This Vilnius city guide brings together the best things to do in Vilnius, along with practical travel tips and a weekend itinerary you can easily extend with day trips or a scenic route to Riga.
With its cobbled streets, baroque architecture, and creative energy, the Lithuanian capital mixes history and modern culture in a way that feels both relaxed and inspiring.
So, whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or the start of a Baltic adventure, Vilnius is a city that’s hard not to fall for.
Read next: The Ultimate Baltics Itinerary | 7–10 Days From Vilnius To Tallinn
When to Visit Vilnius
Vilnius is a city for all seasons. From May to September, the weather is warm and sunny, café terraces spill into the streets, and the city buzzes with festivals.
Autumn brings colourful parks and crisp air, while winter transforms the old town into a snow-dusted postcard scene, especially around the Christmas markets.
Events worth noting include the Vilnius City Fiesta in September, celebrating music and culture across town. And the Vilnius Light Festival in January, which brightens up the dark evenings with dazzling installations.
English is widely spoken, prices are reasonable, and mobile connectivity is excellent. For hassle-free internet, I recommend getting a Saily eSIM before your trip.
Where to Stay in Vilnius
During my visits, I stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn Vilnius City Centre, and I can highly recommend it.
The hotel is modern, comfortable, and perfectly located on the edge of the city centre. It’s close to the Old Town, shops, and restaurants, yet quiet at night.
Other great options in different price ranges include:
- Hotel Pacai | a stylish luxury hotel in a restored 17th-century mansion.
- Artagonist Art Hotel | creative interiors and perfect central location.
- Downtown Forest Hostel | peaceful, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly.
A Short History of Vilnius
Before we dive into the best things to do in Vilnius, let’s take a quick look into the city’s history.
Vilnius dates back to the 14th century when it became the capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. One of the largest states in Europe at the time.
Over the centuries, it flourished as part of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, which left behind many of the churches and palaces that still define the city today.
After the partitions of Poland and years under Russian and later Soviet rule, Lithuania regained independence in 1990.
Since then, Vilnius has reinvented itself as a vibrant European capital, balancing its UNESCO-listed old town with a lively arts scene and modern design culture.
15 Exciting Things to Do in Vilnius
Vilnius is one of those cities where the pace feels just right. Small enough to explore on foot, yet filled with surprises around every corner. With that said, let’s start exploring…. here’s my list of the best things to do in Vilnius.
1. Start Exploring Vilnius at Cathedral Square
Cathedral Square is the beating heart of Vilnius and a perfect place to start exploring. Both times I visited, the square was buzzing with life. Street buskers, small markets, and even a stage for live performances. The atmosphere alone makes it worth lingering for a while.
The landmark on the square is Vilnius Cathedral with its Bell Tower. Entry to the cathedral is free, and once inside you’ll find white columns, side chapels, and centuries of religious art.
You can also visit the cathedral crypts for €12 to see ancient tombs and archaeological remains beneath the floor. To climb the Bell Tower, there’s a small fee of €6, which rewards you with a fantastic panoramic view of the city.
2. Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania
Right beside the cathedral you’ll find the Palace of the Grand Dukes telling the story of Lithuania’s royal and cultural past. Once the seat of power for the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, it was rebuilt after centuries of decline. Today it houses a pretty fascinating museum.
There are several visitor routes to choose from:
- Route 1 focuses on the archaeological foundations and is ideal if you enjoy historical context.
- Route 2 (the one I chose) leads through the main ceremonial halls, royal apartments, and the upper viewing platform, giving a rich overview of the palace’s history without taking too long.
- Route 3 combines both for a deeper dive.
If you read every panel, you could easily spend half a day here, but I found just over an hour on Route 2 perfect for getting a solid sense of the place. If you only do route 2 you pay €8 entrance instead of €12.
Insider tip: Every last Sunday of the month it’s free entrance.
3. Gediminas Tower & Castle Hill
Rising just behind the Palace, Gediminas Tower is the most recognisable symbol of Vilnius. It’s all that remains of the Upper Castle, yet it continues to overlook the city as it has for centuries.
You can either hike up Castle Hill or take the short funicular to the top. Inside the tower, a small museum traces the story of Vilnius’ founding and medieval defences.
The real highlight, though, is the view from the top. Red rooftops, church spires, and the Neris River winding through the city.
4. Explore the Old Town
Vilnius’ Old Town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, pastel façades, and lively squares.
Join this guided walking tour, or explore on your own by starting your walk along Pilies Street. You’ll see plenty of cafés and souvenir shops spilling onto the pavement here. Then continue towards Market Square and Aušros Vartų Street leading to the Gates of Dawn.
Don’t miss the Glass Quarter, a once-forgotten corner now filled with art galleries and studios. Many courtyards hide small cafés or artisan boutiques, and just wandering here often leads to unexpected finds.
The entire Old Town is UNESCO-listed and you’ll quickly see why.
