The Old Town of Vilnius, one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Northern Europe, has an area of 3.59 square kilometres. It encompasses 74 quarters, with 70 streets and lanes numbering 1487 buildings with a total floor area of 1,497,000 square meters.

Old Town, the historic heart of Vilnius, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's a place where the past meets the present, with well-preserved medieval architecture standing alongside modern establishments. /n The area is a maze of winding cobblestone streets, each one filled with history and charm. The Old Town is also a cultural hub, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Lithuania, while also enjoying the vibrant energy of a modern city.

Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its medieval architecture.

One of the most important Catholic buildings in Lithuania. It's also a venue for cultural events.

Vilnius Cathedral is a significant symbol of Lithuanian Christianity. Known for its neoclassical architecture, the cathedral is also home to crypts and catacombs that date back to the 13th century. /n The cathedral's interior is just as impressive as its exterior, with beautiful frescoes, sculptures, and altars. The cathedral is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or religion.

Vilnius Cathedral is a significant symbol of Lithuanian Christianity.

The remaining part of the Upper Castle in Vilnius. It offers panoramic views of Vilnius Old Town.

Gediminas' Tower is a historic monument and a symbol of Vilnius. /n The tower is all that remains of the Upper Castle, which was destroyed during wars and occupations. Today, it stands as a symbol of the city's resilience and determination. From the top of the tower, you can enjoy panoramic views of Vilnius and its surroundings. The tower also houses a museum that tells the story of the city's history and the tower's role in it.

Gediminas' Tower is a historic monument and a symbol of Vilnius.

Vilnius University is the oldest university in the Baltic states and one of the oldest in Northern Europe. It is the largest university in Lithuania and has been an important center of learning and culture for centuries.

Vilnius University is the oldest university in the Baltic states and one of the oldest in Northern Europe. It is known for its architecture, which ranges from Gothic to Baroque. /n The university's buildings, scattered throughout the Old Town, offer a journey through the history of Lithuanian architecture. The university's library, with its vast collection of books and manuscripts, is a treasure trove for scholars and researchers.

Vilnius University is the oldest university in the Baltic states and one of the oldest in Northern Europe.

Užupis is a neighborhood in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, largely located in Vilnius' old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Užupis means 'the other side of the river' in the Lithuanian language and refers to the Vilnia River.

Užupis is a bohemian neighborhood in Vilnius, known for its artistic vibe and independent spirit. /n The neighborhood declared itself the Užupis Republic in 1997, complete with its own constitution, president, and currency. The area is filled with art galleries, studios, and cafes, and is a hub for the city's creative community. The Užupis Republic is also known for its unique events and festivals, which celebrate art, creativity, and freedom.

Užupis is a bohemian neighborhood known for its artistic vibe.

Bernardine Garden is a public park in the city of Vilnius, Lithuania. It is located on the right bank of the Vilnia River between the Gediminas Tower and Bernardine Monastery.

Bernardine Garden is a beautiful park in Vilnius, perfect for relaxation and leisurely walks. The park features a variety of plants, a musical fountain, and a playground. /n The garden is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

Bernardine Garden is a beautiful park in Vilnius, perfect for relaxation.

Discover the enchanting city of Vilnius, Lithuania's vibrant capital. This city is a perfect blend of old and new, with its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town showcasing stunning Baroque architecture, cobblestone alleys, and medieval churches. Visit the iconic Gediminas' Tower for panoramic views of the city, or explore the bohemian district of Užupis, a self-proclaimed independent republic. Vilnius also boasts a thriving food scene, with traditional Lithuanian cuisine and modern gastronomic experiences. Don't miss the Museum of Genocide Victims for a sobering look at Lithuania's history. With its rich culture, history, and welcoming locals, Vilnius promises an unforgettable travel experience.

Old Town

Vilnius Cathedral

Gediminas' Tower

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the cobblestone streets, admire the medieval architecture, and visit the local shops for unique Lithuanian crafts and souvenirs.

Enjoy a traditional Lithuanian lunch at a local restaurant. Try the national dish, cepelinai, a type of dumpling made from grated potatoes and stuffed with meat, cheese, or mushrooms.

After lunch, visit the Vilnius Cathedral and its bell tower for a glimpse into the city's religious history. Then, head to the Gediminas' Tower for panoramic views of the city.

For dinner, indulge in a gourmet meal at a high-end restaurant. Sample modern Lithuanian cuisine paired with local wines.

End your day with a visit to a local wine bar. Taste a variety of Lithuanian wines and learn about the country's wine-making traditions.

