It was then a huge art district. Facebook sets this cookie to show relevant advertisements to users by tracking user behaviour across the web, on sites that have Facebook pixel or Facebook social plugin. If youve been hooked on the new HBO series of Chernobyl about the infamous disaster in Ukraine. But, beyond black bread (which we will cover in detail) there's a massive range of exciting traditional Lithuanian food to try when you visit Vilnius. It will take turns to spot unique details and sweet corners. But with the fall of communism came a cultural liberation and suddenly bands that were previously outlawed were pumping out of teenage bedrooms, park stereos and music venues across the nation. Foreign supermarkets are always fun, but this was another level: from the fresh sushi counter, to the extensive salad bar, to the endless selection of salami, to the mind-blowing bakery . Vilnius University. Its repository houses about 5,000 works of art, covering the period from the restoration of Lithuania's independence to the present day. The Vilnius Presidential Palace is located in the Old Town and, as the name would suggest, is the office of the President of Lithuania! Stays Stays. The Palace of the Grand Dukes is a reconstruction of the original palace that used to sit in the Lower Castle from the 15th 17th centuries. You can follow ambers history through a series of ancient rooms in the cellar, including one showcasing reconstructions of Juodkran treasure and a baking shop from the end of the 15th century. The University Bell Tower is one of a few things to do in Vilnius that will get you a bird's-eye view of Old Town Vilnius. 1. Check out their page here. Furthermore, it is also set in a former KGB . With the exception of the Neo-Gothic bell tower, which was designed in the 19th century, the appearance of the church has stayed the same over five centuries! But, if you werent fussed the views from the bottom of the tower are pretty amazing too. . I had their Phillie cheese steak burger and it was layers of bread, juicy beef, and layers of yummy cheese with jalapeo sauce. Learn About Vilnius Ghost Stories & Legends, Vilnius Lithuania Points of Interest | 7 Tourist Attractions, 7. I visited Azia Spa as one of my experiences with Tinggly. Cosy, spacious and the place to come for one of the best partys in town, Peronas is a must-visit for any bona fide hedonist in Vilnius. #3 Stroll through the Republic of Uzupis. Here are the best things to do in Lithuania: 1. So, the town became derelict making way for less desirable members of society to move into the neighbourhood and it got a bad name. The interior is just as pretty with flowers and trellises and I made sure I was first there for photos! Its only an hour and a half by train, so I highly recommend getting up early and making the most of it. Find, compare, and book sightseeing tours, attractions, excursions, things to do and fun activities from around the world. Vilnius is one of Europe's smaller capital cities, but that doesn't necessarily mean everything is close together. As for the choice of statue by the entrance Tony Soprano from the iconic TV drama The Sopranos be sure to ask one of the bar staff during your visit. Chef Matas Paulinas cooked around the world before returning home to cook at Vilnius' Nineteen18. You can take a balloon ride or join a free walking tour to get around the main sights and learn more about Vilniuss fascinating history. The tower, which is one of Vilnius' oldest and most popular tourist attractions, offers a 360-degree panorama of the city and exhibits objects related to Lithuania's history. Lithuanian language and text were banned. And for real aficionados, Amber polishing demonstrations are available upon request. Visit the Presidential Palace of Lithuania, 31. If youre planning a trip here in summertime, this is a must-visit. The Chapelis FREE to visit and is open from 6am 7pm Monday to Sunday. During my? Sacred Spaces 4. The Funicular train up to Gediminas' Tower with the new part of Vilnius in the background across the river. 12. If the Old Town isnt your bag, why not go on an alternative tour of Vilnius? The City Bastion used to be a stronghold as part of the city defense walls during the Duchy of Lithuania but later on, it became a barracks for the garrisons of German troops during World War II. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Located in Vilnius Old Town, there is no more unique district anywhere in Lithuania than Uzupis. The Gediminas Tower of the Upper Castle is the last remaining part of his legacy here. Visit Vilnius Cathedral (Cathedral Basilica of St Stanislaus and St Ladislaus of Vilnius) This Cathedral is seen as the most important icon of Roman Catholicism in the city and is a top pilgrimage site for catholics in Lithuania. Read my complete guide for Gediminas Castle here. Later, in the 17th century, the church belonged to the Uniates of the Basilian Order. The Vilnius TV Tower is the tallest building in Lithuania and an attraction in the new part of the city. Explore the Old Town. You see, the city is actually quite hilly and so if youre heading downwards, youll know youre on the right track to the square! The wall first began in 2009, when a group of artists decided that Literatu Street should live up to the name. Due to its long history, its also beautifully