Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania, a country located in the Baltic's. This beautiful Baltic state has so much to offer and Vilnius makes a great destination for a European weekend getaway. No question, the city has so much more to offer but if you're a first timer and only have a limited time to explore the city, you can still see and do a lot of things on a weekend or even a day! Vilnius is especially popular to visit during a holiday around the Baltic's as it is easily combined with a trip to Tallinn and Riga!
The city is an absolute paradise for photographers, with jaw dropping photography locations at every street corner. Avoiding the crowds in your shots is not really a challenge as Vilnius is not the most touristy cities in the world. Additionally, you can hit a lot of the best spots in the city even if you are only in spending 1-2 days in Vilnius. That said, if you don’t want to rush and have some time to just linger, I recommend a minimum of two days in Vilnius. Here is my list of the most gorgeous places in Vilnius.
How To get to Vilnius
The international airport "Vilnius Airport" (VNO) connects Vilnius to several European cities. From there you can easily get to the city by bus or Bolt.
BEST THINGS TO DO In ViLnius
Cathedral Square
Vilnius Cathedral and its square builds the center of the city. Located right next to the cathedral is the 57-meter high bell tower - another important symbol of the city and a common meeting point for free walking tours around the city.
The Gediminas castle tower
The Gediminas Tower is the most visited sight of the capital of Lithuania by tourists. It is the only preserved corner tower of the Vilnius Upper Castle complex. Moreover, the Gediminas Hill offers a breathtaking view over the whole city.
Hill of Three Crosses
Aušros Vartai
The Gate of Dawn is the most important historical, cultural and religious monument in Vilnius. It is a historical and architectural landmark with a gate chapel that houses an altarpiece of Our Lady of Mercy.
St. Anne’s Church
St. Anne's Church is a gothic style church encased in red brick and is one of the most beautiful buildings in Vilnius.
St. John Church Bell Tower
While wandering around Vilnius Old Town, make sure to also stop in and pay a visit to Vilnius University’s Old Town campus. When visiting Vilnius during spring and summer make sure to also climb up the Church Bell Tower for a breathtaking view over the city.
The Republic of Užupis
Užupis is the creative center of Vilnius - the oldest district of Vilnius and the hotspot for creative people and artists. The city's own independent state is governed by the President of the Republic of Užupis. Additionally, the small state has its own currency, anthem and constitution, which is displayed in 23 languages. Užupis is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Vilnius Town Hall & Church of St. casimir
Vilnius Town Hall Square is one of the oldest squares in Lithuania's capital Vilnius. Right next to it you will also find one of my favorite churches, St. Casimir.
THE PRETTIEST STREETS IN VILNIUS
Literatų gatve
One of my favorite streets in Vilnius, "Literatų gatve", is located close to St. Anne's Church. It is one of the most visited places in the Old Town and gives an overview of the most important literary figures of the world.
Pilies gatve
Pilies gatve is the oldest and most magnificent street of the Old Town. The alley runs on the direct way to the castle and cathedral square. The street is a popular tourist mile, but also the small side streets invite you to take a walk.
Stiklių
This street comprises cozy cafes, restaurants and small boutiques. Artistic decorations make the streets so special and especially during Christmas time it is a must to stroll around.
Church of St. Catherine
You've probably already had enough of the numerous churches around Vilnius, but the Church of St. Catherine is another one of my favorites.
Church of the Holy Mother of God
Eventually, when visiting the neighborhood Užupis, you probably have already passed by the white Church of the Holy Mother of God.
Trakai
If you have a bit more time, the lakeside town of Trakai can be reached very easily and cheap by train from Vilnius. Trakai Castle is a late medieval moated castle and is one of the most famous sights in Lithuania.
CONCLUSION
As you can see there is a lot to explore and do in Vilnius. You can try to do as much as you can in one day but a weekend trip is definitely the more comfortable option. Check out my vegan food guide for Vilnius to find the city's most delicious vegan food places!
If you have even more time to explore this area you have to make a trip to all the best places to visit around Vilnius. And if you plan a Baltic holiday check out my guides to the top things to do and see in Tallinn, Riga and Helsinki.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to write them in the comment section below. ⇣
xx
Nina
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