Vilnius Weekend Travel Guide – Wanderlog (2024)

St. Peter and St. Paul Church is a renowned Baroque-style church . It was built between 1668 and 1701, and is famous for its stunning interior, which features over 2,000 stucco figures and elaborate decorations crafted by Italian masters Giovanni Pietro Perti and Giovanni Maria Galli. The church's exterior is relatively modest, but the intricate and richly detailed interior makes it a masterpiece of Baroque art and architecture. The church is a popular tourist attraction and an important cultural and religious site in Vilnius.

The Church of St. Anne is a stunning example of Gothic architecture in Vilnius, Lithuania. Constructed in the late 15th century, it is renowned for its intricate facade, which features a complex pattern of red brickwork, making it one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. The church's design is attributed to multiple architects, reflecting a blend of Gothic and Flamboyant Gothic styles. Legend has it that Napoleon Bonaparte was so captivated by the church's beauty that he wished to transport it to Paris.

Originally established in the 15th century by Bernardine monks, the garden has undergone several transformations over the centuries. In 2013 the garden was restored to show off it's meticulously maintained flowerbeds, a rose garden, and an ornamental pond. It also includes a playground, a musical fountain, and various sculptures, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax and enjoy nature.

The Vilnius Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Ladislaus, is the main Roman Catholic Cathedral in Lithuania and one of the most important religious sites in the country. Located in Cathedral Square in Vilnius Old Town, it stands at the heart of Lithuania's spiritual and cultural life. The cathedral's history dates back to the 13th century, though it has been rebuilt several times, with the current neoclassical structure completed in the late 18th century under the direction of architect Laurynas Gucevičius.

The interior of the cathedral is notable for its elegant chapels, including the St. Casimir's Chapel, which houses the relics of Saint Casimir, the patron saint of Lithuania. The cathedral's crypts contain the remains of several significant historical figures, including members of the Lithuanian nobility and the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. The Vilnius Cathedral Bell Tower, adjacent to the cathedral, offers panoramic views of the city and adds to the historical and architectural significance of the site.

The Vilnius Town Hall is a historic building located in the heart of Vilnius, Lithuania. Dating back to the 14th century, it has served various roles throughout its history, including a city hall, a theater, and a merchants' meeting place. The current neoclassical structure was completed in the late 18th century, designed by prominent Lithuanian architect Laurynas Gucevičius.

The Town Hall Square, where the building is situated, is a focal point for cultural events, public gatherings, and markets. The interior of the Town Hall features an elegant hall and several rooms that are used for exhibitions, concerts, and official receptions. Its architecture, with a grand facade and classical columns, makes it a significant landmark in Vilnius and a symbol of the city's rich history and heritage.

The Gediminas Castle Tower dates back to the 14th century and was part of the Upper Castle complex built by Grand Duke Gediminas. The tower has been rebuilt several times, with its current structure mostly from the early 15th century. It offers panoramic views of Vilnius and houses a museum that showcases the history of the castle and the city.

From Cathedral Square, this is a 10 - 15 minute walk up the path.

The Gate of Dawn, a city gate featuring a revered religious icon, is the only surviving gate from Vilnius' defensive walls. Dating back to 1522, the gate features a small chapel above, housing a renowned image of the Virgin Mary. Many attribute miraculous powers to this artwork. To reach the chapel, you'll find a doorway and staircase on the left just before the gate itself.

Pilies Street is a historic and ornate street with Renaissance architecture known for its souvenir shops & restaurants. The narrow street is lined with small shops selling amber jewelry, wood carvings, and all other imaginable type of local souvenir. Artisans from all over the country gather here to sell their wares. Keep in mind that this is probably the most touristy street in all of the city, so prices can be quite a bit higher than other places.

Vilnius University was founded in 1568, and is the oldest university in Eastern Europe. The campus has a mix of architectural styles and is spread out over 13 courtyards, each with its own unique charm. The Grand Courtyard features open galleries built in the 1600s. The gorgeous Littera bookshop inside the courtyard is known for its funny frescoes which poked fun at professors and students.