decorated with paintings, chandeliers, and portraits in rooms such as the astronomical observatory and the Philology Room. This is to represent the Baltic Way which took place in 1989. Unfortunately, it was destroyed in the 18th century and what we see today was a huge reconstruction of the original building that used to sit here. I would highly recommend it and you can book onto the tour here. Vilnius Bike Tour. As well as the historical architecture of the Old Town, the New part of Vilnius has many art galleries that exhibit all sorts of art from classical portraits to contemporary works and installations. But while its full back-story remains shrouded in mystery, there are some aspects that we do know. Review of: Holy Spirit Orthodox Church. The Hill of Crosses is one of the most important attractions in Lithuania and is a symbol of light and hope. Although many see this as a little tongue-in-cheek, they do have border control, their own flag, priests, churches, and parliament! Like with most free walking tours you pay what you feel the tour is worth (I usually tip around 10 Euros per head). Then check out the best things to do in Vilnius, to ensure you make the most of your time in the city. After paying the fee, you can ascend into the upper reaches of the towerpartly by elevator, and the rest via a set of stairs. But get in quick the monument will come down one day, with all of its coins earmarked for childrens charities. There is so much life happening in this part of town and so I would recommend scheduling time to explore a few places. Such was the interest in the new edifice that a military brass band played famous Zappa hits at its unveiling and it remains a popular attraction to this day. 4. Originally intended as a temporary exhibition when it was launched in 2008, the wall quickly grew in popularity and it was soon decided that it would remain, becoming a popular stop-off point for both locals and visitors to the city. Not only does this city have its own epic castle, but there are also some unique attractions to explore like Fort IX, the worlds only Devil Museum, and neighbourhoods covered in street art! Drama Burger is an epic chain of Lithuanian burger joints in the city and you can find the best one on Gediminas Avenue. Flights Flights. It is unique in that it also is a Chapel that holds a miraculous . Read more the top attractions in Uupis! 26 DATES July 2 August 27, A musical stage performance during Christopher Summer Festival (Photo: Evgenia Levin). Have a Instagrammable lunch at Augustus Ir Babora Love Story Caf, 19. Museum of illusions. They were originally built across swamps to be used for escape routes from foreign invaders, known only to locals and undetectable from the surface, providing a safe shortcut between villages and hill forts. Cross over the Bridge of Uupis and find the Mermaid; 3. LOCATION Gedimino av. With St. Anne's Church in the background Bernardine Park was a huge open space with lovely laid out gardens, plenty of grass to run around on, and lots of shade. Years ago, before Duke Gediminas united and founded Vilnius, it actually used to be a series of villages. You can visit the inside of the church during the restricted opening hours, but even if its closed its worth stopping here for a photo! Today, you can cross under the gate and visit the small chapel above the archway. From October March its open 4pm 6.30pm Mondays to Fridays and 8am 2pm Sundays. During my week here, I got to explore many cities and attractions outside of Vilnius and wrote helpful guides for each of them; Europos Park is a contemporary art museum founded in 1991 and set in nature. Hals Market is the oldest market in Vilnius, and today is home to a fascinating mix of both traditional vendors selling the usual (produce, baked goods, etc.) Both were amazing! Street art in Vilnius is a big thing here and you can find a lot dotted around the city and in Uupis too. App. Vilnius Cathedral, or properly known as the Cathedral Basilica of St Stanislaus and St Ladislaus of Vilnius, is the center point of the city. I went on two free tours in Vilnius: the Free Walking Tour with guide Ele, and the Free Alternative Tour with Marge, both showing two completely different sides of Lithuania's capital. It also has a resident mermaid and an angel who guards them all. There is so much to do on Gediminas Avenue it may take you a while to browse around! Frank Zappa is American, so I wasnt sure why his bust would be in the capital of Lithuania but I was sure there was a good reason for it. More travel. Make sure you have a look on the Vilnius Town Hall website for whats on while youre here. Originally set up as a horse market in the 15th century, it then became a grain market in the 16th. #1 Walk around the Old Town. Groups & meetings. Going to Gediminas Tower is one of the best things to do in Vilnius. Roman Catholicism is the country's primary religion, but the Eastern Orthodox and Protestant faiths are also well represented. Another church that really caught my eye here in Vilnius was the flamboyant Gothic church of St Anne. YouTube sets this cookie via embedded youtube-videos and registers anonymous statistical data. Things to do in Vilnius: Check Trip.com's traveler reviews and must-play items in tourist attractions. The Church of St. Anne is a Gothic style church in Vilnius' Old