The Complete Guide to Vilnius

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a city of contrasts: charming cobbled streets and modern street art, centuries-old churches and edgy cafes, deeply historical yet refreshingly forward-thinking. With one of the largest preserved medieval Old Towns in Europe and a thriving creative scene, Vilnius is an underrated gem just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re drawn by its cultural depth, quirky spirit, or picturesque landscapes, this complete guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Lithuania’s capital.

Getting into Vilnius & Getting Around

Flights & Trains

Vilnius is well-connected to major European cities. From London, you can catch direct flights with Ryanair (Stansted), Wizz Air (Luton), or LOT Polish Airlines (London City). The flight takes around 2.5 hours.

Travelling by train is also possible, and while it takes considerably longer, it can be a rewarding experience. You can journey from London to Brussels, then through Cologne, Berlin, and Warsaw, before heading into Lithuania via the scenic Suwałki Gap. It’s a great way to see parts of Europe you might otherwise miss.

Local Transport

Once in Vilnius, the city is compact and walkable, especially the Old Town. For longer distances, the public transport network of buses and trolleybuses is reliable and inexpensive. You can purchase a “Vilniečio kortelė” (Vilnius card) from newsagents or kiosks, and load it with single rides or multi-day passes. A 72-hour pass costs roughly €8.

Alternatively, electric scooters (CityBee, Bolt) and bike rentals are popular in warmer months, and taxis and ride-hailing apps like Bolt are widely used and affordable.

When to Visit Vilnius

Spring (April – June): Nature comes alive, flowers bloom, and the city feels fresh and vibrant. A great time for outdoor cafes and exploring on foot.

Summer (July – August): The warmest and liveliest time, filled with festivals, open-air concerts, and long daylight hours. Expect crowds but also the best weather.

Autumn (September – October): Mild weather, colourful foliage, and fewer tourists. A romantic, peaceful time to visit.

Winter (November – March): Cold, but magical. Christmas markets, snow-covered rooftops, and cosy cafes make it a great off-season city break.

Where to Stay

Hotel Vilnia

During my visit to Vilnius, I stayed at Hotel Vilnia, a stylish hotel located at the edge of Bernardine Garden and just a short walk from Gediminas Tower. This boutique hotel combines elegant interiors with modern comfort, offering spacious rooms, excellent service, and a fantastic location. The breakfast buffet was generous, and I particularly appreciated being so close to both nature and the historic Old Town. Book your stay at Hotel Vilnia – Highly recommended!

Hotel Pacai

For luxury and history, Hotel Pacai is one of the city’s finest. Set in a 17th-century Baroque mansion, it merges period architecture with contemporary design. Located in the heart of the Old Town, it’s ideal for those wanting to explore on foot and return to understated opulence. Book your stay at Hotel Pacai.

Kempinski Hotel Cathedral Square

Situated directly across from the Cathedral, Kempinski offers five-star service and unbeatable views. Its spa, fine dining restaurant, and classic style make it perfect for travellers looking for indulgence in the centre of town. Book your stay at Kempinski Hotel Cathedral Square.

Comfort Hotel

A great mid-range option, the Comfort Hotel is modern, well-located, and offers value for money. With easy access to both the airport and main attractions, it’s a smart choice for travellers on a budget who don’t want to compromise on quality. Book your stay at the Comfort Hotel.

What to See & Do

Explore Vilnius Old Town

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vilnius Old Town is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved in Europe. Its winding cobblestone streets, pastel-coloured buildings, and mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture are a joy to wander through. Don’t miss the Gates of Dawn, St. Anne’s Church, and the Presidential Palace.

Vilnius Cathedral & Bell Tower

The Vilnius Cathedral is a neoclassical masterpiece and a spiritual symbol of the city. But one of the highlights is climbing the Cathedral Bell Tower. For a small fee, you can ascend the tower for panoramic views over Cathedral Square and the rooftops of the Old Town. It’s especially magical during sunset or just after fresh snowfall.

