Vilnius is a city that enchants with its atmosphere, history and architecture. Where the past harmoniously blends with the present. In just one or two days, you can see unique sights, enjoy national cuisine and experience special Baltic hospitality. Plan your trip with our tips!
Brief history
Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania and one of the oldest cities in the Baltic region. Founded in 1323 by Grand Duke Gediminas, Vilnius quickly became an important cultural, commercial and political center. The city is rich in history, which is reflected in its architecture, which combines Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance and Classicism. Vilnius’s Old Town, one of the largest in Eastern Europe, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Today, Vilnius is a modern European capital that retains its unique charm and attracts tourists from all over the world.
Individual transfer from/to Vilnius airport.
Tickets online – fly cheaper – look for flights marked with offer.
City tours booked here.
Accommodation
Vilnius offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are a few options:
Budget option, ideal for travelers who spend most of their time on excursions and are looking for economical accommodation.
Downtown Forest Hostel & Camping– a cozy hostel located near the Old Town of Vilnius. Guests are offered affordable prices, a comfortable atmosphere and a unique opportunity to stay in a campsite on the hostel’s territory.
Jimmy Jumps House is a hostel located in the heart of Vilnius’s Old Town. Its advantages include a convenient location, a friendly atmosphere and free Wi-Fi for guests.
Stay Express Hotel is a simple and affordable hotel in the center of Vilnius, located close to the main tourist attractions. The rooms are clean and cozy, making it an ideal option for travelers looking for comfort on a budget.
Hotel Tilto– a comfortable hotel located in the very center of Vilnius, close to the main attractions of the city. Among the advantages are a convenient location, breakfast included and modern rooms.
Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva– a hotel with magnificent views of the Neris River and the Old Town. Guests can enjoy the swimming pool, fitness center and restaurant with panoramic views.
Artagonist Art Hotel– a design hotel located in the heart of the Old Town. Advantages include artistic interior, included breakfast and convenient location near attractions.
Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius– a luxury hotel with a magnificent view of Cathedral Square. Ideal for those looking for high quality service and luxury. The rooms are elegant, and the spa center adds additional comfort.
Stikliai Hotel is an ideal place for lovers of history and elegance. A hotel in the style of the Old Town of Vilnius, with a wonderful restaurant and an individual approach to each guest.
Shakespeare Boutique Hotel is a great option for those who value individuality. The unique design of thematic rooms associated with great writers creates a cozy atmosphere.
Choose the option that best suits your needs and enjoy an unforgettable stay in Vilnius!
What to see
Vilnius Old Town
Vilnius is famous for its Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the largest medieval old centers in Europe. Walking through the narrow streets, you will get into the atmosphere of ancient times with beautifully preserved buildings, temples and squares.
Cathedral Square (Katedros aikštė)
This is the central place of Vilnius, known for its architectural and historical significance. The square is surrounded by several important architectural monuments:
Cathedral of St. Stanislaus and St. Vladislav (Šv. Stanislovo ir Šv. Vladislavo katedra)
The main Catholic church of Lithuania, founded by the Grand Duke of Lithuania Vytautas. For centuries, it served as the coronation place of Lithuanian monarchs and was the center of religious life in Lithuania. In the 19th century, after the Russian annexation, the cathedral was converted into an Orthodox church, but after the restoration of Lithuania in 1918, it was returned to the Catholics.
Here are located crypts with the burials of grand dukes, bishops and representatives of noble families.
Belfry of the Cathedral (Vilniaus katedros varpinė)
This is one of the oldest towers in the city, serving as the bell tower of the Cathedral of Saints Stanislaus and Vladislav. Height: 52 m, and together with the cross – 57 m above the square level. Originally part of a defensive tower, it was later rebuilt into a bell tower. The upper levels offer a panoramic view of the center of Vilnius. One of the oldest public clocks in the city, installed in the 17th century.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10–18
Price: €6, with a discount of €4.
Magic Stone (Stebuklas)
A small but special landmark in Vilnius, located on the Cathedral Square near the Cathedral bell tower. The stone marks the place where the Baltic Way ended – a peaceful protest in 1989, when over 2 million people from Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia formed a human chain 675 km long, holding hands as a sign of unity and the fight for independence.
