Things to Do in Vilnius: Best Sights, Activities and Experiences

by Gaia | Jul 26, 2025 | Vilnius, Blog, Lithuania

Things to Do, See, and Experience in Vilnius

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a charming city where history meets a hip, modern vibe. Once the political center of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania (13th–18th centuries), Vilnius influenced Eastern Europe’s cultural and architectural development. Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for an impressive complex of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and classical buildings, all preserved within a medieval street layout.

Table of Contents

Is Vilnius Worth Visiting for Tourists?

Yes, absolutely. Vilnius is the ideal two-day getaway for anyone living in Europe. This city offers a unique mix of Old World charm. Stroll through cobblestone alleys flanked by historic churches, then cross into the self-proclaimed Republic of Užupis for quirky art and street murals. Vilnius is also one of Europe’s greenest capitals, with leafy parks and hilltop viewpoints right in the city center. It’s a cozy, safe destination where most younger locals speak English, making it easy for solo travelers to navigate and connect.

The mild months from May to September are ideal, with long daylight hours, outdoor events, and café life in full swing. Summers (June–August) bring warm weather (20–25°C) and lively festivals – expect open-air concerts, street fairs, and an upbeat atmosphere.

Must-See Attractions: My Recommendation

I lived in Vilnius for a year and revisited it twice, so this cozy city has a special place on my bucket list. Vilnius’s top attractions showcase its rich history and vibrant culture. Here are some must-see landmarks you shouldn’t miss:

Gediminas Castle Tower – Iconic landmark with panoramic views of the city.
Vilnius Old Town – UNESCO-listed historic center with cobblestone streets, churches, and medieval charm.
St. Anne’s Church & Bernardine Church – Stunning Gothic architecture and a must-see for history lovers.
Gates of Dawn – Religious and cultural landmark with a revered painting of the Virgin Mary.
Uzupis Republic – Bohemian district with street art, quirky cafés, and its own “constitution.”
Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania – Restored historical palace with exhibitions on Lithuanian history.
Vilnius University & Library – One of Europe’s oldest universities, Vilnius has a beautiful courtyard and impressive library.
Three Crosses Hill – Scenic hike with breathtaking views over Vilnius.
TV Tower – The tallest structure in Lithuania, offering a revolving restaurant and city views.
Hales Turgus (Market) – Local food and produce market with traditional Lithuanian flavors.

Crazy/Weird Things to do in Vilnius

Tour Lukiškės Prison 2.0: A former prison transformed into a cultural venue that hosts underground concerts, rave parties, art exhibits, and even offers overnight stays in authentic prison cells. A truly bizarre experience!
Hot Air Ballooning Over the City: Vilnius is one of the few European capitals where hot air balloons can fly directly over the city. This unusual urban ballooning experience offers unforgettable views.
Cat Café (Cat Cafe Vilnius): Relax with a coffee surrounded by friendly felines at Vilnius’s popular cat café, which offers a playful and calming experience.
Edge Walk At The Vilnius TV Tower: Safely secured with a harness and guided by friendly local experts, you’ll stand more than 170 meters above the charming streets below.

Places to Visit in Vilnius, Lithuania + Images

I have gathered all the best spots to enrich your visit, organized thoughtfully into distinct categories to simplify your exploration. No matter what specific place or experience you’re looking for, I’ve got you covered.

Historical Places and Landmarks

Vilnius is a city that proudly wears its history, from castle hills to historical monuments. As you visit these places, you’ll gain insight into the events and people that shaped Lithuania – from pagan grand dukes and missionaries to freedom fighters. Each landmark adds a piece to the puzzle: Vilnius’s story. Let’s delve deeper into Vilnius’s past at these historic sites and landmarks that tell the story of the city:

Vilnius Old Town & Gate of Dawn

Start by wandering the Old Town (Senamiestis), one of Europe’s largest medieval old towns. Its winding streets, like Pilies and Didžioji, are lined with pastel buildings, cafes, and shops. Find the Gate of Dawn, the only surviving city gate at the southern end. Above the arch is a chapel containing a famous 17th-century icon of the Virgin Mary, said to have miraculous powers. This site is a major pilgrimage spot and offers a glimpse into Vilnius’s spiritual heritage. Walking through the Old Town, you’ll pass many street musicians, galleries, and souvenir stalls – soak up the atmosphere; it’s free and endlessly photogenic.

