Popular Places to Visit and Cool Things to Do in Vilnius

Vilnius is the national capital of Lithuania. It is the largest city in Lithuania and the second largest among the Baltic states. Some of the best places to visit in Vilnius are located in the old town area, which is among UNESCO world heritage sites. Besides the incredible architecture, people visit Vilnius for the rich Lithuanian cultural heritage of the city. The art galleries and sculptures are among the biggest Vilnius tourist attractions.

Among the top things to see in Vilnius is the 10th-century tower situated atop a hill in an otherwise flat terrain. The Gediminas Castle Tower is one of the most prominent places to begin Vilnius sightseeing. Owing to its position, the tower offers an incredible view of the old town area. During winter snowfall the tower and the hill look beautifully picturesque. A climb of the hill is among the top things to do in Vilnius in winter. Another popular hill to climb to visit Vilnius attractions is the hill of Three Crosses. The crosses were first erected in the 17th century but were destroyed during Soviet occupation. The crosses you would see now were reestablished in 1989 and have since been very popular among Vilnius points of interest for tourists. Close to the hill of three crosses is Vilnius Cathedral and Bell Tower. Both of these Vilnius attractions have very different styles of architecture. The Cathedral adapts from the Greek style of architecture with the exposed columns and statues on the top. Both these white buildings are beautiful to look at. Though, there is an even more interesting place to visit in Vilnius under the cathedral. The crypts under the cathedral serve as royal mausoleums for some of the most important historical figures of Lithuania. One of Vilnius’s top attractions from the Soviet era is the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights. This museum used to be a KGB prison. Even before that, the building was the headquarters of the Nazi Gestapo in the region. It is among the saddest things to see in Vilnius as it depicts the sufferings of the people during that period.

Though there are many interesting places in Vilnius, that’s not all you get to do in the Lithuanian capital. There are several activities in Vilnius that you can enjoy all year. During colder months, you can go for skiing, sledging, and other snow-related activities among things to do in Vilnius in winter at Liepkalnis Ski Resorts. There are also independent ski tracks that you can explore by yourself alongside places to visit in Vilnius. There are numerous forests and nature parks for hiking and camping among fun things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania. While in the city, you can go for a Hot Air Balloon ride as part of Vilnius sightseeing. You can also take kayak tours of Vilnius’s top attractions in the Neris River. The kayak tours are among the most fun things to do in Vilnius. It is a memorable trip along the river exploring several Vilnius tourist attractions from an unlikely point of view.

The Top Things to Do and See in Vilnius in 3 Days

This section provides a day-by-day itinerary of Vilnius sightseeing. It covers several top Vilnius attractions selected based on their locations so you can make the most of your time exploring the city.

Day 1

1. The Republic of Uzupis

This district is one of the most unique places to visit in Vilnius. There are several attractions to visit here including art galleries and museums. It is also popular for its unique look, which is very different from rest of Vilnius. The shops, cafes and buildings in general can be explored on foot as part of Vilnius sightseeing. You will need about an hour to explore this area.

2. Gate of Dawn (Aušros vartai)

This is one of the 5 gates which used to be the entrance to old Vilnius. It is now the only surviving of the 5. You would need about 30 to 45 minutes at the Gate of Dawn.

3. Church of St. Theresa (Šv. Teresės bažnyčia)

The church was built in the 17th century is known for its baroque style interior. Though it looks quite simple from the outside, it mesmerizes those who visit Vilnius owing to its ornate interiors. You will need about an hour to explore this church.

4. Church of St. Peter & St. Paul (Šv. apaštalų Petro ir Povilo bažnyčia)

This church is considered by many as the best example of baroque style architecture in Lithuania. One of the biggest attractions of this church are the carved stucco figures and there are some 2000 of them here. You will need a little more than an hour to explore this church

5. Gediminas Castle Tower / Castle Hill (Gedimino pilies bokštas)

This is arguably the most popular castle among places to visit in Vilnius. The 13th century castle on the top of the hill has almost a fantasy film feel to it. There are a couple of Vilnius tourist attractions to visit on Castle Hill, so you would need about 2 hours to explore it.

6. Hill of Three Crosses (Trys kryžiai)

Another popular Hill among things to see in Vilnius. This hill and the iconic three crosses on top of it have great many stories attached. It is said that there used to be a chapel where the crosses are today. It is also one of the best places to visit in Vilnius for a great view of the city. You will need 30 to 45 minutes at this place.

7. Cathedral Basilica of St Stanislaus and St Ladislaus / Vilnius Cathedral (Vilniaus Šv. Stanislovo ir Šv. Vladislovo arkikatedra bazilika)

Coming back to the city and to Cathedral Square, this is one of the most well known Vilnius attractions. It has an impressive exterior and even more impressive interiors. There are several admirable frescos in this church. It is also the final resting place for many Lithuanian royal figures. You will need about an hour to explore this cathedral.

Day 2

1. Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania (Lietuvos Didžiosios Kunigaikštystės valdovų rūmai Vilniaus žemutinėje pilyje)

The palace was first built in the 15th century and has since undergone reconstruction and restoration. There are several halls, rooms and galleries to explore in the palace. You will need at about 2 hours here.

