What is Vilnius Like?

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, with its baroque beauty, buzzing atmosphere and growing business centre, is one of the most intriguing cities in Eastern Europe. There is something for everyone in the city – from earthy traditional cuisine, to cutting-edge art galleries and modern cultural centres. Vilnius is a truly unexpected surprise for most visitors, showcasing some of its country’s best museums, historical sites and vibrant nightlife.

Exploring the City

Vilnius is compact and easy to explore on foot, with many charming cobbled streets running through the city. The old town is home to some of the city’s most influential buildings, including the majestic Cathedral Square – a great place to start your exploration of the city. Here, you can find an abundance of characterful outdoor cafes and traditional restaurants. Streets such as Pilies, Ausros and Gedimino are home to a huge selection of bars and clubs, full of character and some of the best drinks in the city. Vilnius’ vibrant neighbourhoods are full of surprises – explore the hidden courtyards and cobblestone alleys of Uzupis and enjoy the unusual art installations there. Just a short distance away, you can explore the Upes diagio, a lazy river running through the old town. Other unmissable spots include the Town Hall Square and Basanavicius Street, which offer the perfect spot for people-watching.

Cultural Sites in Vilnius

Vilnius is known for its amazing cultural attractions, from museums to theatrical performances. Located in the amazing old town is the National Museum of Lithuania, one of the largest in the country. There you can learn all about Lithuania’s rich cultural history, including archaeological finds and a church bell tower. For those looking to learn more about Lithuania’s Jewish culture, the Vilna Gaon State Jewish Museum is well worth a visit. Explore centuries-old artifacts, monuments and artifacts that tell the story of Jewish life in Vilnius. The six-floor museum also houses a synagogue, guest speakers and special exhibitions.

Dining Out in Vilnius

For foodies visiting Vilnius, there’s no shortage of delicious places to eat. The city’s cuisine is heavily influenced by neighbouring Belarus, Poland and Ukraine. Fans of traditional Lithuanian food should head over to Senoji Trobele, where you can taste some of the country’s signature dishes such as cepelinai, potato dumplings stuffed with meat or cheese, and kybynets, which are made from fried dough and filled with pork. For a taste of other regional flavours nearby, try In Vino for Ukrainian favourites like varenyky (dumplings) or Lova for Central European dishes such as schnitzel or goulash. Vilnius also has plenty of great places for vegetarian and vegan dining too. Fresh stuff like Hummus Bar and Trys Devynerios are popular lunch spots with locals. For dinner, restaurants such as Kestutis take plant-based dining to a new level, serving up traditional Lithuanian recipes like herring salad with vegan mayo and an interesting take on vegetable borsch.

Nightlife in Vilnius

Vilnius has some great nightlife spots that attract locals and tourists alike. The city’s charming cobblestone streets are filled with colourful bars and vibrant clubs, each with its own unique atmosphere. During the summer months, head to Opera Club or Rojaus Tyla for outdoor courtyard parties and DJs pumping out dance tunes until late. The nearby Alaus Namai also has a lively atmosphere – complete with craft beer on tap. However, if you’re looking for something a bit more relaxed, then try Goat bar – they have an eclectic selection of craft beers from all over Europe, as well as chips and other snacks.

Conclusion

Vilnius is a unique city that has something for everyone – from delicious traditional cuisine to captivating historical sites. Whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife or cultural attractions, Vilnius has it all. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or exploring for longer, this city will leave you with lasting memories that will stay in your heart forever! For more information about Vilnius visit www.vilniustourism.lt, the official website for Vilnius tourism.

An Insider’s Guide to Vilnius: Discovering Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems

Welcome to Vilnius, the charming capital of Lithuania. While many travelers may have this city on their bucket list, only a few truly know the hidden treasures this place holds. In this guide, we’ll reveal some of Vilnius’ best-kept secrets that only locals know of. Get ready to explore Vilnius off the beaten path.

Local Attractions

Beyond the typical tourist spots such as the Old Town, Vilnius has a lot more to offer. Start by visiting the Literatu Street, dedicated to famous Lithuanian writers. Discover unique street art around Užupis, an independent republic inside Vilnius, or take a stroll in the Bernardinų Gardens, the city’s largest park. For a surreal experience, make a stop at the Republic of Užupis’ Mermaid, a bronze statue of a mermaid submerged in a fountain.

Dining Spots

The Lithuanian cuisine is a blend of multiple cultures and traditions. To experience the authentic taste of Vilnius, visit Zatar Falafel & Hummus or Sweet Root Restaurant, which serves locally-grown organic food. Don’t forget to enjoy Lithuanian beer while at Šnekutis restaurant, famous for its rustic decor and hearty food. And that’s not all, to taste a unique dessert, try the Ausros Vartu Sklandrausis, a traditional Lithuanian pie.

Cultural Experiences

Vilnius has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many ways to experience it. Visit the Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre to witness excellent performances. During summers, catch the Vilnius City Fiesta, featuring performances by contemporary Lithuanian and foreign artists. Explore the National Museum of Lithuania, that displays the country’s history from ancient times to the present.

Local History

For an entrancing experience about Vilnius’ history, visit the Museum of Occupation and Freedom Fights. Be intrigued by the politically significant exhibits and installations in the former KGB headquarters. Uncover the incredible history of the Sts. Peter and Paul Church, where wax figures of tortured saints and angels are on display. And don’t miss the Gediminas’ Castle Tower, where a legend pops up for every section of the complex.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Take a 20 km ride from Vilnius to Europos Parkas, an open-air sculpture museum with more than 90 artworks from 27 different countries. Admire and learn about the artists’ designs, featuring unique interpretations of the concept of Europe. For a peaceful escape from the city, visit Trakai Town Castle Museum, situated on an island surrounded by water. With its beautiful lakeside location and fairy-tale castle, Trakai is a must-visit location.

Vilnius is full of surprises, with hidden sights at every corner. With this insider’s guide, you’ll discover a new, different, and more profound layer of Vilnius. We hope you come away from your visit feeling stimulated, inspired and eager to share this guide, and your experiences with friends.