The capital and most populous city in Lithuania, Vilnius, is a destination that will take you back in time with its cobblestones streets and medieval Old Town. Visiting this place is like watching a scene from a historical film, which you’ll see in its architecture that has a variety of styles from different eras, such as the Vilnius Cathedral with its Neoclassical style and the Gothic Church of St. Anne. But aside from the architecture, the city boasts interesting and unique museums, religious shrines, and historical landmarks. But before going on a trip, make sure you have booked one of the comfy Airbnb vacation rentals for a homey experience. Travelers who are on a tight budget will also find plenty of cheap hostels and vacation rentals ensuring a pleasant trip. Now that accommodation is sorted, scroll down to find a list of the top things to do in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Why Trust Trip101?
✅ Over 50,000 articles reviewed and published by our experienced team
✅ Over 50 years of combined experience researching, writing and reviewing travel articles
✅ Over 40,000 hours spent on research and fact-checking from credible sources (last year’s data)
✅ Optimizing content from data-driven insights collected directly from users on our platform
✅ Focus on authentic and up-to-date information by collaborating with local guides, global travelers and other industry experts
✅ Long-standing partnerships with credible brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, GetYourGuide, Viator, RVShare and more
✅ Full disclosure on any partnerships or sponsored content
Trip101’s team of writers, editors, and content managers oversees the publication of all travel content, including destination guides, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips. They have extensive experience in the travel industry and no content, written or visual, gets published without a review. Many of our team’s work has also been featured in Travel+Leisure, National Today, The Indian Express, The Telegraph (India), Robb Report, The Adventure Handbook, Tripoto, Korea Tourism Organization, and Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Some of them are also members of professional organizations like the Society of American Travel Writers and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.
Each member of the team follows Trip101's methodology and strict editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and relevance.
1. Embark on a private hot air balloon ride
Are you tired of the usual way of seeing the attractions a city has to offer? If you don’t feel like joining another walking tour, then you have to try this private hot air balloon ride by Viator, and see the city from a different perspective. During the ride, you will hover above the Old Town and see its beautiful architecture and important landmarks. This experience will surely be very unforgettable for you and your loved ones. Also, in case you’re looking for ways to impress a special someone, this is a great date idea.
Book Tours : Private Hot Air Balloon Ride in Vilnius
2. Experience Lithuanian culture on a dinner and dance show
A one-of-a-kind experience only in Vilnius, this dinner and dance show is a must-join activity to know more about the city’s culture. It is a two-hour dinner party at a modern restaurant in the center of Old Town. There will be lots of local delicacies along with a variety of local drinks. But apart from the food that will be served, there will be entertainment in the form of folk dancing and singing as well as games. This kind of event is how the people of ancient Lithuania used to have fun. They play games, dance, and sing to their heart’s content, which you will still see in their family gatherings, festivities, weddings, and more.
Book Tours : National Dinner with Folk Show in Vilnius
3. Explore the stunning Gediminas Castle Tower
A beautiful ancient tower that has been reconstructed many times, the Gediminas Tower is a must-visit when you’re in Vilnius. At first, it was a wooden fortification. Then, it was rebuilt using bricks after it was destroyed by a fire. The tower features three defensive towers, and among those three, only the western tower remains intact, and it is what we know as the Gediminas Tower today. Also, you’ll find here a museum that features iconographic things and armament from Old Vilnius, such as weaponry, cannonballs, armors, and more. Additionally, you can climb up the tower and get a sweeping view of the city.
Book Tours : Gediminas Castle Tower Entrance Ticket
4. Marvel at the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania
An important attraction and one of the most visited landmarks in Vilnius, the Reconstructed Palace of the Grand Duke is a place where you can learn about life in Lithuania during the 15th to 17th century. It is perfect for history buffs and architecture fans, for you will see ancient ruins, historical artifacts, and the evolving architectural designs as time passes by. As you go on with the tour, you will also learn about the city’s rich history and colorful culture. Make sure to book the tour through Viator to skip the lines and save time.
