LITHUANIA
Welcome to Vilnius!
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is like a medieval fairy tale with super fast Wi-Fi, where you can stroll through stone streets while Instagramming Gothic churches.
The city’s architecture is a delightful mix, as if a Baroque, Renaissance, and Neoclassical design team had an epic party and forgot to clean up. Plus, it’s so green you might start feeling like you’re in a forest resort.
Some of great videos about what to see and do in Vilnius:
If you want to lear about Vilnius and it’s history in short:
Gediminas Castle tower
Ultimate medieval skyscraper, offering panoramic views. Legend has it, Grand Duke Gediminas built it after a dream featuring an iron wolf – apparently, even wolves know good real estate when they see it.
Climbing to the top is the local equivalent of a workout, but the view is worth every step. Inside, there’s a museum where you can nerd out on Lithuanian history and armor.
p.s there is a funicular to go up (1 eur).
This is how the castle would look today if it hadn’t been for the damaging wars…
If you have time you can check museums of Grand Duke Palace, New and Old Arsenalas or just check the surroundings.
Places to eat
Lithuanian local food is like a warm, cozy hug from your grandma, but with more potatoes and less judgment.
If you haven’t tried Cepelinai, it’s basically what happens when potatoes and bacon decide to get married and throw a party in your mouth.
In summer, we dive into Šaltibarščiai like it’s the ultimate chilled-out spa day for our taste buds, where beets and buttermilk get together for a cool, refreshing dance party.
You can try lot’s of local food at Amatininkai. It’s 15 min walk from the apartment or 1 km. Address Didzioji g. 19. Working hours: I-VII 12:00-00:00 or Lokys on Stiklių g. 8, Vilnius.
You will see plenty of restaurants around you and mainly all will have some of local foods.
But we also got some restaurants that make us puff out our chests with pride, serving dishes so amazing you’ll think the chef has secret superpowers.
Nr. 1 Gaspar’s
II–V 17.00–23.00, VI 13.00–23.00, VII 13.00–21.00
Pylimo g. 23-3, Vilnius
Nr. 4 Ertlio namas
I–IV 17.00–22.00, V–VI 17.00–23.00, VII 17.00–22.00
Šv. Jono g. 7, Vilnius
For more restaurants you can check here:
Vilnius Gems!
Užupis
Is like the cool, artsy cousin of Vilnius who insists on wearing mismatched socks and starting each day with yoga. They declared independence in 1997, proving that even neighborhoods can have midlife crises and come out looking fabulous.
With its charming architecture, funky street art, and cozy cafes serving up delicious local bites, visiting Užupis is like stepping into a whimsical parallel universe where every corner is a potential Instagram masterpiece and the food makes your taste buds want to move in permanently.
Climb up the Bell tower
The view from the top makes it all worth it. Just remember, those bells are louder than your morning alarm.
Katedros a. 2, Vilnius
Tickets 6 eur.
https://www.bpmuziejus.lt/en/
Check Royal Crypts
Descending into the Vilnius Cathedral Royal Crypts is like stepping back in time, guided by an expert who reveals the fascinating stories of Lithuania’s past rulers. With each step, you’ll learn about the lives and legacies of the royalty resting there, adding depth and intrigue to your visit. It’s a beautifully solemn experience, offering a unique glimpse into the country’s rich history.
Tickets 10 eur.
https://www.bpmuziejus.lt/en/
The Bastion of the Vilnius
Defence Wall
A hidden gem where history buffs can geek out over medieval fortifications. As you explore the underground tunnels and ancient cannons, you’ll feel like a time traveler on a mission to defend the city.
The panoramic views from the top are a bonus, offering a stunning glimpse of Vilnius while you ponder how anyone ever scaled those walls without a ladder.
Bokšto g. 20, Vilnius
The Campanile of St. John’s Church
Climbing the Campanile of St. John’s Church is like ascending to the heavens with each step of the winding staircase. Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of Vilnius that make the climb feel like a spiritual journey. The tower’s bells add a melodious charm, making you feel like you’ve entered a scene from a historical novel.
Šv. Jono g. 12, Vilnius, 01123
Price 5 eur.
Hot-Air Ballooning Over the Old Town
As you drift gently above the rooftops, you’ll get breathtaking panoramic views of the Old Town, lush parks, and winding rivers. It’s a serene adventure that makes you feel as if you’re gliding through a live postcard of Lithuania’s capital.
From 140 eur per person.
Rooftop Terraces
What better way to wrap up your trip than chilling on the roof, grooving to some tunes, sipping on drinks, and soaking in the view?
Elektrine. Terasa.
Rinktinės g. 2, Vilnius
It’s just in 650 meters and 9 min walk from the apartment.
Rooftop Bar 3 Mūzos
Gedimino pr. 4, Vilnius
4 min walk and 300 meters from the apartment.
Pink&Yellow terasa
Gedimino pr. 44A, Vilnius
16 min walk and 1.2 km.
Rooftop Baras
Gedimino pr. 23, Vilnius
(need to reserve a table)
Unforgetable edge walk!
Breathtaking views at a height of 170 meters (like from 67 store) and unforgettable experiences in the sky! TV tower edge walk! You will see all Vilnius from the top.
Don’t forget to make a reservation. https://tvbokstas.lt/en/edge-walk/
How to get there – use Bolt or Uber.
Treat yourself with a SPA
Bokšto SPA
Amazing place to relax and treat yourself, because you are on vocation!
From 60 eur.
I–VII, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Bokšto g. 6, 01126 Vilnius
Must visit – Trakai Castle
Trakai Castle is like stepping into a real-life fairytale, complete with a picturesque island setting. As you cross the wooden bridge to the castle, you’ll feel like a knight or princess arriving for a grand adventure.
Inside, the exhibits and rooms tell captivating stories of medieval life and history. The castle’s rich history and stunning architecture make it a fascinating place to explore.
Don’t miss trying the local kibinai pastries nearby – they’re a delicious treat after your castle tour.
Getting to Trakai Castle is easy and adds to the adventure! From Vilnius, you can take a train or bus, both of which offer a scenic 30-minute to 45-minute ride to Trakai. Once you arrive at the Trakai bus or train station, it’s a pleasant 20-minute walk through the charming town of Trakai.