Gediminas’ Hill and Castle Remains

Beyond the Tower itself, take time to explore Gediminas Hill (Castle Hill). The grassy hill is crisscrossed with footpaths and historic remnants. Here, Grand Duke Gediminas supposedly founded Vilnius after his prophetic dream. At the base of the hill, you can see the foundations of the Lower Castle and a statue of Grand Duke Gediminas on horseback in Cathedral Square. This whole area forms the Vilnius Castle Complex, which includes the Tower, the Palace of the Grand Dukes, and the Old Arsenal (part of the National Museum). It’s the very heart of Lithuania’s medieval state. The Vilnius Castle Museum inside the Tower gives a quick historical overview, and plaques around the hill provide context – for instance, pointing out where city walls once stood. A walk up Gediminas Hill is a historical journey and a chance to enjoy nature in the city.

Bastion of the Vilnius Defensive Wall

Dating back to the 17th century, this fascinating historical fortification offers visitors an intriguing glimpse into the city’s defensive past. Now functioning as a museum, the bastion houses artifacts, exhibitions, and displays depicting Vilnius’ turbulent history. Additionally, its terrace provides excellent panoramic views over Užupis and the Old Town rooftops, making it a peaceful spot to relax while appreciating Vilnius’ architectural beauty.

Three Crosses Hill

For a bit of history with your hike, head to this wooded hill (in Kalnai Park) topped by three towering white crosses. According to legend, seven Franciscan friars were martyred on this site; wooden crosses were erected here long ago. The concrete crosses you see today were originally built in 1916, torn down by the Soviets in 1950 (for being a nationalist symbol), and rebuilt in 1989 – symbolizing Lithuania’s resilience and rebirth. Reaching the Three Crosses Monument requires a short uphill walk through a forest path, but it’s worth it for the panoramic view of Old Town’s skyline below. It’s especially popular at sunrise or sunset (and completely free to visit 24/7). There is also a short way from the park,, but you must take the stairs.

Presidential Palace

In a quiet square a block from the University stands the elegant pale-yellow Presidential Palace, the official residence of Lithuania’s president. Dating back to the 14th century (and rebuilt in neoclassical style in the 1800s), this palace has seen Imperial Russian governors, Polish administrators, and Soviet functionaries; now it’s the seat of Lithuania’s modern democracy. You can stroll through the public square and gardens out front anytime. If you’re around on a Sunday mid-day, catch the ceremonial changing of the flag guard in the palace courtyard. While you can’t freely roam inside on most days, free guided tours of the interior are offered on certain weekends (you must register in advance on the official website). It’s a quick but meaningful stop – illustrating Lithuania’s statehood continuity. (Plus, it’s photogenic, especially when the flags fly.)

Vilnius University Historic Courtyards

The University’s maze of 13 courtyards is a historical landmark in its own right. Each courtyard has a name and character – arcaded galleries surround the Great Courtyard and host graduation ceremonies, while the Observatory Courtyard features a fresco of the Zodiac. The University’s ensemble dates back to the 16th century and has survived various empires. Visiting the courtyards is like stepping back to the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth era when scholars like poet Adomas Mickevičius studied here. Check out any open chapels or halls (sometimes the Observatory with old astronomical tools is open). The atmosphere is tranquil, and interpretive signs provide context in English. It’s a hidden historical gem right in the center (and free to enter when open).

Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre

Situated centrally near the Neris River, the theatre showcases Lithuania’s finest operatic and ballet talents through world-class productions ranging from classical masterpieces to contemporary works. Its beautifully designed interior, with striking chandeliers and spacious foyers, creates a unique atmosphere that complements the memorable performances experienced by locals and international visitors.

