what to see around vilnius

It began the initiative as a way to give locals a flavour of international travel while the country was shut down. Vilnius seem to be amazing. The tile is reported to be the point where the Baltic Way, the human chain linking Vilnius, Rga, and Tallinn started or ended, depending on your point of view. January's highest temperature on record is -1.9C (28.58F). Almost the entirety of Lithuanias once-strong Jewish population was wiped out during the Nazi Occupation and this museum does an excellent job of preserving the culture and traditions of Lithuanian Jews. Making the hike up Castle Hill to Gediminas Castle Tower is definitely worth it as it is one of the must-see attractions in Vilnius. We were fortunate enough to see some alluring autumn colors here. This must be bought in advance at a kiosk or from the driver. Designed in 2008, it pays tribute to local and foreign poets and writers with connections to Lithuania through funky paintings, sculptures, and mixed media art. It is possible to purchase longer travel cards if you believe you will be making more than a few trips on public transport. After World War II, it was reconstructed and is now a major tourist attraction. It's one of the things to do in Vilnius that you can't miss. Youll see medieval weaponry and mannequins dressed in the traditional local dress as well as scale models of the castle showing it at different stages of its development. Located on the other side of the Vilnia River (thats what Uzupis means! Sues Indian Raja elegantly decorated restaurant in the Old Town that serves top-notch North Indian food. They have a range of rooms on offer and also have breakfast included in the room rate. As far as national museums go, this one is well worth the price of admission. The bicycles can be collected from any one of the 40 odd locations scattered over the city. THE 10 BEST Vilnius Parks & Nature Attractions Nature & Parks in Vilnius Enter dates Filters 1 Attractions Traveler favorites All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Events Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Sights & Landmarks Nightlife Fun & Games Throughout its history, Vilnius has been influenced not only by Lithuanians but also by Germans, Slavs, Jews, and the Soviets. Though on a typical day there is no border control, they will stamp your passport as you cross the bridge on their independence day: the 1st of April. It has a large number of modern buildings, stone structures from the Brezhnev era are on the sidewalks where street musicians sing, theaters, exhibitions, and stores open their doors. I noted the various places you wrote about Thank you. There are also numerous great restaurants and cool bars, cafes, and shops in Uzupis along with some of the citys best street art. Once you are done sightseeing in Vilnius, our final recommendation would be to take a day trip to Trakai from Vilnius. Cycling is another good way of getting around the city, especially in the warmer months. Get acquainted with the nations formation and customs, including folk art, peasant lifestyle, and heritage handicrafts, such as the forging of crosses. Germany is willing to send around 4,000 troops to Lithuania on a permanent basis to strengthen NATO's eastern flank, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said during a visit in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius on Monday. The cemeterys verdant expanse is full of crosses and tombs inscribed in Lithuanian, Russian and Polish. The Baroque reign was short lived and by the end of the 18th century, it had been replaced by the more understated Neoclassical style. The frescoes representing the life and activities of St. Theresa are very captivating. The Church of Sts. NB. Church of St. Casimir. Its the perfect place to get lost for a few days and a popular stop on the Baltic tour route. Lithuanian cuisine is based around a traditional repertoire of hearty peasant dishes, in which potatoes and pork hog the starring roles. Its full of exciting activities and sights. The art often makes use of lines and details that play with geometric forms and incorporates underlying social, cultural, or political concerns that fit well with the building or the surrounding neighborhood. Its exterior is intricate (mostly sandstone and granite) but not particularly embellished; the true jaw-dropping beauty was saved for the interior. Its littered with Catholic and Orthodox churches, and no matter where you are in the city, you can see the ever-presentGediminasTower. The Christianization of Lithuania took place in 1387, following the union of Lithuania and Poland. Prohibicija one of the best places for craft beer in the city, with an extensive selection of great beer to choose from. Venture in and pay your respects. It has always been (and continues to be) a site for significant community events in the city, from protests and performances to royal welcomes. These colorful murals are transforming some of the pretty bleak and dilapidated landscape of the Old Town into veritable Instagram-worthy locations. A self-governing free town, similar to that of Freetown Christiania. Then you top it up with money or tickets of your desired duration. According to popular legend, Napoleon Bonaparte was so dazzled by the fairytale, pinnacle-encrusted towers of St. Annes Church that hes said to have wanted to take it back to Paris in the palm of his hand. Protect yourself from theft, injury, illness, or the unexpected. Now named after Duke Gediminas, this expansive, cobbled boulevard has previously been named after St. George, Mickiewicz, Stalin, and Lenin reflecting the succession of different regimes (Tsarists, Poles, and the