5. Explore the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights
You never really visit a place without knowing about its history. The best way to learn about the area is through visiting local museums, and in Vilnius, you must see the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights. Here, you’ll know more about the suffering of the people and what happened during the Soviet Union regime. The former KGB building is divided into three parts, where the middle and upper sections are for exhibits showcasing stories and documents about the people who suffered during the Holocaust in Lithuania and also about the freedom fighters, while the basement features old prison cells, execution chambers, confinement rooms, and more dark things. For an easier tour of the museum, make sure you get a ticket from Viator to skip the lines and save time.
6. Join the interesting Baltic Jewish Heritage Tour
If you want to learn many things about the Jewish heritage, then you have to join the Baltic Jewish Heritage Tour by Viator. It is a nine-day tour wherein you’ll be visiting Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. This tour will introduce you to the multilayered history of each place by visiting historical sites and religious attractions. After the tour, you will surely know and learn about numerous important personalities, its culture, and the tragic facts about the Holocaust. It is the perfect tour for people who are into history.
Book Tours : BALTIC JEWISH HERITAGE TOUR
7. Tour Lithuania's main cities from Vilnius
To make your vacation in Vilnius a lot easier and convenient why not book the Discover Lithuania guaranteed departure tour by Viator? It is an eight-day tour of Lithuania, wherein you’ll visit its main cities such as Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipeda. You will get to soo important landmarks such as Vilnius Cathedral, Grand Duke Palace, and St. John’s Bell Tower. Also, you’ll learn about their culture and history through the many museums like the open-air museum in Rumsiskes, which features architecture, traditions, crafts, and culture.
Book Tours : Discover Lithuania Guaranteed departure tour
8. Have fun in Liepkalnis Ski Run
A winter entertainment park in Vilnius, Liepkalnis Ski Run will turn your holiday in the city into a roller coaster of snow adventure. It features 10 ski trails ranging from beginner to veteran. A ski school is also available and it teaches kids as young as three years old. Another great thing about this park is it is well lit at night, which makes skiing quite enjoyable and safe. Moreover, there is equipment rental in the park, making it convenient for guests.
Liepkalnis Ski Run
Address: Minsko pl. 2, Vilnius 02121, Lithuania
Website: Liepkalnis
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 12pm - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 10pm (closed on Mon)
9. See the Vilnius Cathedral
One of the best attractions in Vilnius and the most important place of worship for Catholics in Lithuania is the Cathedral of St. Stanislav and St. Vladislav, more commonly known as Vilnius Cathedral. It is not only a place where people praise and pray but also a burial place for important people in Lithuania’s history. Below the chapel of St. Casimir is the Sovereigns’ Mausoleum, where you’ll find vaults that have the remains of King Alexander of Poland, Vytautas The Great, and King Vladislovas Vaza, among others. Another must-see feature is the original temple, which dates back to the 13th or 15th century. Also, the church offers a tour with English-speaking guides every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
Vilnius Cathedral
Address: Šventaragio g., Vilnius 01143, Lithuania
Website: Vilnius Cathedral
10. Pay your respects at the Three Crosses
An important monument in Lithuania, Three Crosses is located on a hill of the same name and it was built in honor of the martyr monks who died and were tortured here. According to a story, seven Franciscan monks were beheaded on the hill. The monument has been rebuilt many times and the current monument standing today was made by an architect and sculptor by the name of Vivulskis, in 1989. Apart from the monument, the place also has a spectacular view of the sunset and its surroundings.
Three Crosses
Address: Kalnų parkas, Vilnius 01100, Lithuania
Website: Three Crosses
Opening hours: 24 hrs (daily)
11. View the marvelous Gate of Dawn
One of the best places to visit in Vilnius, Lithuania, is the Gate of Dawn. A well-known and one of the most visited shrines, the Gate of Dawn is the only surviving gate among the five original gates in the city wall that was created between the year 1503 to 1522. It is not only famous in Lithuania but the whole world, and also worshipped by other religions as well. At the chapel’s gate, you’ll find the very popular painting of the Virgin Mary, which is known as Vilnius Madonna. It was painted in the Renaissance technique during the 17th century, and it is said to have miraculous powers. See for yourself the beautiful shrine, when you visit Vilnius.