Town. In fact, during the Soviet era, it was the most neglected part of the city! Even today, you can find people excavating artifacts from the original foundations! If you want to go in for a proper tasting session, I would recommend visiting Lietuvikas Midus Brewery. A short walk from Cathedral Square will take you to the National Museum of Lithuania. Read my complete Three Cross Hill guide here. They have slots available daily. With the countless things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania, coupled with its dreamy quality, this city is no doubt a must-visit destination. If youre going to need WiFi, make sure you ordered. Today, the streets around here are incredibly quaint and colourful with cafs, bars, and boutiques for shopping. The Church of St Johns is meant to have the most amazing views from the top of its bell tower. Make sure you read my guide all about it below. So, the people revolted and kill them all. Colourful churches on every street corner, an epic craft beer scene, and some tasty local cuisine; there is enough to keep you occupied here for weeks! Deals. Its made light with honey, but its deceiving as its also really strong. A single cross for a miracle, which multiplied to include hundreds of thousands. The exhibits will take you on a journey of Lithuania from the prehistoric age to the present. So, if you want to have some fun, this is a place to start with. Tickets cost 3 Euros and its only open in the Summer. 5. These include St. Ann's (Gothic), St. Peter and Paul's (Baroque), and plenty of others. For example, Lithuania is an agricultural country; lots of mushrooms, milk, and honey. Zen Republic. The Church of Casimircan be shot from the outside 24 hours a day. Uber and the competing app Bolt work in Vilnius to get you around the city too. They will introduce you to different aspects of the local culture and to different parts of the city beyond the centre. Soviet Architecture 2. Make sure you arrive hungry! The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Another amazing viewpoint in the city is the incredible Hill of Three Crosses in Vilnius. Here, I want to share with you a few of the more unique things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania. Id try to avoid mass times but the portrait is definitely worth a peek! If you want to learn some more history about the Upper Castle of Vilnius, then head up to the iconic Gediminas Castle Tower. See Tripadvisor's 1,56,019 traveller reviews and photos of kid friendly Vilnius attractions Once upon a time, this area was one of the poorest parts of the city, it was home to Jewish migrants and labourers. Find the Magic Brick and make a wish! AddThis sets this geolocation cookie to help understand the location of users who share the information. Today, the hill by the City Bastion is a popular park and viewpoint in the city and from here you get a great view of the churches, Uupis, Gediminas Tower, and beyond. 2.Catch the highest view in the City at St John's Church. YouTube sets this cookie to store the video preferences of the user using embedded YouTube video. Have dinner in the highest building in Lithuania (TV Tower), 24. Here are 10 of the best things to see and do during a visit. Admire the Gothic Architecture of the Church of St. Anne. The oldest part of the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, it has developed over the course of many centuries, and has been. It was included amongst the worlds most beautiful churches on Churchpop, alongside cathedrals in England and Italy. This museum . It can be found around 19 kilometres out of Vilnius City Centre. In Vilnius, all roads lead in the Old Town lead to the Cathedral Square! Do They Speak English in Lithuania Vilnius? Vilnius Cathedral. Lithuania has a long history of foreign forces occupying their country for centuries like the Teutonic Knights of Prussia (Germany), Russian Moscovy troops, Nazi invaders, and finally the Soviet Union, or the KGB. The palace has a long and noble history and has stood here since the 14th century during the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Once the Nazi occupation came around, unfortunately, a lot of the residents were deported to hard labour and concentration camps. Vilnius Cathedral is FREE to visit and is open 7am 7pm all week. An important place that I feel every tourist should visit in Vilnius is the Museum of Occupations. If you havent got the memo yet, Duke Gediminas is pretty popular around these parts. As the name indicates, the museum looks at optical illusions. #2 Explore Cathedral Square. More things to do and see: Uupis - the hipster quarter in Vilnius and a self-declared independent republic with its own flag, currency, president and constitution. These traffic lights celebrate the 100 year anniversary of the women's suffrage movement in Lithuania. Classical Heavy Metal Music Mash-up in Vilnius, Lithuania. The Frank Zappa fan club erected this monument to their prog-rock hero to mark a new era of post-Soviet Lithuania. One of my favourite areas of the city was the bohemian Free Republic of Uupis! Save money and book directly from local suppliers. Made with red bricks, it is one of the finest examples of a Gothic building in Lithuania. It's bell tower is one of the tallest structures in historic Old Town.Reach the top, and you'll be rewarded