The Top Places To Go in Vilnius, Old Town
Cathedral Square and Vilnius Cathedral
From all the places to go in Vilnius This is a No.1. With its six columns and three figures adorning the top, this cathedral is an instantly recognizable sight. Built between the 13th and 15th century it is considered the most important place for Catholics in Lithuania. Tours of the Cathedral Crypts are excellent and provide information about some of Lithuania’s prominent historical figures. The square surrounding Vilnius Cathedral hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year.
Pilies Street
Cobblestone Pilies Gatve (Castle Street) is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops that primarily sell amber jewelry and linen (two of the main products of Lithuania). Visitors will notice beautiful architecture and will have an excellent view of the remains of Gediminas’ Castle peaking out between the buildings.
Gediminas’ Castle
Located on a hill, Gedimina’s Castle offers a stunning, unobstructed view of the old town, well worth the easy walk up. Additionally, there is a small exhibition about the castle as well as information about the historic Baltic Way, but the interior of the castle is temporarily closed for remodeling.
Vilnius University
Founded in 1579, Vilnius University is considered the oldest university in the Baltic States, though it was originally a Jesuit college. In the 1700s the Jesuit order dissolved and Vilnius University became secular. It was closed several times during Soviet and Nazi occupations. It is now the leading university in the country and the old part of the campus, located primarily on Universiteto g. can be visited for a small fee. The beautiful courtyards and library are worth a visit.
Vokieciu Street
Tree lined, Vokieciu Street comes alive in the summer with its outdoor bar and restaurant seating. The beautiful buildings lining the street were rebuilt after Soviet times, taking inspiration from German architecture.
Stikliu Street and Zydu Street
Formerly part of the Jewish area of the city, visitors will see plaques, signs, and statues commemorating Jewish history in Vilnius. Zydu Street is a tiny street, but was the site of the former Great Synagogue, which was destroyed during the Holocaust. The site is now a primary school.
Located near the Vilnius City Hall, Stikliu Street is now home to some great shopping. Linen Tales is a great boutique for linen and home decorations.
St. Anne and Bernardine’s Church Complex
The red brick structure of St. Anne and Bernardine’s Church Complex is a must see. St. Anne’s Church is a large Gothic building that was originally built in the 1400s out of wood. After a large fire, it was subsequently rebuilt in brick. Bernardine’s Church and Monastery is situated next to St. Anne’s Church and is also built in the Gothic style, but features Renaissance and Baroque details. Both interiors are exquisite.
Hill of Three Crosses
Featured on many postcards, the Hill of Three Crosses is easily recognizable and dates back to the 16th century. The current crosses located on the hill are white, although the original crosses were wooden, but like many other religious symbols, were destroyed during Soviet occupation.
Gates of Dawn
The Gates of Dawn is a major Christian pilgrimage sight in Northern Europe due to its iconic statue of the Virgin Mary without baby Jesus. As the the only remaining gate of the former city wall that once surrounded Vilnius in the 16th century, The Gates of Dawn also has historical significance in its own right. From all the places to go in Vilnius, This is probably the second most comon place to go.
Presidential Palace
The Presidential Palace is a beautiful white building built in the Classical style during the 16th century. It was originally used by Vilnius’ bishops. During occupation, the Presidential Palace became a residence for the Governor General of Vilnius and was visited by prominent historical figures including Napoleon Bonaparte and Tsar Alexander I. The building was completely overhauled in 1997 and currently is used to receive dignitaries and for government meetings. A portion of the building’s interior can be toured, but visitors must be prepared to sign up in advance, bring their passport, and submit to a security check.
Vingis park
Vingis Park is situated on a bend of the Neris River and covers an area of 160 hectares. In the 15th–16th century, it belonged to the Radvila (Radziwill) family, and later it belonged to Bishop Ignas Masalskis. Even later it was owned by Vilnius Governor General Leontij Beningsen, who built an elaborate summer house in the pine forest. In 1919, after the re-establishment of Vilnius University, a botanical garden was located on the grounds of the former manor of Vingis Park. In the 20th century, the garden was severely damaged by both a flood and by war. The major part of the recreated garden was moved elsewhere.
Lukiškių Square
Vingis Park is situated on a bend of the Neris River and covers an area of 160 hectares. In the 15th–16th century, it belonged to the Radvila (Radziwill) family, and later it belonged to Bishop Ignas Masalskis. Even later it was owned by Vilnius Governor General Leontij Beningsen, who built an elaborate summer house in the pine forest. In 1919, after the re-establishment of Vilnius University, a botanical garden was located on the grounds of the former manor of Vingis Park. In the 20th century, the garden was severely damaged by both a flood and by war. The major part of the recreated garden was moved elsewhere.
Monument to Vincas Kudirka
Sculptor: Arūnas Sakalauskas. 2009
A monument to the awakener of the Lithuanian nation, writer, publicist, composer, doctor and author of the Lithuanian anthem, Dr. Vincas Kudirka has been erected in the square in the centre of the capital.
V. Kudirka (1858–1899) published most of his works in the magazine of literature, politics and science Varpas, which he—along with other kindred spirits—launched into publication in 1889. On 15 September 1898, V. Kudirka published Tautiška Giesmė (National Song) with notes in the Varpas. This patriotic poem became the national anthem of Lithuania in 1919. Following the restoration of independence, Tautiška Giesmė by V. Kudirka again became the anthem of Lithuania.
White Bridge
A pedestrian bridge surrounded by a big grass field that’s perfect for picnics. You’ll also find beach volleyball and basketball courts, as well as skatepark here, so it’s a perfect place either for sports or rest.
This bridge offers a spectacular vista if you’re coming from the direction of the Old Town. Fun fact: in 1999 a famous Lithuanian pilot flew his plane under this bridge as well as most other bridges on the Neris River.
Presented information is based on Vilnius Tourism and theculturetrip.