A beautiful 19th-century building in Vilnius, Hotel Vilnia is just a 3-minute walk from Gediminas Tower and has an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine. You can acquire a fascinating insight into Lithuanias history from the 13th to the 20th century. TOP 10 places to visit Vilnius - Lithuania 23 BEST Things to do in Vilnius (2023) - The World Pursuit 30 FUN Tanzania Facts That Will Blow Your Mind. Cycling is another good way of getting around the city, especially in the warmer months. Church of St. Casimir. The 15 Best Things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania - Wandering Wheatleys Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, has often been ignored when it comes to Baltic tourism. Owing to intermarriage and assimilation, there are now an estimated 300 Karaim in Lithuania, just over 100 of whom are in Trakai. 14 Incredibly Fun Things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania Book in advance to secure your place. The museum has a number of permanent exhibitions in place that will give a lot of insight into why Vilnius was once referred to as the Jerusalem of the North.. Its original structure was a wooden church built for Anna, the Grand Duchess of Lithuania. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Vilnius - Tripadvisor April 15, 2022 3 Comments With its charming Old Town, bohemian vibe and laid-back nature, Vilnius is one of our all-time favorite destinations. Under Soviet rule, it was used as a warehouse and a picture gallery. 2.2.1. The present campus, constructed between the 16th and 18th centuries, is a blend of different architectural styles and is spread over 13 courtyards. No visit to Vilnius would be complete without a visit to the Republic of Uzupis. While 2 days in Vilnius is generally enough to see most things and to get a good feel for the city, we would recommend trying to spend 3 days in Vilnius in order to be able to get the most out of Lithuanias capital while also being able to go on a day trip or two. These colorful murals are transforming some of the pretty bleak and dilapidated landscape of the Old Town into veritable Instagram-worthy locations. On the ground floor, there is a small photographic exhibition commemorating the 12 unarmed civilians who were shot or crushed beneath Soviet tanks while trying to defend the tower on 13 January 1991. Also known as the Sharp Gate, the Gate of Dawn is a staple sight if you see the countrys capital. 5. Nowadays, its something of a shrine. If you are curious to learn more about the Jewish population of Vilnius, then a visit to the Vilna Gaon State Jewish Museum is a great idea. Bradley and I had the amazing opportunity to stay in Vilnius (the capital of Lithuania) and stay in the Tinggly Blogger House. Must-Visit Attractions in Vilnius, Lithuania - Culture Trip Sounds like Vilnius has many great sights to offer. You will be guided through ancient ruins, grand ceremonial halls, and Lithuanias colorful history with their wars, allies, and religions along the way. At the same time, a new 100 million private initiative announced today is setting out to create what would be Europe's largest tech campus, situated in the heart of Lithuania's capital . Antakalnis Cemetery is open 24/7. Located in the eastern pocket of Lithuania close to the Belarusian border, Vilnius is Lithuanias undisputed economic and cultural hub with a population of almost 600,000. One of the highlights of the interior is the seductive boat-shaped glass-bead chandelier, a reference to St Peters profession as a fisherman. Hot Air Balloon Experience Vilnius or Trakai, Full-Day The Hill of Crosses Tour from Vilnius. A trio of wooden crosses built in the 17th century originally stood here in honor of a bunch of Franciscan monks who were slain on the hill. They release new plaques of the constitution in a different language each year and the flag of the country whose language has been printed is hanging in front of the building just opposite the constitution. Learn more about it on our Disclosure page. Glad you found the guide helpful, Missy! The name Vilnius originates from the Vilnia River. She strives to make travel planning and traveling easier for all. A self-governing free town, similar to that of Freetown Christiania. While many people would think that you might only need one day in Vilnius to see the whole city, we would recommend spending 3 days in Vilnius in order to get the most out of the Lithuanian capital. It used to be a court before then, and prisoners were marched from its cells to the square to be guillotined. The National Museum of Lithuania is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10:00-18:00. Moderate hike to climb the hill, but it's worth it. The Perfect Baltics Itinerary: Explore Estonia, Latvia, & Lithuania, Things To Do In Klaipeda: Lithuanias Charming Port City, Tallinn or Riga or Vilnius: The Best Baltic City to Visit. The general rule is to leave 10 percent or less of the total bill rounding up to the next euro or round number is often acceptable. 25 Best Things to Do in Lithuania - The Crazy Tourist Avoid using taxis in Vilnius unless it is absolutely necessary as you will be well covered by public transport. You'll see more, and the distances are modest. 