This stone is not only a historical symbol, but also a real “magical” object. Legend has it that if you stand on the stone, turn around three times clockwise and make a wish, it will certainly come true!
Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania (Lietuvos Didžiojių Kunigaikštystės rūmai)
A historic residence located on Cathedral Square in Vilnius. Built in the 14th century, the palace was the center of power of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and served as the official residence of the Lithuanian grand dukes.
The palace was restored and opened as a museum in 2018. The reconstruction of the palace allowed us to see again the impressive interiors and architectural elements, allowing us to touch the history of Lithuania and its principality.
Museum in the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania
The museum in the palace offers visitors a variety of exhibitions covering the history of Lithuania from the Middle Ages to the Modern Age. The main exhibitions include:
Archaeological finds – household items, weapons, coins and other artifacts that give an idea of daily life in the Middle Ages.
Reproduction of princely interiors – the palace premises, including the throne room and bedrooms, restored in accordance with the historical stages of Lithuania’s development.
Art of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania – exhibitions containing paintings, sculptures and other works of art related to the cultural heritage of Lithuania.
Multimedia exhibitions – installations that help to better understand historical events, the political situation and life in the Principality of Lithuania.
Opening hours: The palace is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00 (Saturday and Sunday until 19:00).
Ticket prices: for adults (routes I–IV) – €13 (Route I – €6, Route II (exhibition) – €8, Route III (weapons) – free (cannot be visited separately), Route IV (exhibition) – €6), for students and pensioners – 50% discount, for children under 7 years old – free.
Gediminas’ Tower (Gedimino pilies bokštas)
One of the most famous and oldest architectural monuments of Vilnius. It is part of the former Gediminas Castle, which was built in the 14th century during the reign of the Grand Duke of Lithuania Gediminas. The tower is a symbol of Lithuania and an important historical site that played a significant role in the history of the country. Over the centuries, the tower has undergone changes and reconstructions, in particular after destruction during invasions and fires, but it has remained one of the main symbols of Vilnius.
One of the main attractive features of the tower is the panoramic view of the city. From its observation deck, you can see the old city, the Neris River, as well as the surrounding landscapes, making the tower a popular tourist destination.
Museum and exhibitions
The tower houses the Museum of Lithuanian History (Lithuanian National Museum), where you can learn more about the history of the castle, the culture of Lithuania and its grand dukes. It displays archaeological finds, ancient maps, reconstructions and other historical artifacts.
Opening hours: The tower is open to visitors daily from 10:00 to 20:00
Ticket prices: for adults — 8 EUR, for students and pensioners — 4 EUR, for children under 7 years old — free.
The Gediminas’ Tower Funicular is a convenient means of transport that allows tourists to quickly reach the tower without having to climb the steep slope on foot. A ticket costs about 1.5 EUR for adults.
The Gediminas’ Tower Funicular is not only a practical way to climb the mountain, but also an opportunity to enjoy magnificent views of Vilnius and the surrounding area from above.
Presidential Palace (LR Prezidento kanceliarija)
The Presidential Palace in Vilnius is the official residence of the President of Lithuania. Located in the very center of the city, it serves as the main administrative center of the head of state and a venue for official events.
The palace was once the residence of the bishops of Vilnius, and later served as an administrative center during various periods of Lithuanian history. In the 19th century, it served as the residence of Russian governors-general, and after Lithuania gained independence in the 20th century, it became the official residence of the country’s president. Today, the Presidential Palace is the workplace of the President of Lithuania. Official meetings, state receptions, and award ceremonies are held here.
Vilnius University (Vilniaus universitetas)
The oldest and largest higher education institution in Lithuania, founded in 1579. It is one of the oldest universities in Europe, playing a key role in the development of science and culture in the region.
Its history began with its foundation as a Jesuit Academy with the support of the Polish King Stephen Batory. In the 18th century, the university became one of the leading scientific centers in Europe. In the 19th century, it was closed by the Russian authorities, and was only restored in 1919. Today, the university is a prestigious educational institution with a wide range of programs.
