Bernardine Garden

Bernardinų Garden is a green oasis of tranquility in the very heart of Vilnius Old Town. If you want to pause, take a breath, and escape the fast pace of the city for a moment, this is one of the best choices. Located between Gediminas Castle Tower, the Vilnelė River, and Bernardinų Monastery, the park is a vibrant blend of Vilnius' history and nature.

Where it is and how to find it

The Garden is located right in the Old Town, just a few steps from Cathedral Square, Užupis, and St. Anne's Church. Address: Barboros Radvilaitės g. 8A. Even if you are in Vilnius for just one day, you will surely visit here.

What makes this park special

Bernardinų Garden is not just a park. It is a structured experiential space, where every corner has its own function:

• Botanical exhibition, a reflection of the historical university garden.
• Musical fountain, where light and music shows take place in the evenings.
• Large chess and outdoor games.
• Children's play areas.
• The oldest oak tree in Vilnius, approximately 400 years old.

The park is divided into different zones, from tranquil walking paths to more active areas for families.

Brief history

This place has a history spanning over 500 years. In the 15th century, Bernardine monks settled here, transforming the marshy territory into gardens, ponds, and vegetable patches. In the 18th century, it housed one of the largest botanical gardens in Eastern Europe. During the Soviet era, the park was altered and lost some of its authenticity. In 2013, the park was restored according to its 19th-century structure. It is not a new park, but a restored historical space.

What to do here

A walk along the Vilnelė. The river flows through the entire park. Its sound automatically calms the mind after the noisy city.

A mini picnic. Ideal for a cup of coffee or a short break between sightseeing spots.

With children. Playgrounds, carousels, and plenty of space to run around.

Photos. Flowerbeds, the fountain, and the banks of the Vilnelė make the Garden one of the most photogenic spots in Vilnius.

When to visit

• Spring: blossoms and a light atmosphere.
• Summer: fountains, events, vibrancy.
• Autumn: vibrant colors and fewer people.
• Winter: peaceful, though with fewer activities.

Practical information

• Admission is free.
• The park is open all year round.
• Combines perfectly with a trip to Vilnius University, Hill of Three Crosses, or Užupis Republic.

Bernardinų Garden is a rare spot where history, nature, and the city center merge into one. Here you can be active, or do absolutely nothing at all. It is a place where Vilnius pauses for a moment.