Experience the vibrant capital of Lithuania – Vilnius! Whether you’re planning a trip or just curious about this enchanting city, our guide has everything you need to make your visit unforgettable.
We’ve got you covered, from top tourist attractions to hidden gems, from traditional Lithuanian cuisine to trendy bars and restaurants.
- For those who love history and culture
- Christmas and winter activities in Vilnius
- For foodies and gourmets
- For the free-spirited
- For nature lovers
For those who love history and culture
With a history spanning over 700 years, Vilnius has a rich and vibrant past.
In the 14th century, it became the capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, one of the most powerful states in Europe at the time. This pivotal moment began on Gediminas’ Hill, where Grand Duke Vytautas built the city’s first brick castle in 1409.
Today, the castle’s imposing brick tower still commands a breathtaking view of the Old Town.
Photo source: Unsplash
In the centuries that followed, Vilnius flourished, attracting a diverse population from across the duchy. The streets of the charming Old Town, once home to a vibrant community of Jewish artisans, are now known as the Glass Quarter and are renowned for their enchanting atmosphere.
Photo source: Instagram
In the 18th century, however, Vilnius was annexed by the Russian Empire and the Grand Dukes’ Palace at the foot of Gediminas’ Hill was tragically destroyed.
After painstaking restoration, this architectural gem, a blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles, reopened its doors to visitors in 2009.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
The Second World War ushered in a period of Soviet control, which left its unmistakable mark on Vilnius with notable examples of Soviet Modernist architecture.
Today, the city continues to evolve, attracting visionary architects such as Daniel Libeskind, who designed the MO Museum, and Zaha Hadid Architects, who each contribute to Vilnius’ dynamic cityscape.
The Old Town
Enter this UNESCO World Heritage Site and wander through a picturesque ensemble of Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Charming cafes, ornate churches and winding cobbled streets create a visual feast.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Among the standout attractions is the Church of St Peter and St Paul, considered one of the most exquisite Catholic churches in the world.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Built between 1668 and 1676, its Baroque splendour includes an interior adorned with over 2,000 pristine white statues. With its intense drama and beauty, this sanctuary is a must-see destination in Vilnius.
Open Gallery
The Open Gallery is a pioneering cultural initiative reshaping the post-industrial New Town of Vilnius. Located in the courtyard of the converted Elfa factory, now known as Loftas Art Factory, it serves as a dynamic platform for urban art.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Visitors can experience a diverse range of artistic expressions including murals, installations, sculptures, performances and film screenings.
Open to all, the gallery encourages both residents and tourists to freely engage with its creative offerings.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
In recent years, Vilnius has become a hub for street art, hosting several festivals that attract world-renowned artists and contribute to the city’s vibrant artistic landscape.
MO Museum
Named one of the most anticipated museums in Europe, the MO Museum offers a comprehensive cultural experience that is a must-see in Vilnius.
Since opening in 2018, the MO Museum has been a hub for visitors to immerse themselves in Vilnius’ vibrant contemporary art scene.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Founded by art collectors Danguole and Viktoras Butkus, the museum houses a remarkable collection of over 5000 artworks by Lithuanian artists showcased in thought-provoking and engaging exhibitions.
Užupis
Užupis, Vilnius’ quaintest district, sits on the banks of the Vilnelė River, which also separates it from the Old Town.
Reminiscent of Copenhagen’s Christiania, Užupis declared itself an independent republic in the 1990s, bringing a quirky charm to the once gritty neighbourhood.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Today it thrives as a vibrant hub for creative souls, with eclectic bars, cafes and shops waiting to be explored.
Sapieha Palace
Centuries ago, the baroque jewel of Sapieha Palace was home to the aristocracy of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, where art flourished amidst the palace’s opulence.
Recently restored and reopened to the public in April 2024, the palace now aims to enrich visitors with its cultural offerings. Rising from its historic ruins, it aims to become a vibrant cultural centre in Vilnius dedicated to inspiring and educating all members of society.
Photo source: Facebook
Auto Museum
Explore Vilnius’ prestigious historic car museum, which boasts a world-class collection of over 100 vehicles from around the world.
This extensive exhibition traces the evolution of the automobile and offers a captivating journey through automotive history and significant global milestones.
Photo source: Facebook
Experience the opulence of the Delage D8L; imagine riding alongside Mussolini’s colleagues in the Lancia Astura; and marvel at the illustrious Hispano Suiza, once favoured by icons such as Coco Chanel, Paul McCartney and Albert Einstein.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Christmas and winter activities in Vilnius
The holiday season is a wonderful time to visit Vilnius. During the coziest time of the year, this charming Lithuanian city sparkles with festive lights, welcoming Christmas markets and winter fun for all.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
From ice skating to scenic snowy trails, Vilnius offers a diverse mix of activities for the whole family. Plus, after a day filled with winter adventures, you can relax in one of the city’s many spas.