But if you don’t have a ticket they will never let you inside to see the beautiful interior.

Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre

Most Beautiful Churches & Religious Landmarks

In total, there are 28 churches in Vilnius Old Town elderate (one church per every 700 inhabitants). Of them, 21 are Roman Catholic and 4 are Russian Orthodox. Lutheran, Reformed and Eastern Rite Catholic communities have one church each.

Church spires define Vilnius’s skyline, and the city is home to many stunning churches, cathedrals, and sacred sites reflecting its diverse faith history. Even if you’re not religious, these landmarks are architectural masterpieces and cultural touchstones worth visiting:

Vilnius Cathedral

The city’s primary cathedral is unique for its classical architecture and importance. Don’t miss the Chapel of Saint Casimir inside, with its lavish baroque decor and the royal sarcophagus of St. Casimir. In the crypt below (accessible by guided tour), you can see tombs of medieval grand dukes and a fresco of Lithuania’s patron saint. The Cathedral’s location on a pagan temple site symbolizes Lithuania’s conversion to Christianity in 1387. Check if organ concerts or events are happening – the acoustics are fantastic.

St. Anne’s Church

This gem is often considered one of the most beautiful churches in the Baltic region. Take a closer look at the 33 different types of clay bricks forming its elaborate patterns – an architectural marvel of the late 15th century. Across the small square, the Bernardine Church and Monastery (St. Francis of Assisi) contrasts with its Gothic-Baroque interior and colorful frescoes (it’s larger and often has art exhibits). The two churches together are picture-perfect.

Fun fact: St. Anne’s was built for Anna, wife of Grand Duke Vytautas, hence its name. Legend says Napoleon was so enchanted he wanted to take this church to Paris.

Church of St. Peter and St. Paul

Often cited as Vilnius’s most beautiful church interior, this 17th-century baroque masterpiece in the Antakalnis district is plain on the outside but absolutely dazzling inside. Step in and look up – about 2,000 white stucco figures and ornate bas-reliefs cover every inch of the walls and vaults . Angels, saints, floral swags, and biblical scenes create a breathtaking all-white sculptural panorama by Italian masters. It’s like standing inside a giant piece of art. Highlights include the central chandelier shaped like a boat and the frescoed dome. This church was built to celebrate victory over the Turks and is considered a baroque icon, unique in Europe . Entry is free (donations welcome). It’s a bit outside the Old Town (you can take a bus or Bolt ride), but absolutely worth it for its jaw-dropping beauty – many visitors say “wow!” upon entering.

Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit

Lithuania’s Catholic, but the Russian Orthodox minority have their own sacred sites. The Holy Spirit Orthodox Church (near the Gate of Dawn) is the main one, famous for its brightly colored interior and for enshrining the relics of three Orthodox saints in a glass coffin. The church’s exterior is candy-pink baroque, but inside it’s filled with gilded iconostasis and flickering candles, giving it an otherworldly glow. If you visit around an Orthodox service, you might hear beautiful Slavic chants. This is a living place of worship (women may cover heads, though it’s not strictly enforced for tourists).

Saint Catherine’s Church

It is one of Vilnius’ most captivating Baroque landmarks, known for its elegant twin towers and rich cultural significance. Built in the 18th century, this beautifully restored church now serves primarily as a vibrant concert hall, hosting classical music performances, choirs, and cultural events. Visitors are enchanted by its stunning interiors, graceful stucco ornamentation, and excellent acoustics, making it an essential stop in exploring Vilnius’ artistic and historical heritage.

Choral Synagogue of Vilnius

A poignant stop to appreciate Vilnius’s Jewish heritage. Once Vilnius (Wilno) was known as the “Jerusalem of Lithuania” with over 100 synagogues; today this 1903 Choral Synagogue is the only one still active . Tucked on Pylimo Street, the synagogue’s exterior features an attractive Romanesque-Moorish design – note the horseshoe arch windows and intricate details. Inside, it’s often quiet; you can see the central bimah and the women’s gallery above. There’s usually an attendant who can share a bit of history. Remember this is an active synagogue, so dress modestly. Visiting is a respectful nod to the tens of thousands of Vilnius Jews who once prayed in the city before the devastation of the Holocaust. The synagogue often opens in mornings for visitors (small donation appreciated).

