Lithuania is probably not the first country you think of for a weekend getaway. For me, it was never really on my list either. But the capital city of Vilnius really surprised me in a positive way!
The city feels spacious, with wide streets, quiet squares and remarkably little traffic. It has something calm and relaxed, but at the same time exudes a subtle Eastern European charm. Think imposing buildings, churches and atmospheric streets in the center. At the same time, you can still see traces of the Soviet past. Vilnius may not be a bustling metropolis, but for that very reason it’s perfect for a relaxing, surprising and versatile long weekend.
10 Things to do in Vilnius
1. Stroll the old center
Vilnius’ old town is perfect to explore on foot. It has beautiful cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings and church towers on every corner.
Just go for a walk without a plan. Walk into local stores, sample typical Lithuanian snacks and enjoy the leisurely pace. Everything here feels like “slow living,” which is exactly what you need on such a weekend getaway.
2. Climb the Gediminas Tower
Standing atop a hill in the city center, this tower is the place to be for a panoramic view of Vilnius. You overlook the old town with its church towers, the river Neris, and beyond that the modern district with tall buildings. On a sunny day it’s great to sit here for a while and just enjoy the view.
According to legend, Duke Gediminas once dreamed here of an iron wolf that stood howling on the hill. A fortune-teller told him that this meant he should build a mighty city on that spot. And so Vilnius was born.
You can decide to climb the tower (small entrance fee), but just walking up the hill is also worthwhile, AND free. Don’t feel like climbing? From the river side you can also take a small cable car up the hill.
3. Cross the river and discover a different side of Vilnius
When you cross the river Neris from the old town, you suddenly find yourself in a completely different atmosphere. You’ll find a mix of old buildings (some of which look almost abandoned) and modern high-rises. The neighborhood feels a bit industrial with wide roads and street art, but at the same time it is surprisingly quiet and open.
The contrast with the old city is great, and that’s exactly what makes it fun to experience. You’re still in Vilnius, but for a moment it feels like you’ve landed in another city.
4. Stroll the Hales Turgus market hall
For those who love local food and market halls, the Hales Turgus (market) is the place to be. Here you can buy Lithuanian cheeses, dried sausages, honey, vegetables and fruits. Perfect for an afternoon of people-watching and immersing yourself in local life.
5. Visit the KGB Museum
The old KGB museum (Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights) is hugely impressive and educational. Located in the former KGB headquarters, this museum gives you an insight into the dark periods of Lithuania under Soviet occupation. You can see the old cells, and there are many personal stories and artifacts.
It’s intense, but important to see. And it makes you appreciate the freedom and creativity of the city today even more.
6. Walk through Bernardine Garden
I found one of the finest bits of greenery in Vilnius to be the Bernardine Garden, a quiet park right next to the old town and the river. Here you will find flower beds, fountains and playgrounds. Perfect for resting or eating some snacks on a bench in the sun. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the park is mostly frequented by locals.
7. Climb the hill to the Three Crosses Monument
From Bernardine Park, you can also take a nice walk to the Three Cross Monument, which sits on a hill above the city. The climb up is largely by stairs, and once at the top you are rewarded with a beautiful view of Vilnius. The monument itself is impressive and symbolic: it represents the beginning of Christianity in Lithuania.
8. Take a look at the old Lukiškių prison
The Lukiškių kalėjimas prison in the middle of the city was still just in use until 2019, which is quite bizarre when you walk around it now. For more than 100 years prisoners were held here, including political prisoners during the Soviet era.
Today it has been transformed into a creative place: some of the old cells are now used by artists, musicians or designers. You can only see the inside of the prison with a tour, which is actually what makes it fun because you will hear stories about the past and walk through the original rooms.
In the summer, the courtyard is often full of things to do: performances, events, and there is a bar where you can have a drink.
9. Day trip to Trakai castle
If you want a day out of town, take the bus or train to Trakai, a village with a medieval castle on an island. Located an hour’s journey from Vilnius, it’s truly a picture and is perfect for great photos and a bit of nature.
You can hike around the lake, go boating or sample a kibinai (a kind of Lithuanian empanada filled with meat or cheese) at one of the local bakeries.
10. Taste the Lithuanian cuisine
To be honest: I had no idea what to expect from Lithuanian cuisine. But it really surprised me in a positive way. Think hearty, savory dishes with lots of potatoes and meat. Typical Lithuanian, for example, is cepelinai: large potato dumplings stuffed with meat, served with cream and bacon.
Many restaurants serve a modern twist on traditional dishes. And if you’re not a meat eater, there are plenty of veggie options to be found as well.
If you want to try typical Lithuanian food, I can recommend Lokys, a restaurant in the old town that specializes in traditional dishes with a touch of game. Think deer stew and even beaver. The interior feels like you’ve stepped into a medieval hunting lodge, which actually suits the menu perfectly.
Another recommended restaurant is Etno Dvaras. This restaurant is partly located in a basement with an entire system of corridors, which immediately gives it a unique atmosphere. You can try all the classics of Lithuanian cuisine here: from cold beet soup to potato dumplings, stews and more. Also nice: it is a popular place with locals as well as tourists, but still affordable.
Practical tips for your trip to Vilnius
- Flying: The airport is about a 15-minute bus ride from the city center.
- Money: Lithuania uses the euro.
- Accommodation: In the old town or near the train station you’ll be perfectly located.
- Transportation: You can do almost everything on foot. If you want to go a little further, you can rent an electric scooter or take a cheap Uber.
