Things to do in Vilnius

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a charming city that combines ancient beauty with modern energy. The city is famous for its well-preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where architectural styles range from Gothic and Renaissance to Baroque and Neoclassical. In the streets of Vilnius, you can find mysterious courtyards and enjoy views from the Gediminas Tower. In addition to its historical heritage, the beauty of Vilnius is revealed through its rich cultural and social life, with museums, galleries, and never-sleeping cafés. Whether you’re drawn to history, art or just want to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, Vilnius will leave no one indifferent.

For those looking for fun activities in Vilnius, the city offers a wide range of attractions and unique activities to suit all tastes. Want to immerse yourself in history? Visit interesting places such as Vilnius Cathedral or the Dawn Gate and learn about the city’s past. Love art? Visit the many galleries or take part in local art events and exhibitions. For those who prefer to be more active, Vilnius offers a variety of parks and nature trails to enjoy on foot or by bike. The city is also famous for its café and restaurant culture, where you can sample traditional Lithuanian dishes or try international cuisine. Vilnius’ attractions and activities ensure that there is something for everyone to see and do. Whatever you’re looking for, Vilnius has plenty to offer.

What to do in Vilnius on a sunny summer day?

Historical sights and cultural attractions

1. Gediminas Castle: Start your day with a visit to this symbol of Vilnius. Visit places like this one and start your day with a visit to the castle. From the castle on the hill, you can see the whole of Vilnius’ extraordinary Old Town, its beautiful streets and sunsets. You can find out more about the castle itself by visiting the museum inside the castle.
2. Old Town: Take a walking tour of Vilnius Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy its beautifully preserved medieval architecture, including Gothic churches, Baroque buildings and impressive squares.
3. St. Visit St. Anne’s Church and Bernardine Church. Visit St. Anne’s Church with its Gothic architecture and distinctive façade. The Bernardine Church is also nearby, where you can admire the memorable interior and peaceful atmosphere.
4. Vilnius Cathedral Basilica. In winter, this square is where the Christmas tree is lit, and in summer it is the venue for concerts, shows and fairs.
5. Visit this historic city gate and its temple, which houses a miraculous image of the Virgin Mary. It is an important pilgrimage site and a symbol of Vilnius’ religious heritage.
6. Uzupis Republic: Crossing the Vilnia River, you enter this bohemian quarter known for its artistic atmosphere and unique constitution. Explore the quirky art objects, galleries and cafés, and everyone will enjoy it, so feel free to go with the kids.
7. Bernardine Garden: relax in this beautiful park with its landscaped gardens, flower beds and sculptures. It’s a great place for a stroll or a picnic. It’s a place often frequented by Lithuanian celebrities, so don’t be surprised if you meet them too.

https://www.govilnius.lt/aplankykite/lankytinos-vietos/gedimino-pilies-bokstas

Museums and cultural institutions

1. National Museum of Lithuania: Explore Lithuanian history, culture and art in an elegant 19th-century building. This museum offers a wide range of exhibits to explore the country’s past and traditions.
2. Learn about the history of KGB prisons and the Soviet occupation of Lithuania. The museum is housed in the former KGB headquarters. Teenagers and their parents should be impressed by the museum.
3. Museum of Applied Arts: Explore Lithuanian and international applied arts, including textiles, ceramics and jewellery, in a historic mansion building. The manor house is crowded at the weekend, so for those who like peace and quiet, it is recommended to visit this place on weekdays.
4. Literature Museum: explore Lithuania’s literary heritage at the museum, which hosts regular exhibitions celebrating famous Lithuanian writers and poets. Here you can learn about the history of Lithuanian literature and its influence on culture and art.

https://lt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taikomosios_dail%C4%97s_ir_dizaino_muziejus