Christmas Market
From 29 November to 29 December, be sure to visit the Vilnius Christmas Market at Cathedral Square. Stroll through beautifully decorated stalls to find handcrafted gifts, holiday decorations, traditional goods and Lithuanian cuisine.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
And, of course, treat yourself to warm mulled wine and traditional snacks that make a visit to the market extra cosy, festive and delicious.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
For additional Christmas activities in Vilnius, such as the Vilnius Christmas Run, Christmas Train and Vilnius Children Christmas, see the festive programme.
Liepkalnis Winter Sports Centre
Liepkalnis is a winter entertainment park just a short drive from Vilnius city centre and a lovely spot for winter sports enthusiasts.
Here, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding and, after a full day of fun, warm up with a hot drink and a delicious meal at the top of one of the slopes while watching others enjoy the winter activities.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
This season, Liepkalnis offers 10 trails with different complexity as well as 10 lifts. Equipment can be easily rented on-site, so there’s no need to bring your own.
And if you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, professional instructors are available to assist you.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Ice-skating
Have you ever ice-skated on a frozen lake, surrounded by nature and fresh, crisp air? Locals and visitors alike love skating on Lake Galvė, near the majestic Trakai Castle.
Several other lakes just outside Vilnius also offer scenic spots for outdoor skating, but remember: only skate on natural ice after confirming it’s safe.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
If you’re new to skating or want to feel extra safe about ice-skating, Vilnius has several ice rinks: Akropolis, Pramogų Arena, and a charming open-air rink at the Palace of the Grand Dukes, which is open until January 31st.
Snowy trails and panoramic views
Vilnius is one of Europe’s greenest capitals, but in winter, it transforms into a charming snowy fairytale.
For stunning winter views, explore Verkiai and Pavilniai Regional Parks, admire the scenery from the scenic viewpoints at Pūčkoriai and Verkiai or Liepkalnis Hill, or walk the Vilnius Calvary Way of the Cross in Verkiai Park—a 7 km pilgrimage route with 35 stations and a spring reputed for its healing waters.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
For a unique perspective, try a hot-air balloon flight over Vilnius and Trakai to see snowy forests and frozen lakes. Surprisingly, it’s not as cold as it sounds—pilots say regular clothing will do, though warmer footwear is a good idea.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
SPA experiences
After a long day of winter activities, treat yourself to warm, relaxing spas and saunas.
For a classic sauna experience, try city spots like Untu or the Pilaitė Watermill Sauna. Vilnius also has a range of spa options, including Spa Vilnius, Bokšto Spa, East Island Spa, Azia Spa and Nidos Kopos.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Or, if you’re in the mood for a more active day in the water, Vichy Water Park offers a tropical paradise with a Polynesian atmosphere for both adults and children, featuring pools, attractions, slides, saunas and more.
For foodies and gourmets
Lithuania’s food culture is steeped in tradition, drawing flavours from the country’s fertile forests and lakes while also being influenced by German, Jewish and other culinary traditions.
To delve into this rich heritage, indulge in a delicious history lesson at Ertlio Namas or Lokys restaurants, both famous for celebrating Lithuanian medieval cuisine.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
No visit to Vilnius is complete for a food enthusiast without sampling some of Lithuania’s iconic dishes, such as cepelinai (stuffed potato dumplings), kibinai (filled crescent-shaped pastries) and the irresistible šakotis, a distinctive spiral-shaped cake.
For a refreshing taste, try šaltibarščiai, a cold beetroot soup enjoyed all year round. And don’t miss the fried rye bread with garlic and cheese – the perfect accompaniment to a pint of beer.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Lithuanian chefs are at the forefront of exploring the country’s gastronomic identity, delighting diners with inventive dishes that highlight seasonal, local ingredients and innovative cooking techniques.
It’s no wonder that Lithuania recently earned its place in the Michelin Guide, with four outstanding restaurants in the capital awarded a prestigious Michelin star each.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Whether your preference is coffee beans or hops, Vilnius also has a serious commitment to brewing.
Get your caffeine fix at one of the local coffee roasters such as Taste Map or Crooked Nose & Coffee Stories.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
For beer lovers, explore the diverse range of local brews on tap at Alaus Biblioteka, Špunka, and other pubs throughout the city.