Exploring the Historic Old Town and Tasting Traditional Lithuanian Cuisine

Vilnius University

Užupis

Bernardine Garden

Begin your second day with a visit to the Vilnius University and its historic library. Then, explore the bohemian neighborhood of Užupis, known for its artistic vibe.

Have lunch at a cozy café in Užupis. Try the local pastries and coffee, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Spend the afternoon shopping at the local boutiques and art galleries in Užupis. Then, visit the Bernardine Garden, a beautiful park with a variety of plants and a serene pond.

Enjoy a casual dinner at a local bistro. Try the fresh seafood and pair it with a glass of Lithuanian beer.

End your trip with a relaxing evening at a jazz club. Enjoy the live music and the vibrant nightlife of Vilnius.

Discovering the Bohemian Užupis and Shopping at Local Boutiques

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October

UTC+2

Vilnius has a compact old town, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the city's main attractions, including the Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, and the Presidential Palace, are within walking distance of each other.

Vilnius has a well-developed network of bicycle paths, and bicycles can be rented from various locations around the city. This is a great way to explore the city's parks and green spaces.

Vilnius has an extensive public bus network that covers the entire city. Buses are frequent and reliable, and tickets can be purchased from the driver or at newsstands.

Trolleybuses are another popular form of public transport in Vilnius. They are particularly useful for getting around the city center and the old town.

There are a few train routes in Vilnius, mainly used for reaching the suburbs or for intercity travel. The main train station is conveniently located in the city center.

Taxis are readily available in Vilnius, and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or via a mobile app. They are a convenient but more expensive way to get around.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber and Bolt, operate in Vilnius. These can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group.

Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore outside of Vilnius. However, parking can be difficult in the city center, and traffic can be heavy during peak times.

Electric scooters are a popular way to get around Vilnius. They can be rented via a mobile app, and are a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city.

Cepelinai, also known as 'Zeppelin dumplings', are a national dish of Lithuania. They are large dumplings made from grated and riced potatoes and usually stuffed with minced meat, although sometimes cheese or mushrooms are used for the filling.

Cepelinai

Šaltibarščiai is a popular Lithuanian cold beet soup. It's a perfect dish for hot summer days, usually served with boiled potatoes on the side. It's a unique blend of flavors that is very representative of Lithuanian cuisine.

Šaltibarščiai

Kibinai are traditional Lithuanian pastries, filled with mutton and onion, although variations with other fillings like cheese or mushrooms are also popular. They are a specialty of the Karaim people in Lithuania.

Kibinai

Šakotis is a traditional Lithuanian cake, often served at special occasions. It's a spit cake, made by painting layers of dough onto a rotating spit. The cake has a distinctive shape, similar to a tree's branches or a fireworks display.

Šakotis

Vėdarai is a traditional Lithuanian dish, consisting of a sausage made from potatoes, usually served with sour cream and bacon. It's a hearty dish, perfect for cold winter days.

Vėdarai

Midus is a traditional Lithuanian drink, considered to be the country's oldest alcoholic beverage. It's a type of mead, made from honey, water and yeast. It's a sweet and strong drink, often served at celebrations.

Midus

Gira is a traditional Lithuanian non-alcoholic beverage, made from fermented rye bread. It's a sweet and slightly tangy drink, often enjoyed during the summer months.

Gira

Bulviniai blynai, or potato pancakes, are a popular dish in Lithuania. They are made from grated potatoes, onions, eggs and flour, and are usually served with sour cream or a mushroom sauce.

Bulviniai blynai

Rugine Duona, or rye bread, is a staple of Lithuanian cuisine. It's a dark, dense and slightly sour bread, often served with meals or used to make sandwiches.

Rugine Duona

Kvass is a traditional Lithuanian fermented beverage, made from rye bread. It's a refreshing, slightly sweet and sour drink, often enjoyed during the summer months.

Kvass

Riestainis is a traditional Lithuanian snack, made from rye bread. The bread is dried, then coated in garlic and other seasonings. It's a popular snack to enjoy with beer.

Riestainis

Žemaičių blynai, or Samogitian pancakes, are a regional dish in Lithuania. They are made from grated potatoes and usually filled with meat, although variations with other fillings like cheese or mushrooms are also popular.

Žemaičių blynai

New Year's Day

Independence Restoration Day

Independence Day/National Day

Easter Sunday

Easter Monday

Labour Day

Mothers' Day

Fathers' Day

St John's Day/Day of Dew

King Mindaugas’ Coronation Day

Feast of the Assumption of Mary

All Saints' Day

All Souls' Day

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day

Second Day of Christmas

A stunning 14th-century castle located on an island in Lake Galvė.

Trakai Island Castle

The second-largest city in Lithuania, known for its interwar architecture and Old Town.

