Vilnius. You've heard the name, perhaps seen photos of its red roofs and church spires, but you probably don't expect what you'll find upon arrival. I didn't either. I imagined just another Eastern European capital, beautiful but perhaps a bit grey, quiet, historical. I was wrong. Vilnius is one of the biggest and most pleasant travel discoveries I've ever experienced. It's a city that manages to be cozy and majestic, modern and authentic, peaceful and full of life all at once. It's a place where, after a couple of hours, you feel not like a tourist, but like a guest.
Why is Vilnius so surprising? Perhaps because it boasts the largest Baroque Old Town in Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage site, yet without the crowds of tourists you see in Prague or Krakow. Here, you can calmly wander cobblestone streets and discover hidden courtyards housing cozy restaurants or artisan workshops. Or perhaps it's because Vilnius is incredibly green, parks, squares, and the Neris riverbank are an integral part of the city, not just an addition to the urban landscape. Here, in a matter of minutes, you can transition from a bustling Old Town street to a peaceful park on a hill, offering panoramic city views. Vilnius is a city of contrasts: here stands the Gothic St. Anne's Church, which, according to legend, captivated Napoleon, and right nearby, the modern MO Museum, full of contemporary art. This city has a soul, and I want to share a few tips that will help you feel it faster and avoid those small mistakes every first-time traveler makes.
Before You Arrive
Good preparation is half the journey. These practical tips will help you feel confident as soon as you step off the plane and save you time and money.
Internet Connection and SIM Card, What to Choose
Lithuania is renowned for having one of the fastest and cheapest mobile internet connections in the world, so staying connected here is a breeze. If you're arriving from an EU country, you'll likely be able to use your operator's services without additional roaming charges. However, if you're coming from further afield or want a larger data allowance for a lower price, a prepaid SIM card is an excellent choice. The most popular operators are Telia (Ežys), Tele2 (Pildyk), and Bitė (Labas). You can buy their SIM cards at almost any supermarket (Maxima, Rimi, Iki) or newsstand. Typically, for 5-10 euros, you'll get not only a SIM card but also a substantial data package that will certainly suffice for a week or even two. Activating it is simple, just insert it into your phone and follow the instructions. Most operators also offer eSIM options, so you can sort everything out before you even arrive.
Currency, Euros, Where to Exchange, or Card?
The official currency in Lithuania is the euro (€). Payment cards are accepted almost everywhere: in restaurants, shops, museums, and on public transport. Even when buying a cup of coffee in a small cafe, you'll likely be able to pay by card. Nevertheless, I recommend having some cash. You might need it at the market (for example, at Halės market when buying local farmers' produce) or for leaving tips. If you need to exchange currency, avoid exchange offices at the airport or in the most touristy areas, as the rates there are often worse. It's better to look for a bank branch in the city. The most convenient way to get cash is simply to withdraw it from an ATM. Just be careful and avoid "Euronet" ATMs, which often charge high additional fees and offer unfavorable currency conversion rates.
Transport from the Airport to the City Center
Vilnius Airport (VNO) is conveniently located, just 7 kilometers from the city center. There are several simple and inexpensive ways to reach it:
- Train: This is the fastest way. From the airport to the main railway station, which is right next to the Old Town, the train takes just 7 minutes, and a ticket costs about 1 euro. This is an excellent choice if you're traveling with light luggage.
- Bus: Several bus routes connect the airport with the center. The most popular is bus number 88, which passes through the Old Town. There's also the express 3G bus. You can buy a ticket from the driver (it will cost a bit more) or use the "Trafi" or "m.Ticket" apps.
- Ride-hailing services (Bolt/Uber): This is the most convenient option, especially if you're traveling with more luggage or not alone. A trip to the center will cost approximately 10-15 euros, depending on the time of day and demand. Most importantly, never take taxis waiting right outside the arrivals hall exit. They often charge several times higher fares. It's better to order a car through the app and calmly wait for it at the designated pick-up point.
Best Time to Visit, Seasons
Vilnius is charming in all seasons, but each has its own specifics.
- Spring (April-June): In my opinion, this is the ideal time. The city blossoms, especially the beautiful cherry blossom gardens. The weather is pleasantly warm, there aren't too many tourists yet, and the days are long.
- Summer (July-August): The warmest and most vibrant time. Many festivals take place, and outdoor cafe terraces are full of people. However, this is also the most popular time, so prices might be slightly higher, and you'll encounter more people at attractions.
- Autumn (September-October): The city turns golden, and the weather is often still pleasant. This is a great time for peaceful walks in the parks and cozy evenings in cafes.
- Winter (November-March): It can be cold and dark, but Vilnius transforms into a true fairy tale during the Christmas season. One of the most beautiful Christmas trees in Europe is lit in Cathedral Square, and Christmas markets are open. If you're lucky enough to get snow, the city looks magically.
Getting Around Vilnius
Vilnius is an incredibly compact and convenient city for travelers. Getting around is easy and inexpensive.
Old Town, On Foot (13 min from edge to edge)
The best way to get to know Vilnius Old Town is simply to walk. It's small enough that you can cross it in about 15 minutes, yet full of such labyrinthine streets and courtyards that you can wander here for hours. Wear comfortable shoes and embark on discoveries. Most major attractions, Cathedral, Gediminas Castle, Vilnius University, Gates of Dawn, Užupis, are easily accessible on foot.
Bolt and Uber, Affordable Taxis
If you're tired of walking or need to quickly get to a more distant part of the city, ride-hailing services are an excellent choice. Both Bolt and Uber work perfectly in Vilnius, and prices are among the lowest in Europe. A short trip within the city will rarely cost more than 5-7 euros. It's a convenient and reliable way to travel, especially in the evening.
Electric Scooters, Bolt Scooter, Where to Pick Up
You'll see them everywhere. Electric scooters (mostly Bolt) are an incredibly popular way to get around Vilnius, especially among locals. Download the app, link it to your bank card, and you can unlock any scooter standing on the street. It's a fun and fast way to cover short distances.