5. Stunning Views from the Vilnius University Tower
For another perspectives of the city, head to the Vilnius University Tower (St John’s Church bell tower). The entrance fee of €5 includes a lift to the top. Easy! Once there you’ll find a narrow viewing terrace overlooking the rooftops of the Old Town and the distant hills.
It’s less crowded than Gediminas Tower and gives you a completely different angle of the city skyline. And I have to say, this is perhaps the best view of the city, so don’t miss out!
6. Visit Some of Vilnius’ Most Beautiful Churches
Vilnius has dozens of churches representing various denominations and styles. Three stand out:
- St. Anne’s Church, a late-Gothic masterpiece of red brick that Napoleon reportedly wanted to take back to Paris.
- The Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, a baroque wonder filled with over 2,000 white stucco figures that are almost overwhelming in detail.
- St. Catherine’s Church, known for its concerts and beautifully restored interior.
You’ll also spot a few ornate Orthodox churches with golden domes and frescoes; one of the most photogenic is on Aušros Vartų Street.
7. Discover Vilnius’ Coffee Culture
Unlike its Baltic neighbours Riga and Tallinn, Vilnius has a surprisingly vibrant coffee scene. Local roaster Crooked Nose & Coffee Stories leads the pack. Despite them not having their own café, you can find their beans served around town.
For a perfect cup, stop by Reikalai Café, which uses Crooked Nose beans and serves excellent pastries.
Another favourite is Coffee Spells, not only for their smooth roasts but also for their smoked salmon and cream-cheese sandwich on homemade brown bread. Really one of the best brunch bites in the city.
Also read: Vilnius Coffee Guide | 10 Best Specialty Coffee Spots In The City
8. Hike Up to the Hill of Three Crosses
The Hill of Three Crosses offers some of the most spectacular views over Vilnius. The monument represents faith and resilience, standing on the site where, according to legend, martyred friars once stood.
It’s a short but steep climb, but in summer don’t forget to bring insect repellent, as the mosquitoes can be ferocious. The reward is a sweeping panorama of the Old Town’s spires and green hills.
9. Walk Along the Vilnia River and Visit the Bernardine Gardens
The Bernardine Gardens, nestled between the Old Town and the Vilnia River, are a peaceful spot for a stroll or picnic. In summer, the park often hosts open-air events and small festivals.
Two bridges connect the gardens to the other side of the river, leading towards the Hill of Three Crosses.
The riverside path is also lovely for an evening walk when the light reflects off the water and street musicians play near the bridges.
10. Explore the Užupis Republic
Cross the bridge from the Bernardine Gardens and you’ll find yourself in the Užupis Republic, Vilnius’ bohemian heart.
With its own constitution (displayed on plaques in several languages), a flag, and even a “border post”, Užupis is more of a tongue-in-cheek artistic statement than a legal republic.
It’s packed with art studios, quirky sculptures, cafés, and street murals. Whether you come for a coffee, an exhibition, or simply to soak up the creative vibe, it’s one of the most fun corners of Vilnius.
11. Street Art and Graffiti Across the City
Vilnius’ street art scene is unmissable. From political murals to playful graffiti, you’ll find works scattered throughout the city. Especially in Užupis, Naujamiestis, and along Literatų Street.
Keep an eye out for the “Trump and Putin kiss” mural, now partly faded but still a talking point, and newer large-scale pieces commissioned through the Vilnius Street Art Festival.
12. MO Museum & Contemporary Art Centre
Modern art lovers will enjoy both of Vilnius’ major contemporary galleries. The MO Museum, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, showcases Lithuanian art from the 1960s onwards in a bright, airy space.
The Contemporary Art Centre (CAC) focuses on experimental exhibitions, film, and installations by Baltic and international artists. Together they show how dynamic Lithuania’s art scene has become since its independence.
13. KGB Museum (Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights)
Set inside the former headquarters of the Soviet secret police, the KGB Museum provides a sobering look at Lithuania’s 20th-century history. You’ll see reconstructed prison cells, interrogation rooms, and exhibitions detailing the resistance movements.
It’s not an easy visit, but for those interested in history, it’s one of the most important museums in the country.
14. (Half) Day Trip to Trakai Castle
Just 30 minutes from Vilnius, Trakai Castle sits on a small island surrounded by blue lakes and forest. It’s a fairytale sight and makes a great half-day trip.
Inside, the museum covers Lithuania’s medieval history, while the surrounding area offers scenic walking paths and wooden houses typical of the Karaim minority.
Also read: Trakai Castle – Incredible Day Trip From Vilnius
15. Hales Market
For a taste of local life, head to Hales Market near the train station. The historic market hall dates back over a century and today blends traditional food stalls with trendy cafés.
You’ll find everything from fresh produce and Lithuanian cheeses to artisan pastries and coffee stands. It’s a perfect stop for lunch or a casual snack before continuing your sightseeing.