Kaunas

A UNESCO World Heritage site, known as the 'Troy of Lithuania'.

Kernavė Archaeological Site

An open-air museum exhibiting Soviet-era statues and other political monuments.

Grūtas Park

One of the two major baroque palaces built for the Dukes of Courland in Latvia.

Rundāle Palace

A beautiful national park known for its lakes and traditional villages.

Aukštaitija National Park

A site of pilgrimage with thousands of crosses of various sizes.

Hill of Crosses

A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its sand dunes and unique ecosystem.

Curonian Spit

The capital of Latvia, known for its beautiful Old Town and Art Nouveau architecture.

Riga

One of the last and largest remaining parts of the primeval forest that once covered much of Europe.

Białowieża Forest

The official language is Lithuanian, but English is widely spoken especially among younger people.

The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

Public transportation is reliable and affordable. You can use buses, trolleybuses, and trains to get around the city.

Taxis are also available and can be hailed on the street, booked online, or through a mobile app.

Vilnius has a temperate climate. Summers (June to August) are warm with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 75°F (21°C to 24°C). Winters (December to February) can be very cold with temperatures often dropping below 32°F (0°C).

Lithuanian cuisine is hearty and features a lot of meat, potatoes, and dairy products. Be sure to try some traditional dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings) and šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup).

Tipping is customary in Vilnius. It's common to leave a 10% tip in restaurants and cafes.

Vilnius is generally safe, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions.

The city is very walkable, and many of the main sights are located within a compact area. It's a good idea to wear comfortable shoes.

Lithuania is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

The electrical outlets in Lithuania use Type F plugs, the same as in most of Europe. The standard voltage is 220 V.

Lithuania is a member of the European Union, so EU citizens can enter with a valid ID card. Non-EU citizens will need a passport, and possibly a visa, depending on their country of origin.

Tap water is safe to drink in Vilnius, but bottled water is also readily available.

Public restrooms are not always free. It's common to pay a small fee, so keep some coins handy.

Smoking is banned in all public places, including bars and restaurants.

Vilnius has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. The legal drinking age is 20.

Lithuania has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00%.

Pharmacies are widely available throughout Vilnius. Over-the-counter medicines are available, but for specific medications, you may need a prescription.

Vilnius has free public Wi-Fi in many areas, including parks, squares, and public transportation.

The emergency number in Lithuania is 112. It can be dialed free of charge from any phone, including mobile phones without a SIM card.

January is the coldest month in Vilnius, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Dress warmly and enjoy the beautiful snow-covered city.

February is still very cold, but the days start to get longer. It's a great time for winter sports enthusiasts.

March sees the beginning of spring with temperatures slowly rising, but still expect some chilly days.

April is a transitional month with the last of the winter chill fading away. The city starts to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit.

May is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city and its parks.

June marks the start of summer with longer days and warmer temperatures. Perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

July is the warmest month in Vilnius. Enjoy the city's many outdoor cafes, festivals, and events.

August is still quite warm, but with fewer tourists. It's an excellent time to visit if you prefer a quieter vacation.

September sees the start of autumn with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time for hiking and photography.

October is a cool month with the city's parks and streets adorned with autumn colors. Pack some warm clothes.

November is a chilly month with shorter days. It's a quiet time to visit, perfect for those who enjoy museums and indoor activities.

December is a festive month with the city beautifully lit for Christmas. It's cold, so pack warm clothes and enjoy the holiday spirit.

Vilnius, Lithuania experiences a temperate continental climate with a mix of all four seasons. 

During the winter months, from December to February, Vilnius can be quite cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing, averaging between -9°C to -1°C (16°F to 30°F). It's not uncommon for the city to be covered in snow during this period. Therefore, if you're planning a winter visit, pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. 

Spring, from March to May, sees a gradual increase in temperatures, ranging from 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F). This is a beautiful time to visit as the city starts to bloom, but it's advisable to pack a mix of light and warm clothing due to the unpredictable weather.

Summer, from June to August, is the warmest season with temperatures averaging between 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). This is a great time to explore the city's outdoor attractions. However, occasional rain showers are common, so carrying a light rain jacket or an umbrella would be wise.

Autumn, from September to November, sees temperatures dropping from 15°C to 5°C (59°F to 41°F). The city is particularly beautiful during this season as the leaves change color. Layered clothing would be the best option during this time, and don't forget to pack a light jacket or sweater.

Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip to Vilnis, as weather conditions can change rapidly. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful city!

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2-Day Solo Culinary and Shopping Adventure in Vilnius for Locals

About Vilnius, Lithuania