The university complex contains several important architectural monuments. The Main Building and the Great Courtyard are the historical heart of the university. The Astronomical Observatory, founded in the 18th century, is one of the oldest in Europe. The University Library contains over 5 million books, including ancient manuscripts. The Church of St. John (Šv. Jonų bažnyčia) is part of the university ensemble.
St. John’s Church (Šv. Jonų bažnyčia)
St. John’s Church is one of the most famous shrines in Vilnius, part of the Vilnius University ensemble. It was built in 1388–1426 and became an important religious and cultural center of the city.
The temple has a unique architecture that combines Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Its modern appearance was formed after the reconstruction in the 18th century under the leadership of architect Johann Christoph Glaubitz, who created an exquisite Baroque interior.
The main dominant of the church is its tall bell tower, reaching 68 meters. It is one of the tallest buildings in the Old Town and serves as a wonderful observation deck, offering panoramic views of Vilnius.
Town Hall Square (Rotušės aikštė)
This is the historical center of Vilnius, which has been the venue for important city events, fairs, and celebrations for centuries. It was formed in the Middle Ages, when Vilnius became an important trade and cultural center of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.
The main building of the square is the Vilnius Town Hall (Vilniaus rotušė), built in a classical style at the end of the 18th century. Historic houses, cafes, restaurants, and boutiques are located around the square. In winter, a festive Christmas tree is set up here, and in summer, numerous cultural events are held.
Vilnius Town Hall (Vilniaus rotušė)
Vilnius Town Hall is one of the most prominent historical buildings in the city, located in the very center of Town Hall Square (Rotušės aikštė). It has served as the administrative, political, and cultural center of Vilnius for centuries. Previously, the town hall housed the city administration, court, theater, and retail space. Today, the building is used as a cultural center: exhibitions, concerts, ceremonial events, and receptions of honored guests of the city are held here.
Opening hours: Thursday (IV): 11:00–19:00, Saturday (VI): 10:00–17:00, Sunday (VII): closed
Entrance: free for all
St. Casimir’s Church (Šv. Kazimiero bažnyčia)
One of the oldest and most magnificent Catholic churches in Vilnius, built by the Jesuits in the 17th century. It is dedicated to Saint Casimir, the patron saint of Lithuania, and is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture. The temple is distinguished by its majestic facade, luxurious interior with numerous frescoes and a multi-tiered altar. Its main feature is the large dome with a golden crown, which has become a recognizable symbol of the church.
Opening hours: (May–September) weekdays: 11:00–18:30. Sunday: 08:00–18:00
Gate of Dawn (Aušros vartai)
The Gate of Dawn is the only surviving part of the defensive walls of Vilnius and one of the main shrines of Lithuania. They were built at the beginning of the 16th century as part of the city’s fortification system. Today, it is not only a historical monument, but also an important religious center, known for its miraculous icon of the Mother of God of Ostrobram.
Chapel opening hours: Daily: 06:00–19:00
Admission: Free
Gate of the Basilian Monastery (Brama Bazyliańska)
One of the most interesting historical monuments of Vilnius, located in the heart of the Old Town. It leads to the complex of the Greek Catholic Church of the Holy Trinity (Vilniaus Švč. Trejybės Graikų apeigų katalikų bažnyčia) and the former Basilian monastery. The gate was built in the 18th century in the Baroque style. Its characteristic yellow-and-white facade and decoration emphasize the sophistication of Vilnius’ architectural heritage. The complex played an important role in the religious and cultural life of the city, and was also a place of imprisonment for participants in the 1831 uprising.
Collection Astorija Hotel
Radisson Collection Astorija Hotel, Vilnius is one of the best five-star hotels in Vilnius, located in the heart of the Old Town. The hotel is housed in a historic building from 1901 and combines elegant classics with modern comfort.
Guests can enjoy luxurious rooms, panoramic views of the ancient streets, as well as high-class service. The hotel has a fitness center, swimming pool, spa area and the Astorija Brasserie restaurant, which offers French cuisine.
The hotel is located within a few minutes’ walk of Vilnius’ main attractions, including Vilnius Cathedral, Dawn Gate and Piles Street.
Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul (Vilniaus Šv. apaštalų Petro ir Povilo bažnyčia)
This is one of the most impressive Baroque churches in Vilnius, located in the Ponary district, near the Old Town. The church was built in the mid-17th century, on the initiative of the Lithuanian prince Michal Casimir Pacis, in honor of the victory of the Lithuanian troops over the Muscovites.
Opening hours: Mon-Sun (I-VII): 06:00 – 18:30
Admission: free, but there is an opportunity to make a voluntary contribution.
The Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul is a must-see for those who want to see the best examples of Lithuanian Baroque architecture.
Užupis (Užupis) – Vilnius’ Montmartre
Užupis is one of the most colorful districts of Vilnius, known for its creative atmosphere, street art and unusual history. Translated from Lithuanian, the name means “Beyond the River”, as the district is located across the Vilniale River.
Previously, Užupis was a neglected artisan district, but in the 1990s it was chosen by artists, musicians and representatives of the bohemian community. In 1997, locals even jokingly proclaimed an independent “Republic of Užupis” with its own constitution, flag, president and even its own army (consisting of several people).
For example:
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- Everyone has the right to be unique.
- A person has the right to be happy.
- Everyone has the right not to understand anything.
- Everyone has the right to celebrate or not celebrate their birthday.
The points reflect the idea that life should be easy, fun, full of freedom and respect for others, which is what makes Užupis such a unique place!
Things to see in Užupis:
The Angel of Užupis is a symbol of the district, a bronze statue that symbolizes the revival of the creative spirit.
Galleries and art spaces – the district is filled with galleries of contemporary art, graffiti and sculptures.
The Bridge of Love and Castles is a romantic place for a walk across the Vilniale River.
St. Anne’s Church (Šv. Onos bažnyčia)
One of the most famous Gothic churches in Vilnius, built at the end of the 15th century. It is one of the most unique architectural monuments in Lithuania.
Church of Saint Francis and Bernard (Vilniaus šv. Pranciškaus Asyžiečio (Bernardinų) parapija)
This is a church that is part of an ancient Franciscan monastery located next to the Bernardine Garden. The building has a long history and is an important religious object in Vilnius.
Both of these objects, together with the Bernardine Garden, form an atmospheric complex that combines history, architecture and nature. This is an ideal place for peaceful walks, meditation, or just relaxing in the fresh air.
Fun for kids
Vilnius offers a variety of activities for kids that will appeal to both toddlers and teenagers:
Vichy Aqua Park
One of the largest water parks in Lithuania, is located in Vilnius. Designed in the style of tropical islands, it has become a popular family vacation spot, offering a variety of water attractions for visitors of all ages.
One of the main features of the water park is its numerous slides. There are more than nine different types, from extreme descents for thrill seekers to gentle slides that are ideal for children. For those who want to enjoy a quiet holiday, there is a wave pool that creates the effect of the sea coast, as well as a lazy river where you can relax on inflatable rings.
For adults, there is a spa area with a jacuzzi, saunas and steam rooms, which allows you to restore strength after an active holiday. The water park also has several cafes and bars where you can have a snack or a drink while relaxing.
Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 12:00 – 22:00. Sat-Sun: 10:00 – 22:00
Ticket prices: Adults: from €26, Children: from €16, Family tickets: from €55
Zoopark
The zoo on Verkių g. 27 in Vilnius is a small but cozy zoo, ideal for visiting families with children. Although it cannot boast of large sizes, like some other European zoos, you can find many interesting animals and a great atmosphere for walking. The zoo is home to lemurs, monkeys, snakes and turtles, and you can also feed parrots and rabbits.
Opening hours: Open daily from 12:00 to 21:00.
Ticket prices: Weekdays: 12.00 euros, Weekends: 14.00 – 15.00 euros
Bernardinian Garden (Sereikiškių parkas Bernardinų sodas)
This is one of the oldest and most beautiful parks in Vilnius. Located in the city center, next to historical monuments, it is a popular place for walks and relaxation among locals and tourists. The park has a rich historical context and was created back in the 16th century, although it acquired its modern appearance in the 19th century. In the park you can find well-groomed alleys, flower beds, as well as quiet cozy places to relax.