with unparalleled 360 views of Vilnius Old Town.The observation deck is so large, that there was even enough room to install an elevator! Find what to do today, this weekend, or in January. They have a show stopper of a Christmas Tree all lit up and there is a lot of festive cheer around this area too. It became one of the most famous palaces in Europe at that time. Soon after, he commissioned a sculptor to create a bust of Zappa on a patch of land in the city centre. I travelled to Vilnius from London with Ryanair and the prices in December were incredibly cheap at 30 each way. Master Pieces by great illusionists from Netherlands, Sweden, Japan and all over the world, of 1920s to 1970s. The best things to do in Vilnius? Gediminas Tower is situated on the top of the castle hill. This library is one of the oldest and largest academic libraries in Lithuania founded in the 1570s by the Jesuits. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Read more. Browsing an art gallery is something I LOVE to do in cities and I had my heart set on the MO museum. Trip.com. Founded in 1988, this unusual museum regales visitors with stories about the formation, colour, harvesting and processing of the ancient fossilised tree resin known as Baltic amber. Not much to say, we fell in love with it straight away! Throughout the year, this is also the location of many community events like Concerts in the Summer and in December it comes alive with the annual Christmas Tree and Markets! During the Soviet Era it was used as a Military office until finally in 1997, it became the official seat to the Lithuanian President. Gediminas Tower & Castle Hill. Gediminas Tower of the Upper Castle in Vilnius The Ultimate Guide, Eravikulam National Park 15 Essential Tip You Must Know Before Visiting. But, masses started again in 1988. Mead from the Baltics is one of my favourite drinks and so whenever I have the chance to drink some I snap it up! Lean about Lithuanian history at the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, 23. This Cathedral is seen as the most important icon of Roman Catholicism in the city and is a top pilgrimage site for catholics in Lithuania. Uupis Republic Discovery Tour - This is the bohemian part of Vilnius and I recommend you see it with a local guide. Explore these best attractions, sightseeing spots, fun activities, and other handpicked places to visit in Vilnius on this weekend. Traveling to Vilnius by Bus, Car, or Train, What to Do in Vilnius | 5 Fun Activities & Day Trips, 1. I particularly loved the chapel in the Gate of Dawn where you can see the portrait of the Blessed Mary. Vilnius has plenty of fun things to do - tours, experiences, special museums and activities for a perfect holiday in the Lithuanian capital. So, if youre relatively fit and not scared of heights its perfect. Only the bottom part of the Bellfry tower is original, the rest is a reconstruction from the 19th century. How to find Uupis in Vilnius ; 15 quirky things to do in Uupis, Vilnius; 1. Source: Shutterstock. This viewpoint around the area is FREE but if you wanted to visit the terrace in the City Bastion museum this is chargeable. Just outside the Cathedral Basilica of St Stanislaus is the Vilnius Cathedral Bell Tower. Lithuania's capital city Vilnius is so much more than its pretty, Unesco-protected Old Town - although as one of Europe's oldest surviving medieval centres, its cobblestone streets, ancient churches and well-preserved architecture make it a captivating city break. Discover mysterious legends and stories as you walk around the city with a professional local guide. This will take you through the street art areas, Halle Market, and some of the vibrant streets of Vilnius New Town. 9th Fort of the Kaunas Fortress - a museum and memorial for the Holocaust victims. How the KGB converted the country to Atheism and communism. As there are SO many churches in Vilnius, Id try to visit just a few while youre here. Not only does it draw attention for its architectural . May September from 11am 6pm and October April from 5-7pm. So, once you reached the meeting point in Vilnius Cathedral Square you shouldnt be walking more than a few kilometres to reach some of the main sites. I wasnt disappointed. Visit the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, 6. So, this seemingly small but beautiful gate on Ausros Vartu street has a big history to offer beyond a pretty photo spot. Its one of the most popular attractions in Lithuania, so you really cant miss it! I went on a day tour to the Hill of Crosses from Vilnius but you can do this self-guided too. The National Museum costs 3 Euro a ticket and is open from 10am 6pm Tuesday through Sunday. Now, when youre wandering around Cathedral Square you may find some bits a little interesting. It was a great introduction to Lithuanian dishes as I really didnt have a scooby about what sort of food they ate in the country before that. As I visited Vilnius in December, I didnt get to visit these gardens for long. Visit The KGB Museum / Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fighters, 18. Today, this picturesque street is home to historic architecture, boutique stalls, coffee houses, restaurants and so much more. 2 to 3 Days in Vilnius Itinerary. Vilnius old town is definitely worth to visit, one of the oldest old towns in Europe, mist be in