Gate of Dawn
Address: Aušros Vartų g. 14, Vilnius 01303, Lithuania
Website: Gate of Dawn
Opening hours: 6am - 7pm (daily)
12. Explore St. Anne's Church
One of the most beautiful structures ever made in Vilnius, St. Anne’s Church has remained untouched for 500 years. It has a Gothic architectural style and features a stunning facade that on closer inspection, has letters A and M, which could mean Ave Maria. This structure has been the symbol of Vilnius and it is a must-visit for architectural buffs who wish to find new inspiration for their works. Another attraction here is the bell tower next to the church, which was built during the 19th century.
St. Anne's Church
Address: Maironio g. 8, Vilnius 01124, Lithuania
Website: St. Anne’s Church
Opening hours: 11am - 6pm (daily)
13. Wander around the Vilnius Museum of Illusions
If you’re done with the usual artwork museum, then it’s time for you to try exploring the Vilnius Museum of Illusions. It is an interactive museum which features mind-tricking artworks that have over 70 exhibits. You’ll find here optical illusions, virtual reality rooms, 3-D art, and other installations that will surely challenge your imagination. You’ll see people that seem to walk on the walls, storytelling through light demonstration, and more. The whole family will surely enjoy this fun-filled museum, so make sure to bring them with you when you visit.
Vilnius Museum of Illusions
Address: Vokiečių g. 8, Vilnius 01130, Lithuania
Website: Vilnius Museum of Illusions
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 10 EUR or 11.20 USD
14. View the city from the Vilnius TV Tower
A recognizable fixture in the city of Vilnius, Vilnius TV Tower is the tallest building in the city, with a height of 326.5 meters (1071 feet). Are you wondering why it is on the list of must-visits? The Vilnius TV Tower has a tragic memory in Lithuania’s history. On January of 1991, when Lithuania fought for its freedom, seven civilians were killed, and 700 people were injured, at the tower. In memory of this unfortunate event, a small museum was founded on the ground floor of the tower. Additionally, the tower features a revolving observation platform, where you can see an uninterrupted view of the city.
Vilnius TV Tower
Address: Sausio 13-osios g. 10, Vilnius 04347, Lithuania
Website: Vilnius TV Tower
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sat; 11am - 10pm
Price: 8 EUR or 8.96 USD
15. Make a wish at the Magical Brick
Do you believe in wishing wells, shooting stars, and the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow? Then, you must try your luck at the Magical Brick. This piece of tile is very popular for its wish-granting feature. But, did you know that it also plays a big role in the history of Lithuania? It is where the longest human chain ends that begins in Tallinn, Estonia, and passes through Riga and Latvia, and ends in Vilnius. It is a successful peaceful protest against the Soviet Union. Legend says that you must find the magical tile without really searching and when you find it, you have to spin in a clockwise motion three times, then jump, and clap once, before you can make a wish. Make sure that you ask for your biggest wish for it just might come true.
Magical Brick
Address: Katedros aikštė, Vilnius 01143, Lithuania
Website: Magical Brick
Opening hours: 24 hrs (daily)
16. Explore the Republic of Užupis
A breath of fresh air is one way you can describe the Republic of Užupis. It is an artist district in Vilnius with its own republic that has a president, a secretary, ambassadors, as well as its own holidays and constitution. Also, you can find in Paupis, one of its main streets, the gist of its constitution, which is also translated into many languages, for other people to understand the message. The constitution primarily asks people for understanding, tolerance, to listen, and to forgive others and oneself. Make sure to visit this place for you might learn a thing or two here.
