Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania, is a hidden gem in the heart of Europe. This charming city boasts an impressive blend of architectural styles, from Gothic to Baroque to Art Nouveau, resulting in a picturesque old town that is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. But Vilnius is more than just stunning architecture – it is a vibrant city with a rich history, lively culture, and plenty of attractions to explore. In this post, we will take a closer look at some of the best things to do and places to see in Vilnius, giving you an inside scoop on this captivating destination.

The 7 Best Fun Things To Do In Vilnius

1. Dzukija National Park and Grutas Park Full Day Tour
2. Sightseeing Tour Around Vilnius City and Trakai Castle
3. Discover Vilnius Tour
4. Vilnius Trakai and Kernave Private Full Day Tour
5. Day Trip to Aukstaitija National Park
6. From Vilnius Anyksciai the Hill of Crosses Day Trip
7. 3 Hour Soviet Vilnius Tour

The 7 Best Fun Things To Do In Vilnius

1. Dzukija National Park and Grutas Park Full Day Tour

Once you’ve explored the stunning city of Vilnius, it’s time to get out into the countryside and experience one of Lithuania’s striking national parks. The Dzukija National Park and Grutas Park Full-Day Tour takes you on a private adventure with a professional tour guide to explore this magnificent region.

Your journey will begin with a pick-up from your accommodation in Vilnius. From there, you’ll head to Merkine, where you’ll visit the Three Crosses area before continuing to the Cepkeliai Marsh, the largest swamp in Lithuania. You’ll take a walk through this vast expanse of marshy nature before heading to Grutas Park.

Grutas Park, also known as Stalin’s World, is an impressive exposition of Soviet-era statues and sculptures scattered throughout the park. The park is a fascinating look at Lithuania’s recent past, and you’ll have plenty of time to explore the area before you stop for lunch in either Marcinkonys village or the park itself.

After lunch, you’ll continue your journey towards the Liskiava Monastery Ensemble, located in a picturesque spot near the Nemunas River. Finally, you will arrive at Druskininkai resort, where you can soak in natural hot springs and relax in this picturesque resort town before heading back to Vilnius.

2. Sightseeing Tour Around Vilnius City and Trakai Castle

Discover the best of Vilnius city and Trakai Castle with this sightseeing tour. Admire the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Vilnius, including the Classic Town Hall, the bohemian Uzupis district, St. Anne’s Church, Cathedral Square, Old Vilnius University, and Church of St. Peter and St. Paul. Next, enjoy free time for lunch at a local restaurant in Trakai and try traditional Karaites dishes like ‘kibinai’. Finally, explore Trakai Castle, an important military and political center and the capital of Lithuania. Feel the authentic atmosphere of the castle while discovering its history as the cradle of the Lithuanian statehood and headquarters of the Lithuanian Grand Dukes. Don’t miss this opportunity to visit the highlights of Lithuania.

3. Discover Vilnius Tour

Discover baroque architecture and medieval history in Lithuania’s capital on this 3-hour small-group Vilnius city tour. Follow a guide along Vilnius’ pretty streets and discover top attractions including the Bernardine Church and Monastery, the Church of St Anne, Cathedral Square, the Presidential Palace, and Vilnius University. Stroll along Gediminas Avenue, soak up the atmosphere in the UNESCO–listed Old Town, and enjoy panoramic views over the rooftops from Subačius Hill. Along the way, gain insight into Vilnius’ culture and heritage and learn what makes the city tick. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your centrally located Vilnius hotel.

4. Vilnius Trakai and Kernave Private Full Day Tour

Explore the best of Lithuania with the Vilnius Trakai and Kernave Private Full Day Tour. Your professional guide will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to Gediminas tower to get a great view of the Old Town of Vilnius. After that, you will take a stroll in the Old Town and then head to Kernave, the first Lithuanian capital, to explore the 5 hill forts, the archaeology museum and a lovely hand-made souvenirs shop.

Next, you will head to Trakai to visit the magical castle located on an island. You can visit the castle museum, take a boat trip (additional charge) and enjoy lunch in a traditional restaurant owned by the Karaim family. Finally, you will head back to Vilnius for some more sightseeing in the Old Town. This full day tour takes you to the most important sites in Lithuania and explores UNESCO-protected buildings. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience with a knowledgeable guide.

