Getting Around Vilnius: Overview
Vilnius is a compact city and the Old Town is entirely walkable — most visitors won't need public transport to see the main sights. But for getting to the airport, the beaches, or outer neighbourhoods, the public transport network is reliable and very cheap.
Tickets & Fares
Single ride: €1.00 (purchased via the Trafi app or at ticket machines at major stops)
24-hour pass: €3.00
72-hour pass: €5.00
Monthly pass: €30
You can also pay by contactless bank card on most vehicles (€1.00 per ride). Cash is not accepted on board — buy tickets in advance at kiosks or use the app.
Children under 7: Free. Students & seniors: Discounted fares with valid ID.
Bus Network
Vilnius has an extensive bus network covering the entire city. Key routes for visitors:
- Bus 1: Airport ↔ Old Town (Cathedral Square) — 20–25 minutes, runs every 15–20 minutes
- Bus 2: Old Town ↔ Train Station ↔ Lazdynai
- Bus 88: Central Bus Station ↔ Akropolis shopping centre
The Trafi app (available on iOS and Android) shows real-time bus positions and journey planning. Essential if you're spending more than a day in Vilnius.
Trolleybuses & Trams
Trolleybuses cover the inner city and major residential areas. The new tram line (opened 2024) connects the Railway Station with the new development zones — useful for reaching the Šnipiškės business district.
Both use the same €1.00 ticket system as buses.
From the Airport
Vilnius Airport (VNO) is 7km from the city centre. Options:
- Bus 1: €1.00, 25 minutes to Cathedral Square. Most economical option.
- Train: Vilnius Airport has a train station. Suburban train to Vilnius Central Station: €0.72, 7 minutes, runs every 30–60 minutes.
- Bolt/Uber: €10–15 to Old Town, 15–20 minutes. Best for groups or late arrivals.
- Official taxi: €20–25 from the official taxi rank. Avoid unlicensed taxis at the terminal exit.
Bolt & Uber
Both Bolt and Uber operate extensively in Vilnius and are very affordable by Western European standards. Typical fares:
- Old Town to Naujamiestis: €3–5
- Old Town to Akropolis: €5–8
- Old Town to Airport: €10–15
Surge pricing applies on Friday/Saturday nights and during major events. Order 10 minutes in advance to avoid waits.
Cycling
CycloCity is the city's public bike-sharing system with 60+ stations across the city. Registration: free; first 30 minutes: free; each subsequent 30 minutes: €0.50. Download the CycloCity app. Bikes are available April–November.
The Old Town has limited cycling areas due to cobblestones — bikes are best for Naujamiestis, the riverside, and Vingis Park routes.
Electric Scooters
Bolt, Lime, and Bird scooters are available citywide. Typical cost: €0.15/minute. Helmets are not provided — bring your own or use at your own risk. Scooters are not permitted in the pedestrianised Old Town zones.
Taxis
Licensed taxis are metered. Starting fare: ~€1.20; per km: ~€0.60. For reliability, use the Taksi5 app (local operator) or stick to Bolt/Uber. Avoid hailing taxis on the street near tourist areas — unlicensed drivers sometimes overcharge.
Car Rental
Driving in the Old Town is restricted — only residents with permits. Car rental makes sense for day trips (Trakai, Kaunas, Kernave). Major operators: Hertz, Avis, Europcar all have desks at the airport. Expect €30–50/day for a small car.