Republic of Užupis
Address: Užupio konstitucija, Paupio g., Vilnius 01201, Lithuania
Website: Republic of Užupis
Opening hours: 24 hrs (daily)
17. See important city sights on a Vilnius gondola
Another great way of seeing the city of Vilnius, apart from walking tours, it is through riding a gondola. Vilnius Gondola offers cruise tours starting from Mindaugas Bridge, passing through the White Bridge, and also ends in Mindaugas Bridge. During the cruise, you’ll see many attractions and beautiful architecture that will make you see how the fairytale-like the city is. The gondola can accommodate up to 12 persons and it lasts less than an hour. It is a perfect family activity that will surely be enjoyed by everyone.
Vilnius gondola
Address: Žvejų g. 14A, Vilnius 09310, Lithuania
Website: Vilnius gondola
Price: 8 EUR or 8.96 USD
18. Explore the Money Museum of the Bank of Lithuania
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Another interesting museum in Vilnius, the Money Museum of the Bank of Lithuania features exhibits about the history of Lithuanian money as well as the world. It has an elaborate exhibit of the evolution of money from ancient times up to the present. It also has an interactive collection where you can participate in learning activities, like the special weighing scale where people can weigh themselves and learn their value in gold, silver, and platinum. But the biggest attraction here is the coin pyramid, which is the largest in the world and it consists of 1,000,935 one-cent coins. This pyramid is also included in the Guinness World Record.
Money Museum of the Bank of Lithuania
Address: Totorių g. 2/8, Vilnius 01121, Lithuania
Website: Money Museum of the Bank of Lithuania
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 7pm; Sat: 11am - 6pm (closed on Mon & Sun)
19. Visit the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Visiting the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights in Vilnius, Lithuania, is a profound and enlightening activity that offers a glimpse into the nation’s tumultuous history. Housed in a former KGB headquarters, the museum presents a somber narrative of Lithuania’s past.
Inside, you’ll find exhibits detailing the country’s periods of occupation and resistance. Personal stories, artifacts, and archival materials provide a powerful portrayal of the resilience and bravery of the Lithuanian people during those challenging times. Exploring the museum’s thought-provoking displays and interactive exhibits fosters a deeper understanding of Lithuania’s fight for freedom and independence. The building itself serves as a haunting reminder of the country’s struggles and the importance of safeguarding human rights and democracy.
Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights
Address: Aukų g. 2A, 01400 Vilnius, Lithuania
Website: Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 10am - 5pm (Closed on Mon & Tue)
20. Drink draft beer at Snekutis
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Drinking draft beer at Snekutis is one of the fun activities in Vilnius, Lithuania, and is an authentic and memorable experience that immerses you in the city’s lively beer culture. Snekutis is a renowned Lithuanian tavern celebrated for its warm and welcoming atmosphere and extensive selection of locally brewed beers.
Inside the rustic and cozy interior, you’ll find a variety of draft beers on tap, including traditional Lithuanian brews and craft beers from local breweries. Snekutis also offers an array of delicious Lithuanian dishes, perfect for pairing with your beer of choice.
Snekutis
Address: Šv. Mikalojaus g. 15, 01133 Vilnius, Lithuania
Website: Snekutist
Opening hours: 11am - 11pm (daily)
21. Wander around the Pūčkorių atodanga
If you’re looking for a place to take away your stress, somewhere you can breathe fresh air and see beautiful natural scenery, then you have to visit Pūčkorių atodanga. It is a peaceful park with a hiking spot and an overlooking a platform with a view of River Vilnia. Here, you will be comfortable walking under the shades of colorful trees and along with the beautiful river scenery that will instantly put you in a good mood. Also, you can bring your child and pets and let them wander around freely.
