Are you ready to explore the charming streets of Vilnius, Lithuania’s vibrant capital? From its UNESCO-listed Old Town to its lively cultural scene, Vilnius offers a blend of history, art, and modernity that’s sure to captivate any traveler. I immediately fell in love with the little charming Vilnius, and the warm spring days gave me a good mood for the entire journey through Lithuania. In this post, I’ll tell you about what’s worth seeing in Vilnius.
See the city from above – What to see in charming Vilnius.
Climb up to Castle Hill, to the Gediminas Tower, which is located right in the city center. Here, a funicular will help you. And if you don’t want to spend extra money, then climb up the path paved with huge cobblestones, which is not easy (but it will give your heels a massage).
Who is this Gediminas? He is a Lithuanian prince who founded the city. And the tower is the only reminder of the medieval castle that once stood here.
According to legend, the prince had a dream in which a huge iron wolf stood on a hill and howled as if it were a whole pack. The dream was interpreted as prophetic, and the prince built a fortress on the banks of the Vilnia River, next to which the flourishing city grew up.
Two different views open up from the hill: the first is more classical with red tiled houses; churches ringing bells; quite narrow streets, easy to get lost in, and small, like sand grains, people.
And the second – with a mixture of modernity: with wide bridges and skyscrapers and, therefore, in my opinion, more interesting and original.
One of the things I love most about exploring a new place is stumbling upon hidden gems. Check out the amazing city of Kaunas. It is sure to surprise you!
Stroll through the Old Town – What to see in charming Vilnius.
And now we descend from the hills and go straight to the Old Town. Vilnius Old Town is considered the largest in Europe. Although it smells of antiquity, it looks quite bright. Because all the houses here are not tall, maximum three floors, the city seems cozy and cute. The atmosphere on the streets is lively, and bright characters pass by you. What to see in charming Vilnius else?
Find the geographical center of Europe.
It turns out that the center of Europe is a tiny plate with a metal “pimple” that needs to be rubbed to make all wishes come true. But having found it, don’t rush to rejoice – it’s not the only center of Europe. Three were found in total. Each geographer calculated by their own coordinates, in Vilnius, Slovakia (the village of Krahule), and in Kremnica near Minsk.
Wander around the Užupis Artists’ District – What to see in charming Vilnius.
This is the most interesting district of the city, once created by the poor. At one time, Užupis was a troubled area, but now it is home to artists, poets, musicians, and art workers. Over the years, the quarter has been transformed beyond recognition. Yes, inside the district are the same dilapidated houses, but the central streets strive to be artistic.
Poor houses are covered with a bunch of drawings and graffiti, streets are covered with sculptures and lots of galleries. Locals come up with new features, and tourists flock. But that wasn’t enough. The goal was set to attract as many tourists as possible. Now Užupis is not a district, but a whole state within a state and somewhat reminiscent of Christiania in Copenhagen.
Užupis has its president, its constitution, its flag, and even its army. On April 1st, Užupis celebrates Independence Day. On this day, border checkpoints appear at the city’s borders, and anyone who wishes is given visas in their passports.
And there’s also a queen in Užupis – albeit ceremonial, whose function includes sitting beautifully on the throne.
How to get to Užupis? Užupis is located just a few steps from the Old Town, not far from Castle Hill. It’s best to walk to Užupis from Mykolo Street. By bus, you need to get off at the Dailės akademija, Užupio stop.
Indulge in a piece of Šakotis cake.
This is a favorite treat of the Lithuanians, resembling either a stalagmite or a New Year tree. Even the name translates as “branched”, and the cake is made from egg dough, cooked over an open fire. There is a legend about one Queen Barbara who arranged a feast in Trakai. Culinary competitions were held then, and one chef decided to make her a gift.
The whole point is that such a cake was made accidentally. The chef accidentally spilled the dough on a spit, which was then wound over the fire. The dough solidified slowly, managing to flow a little, creating intricate branches. Today, this cake can be tasted in any restaurant. In Lithuania, it is often ordered for weddings, and chocolate is added to it.
If you’re looking for something new to expand your research on Lithuania, then head towards Trakai Fortress. It’s the perfect place to get to know the country more deeply!
Try local Lithuanian cuisine at the “Berneliu Uzeiga” restaurant – What to see in Vilnius.
Plačiaiša – baked pudding made from grated egg and potatoes.
Morku apelsin – Lithuanian baked pudding made from carrots. Carrots are boiled, mashed, sugar and cinnamon are added, mixed, and placed in the oven.
Cepelinai – perhaps one of the most popular treats in Lithuanian cuisine. Potato dumplings are filled with meat, vegetables, and cottage cheese. This whimsical name “cepelinai” was given thanks to a German airship during World War I when Lithuania was under German occupation.