10. The inside has a central nave but also side altars and several chapels. There are lots of places to see in Vilnius's old town from the presidential palaces to the castle complex, orthodox churches, a cathedral and the National Museum of Lithuania. The art often makes use of lines and details that play with geometric forms and incorporates underlying social, cultural, or political concerns that fit well with the building or the surrounding neighborhood. So is Vilnius worth visiting? Some of the best bars, restaurants, cafes in Vilnius are . And is Vilnius on your bucket list? Another one of the best things to do in Vilnius is walking around Uzupis. Make sure to try the Lithuanian beer vyturys at least once! There are also dance performances, most of which are combined with an LED light show for something truly visually spectacular. The National Museum of Lithuania is dedicated to Lithuanian culture through the ages, from prehistory to today. 1. Todays building is largely the result of a late 18th-century French Classicist facelift which stands in contrast to much of the Baroque architecture found in the Old Town. Visit St. Anne's Church 3. There is a wide range of things to do in Vilnius for all visitors, and its a highlight of any trip to the Baltics. If you are only spending two days in Vilnius, then the first two days of this itinerary are going to be a perfect introduction to the city. They have a number of stylish and modern rooms to choose from and there is even an option to include breakfast! Hi there, I'm Mihir! However, if you are able to spend 3 days in Vilnius, this is far preferable as you will be able to explore a bit more and even take off on a day trip to the surrounding area. KGB Museum (Genocido Auku Muziejus) Housing the Nazi occupants during WW2, and the Soviet KGB directly after, and up until 1989, this building has sealed. Tickets then need to be validated by punching it in one of the machines onboard. If you have even more time, you cant go wrong with spending 4 days in Vilnius. Facilities would need to be built to accommodate the . Having been razed during the Soviet era, the monument was rebuilt in 1989. Vilnius is the capital and largest city in Lithuania, with 580,000 people living there. The name Uupis translates to behind the river and this scenic part of central Vilnius has narrow streets filled with 19th-century houses and hidden courtyards that are home to various cafes and art galleries. June 23, 2023 - Russia-Ukraine news - CNN International Specially cat caf I liked although it was a bit empty. For anyone interested in the history of Lithuania, the National Museum of Lithuania is a must-visit. Whether you have one day in Vilnius or are on a weekend break in Vilnius, let us help you make the most of it! 1. Cold beet soup (altibariai) is a traditional summer favorite that is usually served with chopped hard-boiled eggs, cucumber, kefir, dill, and potatoes. Here, you can also buy local crafts, works of art, and souvenirs such as cheap amber trinkets. Several publications have frequently referred to the Church of Sts. They also have a full bar and a great wine list, along with a nice outdoor seating area. The lakeside town of Trakai is one of the most popular day trips from Vilnius for both locals and tourists alike. Though the grounds and the perimeter of the castle are free of charge to visit, there is a 12 fee for entry for adults and 6 for students if you want to have a look inside the castle. Housed in the former KGB headquarters, there is also a former Soviet jail in the basement of the museum where you can tour the cells and learn more about what being a prisoner during occupation would have been like. The Baroque reign was short lived and by the end of the 18th century, it had been replaced by the more understated Neoclassical style. Legend has it that while Gediminas was taking a rest on a hunt in the hills above the Vilnia River he had a prophetic dream about an iron wolf howling in the night. WHAT TO DO IN VILNIUS - COOL THINGS TO DO. On top of the hill is the eponymous three crosses monument, a recognizable landmark, and symbol of Vilnius. This outdoor cafe in a small square in the Old Town, Chaapuri is a fantastic budget option if you love Georgian food! If not, then maybe the Vilnius Pass isnt worth buying. While walking around the Old Town, one of the things youll notice is the sheer concentration of churches whose steeples look like a bed of nails when viewed from the skies. Lithuania is one of the safest countries in the world, and for the most part crime in Vilnius wont be an issue. The town is home to the popular Trakai Island Castle, which stands on Lake Galv. Book online with these recognized tour operators. It is definitely worth a visit and a mention on this page. Trakais biggest selling point is the lovely Trakai Island Castle, a beautiful red brick medieval fortress situated on an island in the lake. Other culinary specialties that are worth eating in Vilnius are potato pancakes (bulviniai blynai) and cabbage leaves stuffed with meat and rice (balandeliai). As you walk in, prepare to be amazed by over-the-top stucco work, featuring cavorting cherubs, rich foliage and exotic plants laden with fruit. The district is popular with artists and has a bohemian and free atmosphere. 