Outdoor activities

1. Gediminas Hill and the Hill of the Three Crosses. Enjoy the magnificent views of Vilnius and the surrounding countryside and the historical highlights offered by these prominent landmarks..
2. Walk or rent a bike along the picturesque banks of the Neris River. Enjoy the panorama of the city and relax in one of the cafés or parks along the banks.
3. Vingis Park. Hire a pedalo or boat and swim in the lake, have a picnic or attend one of the frequent outdoor concerts or festivals. Vingis Park will be especially fun for children and teenagers, so the whole family will be happy.

https://www.govilnius.lt/visos-naujienos/festivalyje-jaunas-kaip-vilnius-daugiau-nei-70-tukst-zmoniu

Entertainment and events

1. Concerts and festivals: check local event schedules, especially outdoor concerts in places like Vingis Park or Cathedral Square. Vilnius hosts a variety of major music festivals and cultural events during the summer, attracting Lithuanians from all corners of Lithuania. Nowhere else around Vilnius will you find this opportunity.
2. Outdoor cinema screenings. The location usually varies, but parks and gardens are often chosen to add a special cosy flavour to this type of event. These places create a unique atmosphere for enjoying films in the open air, surrounded by nature. It is a great way to spend an evening with family or friends enjoying a cultural event.
3. Street performers and artists. Immerse yourself in the streets of the Old Town, where you can find musicians playing enchanting melodies, artists capturing the spirit of the city or craftsmen creating intricate designs. Such experiences evoke a magical feeling, as if the whole street had come alive with cultural diversity and creativity.

https://www.lrytas.lt/kultura/meno-pulsas/2021/07/16/news/vasara-mieste-is-karscio-svaigulio-vilniecius-budins-nemokami-vasaros-kino-seansai-20111206

Eating and entertainment

1. Outdoor cafés and restaurants: Enjoy Lithuanian cuisine or international flavours at one of the many wild cafés and restaurants in Vilnius Old Town or by the river banks. The most popular places to dine include Vilnius and Castle Streets, Gediminas Avenue, Bernardinai Courtyard, Peronas, Amy Winehouse and the terraces of the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, Užupis, Paupys, and many others.
2. Rooftop bars/terraces. Rooftop bars are the best place to sit down and enjoy a romantic and cosy sunset with your friends or loved ones. To avoid having to think about what to visit, we recommend going to interesting places like Opera Social House, Neringa Rooftop, Grill Terrase, ČIOP ČIOP and many more.

Additional tips:

1. Guided tours: join guided walking or cycling tours to get to know Vilnius better by hearing from local guides.
2. Bike and scooter rental: Renting a bike can be a convenient way to explore Vilnius, especially if you plan to explore the parks and riversides of Vilnius. Another means of transport can be electric scooters, which are plentiful on every street corner in Vilnius. And if you are staying at the Amberton Hotel, scooters can be used free of charge – for anyone who wants to travel fast and without polluting the environment.
3. Check the weather forecast, as the climate in Lithuania can often be unpredictable and change quickly, so it’s important to check the weather to make the most of your time.

What to do with your little ones in Vilnius?

Vilnius has a wide range of activities that you can experience with your children. Here are some suggestions:

1. 1. M.K. Čiurlionis Gallery: in the gallery, you can see the paintings and graphic works of the famous and highly respected artist M.K. Čiurlionis and listen to his music in a setting of exhibited works of art.
   2. Botanical Garden: the Vilnius Botanical Garden is a great place for little ones. Children can walk among different plant species, see exotic plants and meet small animals such as butterflies and amphibians. This place offers a great opportunity to learn about nature and ecosystems while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. It is a great place for family outings and educational activities.
   3. Water parks: These parks offer swimming pools, ski slopes, water rides and other fun activities for the whole family. It’s a great place to spend time together, enjoy water activities and relax. Water parks in Vilnius provide a fun and active experience for all ages.
   4. Outdoor fun: if active outdoor activities are something the little ones would like to do, you can enjoy a go-karting activity with tracks specially designed for children. Another option would be a trampoline park, where you can jump safely on trampolines supervised by cheerful, young and friendly staff.
   5. Educational programs for children: Most museums and cultural centres in Vilnius organise special educational programmes for children. You can visit national museums or other cultural sites where interactive activities, educational seminars or children’s theatre performances are organised.
   6. Parks and playgrounds: Parks in Vilnius, such as Vingis Park and Bernardinai Gardens, have playgrounds where children can play on various play equipment or just take a stroll in the beautiful natural areas.

