Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania, is a charming destination packed with historic sites, beautiful architecture, trendy cafes, and cool street art. With a unique blend of medieval and modern vibes, Vilnius offers an unforgettable experience for every type of traveler.
Trip to Vilnius, Lithuania
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
Begin your trip to Vilnius by exploring the charming Old Town, dating back to medieval times. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to many historic landmarks, such as the gothic St. Anne’s Church and the Gediminas Castle Tower. Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets and marvel at the colorful Baroque architecture. In the evening, head to the trendy district of Užupis, with its bohemian vibes and quirky art installations. Don’t forget to stop at local street food vendors and try some traditional Lithuanian dishes such as cepelinai (potato dumplings) and kibinai (pastries filled with meat or vegetables).
Day 2: Trakai Island Castle
On your second day, take a trip to the nearby town of Trakai and visit the Trakai Island Castle. This stunning 14th-century castle sits on an island in the middle of Lake Galvė and is surrounded by picturesque scenery. Inside the castle, you will find the Trakai History Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the town. After visiting the castle, take a walk around the town and try some local delicacies such as kibinai and skilandis (a smoked meat dish).
Day 3: Vilnius Cathedral and Hill of Crosses
Start your day by visiting the Vilnius Cathedral, a beautiful neoclassical structure that dominates the skyline of the Old Town. Inside the cathedral, you will find stunning frescoes and artwork, as well as a crypt that houses the remains of Lithuanian grand dukes. After visiting the cathedral, take a two-hour drive to the Hill of Crosses, a pilgrimage site with thousands of crosses that have been placed over many decades. This is a beautiful and spiritual site that showcases Lithuanian culture and history.
Day 4: Open-Air Museum of Lithuania
Visit the Open-Air Museum of Lithuania and explore the traditional village. This outdoor museum showcases rural life in Lithuania over the centuries and is home to many restored buildings and structures, such as farmhouses, windmills, and churches. Learn about Lithuanian customs, traditions, and folklore as you walk through the museum and watch traditional craftspeople at work.
Day 5: National Museum of Lithuania and Gediminas Avenue
Spend your fifth day in Vilnius at the National Museum of Lithuania, which is the oldest and largest museum in the country. The museum showcases Lithuania’s history, culture, and art through its extensive collection of exhibits. After visiting the museum, head to Gediminas Avenue, the main shopping street in Vilnius, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs, trying local food, and relaxing in the beautiful cafes.
Day 6: Day trip to Kaunas
On your sixth day, take a day trip to the city of Kaunas, the second-largest city in Lithuania. Explore Old Town Kaunas, which is home to many beautiful examples of Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. Visit the Kaunas Castle, the Ninth Fort Museum, and the Kaunas Cathedral Basilica. In the evening, head back to Vilnius and enjoy the nightlife scene.
Day 7: Belmontas and Puckoriai
On your final day in Vilnius, take a trip to Belmontas, a nature reserve that features beautiful waterfalls, cafes, and walking paths. After visiting Belmontas, head to Puckoriai, a stunning canyon with a walking path that leads to a beautiful viewpoint. It’s the perfect way to end your trip to Vilnius, Lithuania.