everyones list! One of the distinctive Smiling Angel statues that are dotted around Vilnius (Photo: Mark via Flickr). As it was private, I got all the time to ask any questions I needed to as well. This is because you can see the whole of the city from there and the best attractions, like the Gediminas Tower. They were originally set up by Bernadine Monks that were invited to Vilnius. A cookie set by YouTube to measure bandwidth that determines whether the user gets the new or old player interface. Then it switched hands to the Orthodox Church in the 19th century and eventually, after the independence, went back to the Uniates! Today, Literatu Street is home to a wall commemorating this heritage, featuring over 200 wooden, ceramic, glass or metal tiles engraved with the names of some of Lithuanias most famous literary names. If all that exploring has taken its toll, or youve booked in for a relaxing break in Vilnius. The largest coin pyramid in the world is a carefully balanced stack of over 1,000,000 pieces. . If you only have time for one, I would recommend visiting either the National Gallery of Art (LAM) or MO Museum. Plus its only 30 minutes from Vilnius making it the perfect day trip. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Bike tour for the first-comers to Vilnius featuring must-see classics in combination with newly trending spots. You will need to fill in a form and then you pay 8 Euros for a tour that will take you around the Library, University Halls and Courtyards too. Take a closer look at this bustling city with our suggestions for unique things to do in Vilnius. Even today, when you walk through the gate, youll see many locals pause and say a little prayer towards her portrait that can be seen through the window. This is due to the fact that Vilnius has some perfect Soviet backdrops in the city. My favourite caf was the Augustus Ir Babora Caf which Ill explain more about below. GIFTEDWe spent ab. Tucked away underwater, away from the sight of prying eyes, the remnants of these stony roads date back centuries. English. Situated on the foot of a hill, a few minutes walk from the Bohemian district of Uzupis in the city centre, this is one of Vilnius most unique accommodation options. So, without further ado, here are all the amazing things to do in Vilnius on your trip. Click here to check out packages and treatments at Azia spa. According to legend, before a church was placed here, it was a site of a Pagan temple dedicated to Milda. I had a knowledgeable guide who customised the tour with some classic sites and what I was interested in. (the company that believes in giving stories, not stuff! So, its well worth checking out if you want to learn all about it! Some of the data that are collected include the number of visitors, their source, and the pages they visit anonymously. A dark and disturbing testimony to the events that still cast a shadow over the city. Bernardine Park. The views back over the city are stunning (and free!). The castle itself dates from 1409, but there have been fortifications on the spot since the early 1300's. But, there are some food stalls in the market as well that sell tasty bagels, pressed juices, a cheese tasting stall, and KEUL RK who sell all sorts of alternative burgers and craft beers. Have fun in Liepkalnis Ski Run. 6. View this post on Instagram. In other words they can be carried anywhere at any time. Museum of illusions. Download App for Free. You were brought to the room and without a word shot. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. You can see a concert, visit an art exhibition, literature events and much more! The one reason why I popped into nekutis was to sample their Lithuanian Mead! Lithuanian National Opera & Ballet Theatre, 8. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Its located just off the Town Hall Square in the Old Town and is a Roman Catholic temple. Home to Eastern Europes only Island Castle, Trakai used to be the capital of Lithuania years ago. See here for details. The tiny courtyard outside shows the place where inmates would walk for 15 minutes a day. I use. Jack Lim. Perfect for those who don't enjoy the grueling climb. 26. As the oldest baroque church in Vilnius, it was built in the 17th century by the Jesuits and is dedicated to the holy prince Saint Casimir. After the Nazis left a few years later, it became re-occupied by Soviet Secret Police better known as the KGB. Youve got the Gate of Dawns in the background, a whole range of historic architecture including the Philharmonic building, church spires, and cobbled streets. Exhibitions of the works of artists working with amber are also regularly held here and visitors can buy amber jewellery in the on-site store. It was so tasty and I would go back in a heartbeat. The ethos behind the event revolves around diversity, both in terms of the music played and the audiences attending, hailing as they do from every social, cultural and ethnic group imaginable, with many travelling here from overseas for the occasion. Vilnius Old Town is really easy to get around on foot. (the . AddThis sets this cookie to track page visits, sources of traffic and share counts. As this act was seen as a miracle, a special tile was placed in the Cathedral Square which people now call the magic tile. Help. This event showed the world that the Lithuanian people were tired of being occupied by a foreign country and wanted their independence. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Discover Vilnius in an exciting and extraordinary way! Then in the 1990s, they declared the district the Free Republic. The district also plays host to regular feasts, fireworks shows and open-air art exhibitions, so be sure to check local events schedules during your visit. If you can, I highly recommend staying in a hotel or apartment in the Old Town so you're close to the action. It really is as pretty as a postcard. I had a one-hour body scrub and full body massage treatment. The tour will wind along charming Old Town streets, pause at the iconic landmarks, stop at the enchanting viewing points. You can access this from Town Hall Square. SGD. But, the reality is that the French soldiers used it for shelter during the Napoleonic wars. All rights reserved. So thats all the things to do in Vilnius, but if youre here for a few days and fancy a day trip, there are lots to choose from. Only opened in 2016, the Vilnil Museum of Illusions is a fun and fascinating place to visit that is dedicated to a rather unique and unusual field. Escape Games. This cookie, set by YouTube, registers a unique ID to store data on what videos from YouTube the user has seen. On Cathedral Square you will also see a large monument to Gedeminas, Grand Duke of Lithuania from 1316 and founding father of Vilnius (you will come across the name more often in the city! The _ga cookie, installed by Google Analytics, calculates visitor, session and campaign data and also keeps track of site usage for the site's analytics report. #4 Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights. Its a testament to the strength of the Lithuanian people despite their dark past. Outside, youll see a statue dedicated to King Mindaugas. This is a chargeable museum but there are hundreds, if not thousands, of artifacts inside! I didnt know much about the capital of Lithuania before I landed in this city. If youre going further afield, you may want to invest in a Vilnius City Card that will get you FREE transport and access to some of the local museums. Mykolo g. 8 HOURS Mon-Sun 9am-5pm 10am-7pm. Its an enlightening visit. It is HUGE at over 1,000 feet high, so youre bound to feel like youre up in the clouds. Corruption was everywhere and you didnt know who to trust. This cookie is installed by Google Universal Analytics to restrain request rate and thus limit the collection of data on high traffic sites. And they can open your eyes . It is home to the Vilnius Cathedral, the Clock Tower, the Palace of the Grand Dukes, and lots more. You can get there by taking bus number 66 straight to the location of the park. I'm a UK-based solo female travel blogger. And yet today there are over 70 of these cherubic looking figures at various locations around town. History & Culture 3. See some more details here. In Lithuania, they use the Euro. You get to orientate yourself, know the area, learn about the history and visit some of the top attractions too! YSC cookie is set by Youtube and is used to track the views of embedded videos on Youtube pages. 3. Here you can see where prisoners were kept. All Rights Reserved - PRIVACY POLICY, From Vilnius Airport to City Center with public transportation. 6. My favourite part of Pilies street was veering off down the small pretty side streets, courtyards and alleyways. Reservations are recommended for large groups and at peak times. I always use Google Maps if I have WiFi, or download Maps.Me if Im going to be offline. It was cheap and convenient. Reservations in advanceare highly recommended. Within Vilnius, do not skip the KGB Museum or the quirky Republic of Uupis. World War Ii 3. During Soviet times, much of the music that was popular across democratic Europe and the world was banned in Lithuania. Designed for nature and outdoors enthusiasts, guests can expect grill and barbecue events, mulled wine, craft beers and night-time bonfires all of which combine to create a magical ambience. But, through time, the building suffered major fires and had to be reconstructed. This cookie can only be read from the domain they are set on and will not track any data while browsing through other sites. One of my favourite streets in the whole of Vilnius is Ausros Vartu Street. A historical building looms over a large public square in Vilnius (Photo: F Mira via Flickr). Travel along the western outskirts of the old town. Unfortunately, I took way too long to find it before I realised that it was completely closed! It was shocking and heartbreaking. By 695arthurm. 