are not just a tourist attraction but also a symbol of Lithuanian national identity and religious devotion. The site is often used for public gatherings and commemorations.

Green Hall Complex

The Green Hall Complex in Vilnius, Lithuania, is a notable example of modern architecture and sustainable design. Located in the Žvėrynas district by the Neris River, it forms part of the Green Hall Valley development. The complex, particularly Green Hall 2, is renowned for its sleek, curved façade and innovative energy efficiency, earning it Lithuania's first Grade A+ energy efficiency certification. The building's design incorporates natural materials and a geothermal energy system, ensuring minimal environmental impact while providing a bright and contemporary working environment. Its unique shape and reflective materials create a striking visual relationship between the structure and its natural surroundings, making it a standout feature in Vilnius's urban landscape.

Top Museums

Historical Museums

National Museum of Lithuania - Gediminas Castle Tower

The Gediminas Castle Tower, part of the Upper Castle complex, is one of the most visited branches of the National Museum of Lithuania. It offers visitors a journey through the history of Vilnius as the centre of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, as well as panoramic views of the city.

Key exhibits include:

• Canon balls from 14th and 15th century Crusader attacks
• A wooden cross-bow arrow from the same period
• A ritual axe made of horn adorned with ancient Baltic swastika symbols
• Letters written by Gediminas in 1322–1323 to Pope John XXII and European merchants
• An interactive installation dedicated to the Baltic Way

The tower's exhibits are spread across several levels, presenting the development of the Vilnius Castle territory, Baltic jewellery, and important military artefacts. The second floor features an interactive exhibition "Visual timeline: a look through the Windows of Gediminas Tower," allowing visitors to experience historical events such as Crusader attacks and view Renaissance Vilnius. The third floor offers an immersive experience of the Baltic Way, a significant anti-Soviet demonstration from 1989.

National Museum - Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania

This reconstructed palace, originally built in the 15th century, now serves as a museum showcasing the history of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. During the 15th, 16th centuries and the first half of the 17th century, it was the political, diplomatic, administrative and cultural center of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

The museum offers four main routes:

1. Historical and architectural development of the palace
2. Historic representational interiors
3. Exhibitions on armament, everyday life, and music
4. Museum Exhibition Centre for national and international exhibitions

Key features include:

• Abundant archaeological findings and models of the palace
• Restored historical representations of late Gothic, Renaissance and early Baroque interiors
• A special treasure hall
• Exhibits on the fortifications and armaments of the castle and palace
• Displays on the daily life of the castle and palace inhabitants
• Presentations of musical heritage and traditions

The palace's history reflects the evolution of Vilnius from a wooden settlement in the 4th-8th centuries to a stone castle in the 13th century, and finally to a grand Renaissance palace in the 16th century. Despite being destroyed in the 17th and 18th centuries, it was restored and opened to the public in 2013, offering visitors a journey through Lithuania's rich cultural and political history.

Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights

Housed in the former KGB headquarters, this museum provides a sobering look at Lithuania's recent history under Soviet and Nazi occupations. The building itself is over 100 years old and was used by both the Soviet KGB and the Nazi Gestapo during World War II.

The museum's exhibits cover:

• The Soviet and Nazi occupations of Lithuania
• The forced exile of Lithuanians to Siberia and labor camps
• Mass executions of the Jewish population
• The resistance movement that continued after World War II

The basement of the building, which served as the NKVD (later KGB) "inner" prison and pre-trial detention center, forms a significant part of the museum. This area reflects the darkest period of Lithuanian history during World War II and its aftermath.

The museum aims to identify, research, and commemorate the wrongdoings committed by foreign occupation powers against the state and people of Lithuania. It serves as a powerful reminder of the country's struggle for independence and the resilience of its people in the face of oppression.

Art Museums

MO Museum

The MO Museum, Vilnius' newest museum, is a must-visit for modern art enthusiasts. Designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind, the building itself is a work of modern art and has won several architecture prizes.

The museum features:

• A collection of over 5,000 works of modern and contemporary Lithuanian art
• Exhibitions reflecting a broad range of styles and ideas from the last 60 years
• Regular changes in exhibitions to showcase different artists and themes
• A digitally restored fragment of a 1972 fresco by Algirdas Steponavičius and Birutė Žilytė

The MO Museum offers visitors the opportunity to explore the main processes and developments in Lithuanian art over the last six decades. Many of the artists represented in the collection are still active today and are recognized both in Lithuania and abroad.