All these places and activities can be combined according to your children’s needs and interests, so you’re sure to find lots of fun ways to spend time with your little ones in Vilnius!

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It’s raining – relax in a beauty salon or enjoy a tasting

When rain makes an unexpected appearance in the capital, there are other interesting ways to relax and enjoy the weather:

1. Bliss Fashion Beauty Salon: Try the services of a beautician who will help you feel comfortable in your own skin and boost your confidence. The salon also has manicure and pedicure technicians, where you’ll receive one of the most meticulous and creative services in the city. The massages offered at the salon are a must-try treat. The massages are carried out by professional craftsmen and are tailored to suit every need, from sports massages to classic and relaxing ones. Finally, you can also beautify yourself in the salon: the salon has eyebrow correction artists and hair stylists, so if you want to refresh your hair, the hotel offers you the opportunity.
2. Gastronomic delights: Vilnius boasts a lively culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants showcasing different flavours. After a relaxing beauty salon session, visit the Amberton Hotel’s acclaimed Stebuklai restaurant, or try other restaurants offering Lithuanian or international cuisine.
3. Cultural activities: Visit museums, art galleries and historical monuments. Experience Lithuania’s rich cultural heritage by visiting museums such as the National Museum of Lithuania, or take a guided tour of Vilnius Cathedral and Gediminas Castle.

Whether you choose to pamper yourself in a beauty salon or enjoy gourmet food, or explore Vilnius’ cultural life when it’s raining, the capital city still offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained.

https://www.garbacauskas.com/?galleries=bliss-fashion-vilnius

Why is Vilnius even more beautiful in winter? What is there to see and do?

In winter in Vilnius, there are plenty of special places to go or things to try, whether in Vilnius city centre or in the Vilnius district.

1. Liepkalnis ski slopes:
   • The Liepkalnis ski slopes are one of the most popular places for winter sports in Vilnius. The slopes are not only convenient for beginners, but also offer a great panorama of Vilnius. Here you can enjoy the beauty of the city while skiing, especially when the bright winter snow covers the city. It’s a great place for family fun, meeting friends and improving your skills.
2. Nature walks:
   • Vilnius is famous for its parks and natural areas. Vingis Park, close to the city centre, is an ideal place for a peaceful and cosy stroll. The park has many paths that allow you to enjoy the surrounding nature and relaxation. The Bernardine Gardens, with its baroque ensemble and historic walls, are also a place of wonderful winter charm.
3. Visiting cultural attractions:
   • During winter, Vilnius offers many opportunities to explore Lithuania’s history and culture. The National Museum of Lithuania is the most important museum where you can learn about the history of Lithuania from ancient times to the present day. Vilnius Castle and the Gediminas Tower are also emblematic landmarks of the city that are worth a visit to get a better understanding of the historical development of Vilnius.
4. Enjoying traditional dishes:
   • During the winter, Vilnius invites you to enjoy a variety of dishes that are perfect to warm you up during the cold season. The most popular dishes are traditional Lithuanian soups (e.g. borsch soup), as well as fried dumplings and potato pancakes, often served with various sauces. Restaurants in Vilnius offer both authentic Lithuanian dishes and masterpieces from around the world.
5. Winter festivals and events:
   • During the winter, Vilnius welcomes residents and visitors with a variety of festive events and festivals. Christmas concerts and fairs are held in various churches and squares during Advent. The winter festival “Vilnius – City of Wonders” also invites visitors to take part in a variety of festive activities such as ice sculpture exhibitions, light festivals and many other attractions, while the Amberton Cathedral Square Hotel Vilnius gives visitors the opportunity to see the lighting of Lithuania’s main Christmas tree from their balcony.

