Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, boasts one of Europe's best-preserved Baroque old towns, on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1994. In the city's narrow lanes, dozens of church spires stand out against the sky, while the bohemian Užupis district and the vibrant café culture lend a modern, youthful momentum to the historic setting. The Lithuanian capital is also surprisingly affordable and easily reachable. Here are the 10 best Vilnius sights you shouldn't miss.
1. Vilnius Old Town (UNESCO)
One of Europe's largest and best-preserved medieval old towns has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. Across the roughly 3.6 square kilometres, Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance-style buildings blend in picturesque harmony. In the heart of the Old Town, Pilies gatvė (Castle Street) leads from the cathedral square to the City Gate, teeming with cafés, galleries and souvenir shops. It's best to explore without a map, wandering, a surprise awaits at every corner.
2. Gediminas Tower
Standing on the 48-metre-high Gediminas Hill, this brick tower is the symbol of Vilnius, from where a stunning panorama opens over the whole city. You can reach the tower by funicular or on foot, the walk takes about 15–20 minutes. At the top a small museum presents the history of the castle and the city from the 14th century to the present day. At sunset the sight is especially magical, when the Old Town's church spires bathe in gold.
3. St Anne's Church
This 16th-century Gothic church is one of Vilnius's best-known architectural masterpieces, of which legend says Napoleon declared he would carry it home to Paris in the palm of his hand. The facade is built from 33 differently shaped bricks, and the richness of the tiny details is captivating. The interior of the church is surprisingly simple compared to the facade, but this is precisely what gives it its special atmosphere. It's worth also stepping into the neighbouring Bernardine Church, with which it forms a picturesque ensemble.
4. Vilnius Cathedral and bell tower
Cathedral Square is the heart of Vilnius, where the classical-style cathedral and the separate bell tower are the country's most important religious and national symbols. In the cathedral's crypt hide the tombs of Lithuanian grand dukes and kings, which can be visited on a guided tour. Among the paving of the square, look for the "Stebuklas" (Miracle) tile, tradition says that whoever stands on it and turns around will have their wish granted. Climbing the bell tower, a 360-degree panorama opens over the city.
5. Hill of Three Crosses
Rising above the city, the three white concrete crosses on this hill are one of Vilnius's most iconic landmarks. The original wooden crosses were erected in the 17th century in memory of the Franciscans, who according to legend were killed here by the pagan Lithuanians. Along the wooded path leading up the hill you can walk up in 15–20 minutes, and the panorama over the Old Town and the Neris river is unforgettable. The spot is most beautiful at sunrise and sunset, that's when photographers and locals alike are present in great numbers.
6. Republic of Užupis
Vilnius's most bohemian district declared its "independence" in 1997, and has its own constitution, anthem and even a president. The 41 articles of the constitution, including "A cat has the right not to love its owner, but must help in times of need", can be read in several languages on the wall of Paupio gatvė. The district is full of studios, street art and alternative galleries, and along the banks of the Vilnelė stream, pleasant cafés await visitors. On 1 April, Užupis "Independence Day", a carnival atmosphere reigns in the streets.
7. KGB Museum (Museum of Genocide Victims)
Standing on Gedimino Avenue, the former KGB headquarters now operates as a museum presenting the dark chapters of Lithuania's Soviet occupation. In the basement the original interrogation rooms and execution chambers can be seen, the experience is deeply harrowing, but indispensable for understanding Lithuanian history. The exhibition also presents the history of the resistance, the deportations and the partisan wars with rich documentary material. The museum offers tours in English and Lithuanian, and admission is about €6.
8. Day trip to Trakai Castle
Just 28 kilometres from Vilnius, on an island in Lake Galvė, stands Lithuania's most spectacular castle, the 14th-century Trakai Castle. Built of red brick, the fortress now operates as a museum, where you can learn the history of the Lithuanian grand dukes. You can reach the castle by boat or via the pedestrian bridge crossing the lake, and the lakeside walk is beautiful in itself. In Trakai it's worth trying the kibinai, the traditional meat-filled pastry of the Karaims.
9. Vilnius University
Founded in 1579, this university is the oldest higher-education institution in the Baltic states, and its inner courtyards and building complex are a hidden gem of the Old Town. Each of the 13 inner courtyards represents a different style, from Renaissance to Baroque. St John's Church and its bell tower stand on the university grounds, and from the tower one of the best views of the Old Town opens. The university grounds are partly freely accessible; a ticket is needed to see the library and frescoes.
10. Halės turgus market
The city's largest and oldest covered market is an authentic setting for local gastronomy and everyday Lithuanian life. The market's offerings include fresh vegetables, cheeses, smoked meats, home-made breads and Lithuanian specialities, such as šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup). Locals shop here too, so you gain a genuine glimpse into everyday Lithuanian life. Extremely friendly prices await at the market, €3–5 is plenty for a hearty snack.
Practical tips
- Transport: Vilnius's city centre is compact and best explored on foot. Public transport is cheap, a ticket is just €1, and with the Trafi app you can easily plan your route.
- Money: Lithuania is a member of the eurozone, so you don't need to change money. Card payment is accepted almost everywhere, even at the markets.
- Trakai day trip: The train from Vilnius to Trakai takes 35 minutes, and the ticket is about €2. Admission to the castle is €12 for adults. It's worth planning a full-day trip so there's time for the lakeside walk and a kibinai tasting.
- eSIM tip: Lithuania is an EU member, so with an EU subscription the EU roaming rules apply and roaming is free. For heavier data use, a local eSIM is also available at a good price.
- Language: The younger generation of Lithuanians speaks English well, especially in the Old Town and at tourist sites. A few Lithuanian words, "Ačiū" (thank you), "Labas" (hello), always bring a smile.