Three crosses (Trys kryžiai)
This is one of the most famous symbols of Vilnius, located on a hill overlooking the city. The crosses were erected in 1989 in honor of the martyrs who died on this site in the 17th century, although there are several legends about their origin. It is known that there was once a monastery on the site where the crosses now stand, and, according to one version, the crosses symbolize the place of execution of monks.
The hill offers a magnificent panoramic view of the Old Town and the surrounding areas of Vilnius. This place is very popular among tourists and locals for walks and relaxation.
Vilnius Choral Synagogue (Vilniaus Choralinė sinagoga)
The only functioning synagogue in Lithuania and an important historical monument of the city’s Jewish community. Founded in 1903, this synagogue is the only one of over 100 Jewish houses of worship in Vilnius to have survived World War II. It is built in the Neo-Moorish style of architecture, making it unique among European synagogues. During the Soviet period, the building was used for other purposes, but after Lithuania regained independence in the 1990s, the synagogue was restored and returned to the Jewish community.
Vilnius TV Tower (Vilniaus TV bokštas)
The tallest building in Lithuania (326.5 m) and one of the main symbols of the city. It plays an important role not only as a broadcasting center, but also as a historical site associated with the events of Lithuania’s struggle for independence.
The observation deck at a height of 165 m houses the revolving restaurant “Paukščių takas” (Milky Way), where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Vilnius. The rotation lasts about 55 minutes, allowing you to see the city from all sides.
Museum of the January 1991 Events. In 1991, tragic events took place near the TV tower, when Soviet troops tried to suppress the independence of Lithuania. There is a monument to the dead at the entrance, and in the tower itself there is an exhibition dedicated to these events.
Opening hours: Cash desk daily: 11:00 – 21:00. Bistro-bar “Toliai”daily: 11:00 – 22:00.
Cost: Observation deck Adults – 16.00 euros. Children under 4 years old and people with disabilities (up to 18 years old) – free of charge. Children from 4 to 18 years old – 9.00 euros
Getting there by public transport: Buses No. 54, No. 2G (Televizijos bokštas stop).
Vilnius City Card
This is a tourist card that provides discounts and free access to many museums, excursions and public transport in Vilnius. It is ideal for those who want to make the most of their time in the city and save money on visiting the main attractions.
What does the Vilnius City Card include?
- Free entrance to popular Vilnius museums, such as the National Museum of Lithuania, the Bastion of the Vilnius Defensive Wall, the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania and others.
- Unlimited travel on public transport.
- Discounts on excursions, restaurants and entertainment venues.
- Discounts on transport rental – bicycles, electric scooters.
24 hours – €37.00, Savings up to €27.00. Ideal for a short visit.
48 hours – €47.00, Savings up to €52.00. The most popular choice among tourists.
72 hours – €56.00, Maximum benefit for those planning to explore the entire city.
Where to buy?
Vilnius City Card can be purchased: At Vilnius tourist information centers. In online stores with the possibility of obtaining an electronic version. In some hotels and partner establishments of the city.
Museums
Bastion of the Vilnius Defensive Wall (LNM Vilniaus gynybinės sienos bastėja)
This is part of the former city fortifications, located east of the Old Town. It was built in the 17th century as part of Vilnius’ fortification system to protect the city from enemy attacks. The bastion consisted of underground tunnels, casemates and artillery positions.
Today it houses a museum, where you can see an exhibition dedicated to the history of defensive architecture, medieval weapons and military conflicts in which Vilnius participated. The bastion also offers a picturesque view of the Old Town.
Opening hours: Tue-Sun: 10:00 – 18:00. Mon: closed
Ticket prices: Adults – €6, concessions – €3. Audio guide – free.
National Museum of Lithuania (Lietuvos nacionalinis muziejus)
The country’s main history museum, with several branches in Vilnius.