Best Museums & Cultural Sites

Vilnius offers a variety of museums and cultural venues that cater to history enthusiasts, art lovers, and the curious traveler alike. Many are budget-friendly (with some even free on certain days) and have information in English. Here are some top picks:

Tip: Many museums offer student discounts, and some city museums have free entry on certain days (e.g. the last Sunday of the month). Also, consider the Vilnius City Card/Pass if you plan to visit multiple paid sites – it can save money by bundling entries and tours.

National Museum of Lithuania: Spread across a few sites in the city, the main hub is in the New Arsenal building near the base of Gediminas Hill. This museum covers Lithuanian history from prehistory to the 20th century. It’s a bit old-school in presentation but has interesting artifacts like medieval armor, traditional clothing, household items, and model castles. (Arsenalo g. 1, Vilnius, lnm.lt)

Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania: Reconstructed palace offering exhibits on Lithuanian history, grand ducal residence artifacts, and cultural events. (Katedros a. 4, Vilnius, valdovurumai.lt)

Not sure what this is, but it reminds me the Armenian letter “G”.

Lithuanian National Gallery of Art is a sleek museum showcasing Lithuanian art from the 20th century to today. It’s a crash course in local art history, including fascinating Soviet-era artwork (socialist realism, modernist paintings, sculpture) as well as contemporary installations. The building itself is a refurbished Soviet modernist structure. Even the brutalist architecture is interesting if you like that style. The gallery often has temporary international exhibitions too. (Konstitucijos pr. 22, Vilnius, ndg.lt)

National Gallery of Art - Nacionalinė dailės galerija Vilnius

Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights (KGB Museum): Former KGB headquarters and prison, detailing Soviet-era persecutions and Lithuanian resistance. Exhibits include prison cells in the basement (intact and chilling), interrogation rooms, photographs of dissidents, and documents of the KGB operations. (Aukų g. 2A, Vilnius, genocid.lt)

MO Museum: Modern art museum showcasing Lithuanian contemporary art from the 1950s to present, housed in a building designed by Daniel Libeskind. The architecture itself is cool: a white minimalist structure with a grand staircase doubling as public seating. Don’t miss the sculpture garden outside. The museum often hosts film screenings, workshops, and has a lovely café and gift shop with unique souvenirs. (Pylimo g. 17, Vilnius, mo.lt)
Vilna Gaon Museum of Jewish History: Dedicated to the historical and cultural heritage of Lithuanian Jews, including Holocaust exhibits and pre-war Jewish life. (Naugarduko g. 10/2, Vilnius, jmuseum.lt)
Energy and Technology Museum: Located in a former power plant, showcasing energy production history, industrial machinery, and interactive science exhibits. Inside, you’ll find huge old turbines and machinery from Vilnius’s early 20th-century power station, plus interactive displays about energy, physics experiments (great for kids), and even a section on old vehicles (vintage cars, motorcycles) and Soviet-era electronics. (Rinktinės g. 2, Vilnius, etm.lt)
House of the Signatories: Historic building where the Act of Independence of Lithuania was signed in 1918, now exhibiting related artifacts and documents. (Pilies g. 26, Vilnius, signatarunamai.lt)
Vilnil Museum of Illusions: Interactive museum featuring optical illusions, holograms, and immersive exhibits suitable for all ages. (Vokiečių g. 8, Vilnius, vilnil.lt)
Money Museum of the Bank of Lithuania: Offers insights into the history of money and banking, with interactive exhibits and extensive coin collections. (Totorių g. 2/8, Vilnius, pinigumuziejus.lt)
Toy Museum: Showcases a collection of historical toys and games, offering interactive experiences for children and adults alike.(Šiltadaržio g. 2, Vilnius, zaislumuziejus.lt)
Railway Museum: Exhibits the history of Lithuanian railways, including locomotives, carriages, and related artifacts. (Geležinkelio g. 16, Vilnius, litrail.lt)
Church Heritage Museum: Displays Lithuanian sacral art, including liturgical artifacts, paintings, and sculptures. (Šv. Mykolo g. 9, Vilnius,bpmuziejus.lt)
Kazys Varnelis House-Museum: Dedicated to the works of Kazys Varnelis, featuring his art collection and unique interior designs.( Didžioji g. 26, Vilnius, https://lnm.lt/muziejai/kazio-varnelio-namai-muziejus/)
Vilna Gaon Jewish State Museum – This is actually a collection of several small museums dedicated to Jewish history and culture in Lithuania. The main Tolerance Center (Naugarduko St.) features exhibits on the rich Jewish life of pre-WWII Vilnius – from religious artifacts to art and everyday items – highlighting why Vilnius was called the “Jerusalem of the North.” A separate branch, often called the Green House (on Pamėnkalnio St.), is dedicated to the Holocaust in Lithuania, with powerful photographs, personal stories, and documents (note: this exhibit is very emotional but important).