5. Day Trip to Aukstaitija National Park

Explore Lithuania’s rich heritage on this full-day trip to Anykščiai from Vilnius. Admire top local attractions including the Roman Catholic Church of St Matthias — the tallest church in Lithuania, and visit the Ethnographic Horse Museum to learn about the importance of the horse to Lithuania’s development. Take a nerve-wracking treetop rope course in the Aukštaitija National Park and admire the stunning views over the dense forests. Your tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Vilnius hotel, as well as a driver/guide. Food and drinks, as well as gratuities, are not included. Join this trip to fully explore top Lithuanian attractions with ease!

6. From Vilnius Anyksciai the Hill of Crosses Day Trip

Discover Anykščiai town with this day tour starting from your centrally-located Vilnius hotel! Begin by visiting the highest Lithuanian Church and exploring the Domantai Hill Fortress covered with more than 200000 crosses crucifixes effigies statues of saints and patriots. Gain insight into Lithuania’s engineering history on the narrow-gauge railway before going to the Ethnographic Horse Museum to discover traditional crafts. The tour continues with a visit to the famous “devil” stone of Lithuania – Puntukas. Finally, experience an exclusive treetop walking path – the only one in the Baltic countries and even in Eastern Europe – curving 300m through treetops to a 35m high viewing tower from which you can look over the fabled Anykščai wo. Enjoy a moment of peace and reflection at the Hill of Crosses and discover more about Lithuanian culture at the Ethnographic Museum, making this a complete day trip.

7. 3 Hour Soviet Vilnius Tour

Get a glimpse of Vilnius’ Soviet past on this 2 to 2.5-hour walking tour. Accompanied by a professional guide, explore the Lithuanian capital’s streets and parks while learning all about its Soviet-era history. See famous Soviet-era buildings such as the former Palace of Concerts and Sport Opera and Ballet Theatre and the House of Scientists. Don’t miss the top attractions such as the former KGB headquarters, Lukiškių Square, and the Gediminas Monument. You’ll leave with newfound insight into the city’s history and traditions. The meeting point is the Monument to Grand Duke Gediminas in Katedros aikštė. Look for the guide with a yellow bag or yellow sign in front of the monument. Gratuities are included with the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vilnius

If you’re planning a trip to Vilnius, Lithuania, you’re probably wondering what to expect from this charming and historic city. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Vilnius.

1. What is Vilnius known for?

Vilnius is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, delicious food, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is full of Baroque and Gothic buildings, as well as many green spaces and parks. Vilnius is also home to numerous museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as a thriving nightlife.

2. What are the top things to do in Vilnius?

There are many things to do in Vilnius, but some of the top attractions include:

1. Visiting the historic Old Town and its many landmarks, including the Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Castle Tower, and St. Anne’s Church.
2. Taking a stroll through the picturesque Bernardine Gardens or the Vingis Park.
3. Exploring the city’s museums and galleries, such as the National Museum of Lithuania or the Contemporary Art Centre.
4. Sampling the delicious Lithuanian cuisine at one of Vilnius’ many restaurants and cafes.
5. Enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife by visiting one of the many bars, nightclubs, or music venues.

3. What is the best time to visit Vilnius?

The best time to visit Vilnius is between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April or October. Winter in Vilnius can be cold and snowy, but it’s a magical time to experience the city’s holiday festivities.

4. How do I get around Vilnius?

Vilnius has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trolleybuses, which cover the entire city. You can purchase tickets at kiosks or directly from the driver. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. However, many of the city’s top attractions are within easy walking distance of each other, so consider exploring Vilnius on foot.

5. What are some popular day trips from Vilnius?

There are several great day trips you can take from Vilnius, including:

1. Trakai Castle: Visit this picturesque island castle just outside Vilnius.
2. Kernavė: Explore the historic site of the first capital of Lithuania.
3. Hill of Crosses: See the thousands of crosses that have been placed on this hill as a symbol of Lithuania’s Catholic faith.
4. Curonian Spit: Head to the coast to see this stunning sand dune peninsula, which stretches for 97 kilometers.