5. It was founded by Gediminas, built upon by his son Kystus and eventually expanded by his son Vytautas. Good for. Vilnius Cathedral. Moreover, our partners, such as Google Adsense, will collect data and use cookies for ad personalization and measurement. Years ago the whole upper castle was a defensive fortification built by Gediminas grandson, Duke Vytautas. The test_cookie is set by doubleclick.net and is used to determine if the user's browser supports cookies. Look for it's unusual small pink arched entrance. While it may not be Rome, or Paris, it packs a punch with history, passion, resilience and fabulous food and stories. This museum highlights what life was like during the Nazi and Soviet eras. The most popular thing to do in Trakai is visit Trakai Castle, a 14th-century castle surrounded by Lake Galve. Today, they are known as the Franciscan martyrs of Vilnius. Here are a few of my favourite streets and courtyards in the old town; Click here to book a courtyard tour of Vilnius. A day well spent in Vilnius is a day spent strolling around the Old Town.The houses were adorable, with tiny cobbled streets going in all and any direction (we didn't find one straight corner there), and small parks and green areas scattered around.The last part particularly surprised me - there were so many pretty parks and green squares . You will have to climb up 193 wooden stairs to reach the peak which is around 45 metres high. A guide to craft beer in Vilnius and Lithuania. Third Eye Traveller participates in various affiliate marketing programs. 2022 is a great time to go sightseeing and visit the many attractions in Vilnius. Have some cheap eats or Lithuanian Mead at Snekutis, 16. Hill of Three Crosses. Visit the film locations of the Chernobyl series, 25. Its truly a beautiful place to visit and the architecture is breathtaking. 7. So, make sure you try it out for yourself while youre here. This museum is a fun way to understand the workings of science in day to day lives and how some of the logical and day to day phenomenon can result into delusions. With its striking shade of yellow and beautiful baroque design, youll notice the Basilian Monastery it in an instant, even from afar! These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. So, you get a birds-eye view of the gorgeous rooftops, cobbled streets, and church spires. Town Hall Square. LOCATION Auk g. 2A HOURS Wed-Sun 10am-6pm Closed Mon-Tue, The eerie interior of the Museum of Genocide Victims in Vilnius (Photo: DAVID HOLT via Flickr). Vilnius. Visit Vilnius Cathedral (Cathedral Basilica of St Stanislaus and St Ladislaus of Vilnius), 4. Address: Etmon g. 6, Vilnius 01129, Lithuania. Things to do in Vilnius. As well as religious monuments and memorials, there are over forty pieces of art by famous Lithuanian painters. The Palace is HUGE so youll need at least a few hours to explore. The site is surrounded by a vast garden and is also close to St. Annes Church and the Vilnele River, meaning theres plenty of things to see and do during your stay. benefits of using the Go Vilnius card. The Neris River forms the dividing line between the new and the old city. So, its a pity that it is only open during the summer season. Not as romantic as all that! But, most of the food stalls will not open until 9/10am. The Fabijoniks district plays the part in the infamous Pripyat, The Museum of Occupations plays the KGB prison and a few of the former government buildings and guest houses were transformed into courtrooms and hotels. The Vilnius Cathedral Bell Tower is open from 10am 7pm in summer and 10am 6pm in winter. Find fun things to do in Vilnius this weekend. These cookies will be stored in your browser. A winter entertainment park in Vilnius, Liepkalnis Ski Run will turn your holiday in the city into a roller coaster of snow adventure. Kaunas is often called Vilnius quirky brother and, as the second-largest city in Lithuania, its well worth checking out. The first church that stood here was to mark the spot where the three Lithuanian Christian Martyrs (Anthony, John, and Eustace) died. Frank Zappa often spoke of revolution in his songs and became an icon to the youth in the city after their newfound freedom! This post may contain affiliate links. It then changed to Stalin avenue and Lenin Avenue. Of more interest to me was the panoramic view from the top. There was no freedom during these times. Although I was a guest, all opinions are my own. But, it was destroyed and burned down due to the Russian invasions. It is meant to introduce you to the city and make it feel as home. A Baltic Shaman then translated his dream and told him he needed to create a strong city like the wolf and it would be talked about for centuries, hence the howling. Things to do in Vilnius in a nutshell BIX Baras. Perfect for a rainy day. He brings a world-class level of gastronomy to the Lithuanian capital. Visit the official website for visiting times and prices for Europos Park. We recommend Trakai Castle as one of the top things to do in Vilnius, even though it's not in the city. It was built during the Russian occupation, so it was originally called A. Mickiewicz. This review is the subjective opinion of . It costs 4 Euros and is open from 10am 6pm Wednesday to Saturday. With his iconoclastic image, American rock star Frank Zappa became a symbol of the freedom that people had for so long been denied and in 2001 a member of the Vilnius bohemian set founded the Frank Zappa Fan Club. Surrounded by history it stands tall in a capital city Vilnius. Search Bookings. But, once I arrived and experienced all the unique and amazing things to do in Vilnius, I fell head over heels in love with it! Then I would book yourself in for a relaxing massage at Azia Spa. Things to do Things to do. One of those is a set of footprints. So, Gediminas united the villages, and Vilnius was born! There is a legend surrounding this hill (known as Bleak Hill) that 14 Franciscan monks were invited to Vilnius and started preaching about God. Master Pieces by great illusionists from Netherlands, Sweden, Japan and all over the world, of 1920s to 1970s. From an Old Town that looks like something from a fairytale, gothic castles, and breathtaking viewpoints. But, in the summer I reckon this will be a small green oasis in the heart of the city. Traditional Lithuanian dishes start on their menu at 7 8 Euros, so I would definitely make a booking if youre keen. Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania with over 580,000 inhabitants, making it the largest city in the country and the second-largest out of the Baltic states. Its easy to walk up, open 24 hours a day, and is completely FREE to visit. Visit the National Museum of Lithuania, 10. There is a castle museum that is chargeable if you want to go inside which has a better view from the top. Finally, in 1870, the three parks that were next to each other, the Botanical Gardens, the Cathedral Park, and Bernadine gardens, all became one park. Europe Travel Tips . This classic walking tour will take you through the quaint Old Town of Vilnius and Uupis too! Share. How many of the churches were destroyed and how so many Lithuanian people were deported to hard labour camps, imprisoned, or killed. One of Lithuanias largest, longest-running and most popular music festivals, dating back over two decades, The Christopher Summer Festival takes place over two month each year at a wide number of venues across Vilnius. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Together with a professional local guide, you will look for treasures hidden in the streets of Vilnius. 5. It was really relaxing and just what I needed after some busy days exploring! Uutrakis Manor - restored 19th-century manor. We laughed a lot. Visit the streets of the Vilna Ghetto (Jewish Ghetto), 17. LOCATION v. The Three Crosses Hill. This was an important part of the cities defense walls and the historic Lower and Upper Castle in the 13th century. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". . It features 10 ski trails ranging from beginner to veteran. Entrance is 4.50 Euros. It makes for a perfect day trip and only takes a 30-minute bus ride to get to Trakai. Art Deco 2. Look out for the amazing graffiti surrounding it. Vilnius is a pretty city, well worth visiting, with a charming Old Town, plenty of green spaces, nice bars and cafes and a friendly atmosphere. Heres their menu. Walking, especially within the Old Town, will be your best bet most of the time. Set by addthis.com to determine the usage of addthis.com service. Look out for the The Walls Remember, People Tell street art around here, these are paintings inspired by real people who used to live in the area. 3. 5. The most famous mural that Vilnius is known for is the shotgun mural of Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin called Make Everything Great Again by artists Dominykas ekauskas and Mindaugas Bonanu. Just be patient with the traffic and masses of tourists using the crossroads! In the museum, you can learn about Vilnius as a fortification and the history of its defenses through the ages. It was made when the railway line between St Petersburg and Vilnius was built and the development of the city demanded it. Outsider Art 3. Vilnius Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sits at the point where two of Lithuania's main rivers converge. Some of their specialities at their Cold Beetroot Soup and Potato Dumplings are known as Cepelinai. It means youre officially a resident of Uupis! A bronze bust of Frank zappa atop a stainless-steel pole (Photo: richie78 via Flickr). During the 19th century, this building was home to many important Russian governors. Watch on. They say it all started with a vision, and a pilgrimage across the country to save the life of a farmer's daughter. It sparked worldwide media attention and was extremely controversial at the time. After my massage, I was treated to some green tea and I felt so refreshed. As was tradition, many of these gates had religious artifacts inside to protect the city from attacks and bless travellers that walk through them. Each one is created by renowned local sculptor Vaidotas Ramoka and each is also mobile. Gediminas Castle Tower. Of course, as well as capturing it there are a lot of shops, restaurants, and chapels you can pop into to pass the time too. Cookies containing your personal data may be used for personalized and non-personalized advertising to you. There are free tours to go inside the Palace on Saturdays. So if you want a nice little introduction to Vilnius, this is your first stop. Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights. 6. Read my full review of the Vilnius food tour here! Including a few tiles that look different from the rest. Usually considered as a meeting point for locals, the Cathedral Square sits at the heart of the Old Town. If you carry on to the end, youll find the Vilnius Town Hall. 3. The Baltic Way made a powerful statement to their Soviet government, helping contribute to the restoration of each countrys freedom by 1991. You can buy the Vilnius City Card online and at several locations, and it comes as a 24-hour card or a 72-hour card with or without public transportation.? 4. According to legend, in 1347, the Grand Duke Algirdas wife Julijona built a wooden Orthodox Church in their honour. 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