The main building, the New Arsenal (Naujasis arsenalas), is located at the foot of Castle Hill. It houses exhibitions dedicated to the history of Lithuania, from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum has a large collection of archaeological finds, folk art, weapons, costumes and historical documents. In addition to the New Arsenal, the National Museum of Lithuania includes the following sections: Old Arsenal (Senasis arsenalas) – an exhibition about the development of culture and art in Lithuania. Gediminas’ Tower (Gedimino pilies bokštas) is a symbol of Vilnius with a panoramic view of the city.
Museum of Genocide Victims (Okupacijų ir laisvės kovų muziejus)
Located in the former KGB building, it is the only museum of its kind in the Baltic States, documenting Soviet repression and the Lithuanian struggle for freedom.
The building that houses the museum served as the NKVD-KGB headquarters for almost 50 years. It was here that thousands of Lithuanian dissidents, resistance fighters, and ordinary citizens considered dangerous by the regime were interrogated, tortured, and executed.
The main exhibits of the museum include: Prison and Torture Chambers – visitors can see real cells where prisoners were held, punishment cells and interrogation rooms. Hall of Memory – a list of repressed and murdered Lithuanians. Exhibition of Lithuanian Partisans – documents, photographs and personal belongings of the rebels who fought against the Soviet occupation. Execution of Prisoners – a basement where mass executions took place.
Museum of Illusions (Vilniaus Iliuzijų Muziejus)
This is an interactive space where you can see optical illusions, 3D graphics, holograms and other fascinating effects. This place combines art, science and entertainment, offering visitors to immerse themselves in the world of visual puzzles. The main attractions of the museum: Optical Illusions – exhibitions that make the brain perceive reality in a completely different way. Inverted Room – a place where you can take a photo as if you are walking on the ceiling. Holograms and mirror mazes – effects that amaze with their realism. Interactive exhibits – some objects can be touched, changed and create your own illusions.
Energy and Technology Museum (Energetikos ir technikos muziejus)
One of the most interesting technical museums in Lithuania, located in the building of Vilnius’ first power plant. This place combines the history of industry, science and technology, offering interactive exhibitions for children and adults. The museum’s main exhibitions cover the development of electricity, transport, industry and urban infrastructure. Visitors can see authentic turbines, generators and other mechanisms that were used to provide the city with electricity. For children, there is a zone with scientific experiments and demonstrations of physical phenomena.
Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00–18:30. Monday – closed
Ticket prices: Adults – €7.00, Schoolchildren, students with ISIC and pensioners – €3.50, Children under 6 years old free.
Музей грошей (Pinigų muziejus)
An interesting and modern museum dedicated to the history of finance and the development of the monetary system. It operates under the auspices of the Bank of Lithuania and offers visitors a unique opportunity to trace the evolution of money from ancient times to the present day. The museum’s exposition includes banknotes, coins and financial documents from different eras and countries. A separate section is dedicated to the Lithuanian litas – the national currency used before the transition to the euro.
One of the most popular interactive zones is the opportunity to try to lift a real gold bar and find out its value. Visitors can also test their knowledge of finance using interactive screens and simulators.
Opening hours: From July 1 to September 30: Tuesday–Friday: 10:00–19:00, Saturday: 11:00–18:00. From October 1 to June 30: Tuesday–Friday: 9:00–18:00, Saturday: 10:00–17:00
Entrance: free
Popular restaurants and cafes
Etno Dvaras is one of the best Lithuanian restaurants in the center of Vilnius. It serves traditional Lithuanian dishes such as zeppelins, kibinai, cold borscht and meat delicacies. A large selection of dishes, generous portions and affordable prices make this place popular among tourists. The establishment has a cozy atmosphere in the national style and several locations in the city.
Šnekutis is a cult place for beer and Lithuanian cuisine lovers. This is an atmospheric pub with an authentic interior, reminiscent of a village tavern. The menu includes traditional Lithuanian snacks such as fried garlic bread, black pudding, smoked meats and homemade dishes. The main feature of the establishment is a large selection of local craft beers at affordable prices. There are several locations of Šnekutis in Vilnius, but they all maintain a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.
