What to See and Do in Vilnius

Are you looking for things to do in Vilnius? Dazzling travelers for decades with its historic Old Town, charming countryside nature, and fascinating historical resilience – Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania, has a little bit of everything.

Check out the impressive artwork and views at the Vilnius Cathedral & Bell Tower

Centered right next to the historic Old Town, the Vilnius Cathedral is a church dedicated to the saints Stanislaus and Ladislaus, dating back to the 19th century.

Besides being known as where the Grand Dukes of Lithuania held their coronation ceremony, the church is a house of beautiful art.

Take a stroll through the charming Old Town

Enjoy a walk through the Old Town of Vilnius, northern Europe’s most extensive and continuous medieval town, founded in 1387.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is an assortment of cultures, religions, and architecture that enchants visitors left and right with sights like Town Hall Square and the Gates of Dawn.

Visit the important site of The Hill of Three Crosses

The Hill of Three Crosses is a famous monument in Klanai Park – an 8-minute drive from Old Town Vilnius. The symbolism dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries when a group of Franciscans died as martyrs on the hill. Today the crosses honor their deaths.

Check out St. Anne’s Church, the most famous church in Vilnius

Sitting close to the right bank of the Vilnia River is St. Anne’s Church, a church with Gothic architecture in red brick and stunning detail.

The 500-year-old church has a few interesting stories and legends, including gunshot holes on the walls.

Glass Quarter

The Glass Quarter community was formed in October 2018 in the area of Stiklių, M. Antokolskio, Gaono and Žydų streets. Its purpose is to organise cultural routes, tell hidden stories about Vilnius Old Town, establish traditions, improve infrastructure, and attract investors and individuals interested in Old Town culture.

Admire the details at the Gates of Dawn

The Gates of Dawn was originally part of the city’s defensive wall, dating back to 1503, comprised of 10 gates. The only one standing is the now-famous Gates of Dawn, which has become a sacred space to gather for many locals.

Get on the Swing of Destiny at the Free Republic of Užupis

Stop by the unique district of Užupis – the smallest community 12 minutes away from Old Town that recently underwent an artful transformation.

The Free Republic of Užupis was a dodgy neighborhood in the early 90s. However, towards the end of the decade, it all changed when a group of artists got together to create an art space called in the community called Užupis Art Incubator.

Get panoramic views of Vilnius from Gediminas’ Tower

Sitting atop Gediminas Hill is the last bit of the defense castle called the Deminias Tower. Named after the founder of Vilnius, the Grand Duke of Gediminas, the tower dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries.

Get to the top of the TV Tower of Vilnius

Reach new heights when you visit the top of the tallest structure in Lithuania, the TV Tower of Vilnius.

The 1974 TV tower was built to be a television transmission antenna, but today hosts several attractions and activities to check out inside.

Experience the Trakai Castle, the only castle built on a lake in Eastern Europe

The famous Trakai Castle is a stunning piece of medieval architecture dating to the 14th century, situated on Lake Galvé, the deepest lake in Lithuania. Found on an island, the way to get to the castle is on foot using the bridge.

Take a look at the ancient texts inside Vilnius University

Explore the oldest university in the Baltics, Vilnius University, adorned in various architectural styles, from Baroque Gothic to Classical.

Perhaps one of the treasures inside the university is the library, as it’s one of the largest in Lithuania. The library predates the university, as the Jesuits founded it in 1570.

Attend an event at Medininkai Castle

Medininkai Castle is a historic defense fortification built in the first half of the 14th century. However, the castle’s impressive exterior is no match for the many activities and fun attractions to see inside!

Lukiškės Prison

For 115 years, Lukiškės Prison was guarded by high walls and barbed wire, but today the site is open to the public. From prison to artistic venue, a new version – Lukiškės Prison 2.0 – is home to 250 creators and artists, and a place where curious spirits can learn and explore. Sit down for a refreshing drink, attend a concert or take a tour to get a glimpse of life in the former prison. This unique space has become a star on the silver screen as well. The location easily transforms to depict various spaces, and has even served as the backdrop for Stranger Things season 4.