Michelin Guide selection
In June 2024, Lithuania proudly made its debut in the Michelin Guide when four restaurants in Vilnius were awarded a prestigious Michelin Star.
This recognition firmly establishes the Lithuanian capital as the leading gourmet destination in the Baltic region, celebrating exceptional culinary passion, creativity, and a deep reverence for local traditions.
Photo source: Facebook
The award-winning restaurants include Nineteen 18, located in the Senator’s Passage in the Old Town and renowned for its impeccable use of quality ingredients in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Another acclaimed venue is Džiaugsmas, aptly named after the Lithuanian word for ‘joy’, celebrated for its simple yet flavourful dishes that highlight essential ingredients.
Photo source: Džiaugsmas
Also Michelin-starred are Demo, a café that transforms into an elegant dining experience at night, and Pas Mus (‘our house’ in Lithuanian), which offers a cosy yet sophisticated culinary journey.
Each restaurant exemplifies the culinary excellence of Vilnius.
Photo source: Demoloftas
The first edition of the Michelin Guide Lithuania features 34 recommended restaurants, 27 of which are in Vilnius.
These include four Michelin one-star restaurants, four Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurants recognised for their quality and value, and one Michelin Green Star restaurant acknowledged for its sustainable gastronomic practices.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Paupys Market
Foodies, prepare to enter a garden of delights. This trendy urban jungle is perfect for groups with differing tastes, with a variety of food vendors serving everything from Japanese yakitori to Georgian khachapuri.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Paupys, the latest district in Vilnius to become fashionable, is nestled next to the Old Town and yet surrounded by nature and tranquillity. Modern architecture harmonises with the curves of the Vilnelė River and ancient trees.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
The district’s vibrant community of food artisans, promising chefs, creative minds and artists invites curious visitors to embark on a tasteful journey.
Halės Market
One of the oldest market areas in Vilnius, with trading going back to the 15th century, Halės Market‘s current building dates back to 1906.
Photo source: Facebook
Here you’ll find a mix of produce from small farmers as well as larger businesses and trendy new eateries, including bakeries, butchers and cheese and wine shops. You’ll love this place.
Pink soup
This summer, thousands of Lithuanians and visitors gathered in Vilnius to celebrate the Vilnius Pink Soup Fest and show their love for the iconic cold beetroot soup or šaltibarščiai, a beloved Lithuanian summer dish.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
The entire city was bathed in pink as restaurants, museums and various partners offered their own creative takes on the soup, along with pink coffee, beet-flavoured desserts, guided tours, exhibitions and workshops.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Even if you’re not in Vilnius for the festival, it’s worth trying this distinctive dish wherever you are.
For the free-spirited
Can’t sit still for even a second? In Vilnius, you don’t have to, because an urban adventure awaits around every corner.
Send a vertigo-inducing Snap to your friends from a hot-air balloon – a common feature in the skies above Vilnius during the warmer months.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Channel your inner Tarzan and climb dizzying heights at Belmonto Adventure Park or Uno Park.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Or take to the water at the nearby wake-boarding sites (WakeWay, Wake Inn Vilnius).
There are many options for curious creatives as well. For example, wander off the beaten path and into the industrial parts of the city to marvel at exciting street art in the ever-changing Open Gallery.
While there, catch a gig at Art Factory Loftas, which is a playground of a venue attracting world-famous and rising stars.
Photo source: Facebook
Or perhaps mingle with the local movers and shakers at the Sodas 2123 artist-run community, which is breathing new life into a building constructed over 50 years ago.
And when the day melts into night, enjoy world-class techno at Kablys in the former Palace of Railway Workers, an imposing example of Soviet architectural heritage.
Vilnius TV Tower
Experience the exhilaration of walking 170 metres above Vilnius on the edge of its iconic television tower – the tallest in the country and the eighth tallest in Europe.
Perfect for adrenaline junkies aged 14 and over, groups of up to eight people are safely guided by professionals using strong ropes during the hour-long experience.
Photo source: Unsplash
For those seeking a more leisurely stay, the tower also offers a business lounge and two luxurious double apartments on the 68th floor for a relaxed and comfortable retreat.
For a more tranquil experience, don’t miss the newly opened Toliai bistro bar, which features a walk-around hall with floor-to-ceiling glass walls offering stunning views of Vilnius’ lush greenery.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Hot-air ballooning
When the weather is right, you can see dozens of hot air balloons floating silently over the city at heights of up to a kilometre in the air. That’s because Vilnius is one of a very few European capitals that allow hot air balloon flights in its skies.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
So take advantage of this opportunity! Once you’re back on the ground you’ll take part in a special induction ceremony at which you’ll receive a certificate and forever be a part of the local hot air ballooning crew.
