The small and beautiful city of Vilnius, with its special European charm, tourists can enjoy its sights, strolls along cobbled streets and musical performances by street musicians. There is an atmosphere of peace and tranquility here. The wealth of historical monuments makes Vilnius a popular destination for excursions. The city attracts both connoisseurs of modern and historical architecture. Its old town contains the main attractions, making it similar to other historical centers of European capitals.
How to start dating, What to see in Vilnius?
Vilnius is a city where it seems that time stops or even goes back. In this article we will tell you about the treasures of the Lithuanian capital. Although Vilnius is not as popular among tourists as, for example, Amsterdam or London, there is always something amazing to be found on its attractions map.
Old Town
When choosing a hotel in Vilnius, pay attention to its location in the Old Town. Here you can stay in one of the best hotels, allowing you to easily reach the main attractions of the city. Start your exploration of the Old Town from the Holy Gate and head further to Medininkai Castle, enjoying beautiful views along the way.
Gedimina Avenue
The main artery of the city extends for about 2 km and is limited to traffic, and at night it becomes closed to traffic. There is a completely different atmosphere here compared to the Old Town. Old stone buildings from the Brezhnev era coexist with modern buildings, and street musicians play on the streets, theater performances, exhibitions and shops operate. A walk along the avenue is definitely worth it, although many tourists prefer the streets of Old Vilnius.
Town Hall
If you only have one day in Vilnius, do not miss the opportunity to visit the classic Town Hall building, which is of architectural and historical interest. In the past, the city archive, treasury and courtrooms were located here, and prisoners were kept in the basements. In the 18th century, the building was demolished and a new one was erected in its place, which became the center of cultural life. Currently, meetings with foreign delegations are held here, ceremonial sessions are held and awards are presented.
Piles Street
The oldest of all the streets in Vilnius, it is a great place for strolling and discovery. If you're lucky, you might find yourself in the center of festive celebrations, visiting the country's famous fairs and exploring museums and shops. On this street you will find many interesting places that deserve special attention.
Gediminas Tower
We will share with you ideas of where to go during your stay in Vilnius to capture the most impressive moments in photographs. The observation deck of Gediminas' Tower on Castle Hill provides stunning views of the entire Old Vilnius. This tower has great historical significance for the country, and the flag of Lithuania flutters on its flagpole. You can get there on foot or by cable car, and it will be an unforgettable experience that will leave unique impressions and beautiful photographs.
Užupis
This unique area can be compared to a small state within a state, analogous to a small Vatican. The high popularity of Užupis as a tourist destination is determined by its unique character. At the end of the last century, this area became a magnet for avant-garde artists, musicians and poets. Fashionable galleries were created here from old buildings purchased at low prices. Užupis, known for its bohemian atmosphere, has its own anthem, flag, constitution and even a small army.
Aushros Gate
This gate, the height of a three-story house, is a shrine of the Catholic faith and is one of the main attractions of Lithuania. In the chapel located here there is an image of the great Mother of Mercy, which is revered by Catholics. The architecture of this building is breathtaking, especially the beautiful griffins on the main facade, the frieze above the bell tower and the icons inside the chapel. This place is a place of pilgrimage for Catholic believers from different parts of the world.
Vilnius University
The entire block is occupied by university buildings, lively with fountains, arches and cozy courtyards. In the center of the courtyard is the bell tower of St. John with a panoramic platform on top. The university library, decorated with frescoes, is of particular delight. Such famous personalities as Adam Mickiewicz, Taras Shevchenko, Yanka Kupala and many others studied here.
Presidential Palace
Visiting many local attractions in Vilnius can be difficult, but we will tell you about places that are usually not allowed, but where your visit is welcome. The Presidential Palace surprises with its accessibility: here you can attend public events and even watch the ceremony of changing flags, which takes place in a solemn and beautiful atmosphere.
Radziwill Palace
Many excursions in Vilnius lead here. The wealth of the Radziwill family was amazing in its scale: they owned about 9 palaces in the city. The only one that has survived to this day is the palace in the Old Town, which is now part of the National Art Museum. Its exhibition, divided into three parts, presents portraits, icons, archaeological finds, art objects and much more.
St. Stanislaus Cathedral
On Castle Hill there is a famous temple, which has special significance for Catholics. It was here that the Grand Dukes of Lithuania held their coronation ceremonies. In the dungeons of this temple you can find the burial places of famous personalities associated with the history of the Principality of Lithuania. The interior of the cathedral is impressive with its airiness and light, decorated with paintings and sculptures. Particularly noteworthy is the tall bell tower with a clock, which was previously part of the defensive structures.
Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania
If you are passionate about history, then do not miss the opportunity to visit this unique place during your trip. Previously, this palace served as the residence of many Lithuanian rulers. Thanks to their contribution, the castle complex constantly expanded, reaching its apogee in the 16th century, when it acquired an exquisite Renaissance appearance. Today, two exhibitions are available in the palace, presented in authentic interiors, telling about its rich history.