Towering over the Grand Courtyard is St. John's Church, looking like a giant wedding cake. The original church was built in a Gothic style in 1426, but in 1749 it got a major makeover and became a Baroque masterpiece.

Literatai Street is popular with both locals and tourists. The name "Literatai" ("Writers' Street") is believed to have come about in the early 1800s to honor poet Adomas Mickevičius who once lived there. In 2008, the street got a cool makeover! A group of artists decorated the walls with all sorts of artwork related to famous authors. You'll see metal, wood, and glass sculptures, along with plaques and other pieces dedicated to different writers. The street even has its own Modern Art Center!

Just a 15 minute walk uphill from Kalny Park, will bring you up to the 3 Crosses Monument. This spot offers the nicest panoramic view of Vilnius Old Town - especially at sunset. This 12-meter tall monument has become a symbol of national identity, but the crosses themselves are often illuminated in different colors to commemorate special events for Lithuania and the world. So whenever you can see the monument while walking around the city after dark, take a look to see if it’s lit up in special colors.

On April 1st, 1997, the area of Uzupis (which is located right next to the Old Town), decided to declare itself an independent Republic - complete with a flag, President, and even an independence day! This riverside neighborhood ("Užupis" means "behind the river") is full of quirky and artsy pieces of art strewn all around this small area.

It is filled with charm in every corner of it's narrow alleys lined with 1800s houses and secret courtyards. Make sure to take your shoes off and walk under the main bridge through the water to the giant swing. This place really brings out the fun in everyone!

Užupis isn't your typical place. It's a melting pot of artists, musicians, wealthy folks, and everyday people. If you want a laugh, take a look at the "constitution" of Užupis which is nailed to the wall on Paupio Street. Some of the highlights are: "Everyone has the right to understand nothing" and "Everyone has the right not to be loved, but not necessarily hated."

Spread across two floors, the museum has displays about Lithuanian resistance fighters, the struggle of the people who were being persecuted and what the KGB was up to during those times. Downstairs, you can see the actual prison cells the KGB used, and outside there's a yard where prisoners used to exercise. It all looks pretty much the same as it did when the KGB fled the area in 1991. This museum covers a lot of Lithuanian history from the 1900s and helps you understand the country's tough past.

This place is a legend for coffee roasting, their vibe and outdoor space in the Old Town near the Vilnius Cathedral.

A cafe that cares about sustainability, also has vegan and sugar free desert options that are divine.

Good for a good coffee and a snack.

A coffee shop that not only has good coffee but also makes their own ice cream?! This cozy place is in Uzupio.

Good place for breakfast and/or a coffee and a bagel if you find yourself close to Literatai Street.

This gastronomical hidden gem in Uzupis will wow your senses with amazing food at reasonable prices - for the high end experience. The brunch is around 10 Euros.

Located in the heart of Old Town, this is a true meat lovers restaurant. Rob recommends the Duck Breast Roast. And to boot this is a dog friendly restaurant. However, be prepared to pay at least 25 Euros per person.

Although this is a vegan restaurant (and my favorite in Vilnius), this place is always packed with every type of food lover. The calamari appetizer tastes like the real thing - but is 100% plant based. Everything here is fabulous including the owner's dog who walks around the cafe enjoying love from the patrons.

This is a budget hotel located within a 4 minute walk from the Vilnius Cathedral. At $50 USD per night, this apartment offers a comfortable stay with a kitchenette, flat screen TV and WiFi throughout the apartment.

For a mid-range hotel in Old Town Vilnius (around $90 USD/night) you will find frescoes, 16th century beamed ceilings and a retro cellar restaurant. Some of the suites have Turkish baths and hot tubs.

This hotel is located right in Cathedral Square and is true luxury. Our Aspire credit card provides a free night in any Hilton standard room. However, because we are Diamond members we were upgraded to a balcony room overlooking the square along with a free breakfast, a champagne bottle upon arrival and the like. It was a magical stay!