Soviets). Just to the east of the Uzupis district, you will find the peaceful graveyard overlooking the city. After youve taken your fill, step onto the Bastion Terrace for some seriously spectacular city views. The tour takes you past all of the main sites in the Old Town including the Town Hall Square, the old Jewish Quarter, St Annes Church, and the bohemian neighbourhood of Uzupis before ending in Cathedral Square in front of the Vilnius Cathedral and the Lithuanian Presidential Palace. Having been razed during the Soviet era, the monument was rebuilt in 1989. Their main tour leaves daily at 11:00am from just outside the Town Hall in Vilnius main square. Boasting 27 restaurants and bars, there is even a fresh grocer where you can purchase produce and other goodsjust in case youre more of a DIY person. Spending more time in the Baltics? Today, however, Vilnius is a city in transition where ancient meets the modern. The picturesque town of Trakai lies a mere 30 km away from Vilnius, making it perfect for a short trip. "Germany is prepared to permanently station a robust brigade in Lithuania," Pistorius said. The days are long, and theres usually enough fine weather to allow you to stroll around. Below we have compiled a list of the best things to see and do in Vilnius. As far as tipping in Lithuania is concerned, service charges are generally included in hotel and restaurant bills. Its altar is one of the highest and most beautiful in the country. Learn more about Natasha Alden on The World Pursuit About Us Page. Tickets for one, three, five and ten days are available and cost 5, 8, 12 and 15 EUR respectively. Huracn Coffee Vokieiai trendy cafe in the heart of the Old Town that serves some of the best light roasted coffee and cakes in Vilnius. It retains very little of its original stonework having been restored and houses a small museum that gives a glimpse into what the castle looked like in medieval times. No visit to Vilnius would be complete without a visit to the Republic of Uzupis. Learn more about Vilnius and Lithuanian history - both recent and past - through these top 5 places to visit in Vilnius. The Gediminass Castle Tower (Gedimino pilis) is a red-brick octagonal tower that is the only remaining part of the Upper Castle complex, which once included defensive structures. Here are some of our top restaurant picks: Contrary to the name, this is less of a pub and more of a trendy bistro. The Uptown Bazaar is a vibrant mix of scents and sights, with a near-endless array of dining options from international cuisine like ramen, tapas, or Thai, to national dishes and burger joints and taco stands. While this isnt enrich your view of Lithuania or help you understand its history, its an excellent way to unwind after a day of exploring churches and human history museums. While not nearly as vast as the Riga Central Market in neighbouring Latvia, Hales Turgus is a great place to browse if you want to check out some local Lithuanian produce, are curious about the cuisine, or just want to pick up some great fresh fruits and vegetables. The Presidential Palace in Vilnius has been around since Lithuanias conversion to Christianity at the end of the 14th century. By 695arthurm. We recommend Trakai Castle as one of the top things to do in Vilnius, even though its not in the city. Peter and Paul as one of the most beautiful in Europe, alongside churches in cities such as Venice, Madrid, and Krakow. Oh, there's also my partner in crime Jacky who's not too bad either , Wow! After a chilling morning at the museum, take the time to stroll through the picturesque Jewish Quarter, which was a former ghetto during the Nazi Occupation, and spend some time relaxing in the tranquil Bernardine Garden. Gediminas Avenue is the chief commercial street of Vilnius. Cold beet soup (altibariai) is a traditional summer favorite that is usually served with chopped hard-boiled eggs, cucumber, kefir, dill, and potatoes. If you are only spending two days in Vilnius, then the first two days of this itinerary are going to be a perfect introduction to the city. Are you planning a 2 or 3 days in Vilnius itinerary? The square has been a marketplace for centuries and is the fulcrum around which public life in the Old Town revolves. Annexed as part of the Vilnius University, the churchs interior is Gothic, per its original construction, while its exterior now reflects the late Baroque style after it was redesigned. Uzupis has its own president, currency, and constitution and is very charming to walk around. She is an expert in travel, budgeting, and finding unique experiences. Nestled on the banks of the Vilnel River, the area is a hive of creativity and eccentricity, attracting the city's artists, intellectuals and entrepreneurs. If you only have one day in Vilnius, I would highly recommend staying at a hotel in the actual old town and wandering around day and night from there. Hales Turgus is the central market hall in Vilnius. Vilnius has an incredible up-and-coming food scene and there are a number of fantastic restaurants in the city. Before WWII, Vilnius has one of the largest Jewish populations in all of Europe and was also the capital of the Yiddish language (the language that was once commonly spoken by Ashkenazi Jews). Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. Vilnius under-promises and over-delivers. To prove how unique Uupis is, the neighborhood humorously declared itself an independent republic on 1st April 1997. There are many lush, green spaces in Vilnius and if the weather is fine, many locals and tourists alike like spending time in them. Lithuania's capital has an Old Town of rare authenticity: marvellously intact, its pebbly streets are lined with weather-worn period buildings that hide cafes, boutiques and dainty guesthouses. On April 1, . . This has resulted in a wide gamut of architectural styles such as Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. We receive compensation if you make a purchase, but it won't cost you anything extra. The most common offenses against foreigners involve petty theft, an activity that is concentrated in touristy spots in the Old Town. In Vilnius, it seems theres a church just around every corner. The viewing deck is a rotating one and makes a full circle in about 50 minutes. Even if you dont want to go into the museum, the palace is still splendid to look at from the outside. The deeply moving Museum of Occupation and Freedom Fights (previously known as Museum of Genocide Victims) chronicles a grim part of Lithuanias recent history: the Nazi and Soviet occupation from 1940 to 1991. You wont regret it. Few services run between 11 pm and 5 am. The spot wasnt associated with Christianity again until the conversion of Lithuania adopted Catholicism under Grand Duke Jogaila in 1387. You can stroll in the gardens and along the banks of the Vilnia River or play chess at the parks giant chessboard. Kibinai is a scrumptious half-moon pastry of leavened dough usually stuffed with meat. St. Annes Church (v Onos Banyia) is a stunning 16th-century Gothic masterpiece that has survived over 500 years without any changes. Its a little quirky and definitely on the experimental side of creativity, but well worth taking in a show or two if youre in Vilnius over the summer! Our favorite was the one with Trump and Putin, seemingly locking lips, by Lithuanian artist Mindaugas Bonanu (Pylimo g. 66). The first day of this 2 or 3 days in Vilnius itinerary sees you mostly exploring the lovely UNESCO-listed Old Town. If you think of using public transport to get around Vilnius, this link will help you. Gratuities for waiters, hotel housekeepers, tourist guides, and many others in the service sector are purely optional. Under Soviet rule, it was used as a warehouse and a picture gallery. It is made up of an integrated network of buses and trolleybuses. TOP 10 places to visit The Republic of Uupis Uupis may be the smallest district in Vilnius, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in style and character. Not surprisingly, Napoleon fell in love with itso much so that he wanted to take it back to Paris in the palm of his hand. It was intended to be a lasting monument to peace and a celebration of Vilniuss deliverance from the Russians, who had just vacated the city after a thirteen-year occupation. Some of the best Lithuanian dishes to try are . There are several great things to do and see in Vilnius and this lovely city is a thrilling and superb getaway for those on a short break. Baroque treasures such as St. Casimirs Chapel, and the St. Theresas Church were built by the Italian pioneers of Baroque. Peter and Paul, Feast On Some Delectable Lithuanian Cuisine, Take a Stroll Along Pilies Street & Literatai Street, Uncover Lithuanias Past at the National Museum of Lithuania, Visit Vilnius University & St. Johns Church, Get A Birds Eye View of Vilnius From The TV Tower. The hip-knobs and the spires are adorned with decorative crockets, so as to resemble curled leaves. As you walk in, prepare to be amazed by over-the-top stucco work, featuring cavorting cherubs, rich foliage and exotic plants laden with fruit. Its not quite a wishing well, but according to legend, this magical tile tucked away in Cathedral Square can grant wishes and make your dreams come true. Click here to see their availability, Old Town Trio If youre looking for a great hotel located at the edge of Vilnius Old Town, then this is a great choice for you. Sky Bar if youre on the lookout for a bar with great views over Vilnius, Sky Bar is your best bet. Free entrance. If you love cats as much as I do, this place is purr-fect. You can get these in any local bakery. If youre up for it, you can also go on a boat ride around the lake. It then served as the headquarters of the Gestapo when the Germans took over in July the following year and reverted to the Soviets in 1944. Vilnius is a year-round destination and when you travel depends on what you want to see and experience there. Being a certified glutton, one of the things I loved about Vilnius is the local Lithuanian fare. Vilnius has a wonderful laid back atmosphere and today is the day to take more advantage if it! Another advantage of visiting Vilnius in the summer is that many attractions, especially those with outdoor features, operate longer opening hours. These rustic houses can be attributed to the Crimean Karaites (Karaim), a Turkic-speaking ethnic group (practicing a branch of Judaism) that has been in Lithuania since the 14th century and has been mainly centered in Trakai. This neighborhood on the other side of the Vilnia river used to be one of the most problematic areas in town. Hot Air Balloon Experience Vilnius or Trakai, Full-Day The Hill of Crosses Tour from Vilnius. Certainly one of the more unusual things to see in Vilnius, the Frank Zappa Statue makes for a quirky visit. They also have a good selection of Georgian wines. Built by Jesuits to honor St Casimir in 1604, the original structure was burnt down several times over the course of a few decades. Its reconstruction resulted in the building that stands today, a rich and visually astounding tapestry of styles. Cat Cafe an excellent cafe that is a great place to grab coffee and drinks. Particularly moving are the water isolation cells and an execution chamber that displays documents torn by the Soviets and the dug-up remains of victims under glass. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. I asked our local tourguide his opinion where to eat and he named Pirmas blynas this is a social pancake house where they hire people with a disability. I visited last week and used this page for a couple of visits. The cafe is very clean, the cats are all well looked after and are extremely friendly. A European city with an old town is nothing new, but they are almost always well worth exploring. Your email address will not be published. Head to the towers observation deck, which at a height of 165 m offers spectacular views of the city and surroundings. Not quite what youre looking for? The Vilnius Television Tower is the tallest building in the country and is rightfully ranked among the tallest television towers in the world. Magnificent View of Old Town. 2023 The World Was Here First All rights reserved. The cathedral contains many notable works of art from the 14th through the 19th centuries, including frescoes in the underground chapel and the famous Sapiega Madonna. Im visiting Vilnius in a few weeks & reading this has me very excited to see the city! The largest city in Lithuania is full of small cafes, charming shops, restaurants, art, and history. Where to Stay: Hotel Vilnia is the nicest hotel in the area and well worth a stay! Antakalnis Cemetery is open 24/7. The artists were pleasantly surprised when their idea for the statue was approved (many people who supported the idea hadnt even heard a note of his music) and the worlds first statue of Frank Zappa, along with the psychedelic mural behind it, were presented in 1995. The name Vilnius originates from the Vilnia River. There are also a couple of trendy coffee shops and trendy fast food stalls in the market, so it is also a great place to stop for a small bite to eat. Here are our top picks for places to stay in Vilnius: Hotel Rinno Located close to Cathedral Square and Bernardine Garden in the Old Town, this boutique hotel comes very highly rated. Visit the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights / KGB Museum. Some of the best street art murals we saw in Vilnius were Sepe & Chazme (Kauno g. 1), Millo (Pylimo g. 56) and Os Gemeos (Pylimo g. 60). Though the grounds and the perimeter of the castle are free of charge to visit, there is a 12 fee for entry for adults and 6 for students if you want to have a look inside the castle. If you love Gothic architecture, this church wont disappoint. The Old Town of Vilnius is relatively compact, and . Carmelite monks from St. Theresas Church built a chapel inside the gate in the second half of the 17th century. They have a number of stylish and modern rooms to choose from and there is even an option to include breakfast! 30 FUN Tanzania Facts That Will Blow Your Mind. Free entrance. This article may contain affiliate links. 4. Vilnius International Airport is taking advantage of the decreased traffic caused by COVID-19 travel restrictions. It often surprises me that Vilnius gets overlooked in comparison to its Baltic cousins, Riga and Tallinn, two great cities in their own right. ), this neighbourhood was at one time derelict and crime-ridden. There are 5 different busses from the airport, so be sure about which one you should take, the bus ride from the airport to the center of Vilnius takes around 15 minutes, and the buses depart from the airport every 10-15 minutes. One of the countrys longest-running music festivals, it takes place over a period of two months, with countless musical acts across dozens of venues throughout the city. We use ads to support our small business we hope you dont mind them too much. Lokys a great restaurant that is a must-visit for anyone wanting to try traditional Lithuanian cuisine. The lakeside town of Trakai is one of the most popular day trips from Vilnius for both locals and tourists alike. Admission costs 6 EUR. So is Vilnius worth visiting? I suffer from chronic fernweh and am always looking forward to a new adventure. The pediment of the cathedrals main facade is crowned by a trio of monumental statues, with St Helena brandishing a huge cross at the apex, accompanied by Casimir, patron saint of Lithuania, on the right, and Stanislas, patron saint of Poland, on the left. There are multiple statuettes of evangelists and saints adorning the exterior. Free entrance. Uupiss inhabitants are an eclectic mix of bohemian artists and musicians, the nouveau riche and the proletariat. What are some of the best things to do in Vilnius? Please note that this article contains affiliate links. If you plan on visiting a lot of cultural attractions and museums, then it is maybe worth investing in the pass. Looking for tours or tickets? The churchs ornate facade of cascading ogee arches and slender windows is a sight to behold and a unique testament to the Gothic style in a city where Baroque reigns supreme. 2. Traditional Lithuanian crafts are represented by wicker baskets, checkered bedspreads, and the wood-carved figures of saints used to decorate wayside shrines in the countryside. Avoid using taxis in Vilnius unless it is absolutely necessary as you will be well covered by public transport. Were pretty into old things but will give bonus points if they are old walls. Despite only being home to 570,000 people, Vilnius has a lot of fun and interesting things to do. Winter days can be either bitterly cold or uncomfortably damp. This mural is a satirical take on the famous Berlin Wall mural, which depicts Leonid Brezhnev and Erich Honecker in a socialist fraternal kiss. The Gates of Dawn (Auros vartai) lies at the periphery of the Old Town and is the last surviving one of Vilnius nine 16th-century city gates.

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