A weekend in the Baltic city of Vilnius

The capital of Lithuania, Vilnius is a vibrant city with a flourishing cultural scene and a heartwarming type of local hospitality. It's an overlooked Baltic gem.

With its low average temperatures, the best time to visit Vilnius is from June to September. This is the peak tourism season in Lithuania with pleasant temperatures and the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities such as walking and cycling. 

With so many reasons to visit, we've compiled a list of our top things to do on a weekend break in Vilnius either on an individual basis or with others:

Explore the Old Town

With a history that spans centuries, there are so many historical sites to see during your weekend in Vilnius. One must-see historical site is the Vilnius Old Town, which is a well-preserved city centre that dates back to the 13th century. The Gothic architecture and stunning location make it a sight to behold. 

Dine at the local, family-run restaurants

With so many delectable dishes to try, dining in Vilnius is one of the best experiences a visitor can have. From Michelin-starred establishments to hidden gems, the city has something to suit all tastes and budgets.

But forget about 4-5 course fine dining. In Vilnius, the best food is found at quaint local restaurants and street food stalls. One of our personal favourites includes kotleta (cutlet), breaded mince meat patties served with boiled potatoes, sauerkraut or salads. Be sure to check out Senoji Trobele, a cosy family-run restaurant serving up all the local classics.

Hit the museums

There are so many great museums in Vilnius to explore on a city break, but our personal favourite is the Lithuanian National Museum of Art. The museum has a broad collection of paintings, sculptures, drawings, photographs, and installations dating from the 16th century to the present day and features works by iconic artists of the Baltic region.

Visit Trakai Island

A day trip to the Trakai castles and lakes is a great way to end your time in Vilnius. Just a 30-45 minute bus ride from Vilnius lies Trakai Island. The Gothic architecture and stunning location make it a sight to behold. Included in the Trakai Historical National Park, Trakai Island Castle is a striking 14th-century fortification that lies in the centre of Lake Galvė. It is now home to the fascinating Trakai History Museum, which includes a range of ancient artefacts such as coins and handicrafts. archaeological objects, coins and crafts. 

Wander through the Vilnius Christmas markets 

The Christmas markets in Vilnius are an incredible way to experience the festive atmosphere of this ancient city. What's better than shopping for handmade goods from local artisans, drinking exquisite wines and sampling top-notch cuisines while listening to merry music? And you can do all that and more at the Christmas markets in Vilnius.

Explore the wonders of Vilnius on an escorted holiday with us. Book today.