Pūčkorių atodanga
Address: Pavilnių regioninis parkas, Vilnius 11300, Lithuania
Website: Pūčkorių atodanga
Opening hours: 24 hrs (daily)
22. Buy local delicacies at Lokys
Imagine you’re back in the year 1940, that’s how dining in Lokys feels like with its exposed brick walls and medieval dining set-up. It is located in a gorgeous 15th-century building in the heart of the Old Town, making it easily accessible for everyone. The award-winning restaurant serves traditional Baltic cuisines and special local delicacies. Their bestseller includes mouth-watering beaver stew, succulent wild boar, quail, and more. A trip to Vilnius wouldn’t be complete without eating in Lokys and experiencing their service.
Lokys
Address: Stiklių g. 10, Vilnius 01131, Lithuania
Website: Lokys
Opening hours: 24 hrs (daily)
23. Dance the night away at Salento Night Club
A popular nightspot in Vilnius, Salento Night Club is one of the oldest and most-loved party venues in the city. Salento features a dance floor, VIP area, an indoor smoking area, and a long bar that serves a wide selection of cocktails, spirits, beers, and more. It also has good lightings and a DJ who plays both old and new music as well as accepts requests from the party-goers. There’s no entrance fee here, and the drinks are fairly priced. So, if you’re looking for a decent place to dance and have fun with friends, Salento is the place to be.
Salento Night Club
Address: Didžioji g. 28, Vilnius 01128, Lithuania
Website: Salento Night Club
Opening hours: 11:30pm - 8am (daily)
24. View different art exhibits at the Lithuanian Art Museum
Founded in 1933, Lithuanian Art Museum or the Vilnius City Museum features the largest art collection of Lithuania. It is recognized as the national museum of the country and also the oldest institution of its type. It is known to have a diverse fine-art collection with more or less 230,000 exhibits, such as old and contemporary paintings, drawings, sculptures, folk art, jewelry, and a lot more. It also has many branches all over the capital of Lithuania. Visiting a museum will surely be a delight to anyone who is artistically inclined.
Lithuanian Art Museum
Address: Didžioji g. 4, Vilnius 01128, Lithuania
Website: Lithuanian Art Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)
25. Check out the artwork at Volandos Galerija
A small gallery in Vilnius, Volandos Galerija is a 20-year-old artwork gallery that features thoughtfully selected paintings, ceramics, prints, and more. You’ll also find here pieces of jewelry, which has copyrights and is created by professional artists. Aside from the exhibits, they accept personalized orders and help with the selection of artwork pieces for interiors and the like.
Volandos Galerija
Address: Latvių g. 19, Vilnius 08113, Lithuania
Website: Volandos galerija
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
26. Explore the Museum of Applied Arts and Design
Located in the old arsenal building of the Lower Castle in Vilnius, the Museum of Applied Arts and Design was founded in 1987 and features collections with a focus on graphics, photography, and costumes. But apart from these permanent artworks, the museum also serves as a concert venue, produces education programs, and hosts temporary exhibits. This museum is also a branch of the Lithuanian Art Museum.
Museum of Applied Arts and Design
Address: Arsenalo g. 3a, Vilnius 01143, Lithuania
Website: Museum of Applied Arts and Design
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11am - 6pm; Sun: 11am - 4pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 3 EUR or 3.36 USD
27. Visit the live crafts museum at the Fine Crafts Association of Vilnius
Another unique museum that you shouldn’t miss when in Vilnius is the Old Crafts Workshop at the Fine Crafts Association of Vilnius. It is a live museum where you can see the process of making traditional crafts. There are tools and wares on the display that will make you learn about the work process. Also, you will learn about the history of the city’s craftsmanship, which dates back to the time of Grand Duke Gediminas. Aside from the exhibits and collections, the museum also offers training programs, craft tours, lectures, and private and personalized orders.
Fine Crafts Association of Vilnius
Address: Savičiaus g. 10, Vilnius 01127, Lithuania
Website: Fine Crafts Association of Vilnius
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 11am - 7pm (closed on Mon)
28. Check out the exhibits at the Vilnius Picture Gallery
Located in the beautiful Chodkeviciai Palace that was built in the 17th century, the Vilnius Picture Gallery exudes elegance with minimalist and old-world charm. It features Lithuanian art from the 16th and 19th century. You’ll find a variety of splendid artworks such as local paintings, sculptures, and drawings. Also, keep yourself posted with their temporary exhibits for they are of equal value and beauty.