Lukiškes Prison
What was once one of the city’s most sombre addresses for 115 years has now been transformed into its most vibrant venue.
Lukiškės Prison 2.0 is now home to 250 creatives and artists, and regularly hosts exhibitions, performances and a variety of events.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Enjoy a refreshing drink, catch a concert, or take a tour of the former prison to discover its fascinating history.
This unique space has even found its way onto the big screen, effortlessly transforming into a variety of settings and serving as the backdrop for Stranger Things Season 4.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
As Young As Vilnius Festival
Every year on the feast day of the patron saint of Vilnius, St Christopher, Vingis Park is transformed into a vibrant venue for the exclusive As Young As Vilnius festival, which becomes an international music arena.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a diverse line-up of artists from various genres performing free concerts. Expect captivating performances by classical music virtuosos alongside energetic sets from pop and rock bands that will ensure a dynamic and memorable experience for all.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
This year on July 25, as night falls, the stage will light up with the electrifying presence of Rita Ora, one of Britain’s most dynamic pop stars.
For nature lovers
Vilnius is known for its rolling plains, lush forests and abundant lakes, which make up sixty-one per cent of its total area as green zones.
The city’s green credentials have also earned it the prestigious title of European Green Capital 2025, as awarded by the European Commission.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Situated at the confluence of the Neris and Vilnia rivers, the relatively small capital has a hilly landscape and is a delight to walk around.
For a short stroll, head to one of the city’s parks, such as the Bernardine Garden, Vingis Park, or Belmontas Park.
You can also take a longer walk in one of the city’s nearby nature reserves, such as Pavilniai Regional Park or Vokės Landscape Reserve, both about a 15-minute drive from the city.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Vilnius is also surrounded by several lakes, including the Trakai Lakes and Lake Baluošas, which are particularly popular with water sports and fishing enthusiasts in the summer.
Photo source: Unsplash
To make your choice even more difficult, explore the Green Lakes, six lakes located in the north-eastern part of Vilnius, in Verkiai Park. The most popular one is undoubtedly Lake Balsys, which has been awarded the Blue Flag.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Surrounded by all this nature, green thinking is in the city’s DNA, with many eco-conscious shops and initiatives located throughout the city.
Shop for local, homemade, sustainable and organic goods at Zeroteka’s zero-waste store and indulge in guilt-free meals at the farm-to-table restaurants and shops in Senatorių pasažas. The thrift shopping in Vilnius is also said to be excellent.
Žvėrynas neighbourhood
Since ancient times, Žvėrynas has been a favourite place for strolling in the city. With the opening of water resorts and baths in the 19th and 20th centuries, the district developed into a charming area with a resort atmosphere.
Today, this leafy neighbourhood boasts unique architecture and a relaxed atmosphere. Time seems to slow down in Žvėrynas, and a stroll through its narrow streets is therapeutic, especially with views of the Neris River and fresh air from the surrounding pine forests.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Wander through this tranquil, tree-lined neighbourhood and admire its charming wooden residential architecture, numerous green nooks, and cosy cafes.
Vingis Park
Vingis Park is a popular spot for Vilnius residents, perfect for walking, cycling and roller-skating.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
The park’s central stage hosts a variety of concerts, events and festivals featuring both world-renowned and local artists. Surrounded by nature, visitors can relax and enjoy the music or just have fun with friends.
Young and old alike gather here to relax and lounge on the grass.
In the summer, the park comes alive with an amusement park, several cafes, sports equipment hire, and a small zoo.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
Rivers of Vilnius
There are several ways to explore Vilnius from the viewpoint of its rivers. Rent a kayak or SUP and enjoy the city from a unique perspective.
The Neris River, the larger of the two, offers a tranquil paddling experience, perfect for those looking to relax while taking in the scenery.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
For a more intimate adventure, the Vilnelė River offers stunning views of the city’s historic buildings and charming bridges, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Vilnius’ rich architectural heritage.
Trail around Vilnius
Embark on a walking adventure to explore the lakes, forests and regional parks surrounding Vilnius.
Whether you prefer to join a group or go it alone, the well-mapped routes are easy to navigate and will take you through the rural beauty of the countryside while you breathe in the fresh air.
Photo source: Go Vilnius
For those seeking a more challenging experience, the newly created 100kilometre trail around Vilnius awaits! This trail represents slow tourism at its best, created in collaboration with the Lithuanian orienteering community and city architects.
Divided into manageable sections, it allows walkers to start and finish at any point, and is even suitable for ultra-marathon enthusiasts.
For more information about Vilnius, visit govilnius.lt