Gediminas Tower

Perched on a hill above the city, Gediminas Tower is a historic symbol of Vilnius and Lithuania. You can hike up or take a funicular to the top, where you’ll find sweeping views and a small museum detailing the history of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

Uzupis District

Just across a small bridge lies Uzupis, a self-declared independent republic known for its bohemian vibe. With its own constitution, flag, and president, it’s a hub for artists and free spirits. Be sure to find the wall displaying its whimsical constitution in over 20 languages, and explore the galleries, quirky sculptures, and riverside cafes.

MO Museum

Art lovers shouldn’t miss the MO Museum, a contemporary space designed by world-renowned architect Daniel Libeskind. Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibitions focused on modern Lithuanian art and culture. Even if you’re not into art, the building itself is worth a visit.

Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights

Located in the former KGB headquarters, this haunting museum tells the story of Lithuania’s occupation by the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany. Exhibits cover resistance movements, deportations, and daily life under repression. It’s a sobering but essential visit to understand the resilience of the Lithuanian people.

Where to Eat & Drink

Sweet Root

Located in Uzupis, Sweet Root focuses on seasonal tasting menus crafted from local ingredients. Every course is thoughtfully presented and inspired by nature, tradition, and regional history. Booking ahead is essential.

Ertlio Namas

Ertlio Namas takes you on a historical journey through Lithuanian cuisine. Each dish is inspired by a specific era and comes with a story. The elegant setting and attentive service make it one of Vilnius’s most memorable dining experiences.

Augustin

A stylish new addition to the Vilnius food scene, Augustin blends Scandinavian minimalism with bold flavours. Their sharing plates, like roast cauliflower in bone broth, are creative yet comforting. The vibe is casual but chic.

Šnekutis

For a more traditional and hearty Lithuanian experience, Šnekutis is a must. Think potato dumplings (cepelinai), meat stews, and homemade kvass served in rustic interiors. It’s affordable, filling, and popular with locals and tourists alike.

Shopping

Linen Tales

Lithuania is famed for its linen, and Linen Tales offers beautifully crafted homeware and fashion items made from locally sourced fabric. Their flagship store is a calm, minimalist space perfect for browsing and picking up elegant souvenirs.

Rastine

Part stationery shop, part coffee bar, Rastine is a haven for design lovers. Expect Japanese notebooks, Lithuanian-designed accessories, and artisan coffee all in one atmospheric space.

Nightlife

Skybar

Located atop the Radisson Blu Lietuva, Skybar offers breathtaking views over the city skyline and the Neris River. Their cocktails are as refined as the setting, making it a great spot for a pre-dinner drink or a relaxed nightcap.

Apoteka

Hidden behind an unmarked door, Apoteka is a speakeasy-style bar known for inventive cocktails and a moody, intimate vibe. Their bartenders are true mixologists, so feel free to ask for recommendations.

Lukiskes Prison 2.0

Once a functioning prison, Lukiskes has been transformed into a unique cultural venue. Now hosting concerts, art installations, and events, it’s one of the coolest and most unusual places to experience Vilnius after dark.

Day Trips

Trakai

Just 30 minutes from Vilnius, Trakai is famous for its fairytale castle on an island in Lake Galvė. You can explore the castle museum, take a boat ride, and try kibinai – a pastry introduced by the Karaim community. Trakai is especially popular in summer but is magical in any season.

Kaunas

Lithuania’s second-largest city, Kaunas is just 1.5 hours by train. It boasts a beautiful Old Town, striking Modernist architecture, and a rich cultural scene. Highlights include the Devil’s Museum, the Ninth Fort, and the tree-lined Liberty Avenue. If you’re staying in Vilnius for a few days, a day trip to Kaunas is well worth it.

Final Thoughts

Vilnius offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and surprise. It’s a city where you can explore medieval streets in the morning, sip artisan coffee in a hipster district by lunch, and end your day with modern art or a cocktail in a prison-turned-nightclub. Compact, affordable, and full of character, it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.

Whether you’re planning a weekend break or incorporating Vilnius into a Baltic adventure, this guide should help you make the most of your time in one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.