Vilnius - Discovering Lithuania

Travelling to Vilnius

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Vilnius, a pretty good destination in Lithuania (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Vilnius and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Vilnius, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Lithuania, here's everything to know about Vilnius for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Vilnius

Vilnius is the capital city of Lithuania, located in the southeastern part of the country. It has a population of approximately 540,000 people and covers an area of 401 square kilometers. Vilnius has a rich cultural history and is known for its well-preserved Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also home to numerous museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks, including the Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, and the Presidential Palace. Additionally, Vilnius has a vibrant culinary scene and offers a variety of traditional Lithuanian dishes as well as international cuisine.

What to visit in Vilnius

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Vilnius, Lithuania: 1. Old Town - This is the historic center of Vilnius and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has many beautiful buildings, narrow streets, and charming cafes.
2. Gediminas Castle - Located on a hill overlooking the city, this castle dates back to the 14th century and offers great views of the city. It also houses a museum that tells the story of Lithuania's history.
3. Cathedral Square - This is the main square in Vilnius and is home to the Vilnius Cathedral, which dates back to the 14th century. The square is also lined with shops and cafes.
4. St. Anne's Church - This stunning red brick church is a great example of Gothic architecture and is located in the Old Town.
5. Uzupis - This quirky neighborhood was once a run-down industrial area but has been transformed into an artistic hub. It has many galleries, cafes, and colorful murals.
6. Trakai Castle - Located just outside Vilnius, this stunning castle is set on an island in a lake and dates back to the 14th century. It's a great day trip from Vilnius.
7. Vilnius TV Tower - This is the tallest free-standing structure in Lithuania and offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. It also has a rotating restaurant at the top.
8. Vilnius University - This is one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe and is housed in a beautiful Baroque building in the Old Town.
9. Museum of Genocide Victims - This museum was once a KGB prison and gives a stark reminder of Lithuania's Soviet past.
10. Bernardine Park - This park is located in the center of Vilnius and is a great place to relax and take in the city's beauty. It has a pond, walking paths, and plenty of benches to sit and enjoy the scenery.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Lithuania, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Vilnius.

When to go on holiday to Vilnius

The best time to visit Vilnius is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is mild and pleasant. During this time, the city comes alive with outdoor festivals, events and cultural activities. However, if you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, you can also consider visiting in the spring or autumn (April-May or September-October). The winter months of December to February can be quite cold, but they offer a unique experience with winter sports and seasonal festivities. Ultimately, the best time to visit Vilnius depends on your personal preferences and what kind of activities you are interested in.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Vilnius

There are several ways to get to Vilnius, Lithuania: 1. By plane: Vilnius has an international airport, Vilnius International Airport (VNO), which is well-connected to many cities in Europe. There are direct flights from major cities like London, Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Warsaw.
2. By train: Vilnius has good railway connections with major cities in Europe. Trains run daily from cities such as Warsaw, Krakow, Berlin, and Moscow.
3. By bus: Vilnius is also well-connected to several cities in Europe by bus. There are several bus companies operating in Lithuania that offer bus services to other European cities.
4. By car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car from major cities in Europe and drive to Vilnius. Lithuania is part of the EU and has good road infrastructure.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Vilnius!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Vilnius, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Vilnius

Here are some typical foods of Vilnius, Lithuania with short descriptions for each of them: 1. Cepelinai: A national Lithuanian dish that consists of potato dumplings filled with ground meat, mushrooms, bacon or cottage cheese. They are usually served with sour cream or bacon sauce.
2. Šaltibarščiai: A cold pink soup made with beets, kefir, and cucumber, often served with boiled potatoes and dill.
3. Kugelis: A traditional potato pudding made from grated potatoes, onions, eggs and sometimes bacon. It is usually served with sour cream or lingonberry sauce.
4. Skilandis: A smoked meat specialty made from beef or pork, marinated in garlic and spices and hung to dry. It is usually served cold and sliced thinly.
5. Kibinai: A pastry filled with meat, potatoes and onions, which originated in the Karaim community of Lithuania. They are often served with a side of sour cream.
6. Vėdarai: A traditional Lithuanian sausage made from pig intestine stuffed with grated potatoes, meat and onions.
7. Žemaičių blynai: A potato pancake that originated in the Samogitian region of Lithuania. It is made from grated potatoes, flour, eggs and milk, and usually served with sour cream or pork cracklings.
8. Keepinis: A sautéed or boiled dish made from boiled pig's blood, barley groats and onion. It is usually served with potatoes and bacon.
9. Saltibarsciai: A refreshing pink soup that is made with buttermilk, beets, cucumbers, scallions and dill. 10. Medus: Lithuanian honey cake made with honey, rye flour, spices, and nuts.
You can find general info about typical foods in Lithuania here.