Unique Experiences and Guided Tours

One of the best ways to truly get to know Vilnius is by participating in some unique local experiences. Whether you prefer walking with a guide or adventuring on your own, the city offers plenty of memorable activities beyond standard sightseeing. Here are some engaging tours and experiences (mostly budget-friendly or mid-range).
Free Walking Tour (Old Town & Užupis) – Guided tip-based tour covering historic sites, legends, and local insights. Great introduction to the city. (Duration: ~2–2.5 hours, Booking: vilniuswithlocals.com)

Vilnius with Locals offers alternative tours as well:

Street Art Tour – Explore Vilnius’s urban art scene, famous murals, and graffiti culture.
Ghosts & Legends Tour – Evening walk uncovering haunted sites and eerie folklore.
Soviet Vilnius Tour – Learn about life behind the Iron Curtain and key Soviet-era landmarks.

Jewish Heritage Tour – Insightful walk through Vilnius’s Jewish past, synagogues, and Holocaust sites.
Cycling or E-Bike Tours – Ride through Old Town, Vingis Park, and along the Neris River. E-bikes available for longer routes. velotakas.lt or Cyclocity bike-share app)
Hot Air Balloon Ride – Unique chance to fly over Vilnius at sunrise or sunset with breathtaking city views.(ballooning.lt or smileballoons.com)
Kayaking through Vilnius – Paddle the Neris River at sunset or take a daytime route through the Vilnelė River past Užupis. (Local tour providers like Vandens turistai)
Lithuanian Cooking Class – Hands-on experience cooking traditional dishes like cepelinai, hosted by locals.
Craft Beer Tasting or Bar Crawl – Discover Lithuanian brews, including farmhouse ales and keptinis (bread beer). Check out Local pubs like Šnekutis or guided tasting tours.
Meet a Local / Greeter Program – Free personalized city walk with a local volunteer sharing insider tips and hidden gems.(vilnius-tourism.lt).

Free Things to Do

Traveling on a budget? Great news – Vilnius is full of free attractions and activities! You can have a wonderful time around the city without spending a cent. Here are some of the top free things to do in Vilnius:

Explore Old Town on Foot – Wander UNESCO-listed streets, visit hidden courtyards, and admire churches with free entry. Literatų Street offers a unique open-air gallery.

Hill of Three Crosses & Subačiaus Viewpoint – Enjoy stunning city views from these panoramic spots, especially at sunset.
Bernardine Garden & Riverfront – Relax in a beautifully maintained park with flower beds, a musical fountain, and a riverside promenade.
Vilnius Free Walking Tour – A tip-supported tour covering history, legends, and hidden corners of the city.