Church of Saints Peter and Paul
This church is considered one of the brightest examples of Baroque. Its greatness is revealed only after entering inside. The external façade looks modestly solemn, while the interior stuns with its richness of allegories, exquisite forms and luxurious decor. The dome and walls are crowned with stucco decorations, attracting attention with their exquisite execution. Vilnius guides will tell you about its amazing and tragic history.
St. Catherine's Church
The majestic Catholic church in the Baroque style was built in the 17th century. This beautiful architectural masterpiece is majestic in appearance, and its interior is rich and impressive. In the decoration of the interior you can see elegant statues made of white marble, and on the walls and altar there are paintings with biblical scenes. The temple also serves as a venue for classical music concerts, adding to an unforgettable experience for its visitors.
St. Anne's Church and Bernardine Church
The Church of St. Anne, representing the Gothic style, is an excellent example of architecture, visible from anywhere in the city. Its pediment and three graceful towers impress with their beauty. Although the gallery and treasury inside the temple are not as grand as its facade, they still have their own unique charm. The Bernardine Church, a majestic and austere structure, was originally part of the defensive wall of the city; these resemble surviving lancet windows. Inside the temple, the atmosphere is modest, without excessive pathos, and traces of biblical frescoes remain on the walls.
Church of Saint John
The best panoramic place in Vilnius is the church bell tower with a six-meter-high cross. It offers a magnificent view of the city, and there are no barriers in the form of nets or glass. You can climb to a height of 45 meters on foot or use a modern elevator. One of the interesting objects at the top is the Foucault pendulum, which simulates the rotation of the Earth.
Church of the Holy Spirit
A luxurious temple that always attracts many visitors with its beauty. In its solemn interior, the three-tiered iconostasis, richly decorated with sculptures, columns and wavy cornices, immediately catches the eye. Particularly noteworthy is the cave temple located below the altar. It was here that the relics of the Vilna martyrs, later recognized as saints, were discovered. In addition, there is a library at the temple.
Church of St. Casimir
Taking a journey through time, it becomes clear how many changes this church has gone through. At different times it served different purposes, even at times being used as a granary, and during the Soviet era it turned into a wine cellar and a museum of atheism. Only at the end of the last century the building was returned to the church and consecrated. Its facade and interior remain in Baroque style, and the most striking element is the dome, shaped like a crown.
Religious monument Three Crosses
In Kalnu Park, located in the center of the capital, you can see four hills of different heights. The Three Cross Mountain stands out especially, on the top of which there is a sculpture of three snow-white crosses rising to the sky. There are several legends about their origin. This monument, restored after destruction, is dedicated to the memory of the victims of Stalin's repressions. There is also an observation deck at the top of the mountain, which offers impressive views.
National Museum of Lithuania
Another amazing place in Vilnius, which embodies the history of the country from its ancient times to the formation of the state. The exhibits presented here tell a fascinating story about the development of Baltic culture. For all ages, there are interactive computer entertainments that will take you into the world of Lithuanian history and culture.
We looked at the main attractions of the city: what else to visit in Vilnius?
When you have enough time to explore Vilnius, don't limit yourself to the main attractions. Look through photos and descriptions of various properties to choose the ones that most interest you. Apart from the famous places, there are many other interesting places in the city that are worth visiting.
Museum of Genocide Victims
This building, which once belonged to the KGB and was a temporary refuge for the Gestapo during the war, is now a museum complex. Its collections are housed both in the basement and on two floors. In the basement you can see prisoners' cells, the walls of which are covered with inscriptions. These inscriptions, although repainted many times, still retain traces of the past. The special attention of tourists is attracted by the memory stone, next to which there are always flowers, and candles are lit in memory of the dead.
Trakai Castle
This is a cozy and exciting place, surrounded by legends and the waters of the lake. The castle, which has recently been restored, attracts attention with its collection of artifacts displayed inside. A tour inside the castle will take visitors into the atmosphere of the Middle Ages, leading through narrow staircases and majestic halls. And to complete this exciting experience, visitors can enjoy a yacht ride on the lake.
Lithuanian Art Museum
The museum is home to the country's largest art collection, covering a vast area of Lithuania with branches in various locations. The exhibition includes more than 2.5 thousand paintings dating from the 16th-19th centuries, as well as about 8 thousand drawings from artists from all over the world, belonging to the period of the 15th-20th centuries.
Vilnius TV Tower
This is the tallest building in the country and can compete with the most famous skyscrapers in the world. Its observation deck at an altitude of 165 meters offers a breathtaking view of Vilnius, but access to it is limited by a glass fence. There is also a revolving restaurant at the top. Despite the rather high prices, it is always difficult to find free tables here.
Park of Europe
This park can be compared to an open-air museum, spread over 55 hectares. Unique sculptures are presented here that have won the recognition of visitors. One of the most fascinating compositions is a labyrinth made up of 3 thousand old televisions. From above, it resembles the shape of a tree, adding to the mystery of this installation. Overall, the park impresses with its collection of original artwork.
When planning a trip to Vilnius, do not miss the opportunity to visit its amazing sights with the help of tours from the travel agency TourPoisk. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, stroll along Pilus Street, explore Gediminas' Tower and visit the Assumption Cathedral. Get an unforgettable experience by contacting TurPoisk for a selection of tours.
