Source-2-Walkable-Vilnius
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is one of the oldest cities in northern Europe. Did you know that it is considered the second most populous city in the Baltic States? It is known for its architectural masterpiece and is regarded as one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved old towns. When you visit this city, you will enjoy the scenic landscape and rivers that might relieve you from your daily chaos. These are some of the reasons that make this city a tourism asset, and a trip to this city is worth giving a shot.
In this article, you will get a glimpse of this city, its rich culture, heritage, food, and much more that might entice you to visit this artistic city.
Things You Should Not Miss Doing
1. Take in the Views of this Old Town from a Hot Air Balloon.
This activity, especially in the evening during the warmer months, can give you a unique experience in the hot air balloon. It is a soothing ride of 1 hour in the sky, you’ll enjoy the undeniable beauty of UNESCO of this Old Town. The ride will give you a top view of the historical buildings, streets, rivers, and colorful streets.
2. Self-Guided Kayaking on Žeimena River
Žeimena River is located near the border of the Švenčionys and Vilnius districts. It is known as one of the cleanest rivers in Lithuania, as it flows through Sand Dunes, making it the best choice for Kayaking. Swimmers can bask in this activity with the help of a rented kayak. It’s a relaxing, easy, and chilled ride. You will encounter pine trees, cozy furnished stops, and a few villages on your way.
3. Biking Vilnius on a Scooter
You can tour this city on an electric scooter with a local guide. If you want to have some fun activities but have less time, this is the best activity for traveling to UNESCO’s listed Old Town. On the way, you will explore the main streets, rivers, bridges, and some panoramic spots of this city. Historical landmarks, flawless architecture, and artistic streets & buildings are some things that you can notice while you are riding.
4. Experience the Joy of Flea Markets.
Vilnius has many flea markets where you can find beautiful handcrafts, antiques, vintage clothing, rare collectibles, and Soviet-era memorabilia. You can interact with these local vendors and buy unique jewelry that reflects its history and vibrant arts scene. In this market, you can also find the best Lithuanian honey. It is a local specialty worth trying, which is infused with herbs and spices.
Kalvarijų Market is a well-known place if you are looking for herbs & spices, spices like dill and caraway seeds, other spices like juniper Berries, paprika, thyme, and allspice (a mix of different spices used in both sweet and savory dishes) is something that you can expect from this market.
Make Sure to Visit these Places
This city is a blend of history and modernity. As you walk on the streets of this city, you will encounter some of the most visited places, museums, viewpoints, churches, and pilgrimages recommended by beloved locals and visitors.
Discover some of the most loved places by the locals.
1. Glass Quarter
The Glass Quarter is one of the oldest places hidden among the big streets of Vilnius. It is surrounded by jewelers, local artists, craft and workshops, cozy restaurants, the headquarters of the chamber orchestra, art galleries, and the Stikliai Hotel.
2. The Gediminas Tower
If you want to admire the sunset and spectacular view of the entire city, you are at the right place. This tower has three floors and the first floor exhibits jewelry and military artifacts. The second floor contains an interactive exhibition, which gives you the experience of historic events that have taken place in the country. On the third floor, visitors can get a glimpse of one of the most memorable historical events: ‘The big anti-Soviet demonstrations’. This event took place in August 1989.
3. Užupis
It is the smallest and most vibrant district in Vilnius. It is separated from the Old Town by the Vilnelė River. You can make your way under Užupis Bridge. This place is famous for its open-air sculptures and installations, which are constantly changing. You will get to see ‘the Angel of Užupis’ in this place, which was suggested by the ‘Dalai Lama’ during one of his visits to the city.
Explore these Famous Museums that You can’t Afford to Miss
1. Auto Museum
The auto museum has over 100 cars, from its first motor vehicles to modern supercars. You will uncover the world-class historical car museum in the legendary Vilnius Taxi Park. This museum represents the evolution of cars.
2. Railway Museum
The Railway Museum was established in 1966. Twelve exhibits are spread over the 7,100 m2 open-air exhibition area. This museum displays road vehicles, wagons, trains, locomotives, a water steam pump, a wagon heating boiler, an old road worker hammer, and old scales. It is situated on the second floor and is divided into three halls. The first hall represents information (exhibition), the second one is for cultural (exhibitions and events), and the third one has educational models.
3. Vilnil. Museum of Illusions
Vilnil. Museum of Illusions is a 600 m2 space museum where physics and optics are displayed together with mysterious artworks and classical riddles. The researchers of this museum are often researching the world of science and art. They are constantly looking for new artistic solutions. Moreover, it has been complimented for opening the exclusive 2D Cafe. These interesting illusions will make you curious and bring smiles to your face.