Money Museum – A small but fascinating museum showcasing the history of money, interactive exhibits, and a pyramid of 1 million coins.
Churches & Religious Sites – Most churches in Vilnius are free to enter, including St. Nicholas (oldest in Vilnius) and the ornate St. Theresa’s Church.
Užupis District Stroll – Walk through Vilnius’s bohemian quarter, read the Užupis Constitution, and see quirky street art.

Green Spaces & Hiking – Visit Vingis Park for trails, nature, and free weekend activities, or hike in Pavilnių Regional Park for scenic views.
Events & Festivals – Attend free cultural events like Kaziukas Fair (March), Street Musician’s Day (May), and outdoor film screenings in summer.
Self-Guided Photo Walks – Capture Vilnius’s most photogenic spots, from Old Town’s reflections to Skybar’s panoramic city views. (Skybar at the Radisson Blu hotel, 22nd floor – the bar isn’t free if you buy a drink, but just riding up the elevator to peek at the panoramic window is technically free and often possible).

Budget tip: For getting around to free sites slightly further out (like Pavilnių Park or TV Tower area), use the public buses – a single ticket is only €1. But within the city center, you won’t need transport – walking is the way to go.

Outdoor Activities and Nature

One of Vilnius’s greatest assets is how it blends urban life with nature. The city is surrounded by green hills, forests, and rivers, making it easy to escape into the outdoors without going far. If you love nature, sports, or just scenic relaxation, here are the best outdoor activities and natural spots in and around Vilnius:

Hiking in Pavilniai Regional Park (Belmontas) – Scenic trails along the Vilnia River, featuring the 65m-high Pūčkoriai Escarpment with stunning views. A 5 km loop passes river rapids, old cannon factory ruins, and lush forests. (Belmontas, Vilnius)
Vingis Park – The city’s largest park with walking and cycling paths, forested areas, a rose garden, and an open-air stage. Great for picnics, jogging, and rollerblading. (M.K. Čiurlionio g., Vilnius)
Verkiai Regional Park & Green Lakes – A nature escape with forests, the historic Verkiai Palace, and the clear Green Lakes for swimming, hiking, and picnics. The 5 km lakeside trail offers beautiful scenery year-round. (Žaliųjų ežerų g., Vilnius)
Cycling the Neris River Trail – A flat, scenic cycling route along the Neris River, passing city landmarks and green areas. Ride to Valakampiai Beach (~8 km) for a swim or extend into the woods. Bike rentals available. (Starts near Cathedral Square)
Winter Fun – Sledding at Tauro Hill or Three Crosses Hill, cross-country skiing in Vingis Park, and outdoor ice skating at Lukiškės Square. Ice fishing is popular on frozen lakes like Balžis.
Visiting free skatepark – The White Bridge Skatepark (Baltasis Tiltas Skatepark) is the most popular and well-equipped skatepark in Vilnius. Conveniently situated near the city center alongside the Neris River, this modern facility welcomes skateboarders, BMX riders, inline skaters, and scooter enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Botanical Gardens – The Vilnius University Botanical Garden in Kairėnai offers beautifully curated plant collections, ponds, and summer cultural events. A smaller free botanical area is in Bernardine Garden. (Kairėnų g. 43, Vilnius)

Vilnius blends city life with nature, offering plenty of outdoor activities within easy reach. Whether hiking, cycling, or simply relaxing in a park, you’ll find fresh air and scenic views just steps from the city.

Best Neighborhoods to Explore

Vilnius is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own atmosphere and attractions. For a relatively small capital, it packs in a lot of variety. Here’s a breakdown of the coolest districts to wander, beyond just the main tourist sights:

Old Town (Senamiestis) – The heart of Vilnius and where you’ll likely spend most of your time. This area is UNESCO-listed and encompasses the oldest parts of the city. It’s known for its charming narrow streets, colorful historic buildings, and bustling public squares. Key sub-areas include Pilies Street & Town Hall Square, Stikliai (Glassblowers) Quarter, University Quarter.