Augustas ir Barbora Love Story Café – One of the most romantic cafes in Vilnius, enchanting with its atmosphere. The interior is decorated with fresh flowers, creating an ideal place for a date or a cozy rest. It serves delicious coffee, signature cocktails and exquisite desserts that not only taste great, but also have an aesthetic appearance. This cafe is named after the Lithuanian historical couple – Prince Sigismund Augustus and Barbara Radziwill, whose love story has become a legend.
Interesting excursions
Gastronomic tour of Vilnius – getting to know Lithuanian cuisine through tasting traditional dishes and drinks in local establishments.
City transport
Public transport: Vilnius has an extensive network of buses and trolleybuses, which provide convenient transportation around the city. Tickets can be purchased: At Narvesen and Lietuvos spauda kiosks. At self-service terminals. From the driver (more expensive). Via the Trafi mobile application.
Ticket prices: 30 minutes – €0.65, 60 minutes – €0.90, 1 day – €5, 3 days – €8, 5 days – €12, 30 days – €29
Bicycle and scooter rental: In addition to public transport, a popular transportation option is the rental of Bolt, Tier, Lime electric scooters and city bikes.
Trafi – Vilnius’ leading transport app
Trafi is a convenient mobile app for planning public transport routes, renting bicycles, scooters and other types of urban mobility in Vilnius. It helps you quickly find the most optimal ways to get around and compare prices.
Parking
There are parking zones in Vilnius, divided into color-coded tariffs:
Blue zone – the most expensive, located in the historic city center. Tariff: €2.5 per hour. Validity: daily from 8:00 to 24:00.
Red zone – a little cheaper, but also in the central part. Tariff: €1.5 per hour. Validity: Monday to Saturday from 8:00 to 22:00.
Yellow zone – average cost, covers areas around the center. Tariff: €0.6 per hour. Validity: Monday to Saturday from 8:00 to 18:00.
Green zone – the cheapest, located away from the center. Tariff: €0.3 per hour. Validity: Monday to Saturday from 8:00 to 18:00.
Parking is free in the evening (usually after 8:00 PM) and on public holidays. It is recommended to check the current rates and conditions via the m.Parking app or city information boards.
How to get there
From Ukraine:
By bus:
Direct flights from Ecolines, FlixBus and other carriers.
Travel time: approximately 14–15 hours.
Departure from the bus station in Kyiv or other cities in Ukraine.
INFOBUS.eu | Tickets online – Online platforms for selling bus, train, and airline tickets, availability, and promotions. ⇓
Tip:When planning a trip, make sure to take out travel insurance. This will ensure your safety and peace of mind in case of unforeseen circumstances. You can purchase insurance at this link from the company by choosing the option that meets your needs and budget. Don’t forget to take advantage of the discount with promo code TUW6.
By train + bus (the most comfortable option):
By train Kyiv – Warsaw → change to a bus or train to Vilnius.
By train Kyiv – Przemysl → then FlixBus or Ecolines to Vilnius.
Total travel time: from 18 hours depending on connections.
From Poland:
Air+land transport:
By plane to Warsaw, Krakow or Riga → then by bus or train to Vilnius. This is the fastest option, but requires a transfer. Cheap flights.
Bus: Flights from Warsaw, Krakow, Gdansk are available from Ecolines, Lux Express and FlixBus. Travel time from Warsaw is about 8 hours.
Train: There are trains from Warsaw to Kaunas, from where you can reach Vilnius by Lithuanian railway.
From Latvia:
Bus: From Riga to Vilnius can be reached by Ecolines and Lux Express buses in 4-5 hours.
Train: The Riga – Vilnius train runs with a change in Daugavpils or Kaunas.
From Germany:
Air: Direct flights to Vilnius are available from Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich.
Bus: FlixBus and other carriers have routes from Berlin and Hamburg (journey time 16-20 hours).
From other European cities:
Air connections: Vilnius has direct flights with many European cities, including Warsaw, Berlin, Riga, Krakow, Vienna.
Buses: Carriers Ecolines, Lux Express, FlixBus offer flights from Poland, Latvia, Estonia and Germany.
Trains: You can get there by train from Warsaw or Riga.