2. Trakai Island Castle and Museum (Trakų salos pilis)

This island castle museum is one of the most famous symbols of Lithuania. There are several attractions, structures and exhibition halls on the island. You will need about 3 hours to explore it.

Day 3

1. Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit (Vilniaus Šv. Dvasios vienuolyno katedra)

This Russian orthodox style church is one of the most visited places with great religious significance. The church is resting place for the remains of three Russian orthodox saints. It is also known for its beautiful interior and baroque style architecture. You will need an hour to explore this church.

2. Church of St. Catherine (Šv. Kotrynos bažnyčia)

Another church known for its beautiful exterior architecture as well as beautiful interior. Though you will only need 30 minutes to explore this one.

3. Vilnius TV Tower (Vilniaus televizijos bokštas)

This Tower is the highest point of observation for Vilnius sightseeing. Though you won’t need more than 30 minutes here.

4. St. Anne’s Church (Šv. Onos bažnyčia)

This is yet another iconic church to visit among Vilnius tourist attractions. St. Anne’s Church is known for its gothic architecture and red brick construction. You will need about an hour to explore and admire this church.

5. National Museum of Lithuania (Lietuvos nacionalinis muziejus)

This museum narrates the story of Lithuania. You will need about 2 hours to explore the museum and various galleries of exhibits here.

6. Hall Market (Halės turgus)

This is one of the oldest markets in the city and is the best places to visit in Vilnius for shopping. You will need an hour to explore this market.

7. Hot Air Balloon Ride

This can be a memorable experience when you visit Vilnius. The hot air balloon ride lets you hover over the city and enjoy breathtaking views. It is among top things to do in Vilnius and you will need an hour for it.

If you visit Vilnius for more than 3 days, you can check out our exhaustive list of the best places to visit in Vilnius below.

Things to do in Vilnius

Monuments, Museums & Historical Places to Visit in Vilnius

1. Gediminas Castle Tower
2. Gates of Dawn
3. St. Anne’s Church
4. Vilnius Cathedral
5. Museum of Occupation and Freedom Fights
6. Three Crosses Monument
7. Church of St. Peter & St. Paul
8. National Museum of Lithuania
9. Palace of Grand Dukes of Lithuania
10. MO Museum of modern & contemporary art
11. Lithuanian Art Museum
12. Vilnius Museum of Illusions
13. St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church
14. Traku Voke Manor
15. Vilna Gaon Jewish State Museum
16. Church of St. John the Baptist
17. Energy & Technology Museum
18. Bastion of Vilnius Defensive Walls
19. Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit
20. Saint Catherine’s Church
21. Radvila Palace
22. Money Museum of the Bank of Lithuania
23. Church of St. Casimir
24. Church of St. Theresa
25. Church Heritage Museum
26. Dominican Church of Holy Spirit
27. Museum of Applied Arts & Design
28. Verkiai Palace
29. Sanctuary of Divine Mercy
30. Catholic Church of All Saints
31. Holy Cross Church
32. Toy Museum
33. Lentvaris Manor
34. Sapieha Palace
35. Holy Trinity Uniate Church
36. Church of St. Nicholas
37. Constitution of the Republic of Uzupis
38. Forum Palace
39. St. Apostles Philip and Jacob Church
40. Lithuanian Theatre, Music and Cinema Museum
41. Vilnius Virgin St. Maria’s Church
42. Royal Palace
43. Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
44. Church of St. Archangel Raphael
45. Choral Synagogue
46. St. Bartholomew the Apostle Church
47. The House of Signatories
48. Church of Christ Redeemer
49. Frank Zappa Sculpture
50. Saint Parasceve Orthodox Church
51. Liubavas Manor
52. Museum of Vladislovas Sirokomle
53. Ksenija Jarosevaite Cat Sculpture
54. Monument of Grand Duke Gediminas
55. Angel of Uzupis Sculpture
56. Magical Brick
57. Lithuanian Railway Museum
58. Memorial Complex of Tuskulenai Peace
59. Vilnius Kenesa Building
60. St. Nicholas Church

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Vilnius

1. Puckoriu Nature Park
2. Green Lakes
3. Pavilnys Regional Park Forest
4. Voke River Reservoir
5. Varniku Pazintinis Takas Forest
6. UNO Park
7. Silenu Pazintinis Takas Nature Park
8. Neris Park

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Vilnius

1. Europos Parkas Open Air Modern Art Gallery
2. Vichy Water Park
3. Vilnius University Botanical Gardens
4. Nachonaline Dailes Galerija Art Gallery
5. Liepkalnis Ski Resort
6. Vilnius Picture Gallery
7. Contemporary Art Center
8. Vilnius University Library
9. Vilnius Zoo Park

Shopping in Vilnius

1. Hall Market
2. Gariunai Market
3. Kalvariju Market
4. Pilies Street
5. Didzioji Street
6. Stickliai Street
7. Trakai Street
8. Gediminas Avenue
9. Akroplois Mall
10. Panorama Shopping & Leisure Center
11. Ozas Shopping Center