Užupis – The Bohemian republic of Užupis, just across a bridge from Old Town, warrants a separate identity. This district is known for its artist community and alternative spirit .
Žvėrynas – Cross over from the city center to Žvėrynas, an affluent residential neighborhood known as the “Beverly Hills of Vilnius” by locals, yet with a twist – it’s filled with historic wooden houses along leafy streets. The name means “land of beasts” because it was once a nobles’ game reserve.
Šnipiškės (New City + Wooden Suburb) – Talk about contrasts: Šnipiškės is the district just across the river north of Old Town, home to Vilnius’s modern business district (shiny skyscrapers, shopping malls) and also a pocket of old wooden shacks that time forgot.
Naujamiestis (New Town) & Station District – South of the Old Town, Naujamiestis is a broad area that’s partly commercial, partly residential, with a growing hipster/art scene. This is where you’ll find:
Hales Market & Station: Closer to the train/bus station (Stoties rajonas) the vibe is edgy and rapidly changing. The historic Halės Turgus (Hall Market) is a covered market hall from 1906 where you can browse local foods (cheeses, honey, cured meats) and hip stalls (coffee, craft beer). It’s partly gentrified inside, but around it, you’ll still see a bit of grit: old warehouses turned into bars/clubs (like Peronas, a cool bar right on the train platform with a statue of Tony Soprano out front).

Famous Movie and TV Locations

Film buffs will enjoy tracking down some of Vilnius’s claim-to-fame filming locations. In recent years, Vilnius has become a popular shooting destination, standing in for other locales thanks to its well-preserved historic streets and variety of architecture . Here are a few notable movie/TV locations around the city:

Lukiškės Prison 2.0 – This imposing prison complex in central Vilnius (built in 1904) was decommissioned in 2019 and has since transformed into a cultural hub – and a film set! It famously served as a filming location for the Russian prison scenes in Netflix’s Stranger Things (Season 4)
Fabijoniškės District (Pripyat in Chernobyl) – HBO’s acclaimed Chernobyl miniseries (2019) used Vilnius to recreate Soviet Ukraine. The residential micro-district of Fabijoniškės, with its uniform Soviet-era apartment blocks, was used as the setting for the evacuated city of Pripyat in the series .
Old Town Streets in Films – Vilnius’s Old Town has stood in for various European cities in movies and TV. For example, parts of Netflix’s Young Wallander and the WWII drama Tokyo Trial were shot in Vilnius. Walking around, you might accidentally find a spot you’ve seen on screen. Pilies Street and the university area have been used for period films (with some set dressing, they pass for 19th-century Warsaw or Prague).

For those really interested, consider specialized tours: there are Stranger Things-themed tours of Lukiškės, and Chernobyl-themed tours that include not just Fabijoniškės but also the Nuclear Energy Museum (set up in the former Ignalina plant control room, which is 2 hours from Vilnius – that plant was the “Chernobyl” reactor in the show). These tours provide behind-the-scenes stories and allow you to experience Vilnius through a cinematic lens.

Best Panoramic Viewpoints in Vilnius

Discover stunning panoramas of Vilnius from these beautiful viewpoints, each offering unique perspectives of the city’s charming architecture and landscapes.

Gediminas Tower – This iconic tower atop Gediminas Hill offers a breathtaking 360° view of Vilnius Old Town, the Cathedral Square, and the winding Neris River.

Hill of Three Crosses (Trys Kryžiai) – An atmospheric viewpoint atop a wooded hill that provides captivating panoramic views over Vilnius, especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.

Vilnius TV Tower—Lithuania’s tallest building—boasts a revolving observation deck at 165 meters, offering sweeping vistas of Vilnius and beyond.
St. John’s Church Bell Tower – Climb the historic bell tower at Vilnius University for striking views of the red-tiled roofs and majestic church spires across the Old Town.
Subačiaus Viewpoint – A charming viewpoint offering serene vistas over the rooftops of Vilnius Old Town, perfect for photography and quiet contemplation, especially during golden hour.
The Cathedral Bell Tower, standing gracefully beside Vilnius Cathedral, offers visitors the chance to climb to its observation deck and enjoy stunning panoramic views of Cathedral Square and the charming Old Town. Entry to the tower costs approximately €6 per adult, making it an affordable opportunity to admire Vilnius from above.

