Things To Do
in Vilnius
Nestled in the southeastern part of Lithuania, this vibrant city is renowned for its captivating blend of baroque architecture in the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and contemporary cultural scenes. Vilnius is celebrated for its rich history, evident in landmarks like the Gediminas Tower and the medieval grandeur of its streets and squares.
It's a city where the past and present converge, offering bustling markets, an array of museums, and a lively nightlife, making it a dynamic European capital.
- "Labas rytas" - Good morning
- "Ačiū" - Thank you
- "Prašome" - Please
- "Sutinku" - I agree
- "Iki pasimatymo" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Gediminas Tower for stunning views of Vilnius. Enjoy a coffee at a nearby cafe after your hike up the hill.
Stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town, visiting the Cathedral and the famous Gates of Dawn. Don’t forget to stop for lunch at a local restaurant to savor traditional Lithuanian dishes.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the Vilnia River. Consider dining at a local eatery to experience Vilnius' vibrant culinary scene.
Begin your morning at the National Museum of Lithuania to dive into the country's history. Afterwards, explore the artistic side of Vilnius by visiting Užupis, a quirky district with local art.
Visit the MO Museum, which showcases contemporary art and local artists. Grab lunch at one of the trendy cafes in the area.
Conclude your day by attending a performance at the Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre. After the show, relax at a nearby bar to discuss the evening's highlights.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Vibrant arts and music scene.
- Affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe.
- Beautiful architecture, especially in the Old Town.
- Green spaces and parks for outdoor activities.
- Growing startup and tech scene.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Safety and low crime rates.
- Harsh winters with low temperatures.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Language barrier for non-Lithuanian speakers.
- Public transportation can be less reliable than in larger cities.
- Less international exposure compared to larger European capitals.
- Some areas might feel underdeveloped.
- Bureaucratic processes can be slow.
Best Activities in Vilnius
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful Vingis Park on a bike, with dedicated cycling paths and scenic views.
Enjoy the natural beauty of Verkiai Regional Park while hiking the picturesque trails and taking in the stunning landscapes.
Experience Vilnius from a unique perspective by canoeing along the tranquil waters of the Neris River, with opportunities to admire the city's skyline.
Tours
Uncover the best of Vilnius with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Vilnius
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Vilnius Old Town and the surrounding area.
Provides a stunning view of the city and is a popular spot for sunset photos.
Known for its artistic vibe and picturesque streets, perfect for photography.
Beautiful park with a variety of scenic spots for photography, including the Vilnia River.
Food in Vilnius
Vilnius Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cepelinai are large potato dumplings stuffed with meat, cheese, or mushrooms and typically served with sour cream and bacon bits. They can be found at traditional Lithuanian restaurants like Forto Dvaras and Bernelių Užeiga.
Must-Try!
Zrazai are Lithuanian beef rolls stuffed with bacon, pickles, and onions. They are often served with potatoes and can be enjoyed at local eateries such as Lokys and Etno Dvaras.
Kibinai are savory pastries filled with meat and onions, introduced to Lithuanian cuisine by the Karaims. Tasting these pastries is a must-do when visiting Trakai, a town near Vilnius, where they are a local specialty.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Vilnius better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Hales Turgus, also known as the Vilnius Central Market, is a bustling food market featuring a wide variety of local produce, meats, cheeses, and artisanal goods. Visitors can also sample traditional Lithuanian street food like smoked sausages, pickles, and pastries.
Tymo Turgus is a vibrant open-air market offering a selection of local and organic produce, as well as street food stalls serving Lithuanian snacks and quick bites like fresh honey, grilled meats, and baked goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respecting elders is an important cultural norm in Vilnius, Lithuania. It is customary to greet and show deference to older individuals.
When dining in Vilnius, it is customary to wait for the host or hostess to begin eating before guests start their meal. It is also polite to use utensils rather than eating with hands.
When visiting religious sites or attending formal events, it is respectful to dress modestly and conservatively. Revealing clothing may be considered inappropriate in certain settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Vilnius with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Vilnius
Ensure a smooth experience
In Vilnius, Lithuania, it is customary to leave a tip of 10-15% in restaurants and cafes if the service is good. Tipping is also common for taxi rides, with rounding up the fare being a common practice.
In Vilnius, Lithuania, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payment. Most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels, accept major credit cards. Contactless payments are also becoming increasingly popular in the city.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Vilnius.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (April to June) is a great time to visit Vilnius as the city comes to life with blooming flowers and outdoor events. The weather is mild and perfect for exploring the beautiful Old Town and the surrounding nature.
Summer (July to August) is the peak tourist season in Vilnius. The city enjoys long daylight hours and hosts various festivals and cultural events. It's a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere in the city.
Autumn (September to November) brings beautiful foliage to Vilnius, creating picturesque landscapes. The weather starts to cool down, but the city remains charming with fewer tourists. It's a great time to explore the fall colors and enjoy cultural events.
Winter (December to February) in Vilnius is cold and snowy, creating a magical winter wonderland. The city celebrates Christmas and New Year with festive markets and events. It's a great time to experience the holiday spirit and enjoy winter activities.
Vilnius at Night
Hiking in Vilnius
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large urban park in Vilnius with numerous walking trails, green spaces, and scenic views along the Neris River.
A nature park located just north of Vilnius, offering several hiking trails through forests, hills, and historical sites.
This park features beautiful landscapes along the Neris River, with various hiking routes that lead through diverse ecosystems.
An open-air museum located near Druskininkai featuring Soviet-era sculptures, surrounded by nature trails for hiking.
A protected area near Vilnius ideal for hiking, with trails that showcase unique flora and fauna in a natural habitat.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Vilnius through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Vilnius by plane.
The main international airport serving Vilnius, Lithuania.
Located in Kaunas, this is the second largest airport in Lithuania.
The largest airport in Latvia, located approximately 300 km from Vilnius.
The main airport serving Warsaw, Poland, about 450 km from Vilnius.
The main international airport in Estonia, located around 600 km from Vilnius.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Vilnius, making up around 60% of the population.
The second largest ethnic group in Vilnius, consisting of approximately 20% of the city's population.
A significant minority in Vilnius, comprising about 10% of the population.
Representing about 3% of the population in Vilnius.
A smaller demographic group in Vilnius, making up around 2% of the population.
A historically significant but small community in Vilnius, currently making up less than 1%.
Includes various other nationalities and expatriates from different countries, collectively making up around 4%.
The Soul of Vilnius
Discover the essence of Vilnius through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is the most popular sport in Lithuania, with a rich history and numerous international successes. Vilnius boasts several professional teams and a vibrant basketball culture.
Football is widely played and followed in Vilnius, with several local clubs and a strong supporter base. The sport continues to grow in popularity at various levels.
Athletics events are common in Vilnius, with many opportunities for participation in track and field, running, and other athletic activities.
Ice hockey has a growing fan base in Vilnius, with local teams competing in various leagues. The sport enjoys popularity, particularly during the winter months.
Rugby has seen increasing interest in Vilnius, with local clubs fostering the sport and attracting new players and fans.
Cycling is popular for both recreation and commuting in Vilnius. The city encourages cycling with dedicated paths, and various cycling events take place throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vilnius.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Vilnius offer diverse vegetarian and vegan dishes, from vegan burgers and salads to hearty vegetable stews and plant-based pastries. Notable establishments include Vegafe, Gyvas Baras, and Radharanė.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options at various dining venues in Vilnius such as Ertlio Namas, Sweet Root, and Gaspar's. These establishments have gluten-free menus or can modify dishes to accommodate dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Vilnius with these cultural adventures.