Offbeat Places & Adventure Things to Do in Vilnius

1. Liepkalnis Winter Skiing Tracks
2. Hiking
3. Hot Air Ballon Ride
4. River Kayaking
5. Old Town Cycling Tour

Sightseeing in Vilnius

1. Cathedral Square
2. President’s Office
3. Vilnius TV Tower
4. Pilies Street
5. Bernardine Park
6. Vingis Park
7. Verkiai Park
8. Green Bridge
9. Literatu Street
10. Kalnai Park
11. Gidas po Vilniu
12. Sapiegos Park
13. Baltasis Tiltas Park
14. Tauro Kalnas Park

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Vilnius

1. Snekutis
2. Dublis
3. Belmontas
4. Sweet Root
5. Etno Dvaras
6. Stebuklai
7. Lokys
8. The Town
9. Marche de Provence Gourmet
10. Shakespeare
11. La Provence
12. Telegrafas
13. Bunte Gans
14. Lauro Lapas
15. Cagino
16. Ertlio Namas
17. Imperial
18. Dine Restaurant
19. Ida Basar
20. Medininkai
21. Zuvine
22. Gaspar’s
23. Girta Bite

How to Reach Vilnius?

By Air

Vilnius International Airport is the largest of its kind in Lithuania. The airport is located about 5 km south of the city and is the best option for Vilnius travel for tourists. You can get direct flights to visit Vilnius from numerous major cities of Europe including Paris, Copenhagen, Riga, Rome, London, Moscow, Vienna, Minsk, Brussels, Tel Aviv, Tallinn, Helsinki, Warsaw, Frankfurt, Oslo, Stockholm, Barcelona, Crete, Dublin, Liverpool, Milan, Istanbul and many more. From outside Europe, you can get direct flights for Vilnius travel from Bangkok and New York City via UIA Ukrainian International Airlines.

To reach places to visit in Vilnius you can travel via bus, train, or cab. The buses keep running at regular intervals between the airport and the city center, which is a great place to begin Vilnius sightseeing. You also have the option of taking a train to get to the city’s train station from the airport which is closer to a few of Vilnius’s top attractions. Trains leave the airport station every 45 minutes and 7 minutes to reach the city. Finally, you have the option of taking a cab, which is the most expensive alternative of all. But, it provides you the freedom of movement to any Vilnius tourist attraction you choose directly from the airport.

By Road

Trains can also be used for Vilnius travel from several cities in northern Europe and Russia including Moscow, St. Petersburg, Minsk, Kaliningrad, Warsaw and so on. The bus network is a little more widespread compared to the rail network to visit Vilnius. There are several buses traveling internationally which connect to Vilnius. You can also get day tours from nearby cities and countries for some of the best things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania.

There are several major routes that connect you to Vilnius by road. These include E28, E85, A1, A14 and E272. The city center is close to the interjection of E272 and E28. All these routes also cover several top things to do in Vilnius as well. You may also come across a few Vilnius tourist attractions as you approach the city center.

By Water

As Vilnius is a landlocked city, you don’t have a direct water route for Vilnius travel. You can however look for a water route for one of the coastal cities of Lithuania like Klaipeda and continue by road to visit Vilnius.

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Image Reference

• The Republic of Uzupis – Wojsyl / Wikimedia Commons
• Gate of Dawn (Aušros vartai) – Marcin Białek / Wikimedia Commons
• Church of St. Theresa (Šv. Teresės bažnyčia) – Jerzy Strzelecki / Wikimedia Commons
• Church of St. Peter & St. Paul (Šv. apaštalų Petro ir Povilo bažnyčia) – Brian Toward / Flickr
• Gediminas Castle Tower / Castle Hill (Gedimino pilies bokštas) – kmarius / PixaBay
• Hill of Three Crosses (Trys kryžiai) – Bogdan Tapu / Flickr
• Cathedral Basilica of St Stanislaus and St Ladislaus / Vilnius Cathedral (Vilniaus Šv. Stanislovo ir Šv. Vladislovo arkikatedra bazilika) – jacqueline macou / PixaBay
• Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania (Lietuvos Didžiosios Kunigaikštystės valdovų rūmai Vilniaus žemutinėje pilyje) – Redaktoriuspsl / Wikimedia Commons
• Trakai Island Castle and Museum (Trakų salos pilis) – vietnam-lt / PixaBay
• Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit (Vilniaus Šv. Dvasios vienuolyno katedra) – Syrio / Wikimedia Commons
• Church of St. Catherine (Šv. Kotrynos bažnyčia) – Brian Toward / Flickr
• Vilnius TV Tower (Vilniaus televizijos bokštas) – kmarius / PixaBay
• St. Anne’s Church (Šv. Onos bažnyčia) – Jerzy Strzelecki / Wikimedia Commons
• National Museum of Lithuania (Lietuvos nacionalinis muziejus) – Anita / Flickr
• Hall Market (Halės turgus) – Mikel Santamaria / Flickr
• Hot Air Balloon Ride – Darin McLeod / PixaBay