Vilnius Old Town

Vilniaus senamiestis

One of Europe's largest and best-preserved baroque old towns, a UNESCO World Heritage Site laced with churches, courtyards and cobbled lanes. Its blend of Gothic, Renaissance and baroque architecture, lively cafes and hilltop views makes it Lithuania's essential destination.

Things to do

• Climb Gediminas' Tower — Ascend the hilltop remnant of the Upper Castle for panoramic views over the red-roofed Old Town and Neris River.
• Visit Vilnius Cathedral and Belfry — Explore the neoclassical cathedral on Cathedral Square, its crypts, and climb the freestanding belfry for close-up views.
• Wander through the Gates of Dawn — Pass beneath the last surviving city gate and visit its chapel housing the revered Madonna icon, a major pilgrimage site.
• Explore the Republic of Uzupis — Cross the bridge into the quirky bohemian district that declared its own tongue-in-cheek independence, complete with a wall-mounted constitution.
• See St. Anne's Church — Admire the flamboyant late-Gothic brick facade that Napoleon reportedly wished he could carry back to Paris.
• Stroll Pilies and Literatu Streets — Follow the main cobbled artery lined with amber shops and cafes, then detour to the wall of artistic plaques honoring writers.
• Tour Vilnius University — Wander the courtyards and frescoed halls of one of Eastern Europe's oldest universities, founded in 1579.

Food to try

• Cepelinai — Zeppelin-shaped potato dumplings stuffed with minced meat and topped with sour cream and bacon, Lithuania's iconic dish.
• Saltibarsciai — Vivid pink cold beetroot soup made with kefir, cucumber and dill, served in summer with a side of hot potatoes.
• Kibinai — Savory Karaim pastries filled with meat or vegetables, brought to the region from nearby Trakai.
• Sakotis — A distinctive spit-baked tree cake with spiky golden branches, traditionally served at celebrations.
• Craft beer and gira — Sample Lithuanian craft beers in Old Town bars or try gira, a refreshing fermented bread drink.
• Balandeliai — Cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice, simmered in a tomato or sour cream sauce.

Local customs & good to know

• Cash and cards both work — Lithuania uses the euro and most cafes accept cards, but carry some cash for small markets and amber vendors.
• Respect church etiquette — Dress modestly and stay quiet in the many active churches, especially at the Gates of Dawn chapel where locals come to pray.
• Old Town is walkable but cobbled — Wear sturdy comfortable shoes, as the uneven cobblestone lanes and hilltop climbs can be tough on heels.
• Learn a few Lithuanian words — A simple aciu (thank you) and labas (hello) are appreciated, though younger locals often speak English.

Nearby

• Užupis — 1 km
• Gate of Dawn — 1 km
• Vilnius Cathedral and Square — 1 km
• Gediminas Tower and Castle Hill — 1 km