All of this makes Vilnius a special city to visit in winter, as it offers many memorable experiences and moments to share with family and friends.

https://welovelithuania.com/liepkalnis-atsidaro-sestadieni-kitos-slidinejimo-trasos-lietuvoje-laukia-daugiau-sniego/

Sightseeing and entertainment in Vilnius – one day is not enough to see everything

One day is not enough to truly feel the spirit of Vilnius and absorb its impressive heritage. Vilnius is full of historical monuments, cultural events and beautiful natural areas to explore and see. That’s why a longer stay is ideal to fully immerse yourself in this city. “The Amberton Hotel, with its top-class service and comfortable accommodation, is the perfect place to feel at home and at the same time have easy access to all of Vilnius’ attractions, whether on foot or with the hotel’s complimentary electric scooters, which are suitable for both young and old.

In Vilnius, every neighbourhood is full of its own uniqueness. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its baroque architectural gems, including Vilnius Cathedral and its roof, Gediminas Castle and Cathedral Square. The area is also home to many cosy cafés, souvenir shops and restaurants, where you can sample local specialities and learn more about Lithuanian cuisine.

Gediminas Avenue, which runs from the Old Town towards the more modern districts of Vilnius, not only offers a great opportunity to shop and stroll outdoors, but also to enjoy the stunning views of the city from the terraces of tall buildings. There are many cultural centres, art galleries and museums to explore Lithuanian history and contemporary art.

Pilaitė Park or Vingis Park are ideal places for a quiet stroll or picnic. These parks are known for their variety of natural and recreational areas, which allow you to forget the noise of the city and enjoy the outdoors. In winter, Vingis Park hosts an ice arena for ice skating and Christmas festivities that attract both residents and visitors.

In short, Vilnius is a city where there is something for everyone, from the history and architecture of the Old Town to modern events and a peaceful natural oasis in the city centre. And staying at the Amberton Hotel, you will be able to make the most of your trip by sampling all that this unique city has to offer, because one day would not be enough to discover the full beauty and essence of the city.

https://www.nordicexperience.com/tours/vilnius-tours/vilnius-old-town-walking-tour/

Why is it worth to visit Vilnius?

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a city worth visiting for many reasons. It combines a rich history, cultural diversity and stunning architecture, making Vilnius a unique destination for both local and foreign tourists.

First and foremost, Vilnius Old Town impresses with its historic architecture and cosy streets where you can feel the authentic spirit of the city. A stroll through the Old Town gives you the opportunity to see architectural gems from different eras, cosy cafés and local shops. There are plenty of places to relax, sample the local cuisine and simply enjoy the atmosphere of the city.

Vilnius is also a cultural and artistic centre. The city is full of museums, art galleries and theatres offering a wide range of cultural events. Whether you’re interested in history, contemporary art or music, there’s plenty to see and do in Vilnius. The city is home to many festivals and events that attract people from all over the world, giving you the chance to feel the pulse of the city and meet the locals.

For nature lovers, Vilnius also has plenty to offer. The city is surrounded by verdant parks and forests that offer a chance to escape the noise of the city and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. Whether you’re into active recreation, like walking and cycling, or just want to spend some quiet time surrounded by nature, you’ll find the right place in Vilnius.

Vilnius is famous for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The city’s inhabitants are open and welcoming, making visitors feel welcome at all times. In addition, Vilnius is a convenient and accessible city for travellers. The city’s infrastructure is well-developed and public transport provides easy access to the main attractions. Vilnius is also well connected to other European cities, making travel to the capital convenient and fast.

All in all, Vilnius is a city that impresses with its rich history, cultural diversity and beautiful nature. It is a place where you can immerse yourself in the past, enjoy contemporary works of art and simply relax in beautiful surroundings. Vilnius invites every traveller to discover its unique charm and experience unforgettable impressions.