Vilnius Old Town, being one of the largest medieval old towns in Europe, attracts with its charming blend of ancient history and modern lifestyle. Start your journey wandering through its narrow streets and admire the baroque architecture. Explore the Vilnius University, taking up a whole block and boasting an elaborately decorated library, bookstore with ceiling paintings and its own church. Stroll through Literatų Street, adorned with plaques and artworks dedicated to writers and poets who have connections to Vilnius. Visit the Gate of Dawn, the last remaining gate of the city’s original defensive wall and popular holy site that attracts pilgrims from all over the world. Don’t miss Vilnius Cathedral, the biggest in the Baltics and St. Anne’s Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, located on the edge of the Old Town. Perched atop the hill just next to the Cathedral, the symbol of Vilnius, the iconic 14th-century Gediminas tower offers panoramic views of the city. You can either hike up the cobbled path or take a funicular to reach the top.
What began as an April Fools’ Day joke for a small group of creatives in 1997 is now a famous place luring travellers from all over the world. The self-declared Republic of Užupis has its own president, government, constitution and parliament, based in the local pub. It even has a navy consisting of three small boats, used mainly for ceremonial purposes, and initially had an army of around 10 men that was soon after retired, given the republic’s peace-loving attitude. From the rather troublesome place it used to be in the post-soviet period, Užupis has grown into a beautiful neighbourhood of artists, intellectuals and entrepreneurs with laid-back and bohemian atmosphere.
Dating back to the 15th century, Hales Market is one of the oldest in Vilnius, officially established in its current form in 1906 and known for its glass-roofed structure and preserved historical elements. Located next to the Old town, the Marketplace has always been popular among the townspeople and its guests for its wide selection of locally grown and very fresh produce as well as for the home manufactured goods. The market also offers various food stalls and small restaurants where you can enjoy everything from freshly squeezed juices to burgers and pastries. In the evenings, the market transforms into a lively spot with bars and eateries.