Vilnius Picture Gallery
Address: Didžioji g. 4, Vilnius 01128, Lithuania
Website: Vilnius Picture Gallery
Opening hours: Sun - Mon: 12pm - 6pm; Tue - Sat: 11am - 6pm
29. Visit Radziwiłł Palace, Vilnius
Located at the heart of Old Town, the most beautiful building in Vilnius has stood the test of time and it is still one of the most visited attractions in the city. It is where you’ll find the Lithuanian Art Museum, with its rich art collections. Also, there is one hall in the museum in honor of its late owners, the Radziwill family. You’ll find here the memorabilia of the family. But even without the museum, this building is a sight to behold for its Renaissance architecture and Mannerism style, which will transport you back in time.
Radziwiłł Palace, Vilnius
Address: Vilniaus g. 24, Vilnius 01402, Lithuania
Website: Radziwiłł Palace, Vilnius
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 7 EUR or 7.84 USD
30. Discover the Culinary Heritage Museum of Lithuania
One of the main reasons people travel to Lithuania is because of their numerous museums. If you’re into culinary arts, then you shouldn’t miss the chance to visit the Culinary Heritage Museum of Lithuania. It is a museum dedicated to promoting culinary culture throughout the world. Its display also tells you about the transformation and development in culinary arts as time passes by. The exhibit you’ll see here includes a 300-year-old cookbook, valuable plates, sauce boats, and more. Also, the museum has temporary exhibits from local artists.
Culinary Heritage Museum of Lithuania
Address: Bokšto g. 9, Vilnius 01126, Lithuania
Website: Culinary Heritage Museum of Lithuania
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: 3 EUR or 3.36 USD
31. View the art collections of Kazys Varnelis at Kazio Varnelis House
Another must-visit museum in Vilnius, the Kazio Varnelis House. It is a residential house turned museum that was owned by Kazys Varnelis, an artist and collector. It was later on given to Lithuania, which adds to the rich art and cultural collection of the country. The exhibits here have been accumulated for 50 years, which consists of maps, historical prints, West European sculptures, as well as artworks of Varnelis. The exhibits are made more beautiful by the contrast of the Renaissance and Baroque pieces of furniture in the house that complements the collections.
Kazio Varnelis House
Address: Didžioji g. 26, Vilnius 01128, Lithuania
Website: Kazio Varnelis House
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 4 EUR or 4.48 USD
32. Look around the Energy and Technology Museum
The biggest technical museum in all of Lithuania with an area of 5,000 sqm (53,819.55 sqft), the Energy and Technology Museum is located in a former power plant that was built in 1903. Here, you’ll learn about the history of industrialization of Lithuania through the numerous displayed items including power plant equipment, a variety of machines, and photographs about the industrialization during the time of the post-war Soviet. Also, you’ll find here two interactive rooms for kids, that feature science exhibits, in English and Lithuanian, and where children can actively participate. Another good thing about this museum is they use solar panels to lessen their carbon footprint.
Energy and Technology Museum
Address: Rinktinės g. 2, Vilnius 09310, Lithuania
Website: Energy and Technology Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 6:30pm (closed on Mon & Sun)
A walk back in time in Vilnius
History, art, and good food are a few of the things that will draw you to Vilnius. But there is more to this place, all you have to do is explore and discover that it also has beautiful nature parks, interesting activities, vibrant nightspots, and more. Check out our list of amazing things to do here and ensure a great time during your family getaway in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Vilnius
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
-
-
-
-
-
What To Buy In Vilnius, LithuaniaCatherine -
-
-
-
15 Best Things To Do In Mt. Juliet, TennesseeSwadeep Singh