6. What is the currency of Vilnius?

The currency of Vilnius is the Euro (EUR). You can exchange money at banks or exchange offices throughout the city, or withdraw cash from ATMs.

7. Is Vilnius safe?

Vilnius is generally a safe city for tourists, with low levels of crime. However, as with any city, it’s important to take basic safety precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding poorly lit or isolated areas at night.

8. What should I pack for a trip to Vilnius?

When packing for your trip to Vilnius, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, as the city is quite hilly and cobbled. You’ll also want to dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. In the summer, temperatures can reach the mid-20s Celsius (high 70s Fahrenheit), while in the winter, temperatures can drop below freezing.

9. Do I need a visa to visit Vilnius?

Citizens of the European Union, Switzerland, and many other countries do not need a visa to visit Vilnius for stays of up to 90 days. If you’re unsure whether you need a visa, check with the Lithuanian embassy or consulate in your home country.Vilnius is a beautiful and fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s architecture, cuisine, or nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Vilnius.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Vilnius

Vilnius is the charming capital of Lithuania, famous for its history, architecture, and rich culture. It’s a great destination for travelers looking for a unique experience in Europe that’s still relatively undiscovered. Whether you’re interested in history, food, art, or just want to explore the city’s beautiful streets, there’s something for everyone here. In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to make the most out of your time as a tourist in Vilnius.

1. Visit the Old Town

The Old Town of Vilnius is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Europe. It’s a maze of narrow winding streets and tiny squares, filled with historic buildings and beautiful churches. The best way to explore the Old Town is on foot, so put on your walking shoes and get ready to discover the city’s rich history.Start your tour at Cathedral Square, the heart of the Old Town. Here you’ll find the beautiful Vilnius Cathedral, the Bell Tower, and the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. Next, head to Pilies Street, a picturesque pedestrian street lined with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. You can also stop by the Amber Gallery-Museum, where you’ll learn about the history and production of amber, a unique gemstone found in the Baltic region.Other must-visit sights in the Old Town include St. Anne’s Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the Gate of Dawn, an important Catholic pilgrimage site with a miraculous painting of the Virgin Mary.

2. Discover the City’s Art Scene

Vilnius is home to a thriving contemporary art scene, with many galleries and museums showcasing works from local and international artists. The MO Museum is a must-visit for art lovers, with a collection featuring Lithuanian and international contemporary art.If you’re interested in Soviet-era art, head to the National Museum of Art, which houses a collection of Lithuanian art from the 20th century. The Tolerance Center is another unique museum that explores the history of Lithuanian-Jewish relations through art and multimedia exhibits.For a more immersive art experience, take a street art tour of the city, where you’ll discover colorful murals and graffiti art that line the city’s walls and bridges.

3. Try the Local Cuisine

Lithuanian cuisine is hearty and delicious, with many traditional dishes that are perfect for a cold winter day. Start your culinary tour with a bowl of hot pink soup, or beetroot soup, which is made with sour cream and boiled potatoes. Another staple of Lithuanian cuisine is cepelinai, a potato-based dumpling filled with meat, cheese, or mushrooms.For dessert, try a slice of šakotis, a traditional Lithuanian cake that’s cooked over an open fire and shaped like a tree. If you’re feeling adventurous, try some kisielius, a dessert made from sour fruit juice and starch.

4. Visit the Hill of Crosses

Located just outside of Vilnius, the Hill of Crosses is one of the most unique and spiritual sights in Lithuania. It’s a small hill covered in thousands of crosses, left there by pilgrims as a symbol of their devotion. The site has a haunting beauty and is a must-visit for anyone interested in religious history and culture.

5. Explore the Užupis District

Užupis is a bohemian neighborhood in the heart of Vilnius, known for its vibrant arts scene and independent spirit. This self-proclaimed republic has its own constitution, flag, and even an army of artists.Take a stroll through the narrow streets of Užupis and discover its many art galleries, cafes, and boutiques. Don’t forget to stop by the Užupis Angel, a bronze statue that symbolizes the neighborhood’s free and creative spirit.

Final Thoughts

Vilnius is a hidden gem in Europe, with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a thriving arts scene. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just want to try some delicious food, this charming city has something for everyone. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most out of your time as a tourist in Vilnius.