Why Vilnius Belongs on Your Travel List
Vilnius is one of Europe's most underrated capitals — a UNESCO-listed baroque Old Town, a bohemian art district that declared independence, world-class restaurants at half the Western European price, and a calendar packed with festivals. Whether you have two days or two weeks, here are the 25 best things to do in Vilnius.
Old Town & Architecture
1. Gediminas Castle Tower
The symbol of Vilnius. Climb the hill for panoramic views over the red-roofed Old Town, the Neris River, and the glass towers of the modern city. The tower houses a small museum of medieval Lithuania. Entry: ~€5, the hill itself is free.
2. Vilnius Cathedral & Bell Tower
The neoclassical Cathedral on Cathedral Square is the spiritual heart of Lithuania. Step inside for stunning frescoes and the Royal Mausoleum. Don't miss the magical tile on the square — locals spin on it for luck while making a wish.
3. Vilnius Old Town Walking Tour
The Old Town (Senamiestis) is the largest baroque old town in Northern Europe. Wander through cobbled lanes, hidden courtyards, and medieval churches. Key streets: Pilies, Didžioji, Šv. Jono. Allow at least 3 hours.
4. Užupis — The Republic of Artists
Cross the bridge over the Vilnelė river and enter Užupis, a self-declared independent republic with its own president, constitution (written in 60 languages on plaques along the wall), and an angel statue at its center. The neighbourhood is full of galleries, cafés, and street art.
5. St. Anne's Church
Napoleon reportedly wanted to take this Flamboyant Gothic church back to Paris in the palm of his hand. Built in the 15th–16th century using 33 different types of brick — one of the finest Gothic buildings in the region.
Museums & Culture
6. National Museum of Lithuania
The best overview of Lithuanian history from prehistoric times to independence. Located at the foot of Gediminas Hill. Entry: €5. Closed Mondays.
7. Vilnius Picture Gallery
The national art collection housed in a beautiful 17th-century palace. Lithuanian painting from the 16th century to the present. Entry: €3–5.
8. Holocaust Museum (Green House)
Vilnius was once a major centre of Jewish life in Europe — known as the "Jerusalem of Lithuania." The Green House documents the Jewish community's history and the Holocaust. Free entry, deeply moving.
9. MO Museum
The city's most architecturally striking museum, dedicated to modern and contemporary Lithuanian art. Excellent temporary exhibitions. Entry: €8.
Food & Drink
10. Hales Market (Halės Turgus)
A beautiful 19th-century iron-and-glass market hall now housing artisan food vendors, cheese makers, butchers, and hipster coffee bars. Brilliant for local snacks and atmosphere. Open daily.
11. Try Cepelinai
Lithuania's national dish: potato dumplings filled with meat or curd cheese, served with sour cream. Try them at Bernelių Užeiga, Šaltinėliai, or Lokys — all traditional restaurants in the Old Town.
12. Craft Beer Bar Crawl
Vilnius has a booming craft beer scene. Start at Snekutis for local ales, continue to Bambalynė for 100+ Lithuanian beers, and finish at InVino for natural wines. The Old Town and Užupis neighbourhoods have the highest concentration.
13. Rooftop Bar at Stikliai or Hotel Pacai
The rooftop terrace at Hotel Pacai (inside a converted 17th-century palace) offers jaw-dropping views over the baroque skyline. Best at sunset. Reservation recommended in summer.
Free Things to Do
14. Cathedral Square & Gediminas Avenue
The main axis of Vilnius from the Cathedral to the Seimas (parliament). Great for people-watching, free outdoor concerts in summer, and the Christmas market in December.
15. Bernardine Garden
A beautiful park at the foot of the castle hill, next to the Vilnelė river. Free, open daily, popular with locals for picnics and walks. The rose garden is at its peak in June–July.
16. Church of St. Peter and St. Paul
The interior of this baroque church is covered in over 2,000 plaster sculptures — one of the most extraordinary church interiors in Europe. Free entry.
17. Frank Zappa Statue
A quirky bronze bust of the American musician in a small square near the Old Town. Why Vilnius? Long story — ask a local. A popular photo stop.
Day Trips & Excursions
18. Trakai Castle Day Trip
28km from Vilnius, a Gothic island castle surrounded by three lakes. One of Lithuania's most iconic sights. Bus from Vilnius station takes 40 minutes. Full Trakai guide →
19. Kaunas Day Trip
Lithuania's second city is 100km away and makes an excellent full-day trip. Art Deco architecture, Žalgiris Arena, Kaunas Castle, and excellent cafés. Train: 1h20. Full Kaunas guide →
Unique Experiences
20. Vilnius Street Art Tour
The city has excellent street art concentrated in Užupis, Naujamiestis, and around Pylimo Street. Pick up a free map at the tourist info centre or join a guided tour.
21. Escape Room Adventure
Vilnius has some of the best escape rooms in Europe — especially the historical ones set in Soviet-era bunkers or medieval dungeons. Book in advance, especially on weekends.
22. Vilnius Street Food Festival
If visiting in June, don't miss the Vilnius Street Food Festival — 100+ vendors, live music, and the best overview of Lithuanian and international food culture in one place.
23. Sunrise from Gediminas Hill
The hill opens at dawn. Arrive before 7am for the city entirely to yourself and golden light over the baroque rooftops. One of the best free experiences in Vilnius.
24. Vilnius Jazz Festival
Every October, the city hosts one of the most respected jazz festivals in Northern Europe. Venues across the Old Town, many free outdoor stages.
25. Lukiškės Prison 2.0
A 19th-century prison turned cultural space. Guided tours through actual prison cells, art exhibitions, outdoor cinema in summer, and one of the city's most unusual event venues. Tours from €10.
Practical Tips
- Best time to visit: May–September for festivals and outdoor dining; December for the Christmas market
- Getting around: The Old Town is walkable; trams and trolleybuses cover the rest (€1 per ride)
- Budget: €50–80/day including accommodation, food, and sightseeing
- Language: English is widely spoken by anyone under 40