In addition to its art exhibitions, the museum hosts:

• Film screenings
• Educational activities
• Concerts
• Events for all age groups

The museum, which opened in 2018, is a gift to the public from art collectors Danguole and Viktoras Butkai. It serves as an important platform for teaching 21st-century competences such as creativity, critical thinking, and social and emotional skills.

Religious and Cultural Heritage

Church Heritage Museum

Located in the Old Town of Vilnius, the Church Heritage Museum is a treasure trove of sacred art and ancient Lithuanian culture. Housed in the ensemble of the church of St. Michael the Archangel and the former Bernardine Monastery, this museum showcases exquisite masterpieces of goldsmithing and ornate examples of church textiles.

The museum's collection includes:

• The Treasury of Vilnius Cathedral, hidden during World War II and rediscovered in 1985
• A large collection of goldsmith masterpieces, including monstrances, ecclesiastical cups, and relics
• Church utensils and tapestries
• The crystalline reliquary of St. Eustachian, a gift from Chancellor Albertas Gostautas
• A monstrance given to the Church of St. Nicholas by Geranainiai

The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore Lithuania's religious heritage, with exhibits from various Vilnius churches including the Cathedral, the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the Church of St. Therese. It provides insights into the tradition of piety and the rich history of the Church of Lithuania through its ornate liturgical items and artistic displays.

Specialized Museums

Vilna Gaon State Jewish Museum

Established in 1989 by the Lithuanian Ministry of Culture, the Vilna Gaon State Jewish Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history and culture of Lithuanian Jews. The museum was renamed in 1997 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the death of the Talmudic scholar Vilna Gaon.

The museum has five branches focusing on different aspects of Jewish history and culture:

1. The Tolerance Center: Houses collections of sacred, modern, and traditional art along with historical materials
2. The Green House: Focuses on the Holocaust
3. The Ponar Memorial: Dedicated to the Ponar Massacre
4. The Jacques Lipchitz Memorial Museum in Druskininkai: Exhibits Lipchitz's lithographs
5. The former Tarbut Gymnasium: Displays the history of Lithuanian Jews in the interwar and Nazi period

The museum's collection highlights include three authentic interior details of the Vilnius Great Synagogue, built in the late 16th to early 17th century. It aims to fill the cultural gap in the narrative of Lithuanian history resulting from the totalitarian regimes of the 20th century.

Toy Museum

The Toy Museum, located in Vilnius' old town, is the first family-oriented educational centre in Lithuania dedicated to the heritage of toys and games. Established in 2010 and opened to the public in 2012, the museum offers an interactive journey through the history of children's toys.

The museum is divided into three main spaces:

1. Archaeological space: Contains the oldest toys
2. Ethnographical space: Showcases 19th-20th century toys
3. Modern space: Introduces contemporary toys

The museum's collection includes both original artifacts and replicas, with a focus on allowing visitors to interact with the exhibits. This hands-on approach aligns with the museum's principle of "touch–take–learn."

Key features of the museum include:

• Three thematic exhibitions: "The Oldest Lithuanian Toys," "Journey to the Stone Age," and "Memories of the 20th Century"
• An exhibition space of 150 square meters
• Over 18,000 visitors per year
• Interactive displays that engage visitors of all ages

The Toy Museum offers a unique perspective on Lithuanian culture and history through the lens of children's play. It provides an engaging experience for families, allowing both children and adults to explore how toys have evolved over time and reflect societal changes.

Local Cuisine

A must-try local specialty is cepelinai, large potato dumplings filled with meat or curd cheese, typically served with sour cream and pork cracklings. For a comforting meal, indulge in žemaičių blynai, potato pancakes stuffed with minced meat. Seafood enthusiasts will relish the šaltibarščiai, a refreshing cold beetroot soup perfect for warm summer days. Don't miss the chance to taste vėdarai, a unique Lithuanian potato sausage baked in the oven. To satisfy your sweet tooth, try varškės apkepas, a delightful curd casserole often served for breakfast or as a light meal. For a truly special treat, sample šakotis, an elaborate cake traditionally prepared for weddings and festivals. With its blend of hearty dishes and innovative culinary creations, Vilnius invites visitors to embark on a flavourful journey through Lithuanian cuisine.

