Nestled in the heart of the Baltics, Vilnius is the vibrant capital of Lithuania and a hidden gem of Northern Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage city blends medieval charm with a modern creative spirit, offering visitors a rich tapestry of cobblestone streets, baroque architecture, innovative cuisine, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Vilnius is a city where history, culture and innovation meet, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking something both traditional and refreshingly unique.
Top 5 things to see and do in Vilnius
🏰 Discover the heritage of the Old Town
Wander through one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved Old Towns, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with baroque buildings, winding alleyways, and colourful courtyards. Admire the architecture of centuries past and explore local shops, art galleries, and cosy cafés tucked within historic walls.
🧵 Shop for Baltic crafts at local markets
Vilnius is a fantastic place to find authentic Lithuanian craftsmanship. Head to locations like the Halės Market or boutiques along Pilies Street for handwoven textiles, amber jewellery, and locally designed fashion. These make perfect gifts or souvenirs that reflect the Baltic region’s artisan traditions.
🍲 Taste traditional Lithuanian cuisine
Savour dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings), kugelis (potato pudding), and šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup), often served with hearty sides and fresh ingredients. Many restaurants in Vilnius now offer vegetarian and gluten-free versions of traditional favourites, making local food accessible to a wide range of dietary preferences.
🖼️ Experience local culture at the MO Museum
The MO Museum, designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind, showcases contemporary Lithuanian art and culture in an engaging and interactive setting. It's an excellent place to understand how modern Lithuania reflects its past through creativity and expression.
🪂 Enjoy the view from the Republic of Užupis
Step into Užupis, Vilnius’s bohemian and artistic quarter, which playfully declared itself an independent republic. With its own constitution (posted publicly), whimsical art installations and a free-spirited vibe, Užupis is a must-see for those seeking something truly unique.
Tips for travellers
For those wishing to explore beyond the city, consider a trip to Trakai, just 30 km west of Vilnius. This picturesque town is known for its stunning island castle set in the middle of Lake Galvė and is surrounded by scenic nature trails and historical wooden houses. Alternatively, a visit to the Hill of Crosses in Šiauliai offers a moving and artistic landscape of thousands of crosses, symbolising resilience and hope. Nature lovers might enjoy a hike in Dzūkija National Park, where pine forests, rivers and traditional villages offer a tranquil escape from urban life.