Churches and Pilgrimages that One Must Experience
1. Vilnius Cathedral (Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Vladislav)
Vilnius Cathedral Church is located in Cathedral Square and is considered to be the most worshiped and significant site in Lithuanian history. It is a major architectural landmark and attracts numerous visitors due to its beautiful exterior and interior styles.
2. St. Anne’s Church
This church is one of the most iconic landmarks in this city, Lithuania. This church was built with the help of various craftsmen and artists whose unique art has made this church so significant. Gothic Brickwork is used to construct the exterior of this church and is recognized as a key feature for the same. The church has gone through various restorations to maintain its unique architectural features.
3. St. Peter and St. Paul’s Church
This church is known for its Baroque architecture, opulent interior, and historical significance. This church was built in the late 1700s and is a major attraction for tourists due to its Baroque architecture and lavish interior. Several religious ceremonies and regular services are hosted here.
We hope these recommendations have given you valuable insights and guidance for your upcoming trip or if you are currently in the city.
Top Recommended Local Dishes with the Restaurants
1. Cepelinai (Zeppelins)
This dish is typically made of large potato dumplings. It is filled with meat, cheese, and mushrooms. They are served with sour cream and bacon bits. It is loved so much by the people there that it is cooked at least once a month.
Best Place to have: Etno Dvaras
2. Šaltibarščiai (Cold Beet Soup)
Who would not love a cold beet soup on a warm day? It is recognized as the world’s most aesthetic cold soup. This soup is bright pink, as it gets the natural color of the beet. Three more ingredients like kefir cucumbers, and dill are added to it which makes it incredibly tasty.
Finally, it’s garnished with boiled eggs and served with boiled potato.
Best place to have: Restaurant Lokys
3. Kibinai
Turkic Karaites are one such minority group who have invented Kibinai. It is a traditional dish of these people living in Trakai. One can enjoy a Kibinai piece by traveling from Vilnius to Trakai. The pastries are filled with mutton, beef, or vegetables. It is the perfect evening snack that is available in any Trakai cafe.
Best place to have: Senoji Kibinine
4. Bulviniai Blynai (Potato Pancakes)
Pancakes! Who doesn’t enjoy them, whether they be salty or sweet? This crispy potato pancake is enjoyed by the young and old. You can relish it with sour cream or mushroom sauce.
Best place to have: Gusto Blynine
5. Sakotis
Sakotis is a delicious dessert you can try after your meal. This dish is made with butter, 100 eggs, sugar, and a secret ingredient. It’s usually cooked for weddings and parties. It is also called tree cake and is generally served with coffee. You might get one type of it at Sudovia and another at Druskininkai. This dish will satisfy your sweet cravings
Best place to have: Coffee 1
Modern Vilnius
Vilnius is a developed city and is known as the economic heart of Lithuania. This city covers ⅓ of the population of Lithuania’s country. The income is considerably high, and the average cost of living per person in the city is around 500 to 1200 EUR.
It generates around 42.4% of the national GDP. The economy of this city continues to grow. The manufacturing sector constitutes the biggest part of GDP in Lithuania. Many manufacturing industries are present in Vilnius.
As we know, the tech sector has evolved a lot after COVID-19, and the tech industries are rapidly growing in Lithuania.
Higher Education for International Students and Job Opportunities
If you are new and looking for a job in Vilnius, there are several opportunities. If you are tech-savvy, you can work as a UI/UX designer, software developer, data scientist, and information security analyst. You can also work as an HR, lawyer, project manager, market researcher, and much more.
Students can earn and learn by attending career fairs and mentorship programs like ‘BeFriend’ and ‘Land a Job in Vilnius’. These help students with job opportunities in various industries. This city provides quality education to students, exciting nightlife, low rents, and attractive discounts.
Interesting Facts about the City
- Kernavė, Trakai, and Kaunas were the first three capitals before Vilnius became the capital of Lithuania.
- The Vilnius TV Tower’s height is 326.5 meters and is the tallest building in Lithuania. It symbolizes the country’s Soviet past and its journey towards Independence.
- The climate of this city is cool and markedly seasonal. Generally, tourists prefer to travel to this city during the warmer spring and summer.
- In 2009, this city was declared the ‘European Capital of Culture’ due to its nightlife.
- Lithuania is ranked 19th globally but has secured a top spot in under-30 rankings in the World’s Happiest Place to Live category.
- During Christmas, this city turns itself into a Winter Wonderland. Various activities like ice skating, traditional market stalls, and festive performances are held.
- ‘Gate of Dawn’ is the most famous pilgrimage and a tourist attraction.
- This city is recognized as an attractive destination for foreign direct investment (FDI).
The localities here are friendly and welcoming. You can roam this city by foot, bike, or whatever makes you feel comfortable. This city is a blend of old and new, so if you want to enjoy the lively nightlife and cultural fests, visit the historical buildings, or indulge yourself in tasty food, you have it all!