Buy a wooden toy.
Locals love to give wooden toys as gifts. There is a great variety: these are Christmas tree toys, puzzle toys, rocking horses, cubes, houses, in general, any toys, but the main thing is made of wood. One of the best workshops in Vilnius is the FriendlyToys workshop. Giving such a toy to your child is a great pleasure, and buying a neatly made horse at the Sunday market from an old man in thick glasses is another one.
If you are planning a trip through the Baltic States, then here is my itinerary through Lithuania and Latvia. These places that are mentioned in it I highly recommend you to visit!
How to get to Vilnius.
If you’re planning a trip to this enchanting city, here’s your ultimate guide to getting there hassle-free.
Getting there by air: Vilnius is served by Vilnius International Airport (VNO), which is well-connected to major cities across Europe and beyond. Several airlines operate flights to Vilnius, including budget carriers, making it relatively easy to find affordable fares. From the airport, you can reach the city center by taxi, bus, or train, with the journey taking around 15-20 minutes.
Check Aviasales to find the cheapest airfare to Vilnius if you’re traveling from another country.
By train: Traveling to Vilnius by train is another convenient option, especially if you’re coming from neighboring European countries like Poland, Latvia, or Belarus. The city’s train station, Vilnius Railway Station, is located within walking distance of the Old Town, making it convenient for travelers to access the city’s main attractions upon arrival.
Driving: If you prefer the freedom of driving, you can also reach Vilnius by car. Lithuania has a well-maintained road network, and driving to Vilnius allows you to explore the country at your own pace. Just keep in mind that if you’re traveling from outside the European Union, you may need an International Driving Permit, so be sure to check the requirements before hitting the road.
I highly recommend traveling by car as it is the most convenient and direct option. If you don’t have a car, you can rent one at very reasonable prices here.
Before planning your trip to Vilnius, it’s essential to check the visa requirements for your country. Fortunately, Lithuania is part of the Schengen Area, which means that citizens of many countries can enter visa-free for short stays. However, it’s always best to verify the specific requirements based on your nationality to ensure a smooth entry into the country.
Getting around Vilnius is easy, thanks to its efficient public transportation system. The city has an extensive network of buses and trolleybuses, along with a modern tram line that connects the outskirts with the city center. Alternatively, you can explore Vilnius on foot or rent a bike to pedal your way through the city’s picturesque streets and parks.
The most captivating hotels in Vilnius. What to see in charming Vilnius
Vilnius, the enchanting capital of Lithuania, is a city steeped in history, culture, and architectural marvels. From its cobblestone streets to its Baroque churches and medieval Old Town, Vilnius offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern allure. As visitors wander through its picturesque neighborhoods, they’ll find themselves surrounded by a plethora of accommodation options, each with its own distinctive charm. Here are some of the most interesting hotels in Vilnius that promise an unforgettable stay:
Shakespeare Boutique Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Vilnius Old Town, the Shakespeare Boutique Hotel exudes elegance and sophistication. This boutique hotel pays homage to the literary genius of William Shakespeare, with each room uniquely themed after one of his plays. Guests can immerse themselves in the ambiance of Romeo and Juliet or Hamlet while enjoying modern amenities and impeccable service. The hotel’s quaint courtyard and cozy library offer peaceful retreats after a day of exploring the city.
Hotel PACAI: Housed in a meticulously restored 17th-century palace, Hotel PACAI seamlessly blends historic grandeur with contemporary luxury. Situated near Vilnius Cathedral Square, this five-star hotel boasts opulent interiors, including original frescoes and stucco decorations. Guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant, unwind in the spa, or simply admire the architectural splendor of the palace’s ornate facades.
Artagonist Art Hotel: For art enthusiasts seeking a one-of-a-kind experience, the Artagonist Art Hotel offers a creative haven in the heart of Vilnius. Each room in this boutique hotel is adorned with original artwork by Lithuanian artists, creating a gallery-like atmosphere. From vibrant paintings to avant-garde sculptures, guests can immerse themselves in the local art scene without leaving the comfort of their accommodation. The hotel also hosts regular exhibitions and events, showcasing the talent of emerging and established artists alike.
Amberton Cathedral Square Hotel: Boasting a prime location overlooking Cathedral Square, the Amberton Cathedral Square Hotel offers unrivaled views of Vilnius’ most iconic landmarks. Whether admiring the majestic Vilnius Cathedral or watching the bustling activity below, guests can soak in the city’s ambiance from the comfort of their room. The hotel’s contemporary design, attentive staff, and proximity to major attractions make it a popular choice for discerning travelers.
Traveling to Vilnius offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Lithuania’s capital. Whether you arrive by air, train, bus, or car, getting to Vilnius is just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.
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