Shopping

Vilnius presents a varied shopping landscape, from traditional markets to modern malls. The Old Town houses artisan shops selling Lithuanian handicrafts, amber jewellery, and linen products. Gediminas Avenue, the city's main street, features high-end goods and designer clothing. For local produce and traditional foods, visitors can explore the historic Halės Market or the open-air Kalvarijų Market. Large shopping centres like Akropolis, Ozas, and Europa offer international brands alongside entertainment options. The G9 shopping centre on Gediminas Avenue specialises in Scandinavian fashion. For unique Lithuanian designs, Locals.lt in the G9 centre is worth a visit. The annual Kaziukas Fair, held in early March, showcases a wide array of Lithuanian folk art, crafts, and cuisine. Vilnius also boasts several organic markets, including the Tymo Market, which operates on Thursdays during warmer months.

Nature in and around Vilnius

Vilnius and its surroundings offer a wealth of natural attractions for visitors to explore. Within the city, Vingis Park provides 160 hectares of green space along the Neris River, perfect for hiking, cycling, and picnicking. The centrally located Bernardine Garden features a musical fountain, botanical exhibitions, and walking paths along the Vilnelė River. For panoramic views, Kalnų Park offers hiking trails and the iconic Three Crosses monument. Just outside Vilnius, Verkiai Regional Park boasts impressive 18th-century architecture, rare bird species, and unique green lakes. Nature enthusiasts can visit the Vilnius University Botanical Garden in Kairėnai, showcasing a vast collection of plant species. For those willing to venture further, the Trakai Island Castle, situated on Lake Galvė, combines historical architecture with picturesque natural surroundings. The Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers stunning sand dunes and beaches along the Baltic Sea coast, accessible within a few hours' drive from Vilnius.

Japanese Gardens

Vilnius boasts several Japanese gardens, each offering a serene escape into traditional Japanese aesthetics. The most notable is the Japanese garden in the Botanical Garden of Vilnius University, located in the Kairėnai district. This half-hectare garden, designed by Japanese experts, features a stream, a waterfall, a pond with Turtle Island, and beautifully landscaped trails. Another charming spot is the Sei Shin En garden, situated near the Mountain Park and the Neris River, which incorporates natural elements like a spring and emphasizes harmony with nature. Additionally, the Chiune Sugihara Sakura Park, located by the National Art Gallery, is famous for its vibrant cherry blossoms in spring, symbolizing friendship between Lithuania and Japan. These gardens provide a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city, allowing visitors to experience the beauty and tranquility of Japanese culture in Lithuania.

Bernardine Gardens

Bernardine Gardens is a landscaped park along the Vilnia River, featuring flower gardens, fountains, and walking paths. Popular for relaxation and outdoor activities, it offers a green oasis in the heart of the city.

The gardens were originally part of Bernardine Monastery and were renovated and opened to the public in 2013. They combine elements of their 19th-century design with modern landscaping features. The park includes a musical fountain, a children's playground, and an open-air reading room in summer.

Located between the Gediminas Tower hill and the Vilnia River, the gardens offer beautiful views of the surrounding Old Town. They are particularly popular in spring when the flower beds are in full bloom, and in summer when they host outdoor events and concerts.

Getting There & Around

Vilnius is easily accessible through various modes of transport. The primary gateway is Vilnius International Airport, located just 6 kilometres from the city centre. From the airport, visitors can reach the heart of Vilnius in about 15 minutes by bus, train, or taxi. Bus services, including the airport express 3G, run frequently and offer an economical option at €1 per ticket. The train to Vilnius Central Station is the quickest route, taking merely 8 minutes and costing €0.70. For those preferring door-to-door service, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are readily available, with fares to the city centre averaging around €23. Travellers from other European cities can also reach Vilnius by long-distance buses or trains, with connections from major hubs like Warsaw, Riga, and Tallinn. While Vilnius lacks a port, it's possible to take a ferry to Klaipėda from Germany and then continue the journey to Vilnius by car, bus, or train, which takes approximately three hours.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Vilnius is during the late spring and early autumn months, particularly May, June, September, and early October. These periods offer a pleasant climate with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C, making them ideal for outdoor exploration and sightseeing. Summer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and numerous events like the Midsummer Festival and the Vilnius City Fiesta, but it also attracts larger crowds and higher prices. For those seeking a more relaxed experience with fewer tourists, the shoulder seasons are recommended. September and early October provide a picturesque backdrop with autumn foliage, while May brings blooming flowers and trees. Overall, visiting Vilnius during these seasons allows for a more enjoyable and authentic experience.