This is the Vilnius Travel Guide with all the things you can do in Vilnius in Lithuania. In the Vilnius Travel Guide you will get the …

Vilnius, the captivating capital of Lithuania, is a city where rich history, Baroque architecture, and a vibrant contemporary scene beautifully intertwine. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is one of the largest and best-preserved in Eastern Europe, offering a charming backdrop for exploration.

Here’s a travel guide to help you make the most of your visit to Vilnius:

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season, offering warm weather, lush greenery, and many outdoor events and festivals. Ideal for exploring the Old Town and enjoying café culture.
Shoulder Seasons (April-May, September-October): The weather is cooler but still pleasant, with fewer crowds and often lower prices. Spring brings blooming flowers, while autumn offers beautiful fall foliage.

Getting Around

Vilnius is very walkable, especially its Old Town. For longer distances, public transport is efficient:

Public Transportation: Buses and trolleybuses run from 5 AM to 11 PM.
- Vilniečio kortelė (Vilnius Card): This reloadable electronic card is the most convenient way to pay for public transport. You can load it with a specific amount of money or time-limited tickets (30 or 60 minutes).
- m.Ticket app / JUDU app: These mobile apps allow you to purchase and validate tickets directly from your smartphone.
- Single tickets: Can be purchased from the driver for a slightly higher price (€1.00 as of recent info, compared to €0.65/€0.90 for electronic tickets).
Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Apps like Bolt and Uber are widely available and convenient.
Electric Scooters: Companies like Bolt offer app-based rentals, popular for short trips.

Top Things to Do and See in Vilnius

Explore Vilnius Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site):
- Lose yourself in the cobblestone streets, admire the diverse architectural styles (Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical), and discover hidden courtyards.
- Walkable highlights include Pilies Street, the oldest and most ornate street, and Cathedral Square, a spacious hub.
Visit Vilnius Cathedral and its Bell Tower:
- The neoclassical Vilnius Cathedral, located in Cathedral Square, is the spiritual heart of the city. Its striking white facade and grand interior are impressive.
- Climb the Bell Tower for fantastic panoramic views of the Old Town.
Ascend Gediminas Tower:
- The remaining part of the Upper Castle, perched atop Gediminas Hill, is a quintessential symbol of Vilnius.
- Take the funicular or hike up for breathtaking views of the Old Town’s red roofs and the modern city skyline. The tower also houses a small exhibition on Vilnius castles.
Marvel at St. Anne’s Church & Bernardine Church:
- St. Anne’s Church is a masterpiece of Flamboyant Gothic architecture, famously admired by Napoleon, who supposedly wished he could take it back to Paris. Its intricate brickwork is stunning.
- It stands next to the larger, equally historic Bernardine Church, forming an impressive architectural complex.
Step into the Republic of Užupis:
- Cross the bridge into Užupis, a self-proclaimed independent republic with its own constitution (displayed in multiple languages on a wall), anthem, and president.
- This bohemian district is a haven for artists, filled with quirky street art, galleries (like the Užupis Art Incubator), and independent cafes. Don’t miss the Angel of Užupis statue.
Reflect at the Gates of Dawn:
- The only surviving gate of the original city wall, the Gates of Dawn houses a revered icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy. It’s a significant pilgrimage site, attracting devotees of various Christian faiths.
Delve into History at the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights (KGB Museum):
- Located in the former KGB headquarters, this somber yet essential museum documents the 50-year Soviet occupation of Lithuania.
- Explore exhibits on arrests, deportations, executions, and the Lithuanian partisan resistance. The basement prison cells, interrogation rooms, and execution chamber offer a chilling insight into this dark period.
Stroll through Vilnius University Campus:
- One of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe, its campus is a beautiful complex of courtyards, arcades, and diverse architectural styles. The Church of St. Johns within the campus is also notable.
Discover Vilnius’ Street Art:
- Beyond Užupis, Vilnius has an emerging and vibrant street art scene. Keep an eye out for murals, graffiti, and art installations scattered throughout the city. The “Walls Remember” project in the former Jewish Quarter is particularly poignant.
Indulge in Lithuanian Cuisine:
- Vilnius offers a chance to savor hearty Lithuanian dishes.
  - Cepelinai (Zeppelins): Large, meat-filled potato dumplings, a national dish.
  - Šaltibarščiai: A vibrant pink cold beet soup, perfect for summer.
  - Kepta Duona: Fried dark rye bread, often served with a cheesy sauce – a great beer snack.
  - Kugelis: A potato pudding or cake.
  - Try: Restaurants like Etno Dvaras (for traditional dishes), Grey (upscale Lithuanian), or local pubs like Šnekutis. Don’t forget to try local beers or even fruit wines!

Additional Tips:

Vilnius Pass: Consider getting a Vilnius Pass if you plan to visit multiple museums and use public transport, as it can offer good value.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: Vilnius is one of the few European capitals where you can take a hot air balloon ride directly over the city, offering a truly unforgettable perspective.
Day Trip to Trakai Castle: A stunning medieval castle located on an island in Lake Galvė, just a short train or bus ride from Vilnius.

Vilnius is a city that rewards exploration, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and surprising charm. Enjoy your trip!

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