Though for my opinion it’s not worth it. Here is what you get:

view from bell tower to Gediminas prospektas

Bonus: Food & Drink + Best Places

Must-Try Traditional Dishes

Cepelinai – Lithuania’s national dish; large potato dumplings stuffed with meat, served with sour cream and bacon bits. Best at Senoji Trobelė or Etno Dvaras.

Lithuanian Potato Meat Dumplings Cepelinai

Šaltibarščiai – Cold beet soup with kefir, dill, cucumber, and boiled egg, served with hot potatoes. Try at Forto Dvaras.

Šaltibarščiai Lithuanian Cold Beetroot Soup a.k.a Pink Soup

Kibinai – Karaim pastries filled with meat or veggies, great for a snack. Get them at Senoji Kibininė or Karaimų kepyklėlė.
Kugelis – Baked potato pudding, often served with sour cream. Available at Bernelių Užeiga.
Baltic Seafood & Soups – Smoked eel, pickled herring, and wild mushroom or cabbage soups. Zuvine is a great seafood spot.
Bread & Cheese – Dark rye bread, fried garlic bread (kepta duona), and farmer’s cheese. Try šakotis (tree cake) for dessert.

Where to Eat Traditional Food

Lokys – Medieval-themed restaurant, known for game meat and hearty dishes.
Senoji Trobelė – Authentic Lithuanian cuisine with tasting platters.
Etno Dvaras – Convenient Old Town location, with vegetarian options.
Bernelių Užeiga – Large menu of Lithuanian dishes, including traditional drinks.
Halės Market – Local canteens offer cheap, authentic meals.

Drinks to Try

Beer (Alus) – Traditional and craft beers like Švyturys, Genys, and village-style brews (Šnekutis or Alaus Biblioteka).
Mead (Midus) – Traditional honey liqueur, best tried in Trakai or at Lokys.
Kvass (Gira) – Fermented bread drink, widely available.
Balzamas & Trejos Devynerios – Strong herbal liqueurs.
Coffee & Tea – Specialty coffee at Backstage, Crooked Nose, Strangelove; herbal teas are common.

Sweet Treats

Tinginys – No-bake chocolate biscuit cake.
Medaus tortas – Honey-layered cake.
Šimtalapis – Multi-layered poppy seed pastry.
Šakotis – Traditional spiky tree cake.

Lithuanian Tree Cake Raguolis or Sakotis

Traditional Lithuanian Souvenirs and Where to Buy Them

Amber (“Lithuanian Gold”) – Baltic amber jewelry, keychains, and decorative items. Best at Amber Museum-Gallery or Gintaro Dirbtuvės on Pilies Street. Avoid street vendors selling fake amber.
Linen Products – High-quality linen clothing, home textiles, and accessories. Best stores: Lino Namai and Linen Tales. Wool mittens and socks are great for winter.
Woodcrafts – Miniature wooden crosses, carved kitchenware (Margų amatų krautuvėlė shop).
Ceramics – Black pottery, clay bells, and decorative glazed pieces (Vilnius Handicraft Guild).
Straw Ornaments – Traditional “sodai” mobiles, found in souvenir shops.
Baltic Symbol Jewelry – Pewter/silver jewelry with pagan sun or bird motifs.
Best Shopping Areas & Markets: Pilies Street & Gedimino Avenue, Vilnius Central Market (Halės turgus), Literatų Street.

Hello, and welcome to Gayane Mkhitaryan’s (Gaya or Gaia) blog on travel and exploring the World! I’m the traveler behind Explore with Gaia – an Armenian wanderer who caught the travel bug in 2014 and never looked back. So far, I’ve traveled through 30+ countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, North America, and beyond, mainly as a solo, budget-conscious traveler.

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