Vilnius Weekend Itinerary Ideas
Vilnius is ideal for a weekend city break or as the first stop on a longer Baltic trip. Two full days give you enough time to see the main sights at a relaxed pace, and even fit in a short escape to the countryside.
1 Day Vilnius Itinerary | Discover the City
Start your morning at Cathedral Square, then climb the Bell Tower for panoramic views. Continue to the Palace of the Grand Dukes and Gediminas Tower for a crash course in Lithuania’s royal and medieval history.
In the afternoon, wander the Old Town, with stops at Pilies Street, Market Square, and the Glass Quarter. Pop into St. Anne’s Church and St. Catherine’s Church before heading to Vilnius University Tower for another perspective of the city.
If you have time and energy left, then walk up to the Hill of Three Crosses for sunset views over the city. End the day with dinner in the Old Town or cross the bridge to Užupis for an evening drink surrounded by street art and music.
2 Days in Vilnius Itinerary | Museum & Trakai Castle
Begin your morning at the MO Museum or KGB Museum, depending on your interests. Afterwards, enjoy coffee and brunch at one of the city’s excellent cafés. I will list my favourites in an upcoming Vilnius Coffee Guide.
Before lunch, visit Hales Market for a local bite and a bit of people-watching. In the afternoon, head to the train station for a half-day trip to Trakai Castle, one of Lithuania’s most beautiful landmarks.
The journey to Trakai takes just over 30 minutes, and it’s easy to organise independently. You’ll find all the details in my Trakai Castle travel guide. Return to Vilnius in the evening for a final dinner before wrapping up your weekend.
3 Day Vilnius Weekend Itinerary | Day trip to Kaunas or Continue to Riga
If you have an extra day in Lithuania, you’ve got two great options. Either stay within the country and visit Kaunas, or continue your Baltic adventure north to Latvia’s capital Riga.
Option 1: Day Trip to Kaunas
Just over an hour from Vilnius by train, Kaunas makes for an easy and rewarding day trip. Once Lithuania’s temporary capital, the city has a very different character from Vilnius. Wider streets, interwar architecture, and a strong creative scene.
Start with the Old Town, where you’ll find Kaunas Castle and the Town Hall Square. Continue along Vilniaus Streetfor cafés and boutiques, and don’t miss the St. Michael the Archangel Church at the far end of Laisvės Alėja.
Kaunas is also known for its street art and art-deco buildings, especially around the Modernism for the Future route, recognised by UNESCO for its 20th-century heritage.
If you have time, stop by the Ninth Fort Museum for insight into Lithuania’s WWII history before heading back to Vilnius in the evening.
Option 2: Travel to Riga via the Hill of Crosses and Rundāle Palace
If you’re heading north, you can turn the journey into a full-day tour. This route includes the Hill of Crosses, Rundāle Palace, and Bauska Castle, arriving in Riga by evening.
It’s a very scenic and memorable way to connect Lithuania and Latvia, combining culture, countryside, and history in one day.
Also read: How To Get From Vilnius To Riga And What To Do Along The Way
Where to Eat and Drink
Vilnius’ food scene is diverse, ranging from traditional Lithuanian dishes to modern cafés and international flavours. Try local favourites such as cepelinai (potato dumplings with meat) and šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup).
For casual dining and a great atmosphere, Etno Dvaras in the Old Town is a classic choice. If you prefer something more modern, Amandus offers a contemporary tasting menu using local ingredients.
Coffee lovers will find no shortage of excellent cafés. I put all my favourites in this Vilnius Coffee Guide, so check it out for all the coffee hot spots.
For a beer at the end of the day head to Alaus Biblioteka, or if you prefer a wine then you can’t go wrong with à ta santé.
How to Get There and Around
Vilnius is well connected by air, with direct flights from most European capitals. From the airport, it’s only about 15 minutes to the city centre by Bolt or train.
The city itself is compact and best explored on foot, though Bolt taxis and e-scooters make longer distances easy.
For a fun (half-) day trip, Trakai Castle is just 30 minutes away and I’ve covered that in detail in my Trakai Castle guide.
If you’re continuing your journey north, check out my article on how to travel from Vilnius to Riga, which compares the best bus, train, sightseeing and private transfer options.
Map of Vilnius Highlights
To make it even easier to find all the best things to do in Vilnius, I’ve created a Google Map with every place mentioned in this guide. From landmarks and viewpoints to markets, museums, and coffee spots.
Final Thoughts
Vilnius combines centuries of history with a youthful, creative energy that makes it stand out among Europe’s smaller capitals.
From Gothic churches and bohemian streets to great food and coffee, it’s a city that deserves a spot on your travel list. On top of that it’s the perfect gateway to exploring the rest of the Baltics.
Have you been to Vilnius already or do you have any questions? Then leave a comment below, or reach out to me on Instagram. I’d love to hear from you. And don’t forget to sign-up to my newsletter if you enjoyed this article.
Planning your trip to Vilnius or other Baltic countries? Check out my Lithuania Travel Guide, or keep on reading with the latest articles:
