Vilnius-4-day-itinerary
Vilnius, Lithuania 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Old Town Exploration
- Morning: Start at the Vilnius Cathedral Square, a beautiful spot surrounded by stunning architecture. Visit the Vilnius Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
- Lunch: Head to Šaltibarė (Gariunai Market) for some traditional Lithuanian cuisine, such as cepelinai (zeppelins) and kibinai (pastries).
- Afternoon: Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, exploring its many churches, monasteries, and museums. Be sure to visit the Gediminas Tower, which offers stunning views of the city.
- Evening: Enjoy traditional Lithuanian folk music and dance at a local restaurant, such as Žemaičių smuklė.
Day 2: Nature and History
- Morning: Take a short bus ride to Verkiai Regional Park, where you can hike through beautiful forests and visit the stunning Verkiai Palace.
- Lunch: Try some local street food at Pilies Street, such as langos (potato pancakes) or grilled sausages.
- Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Lithuania, which provides a comprehensive history of the country. Afterwards, stroll through the beautiful Bernardinai Garden.
- Evening: Enjoy a drink at Alaus namas, a cozy pub serving local beers and snacks.
Day 3: Užupis and Beyond
- Morning: Explore the charming neighborhood of Užupis, known for its bohemian vibe, street art, and quaint cafes.
- Lunch: Head to Užupio Kavine for a delicious coffee and pastry.
- Afternoon: Visit the KGB Museum, which provides a sobering look at Lithuania’s Soviet past. Afterwards, take a stroll along the scenic Neris River.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Forto Dvaras, a restaurant serving modern Lithuanian cuisine.
Day 4: Day Trip to Trakai
- Morning: Take a day trip to Trakai, a historic town located about 30 minutes from Vilnius. Visit the stunning Trakai Island Castle, which dates back to the 14th century.
- Lunch: Try some traditional Karaim cuisine, such as kibinai and kybyniai (meat pies).
- Afternoon: Explore Trakai’s charming old town, with its many wooden houses and scenic lakeside views.
- Evening: Return to Vilnius and enjoy a farewell dinner at Stiklių Street, known for its lively atmosphere and many restaurants.
Accommodation
- Budget: Stay at the Vilnius Hostel, which offers dorms and private rooms in a central location.
- Mid-range: Book a room at the Hotel Europa Royale Vilnius, a comfortable hotel with a great breakfast buffet.
- Luxury: Treat yourself to a stay at the Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius, a luxurious hotel located in the heart of the Old Town.
Transportation
- From the airport: Take bus no. 1 or 2 from the airport to the city center (about 30 minutes).
- Getting around: Use public transportation, including buses and trolleybuses, or take a taxi.
- Day trips: Book a guided tour or use public transportation to visit Trakai.
Tips and Essentials
- Language: While many Lithuanians speak English, it’s always helpful to learn some basic phrases in Lithuanian.
- Currency: The Euro is the official currency in Lithuania. Credit cards are widely accepted.
- Weather: Vilnius can be quite chilly, even in summer, so pack accordingly.
- Safety: As with any city, take usual precautions to ensure your safety.
Other Things of Interest
- Festivals and events: Check out the Vilnius Festival, which takes place every August, or the Uzupis Art Incubator, a unique art project.
- Markets: Visit the Gariunai Market or the Uzupis Flea Market for some unique shopping experiences.
- Outdoor activities: Go hiking in Verkiai Regional Park or take a bike tour of the city.