How to get from Vilnius Airport to the city center
Vilnius Airport (VNO) is located only 6 km from the city center, so the journey will take 15-20 minutes. Here are the main ways to get to the center:
1. Bus (cheapest option)
Route #88: goes to Cathedral Square through the city center. Route #1: goes to the train station. Travel time: 20-25 minutes. Cost: from 0.65 euros (when paying via the Trafi or Vilnius Transport app) or 1 euro (cash to the driver). Schedule: from approximately 05:00 to 23:00, route #88 has night services.
2. Train (fast and convenient)
The train goes from Oro Uostas station (near the airport) to Vilnius train station. Travel time: 7-8 minutes. Cost: 0.70 euros. Schedule: runs every 30-60 minutes from 06:30 to 19:30.
3. Taxi (convenient option)
A taxi can be taken near the terminal or ordered via taxis.booking. Cost: from 15 euros. Travel time: 10-15 minutes (depending on traffic). Example: from Vilnius International Airport to a city center hotel Novotel Vilnius Centre, will cost 22 euros.
4. Car rental
The airport is served by international car rental companies. Suitable for those planning trips outside Vilnius.
Things to see near Vilnius
Once you’ve seen the main sights of Vilnius, it’s worth considering the nearby attractions. Many of them can be visited in one day or even in a few hours.
Trakai Castle (Trakų pilis)
Distance from Vilnius: 30 km (~30 minutes by car or ~40 minutes by bus)
This is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Lithuania. The Gothic castle is located on an island in the middle of the picturesque Lake Galve. Here you can not only immerse yourself in the history of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, but also go boating, try traditional Karaite kibins and enjoy nature.
Kaunas
Distance from Vilnius: 100 km (~1 hour by car or ~1.5 hours by train/bus)
The second largest city in Lithuania, famous for its old town, the majestic Kaunas Castle, Freedom Avenue and the Čiurlionis Museum. Kaunas has a special atmosphere and in 2022 it received the title of European Capital of Culture.
Klaipeda and the Baltic Coast
Distance from Vilnius: 310 km (~3 hours by car or ~4 hours by train)
If you have more time, it is worth visiting the port city of Klaipeda and enjoying The Baltic coast. From here it is easy to reach the Curonian Spit (UNESCO), where there are incredible dunes, pine forests and the picturesque beaches of Nida.
Druskininkai – a resort town
Distance from Vilnius: 130 km (~1.5 hours by car or bus)
This is the most famous Lithuanian resort with mineral springs, a water park, SPA complexes and Grutas Park, where Soviet-era statues are collected. A great place for rest and relaxation.
Kernave – “Lithuanian Troy”
Distance from Vilnius: 40 km (~40 minutes by car)
An ancient city that is included in the UNESCO list. Here you can see the mounds where wooden castles once stood, and enjoy the panoramas of the Neris River. This place is connected with the history of the Lithuanian Principality and is an interesting archaeological complex.
Conclusion and tips for visiting
Vilnius is a great place for short trips due to its compact size and large number of historical and cultural attractions. The city combines a medieval atmosphere with modern trends, which makes it attractive for tourists from different parts of the world. Here are some tips for your trip:
Getting around: The city is small, so most of the main attractions can be explored on foot. Use public transport or mobile apps like Trafi to quickly plan your routes.
Seasonal: Vilnius is beautiful at any time of year, but seasonal events like Christmas markets or summer festivals can add extra charm. Check the events calendar before you go.
Accessibility: It is recommended to stay in the city center to have easy access to the main tourist attractions, such as the Old Town, Cathedral Square and Gediminas’ Tower.
Dining and cafes: Be sure to visit restaurants that offer summer chef experiences with Lithuanian dishes. Don’t forget to try traditional Lithuanian beer and desserts at atmospheric cafes like Augustas ir Barbora Love Story Café.
Tours and Activities: Don’t miss out on walking tours of the Old Town, visiting Trakai Castle or enjoying night tours of Vilnius to see the city in a new light.
Parking and transportation: There are several paid parking lots in the city center, but for convenience, use mobile payment applications (e.g. m.Parking). This will save you time and effort when looking for a parking space.
Vilnius is a city worth visiting at least once in your life, and it will leave you with many pleasant impressions!
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