Is Vilnius an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other European cities, Vilnius is considered a budget-friendly destination. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation are generally lower than in Western European cities. However, prices can vary depending on the season and your travel style. For example, prices may increase during peak tourist season, and luxury hotels and restaurants can be more expensive. Overall, Vilnius is a great destination for travelers who want to experience Europe without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Vilnius

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Vilnius, Lithuania are the Old Town (Senamiestis), which is the charming historic district where you'll find most of the city's sights and attractions, business centers such as the new city center, and the trendy neighborhood of Užupis known for its bohemian atmosphere. Also, you may consider staying in the district of Žvėrynas which is a quiet area located near the river, or in Naujamiestis which is a modern area located between the Old Town and the new city center.
You can check hotel prices at Vilnius here:
Booking.com

Is Vilnius a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Vilnius is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit. Lithuania has a low crime rate and Vilnius is a relatively small city with a friendly population. However, like in any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in more secluded areas. Petty theft can occur, so it's recommended to keep valuables hidden and not leave them unattended in public areas. Overall, as long as you take basic precautions as you would in any other city, Vilnius is a safe destination for travelers.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Lithuania here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Vilnius.

What type of travelers will enjoy Vilnius the most?

Vilnius is a great destination for many types of travelers. Here are some suggestions: - Couples: Vilnius offers a charming atmosphere for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The city boasts beautiful architecture, cozy cafes, and quiet streets for strolling hand-in-hand. The Christmas season is especially magical in Vilnius, with festive markets and twinkling lights.
- Young people: Vilnius is a vibrant city with a young population, making it a great spot for those looking for fun and nightlife. The city has a great bar scene, with many options for craft beer and cocktails. There are also plenty of music venues and clubs that offer live music and DJs.
- Families: Vilnius is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities for all ages. Families can visit the Vilnius Zoo or the theme park, "Vichy Aquapark," for a fun-filled day. There are also many parks and outdoor spaces to explore, such as Bernardinai Gardens and the Gediminas Castle Hill.
Overall, Vilnius is a destination that can be enjoyed by many types of travelers.

How to get around Vilnius

There are several transportation options for getting around Vilnius, Lithuania, including: 1. Walking - Vilnius is a very walkable city with a well-preserved historic Old Town that can easily be explored on foot.
2. Public transportation - Vilnius has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses and trolleybuses. Tickets can be purchased from street-side kiosks or using a Vilnius city card.
3. Taxis - Taxis are widely available in Vilnius and can be hailed on the street or ordered through a ride-hailing app like Bolt or Uber.
4. Bicycles - There are several bike rental companies in Vilnius, and the city has bike lanes and bike-friendly roads for cyclists.
5. Car rental - Visitors can rent a car to explore Vilnius and the surrounding area. However, note that parking in Vilnius can be difficult, and traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

What to see around Vilnius

Of course! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Vilnius: 1. Trakai Castle - This historic castle is located on an island in Lake Galvė and is just a short drive from Vilnius.
2. Kernavė - Known as the Lithuanian Troy, Kernavė is a UNESCO-protected historical site that features ancient hill forts and medieval burial grounds.
3. Anykščiai - This charming town is located about an hour and a half from Vilnius and is known for its beautiful nature, including the Treetop Walking Path and Puntukas Stone.
4. Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum - This museum is a unique attraction that showcases traditional Lithuanian life and culture in a beautiful natural setting.
5. Grutas Park - Also known as Stalin's World, this park features a collection of Soviet-era sculptures and monuments, including a giant statue of Joseph Stalin.
6. Kaunas - Lithuania's second-largest city is located about an hour from Vilnius and is home to historical landmarks such as Kaunas Castle and the Ninth Fort Museum.
7. Vilnius Regional Park - If you're looking for a day trip that's a little closer to home, Vilnius Regional Park is a beautiful natural area that includes forests, lakes, and hiking trails.
For every travel information about Lithuania you can click here.

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