4. When the Soviets retook the country in 1944, the KGB used the building to detain, imprison, torture, and execute all those who resisted Soviet rule. This is limited to those traveling to Vilnius in the summer months, but its status as a cultural city icon earns it a mention on this list. Germany offers to station 4,000 troops in Lithuania to strengthen NATO I visited last week and used this page for a couple of visits. After World War II, it was reconstructed and is now a major tourist attraction. Great assortment of game dishes. Gediminas Tower is situated on the top of the castle hill. There are several great things to do and see in Vilnius and this lovely city is a thrilling and superb getaway for those on a short break. The Gates of Dawn is open daily from 6:00-19:00. Other paraphernalia found during excavations, including 16th-century tankards, tiles, and coins are also on display. We receive compensation if you make a purchase, but it won't cost you anything extra. You could call this a food court if you wanted to, but you wouldnt be doing it justice. You can get these in any local bakery. Thank you, Hi Caro, thank you for your kind words! The first day of this 2 or 3 days in Vilnius itinerary sees you mostly exploring the lovely UNESCO-listed Old Town. Much of the architecture dates back to the late 18th century when a series of fires consumed many of Vilniuss wooden structures and stone houses were built to replace them. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Welcome to the world, as seen through the eyes of Cameron Seagle and Natasha Alden. The Artillery Bastion was first built in the 17th century and became damaged during wars with Moscow. Free entrance. Unlike Riga and Tallinn, whose Old Towns seem exclusively filled with tourists and garish souvenir stalls, the beautiful Old Town of Vilnius seems to lure more locals than tourists adding to its authenticity. Hi Fash, thanks for your comment! It may take you a little while to locate the tile but once you do, dont forget to make a wish. Its the perfect place to get lost for a few days and a popular stop on the Baltic tour route. Learn how your comment data is processed. The answer is definitively a resounding yes! The Gates of Dawn (Auros vartai) lies at the periphery of the Old Town and is the last surviving one of Vilnius nine 16th-century city gates. At least a half-day is recommended for this day trip; buses leave regularly and are 1.77 one way. If i am not a fan of museum but would love to travel to trakai, is 2D/1N sufficient? Not only does a free walking tour give you a good first look at the city, it is also a great way to speak with a local and get some good recommendations and come up with ideas for what you might want to do with your remaining time in the city. ), this neighbourhood was at one time derelict and crime-ridden. Plus, it also provides a superb vista of the church spires and rooftops of the Old Town, the Hill of Three Crosses as well as the new skyscrapers on the other side of the Neris River. There is a wide array of dining options in Vilnius covering a broad spectrum of cuisines, meaning that even the pickiest of eaters will be satisfied. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Remember that its common to tip 10% on food bills in many parts of Europe; read more about tipping in Europe. Winter Travel to Vilnius. Take the time to read through the whole constitution because there are some amusing rights that have been stated here. They also have their own constitution which is displayed on plaques in numerous languages on Paupio Street. The Old Town covers an area of 3.5 km and contains 70 streets and nearly 1500 buildings. Are you planning a long weekend in Lithuanias vibrant capital and looking for the ideal 2 to 3 days in Vilnius itinerary? Vilnius's old quarter is also packed with little bars, cafes and restaurants with outside seating on the cobbled streets. The square has been a marketplace for centuries and is the fulcrum around which public life in the Old Town revolves. Vilniuss Old Town is Europes largest Baroque Old Town and is undoubtedly one of the main things to see in Vilnius. We personally think it is one of the best capital cities in Europe! Late spring, the summer through to early autumn or more precisely the period from May to September is undoubtedly the best time to visit Vilnius. There are also a couple of trendy coffee shops and trendy fast food stalls in the market, so it is also a great place to stop for a small bite to eat. Check out our full guide to Kaunas! Spending more time in the Baltics? Vilnius seem to be amazing. 12 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Vilnius - thetripgoeson It was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1994. Reasons to visit Vilnius: 8 things to do in Lithuania's capital , The Perfect 5 to 7-Day Big Island Itinerary, The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Days in Kefalonia Itinerary, 7 Best Places to Stay in Hvar for Tourists, 10 Best Places to Stay in the French Riviera, A Perfect 2-Week Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip Itinerary. By tomar721. Explore Vilnius Lithuania's capital city has a historic old town, tons of street art, chill cafes, lots of Gothic and medieval architecture, and a wild nightlife. Begin your first day with a free walking tour with Vilnius with Locals. The 15 Best Things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania March 20, 2023 / By Richard Collett Hidden away on the Baltic edge of Europe, Vilnius is fast becoming a tourist hotspot in the continent's northeast. Vilnius is a lively city with a lot to offer travellers. See Gediminas' Tower and Pilies St. Pilies gatve (gatve means street in Lithuanian) is a bumpy .