How to spend the ultimate weekend in Vilnius, Lithuania

02.12.2024 - 16:39 / lonelyplanet.com

Dec 2, 2024 • 6 min read

Lithuania has placed second in the Top Country category in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025. Its beautiful and historic capital, Vilnius, is the gateway to the country and the perfect city for a long weekend break.

I’ve long been fascinated by the Baltics, but this was my first time visiting Vilnius and it did not disappoint. I was eager to learn about the city’s history and deep dive into the flourishing food scene at some of the city’s recently starred Michelin restaurants.

There’s a lot to get through so let’s dive right in.

When to arrive: Fly to Vilnius International Airport, just 30 minutes outside the city, and take a moment to admire the beautiful architecture of the Arrivals Hall. It’s also possible to arrive by train from Kraków and Warsaw or using intercity buses from Rīga and Tallinn.

How to get from the airport: If you’re staying in the Old Town, take the 3G bus from outside the new departure terminal (€1/US$1.08; every 10 minutes). You can also catch a train from the station directly beside the Arrivals Hall, with trains running roughly twice an hour (€0.80/US$0.84 one way).

Getting around town: Vilnius is compact and walkable, so you’ll spend most of your time on foot. It’s worth downloading the Bolt app for scooters and taxis to reach sights further outside the Old Town.

Where to stay: Stay in the Old Town for the most character and proximity to the must-see sights. Design hotel Artagonist is centrally located on Pilies gatvė and features spacious rooms with original, giant wall murals by Lithuanian artists. 

What to pack: Bring smart casual attire to fit in with locals. Pack layers in autumn and winter and prepare for hot weather in summer.

How to spend the day: Head to Cathedral Sq to take in some of the city’s must-visit sights including Vilnius Cathedral and the Cathedral Bell Tower. After exploring the interior and admiring the architecture, linger in the square with your eyes lowered to the ground to find the Stebuklas "Miracle" tile, where tradition calls for you to make a wish while performing a 360-degree clockwise turn. It’s at the spot on Cathedral Sq that marks the end point of a human chain formed by two million people of the Baltic States protesting the Soviet occupation in 1989.

Next move along to the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, also on Cathedral Sq. Separated into four "Routes", you could easily spend half a day here delving into Lithuanian history, traditions and more, but you can also opt for a reduced price ticket and focus on just one or two routes. 

Moving further into the Old Town, following Pilies gatvė will take you to the House of Signatories, which provides essential insights into Lithuania’s Declaration of Independence in 1918.