Vilnius 5 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Old Town Exploration
Morning
- Arrive at Vilnius International Airport (VNO)
- Take a taxi or bus (No. 88) to your accommodation in the city center
- Check-in to your hotel, such as Hotel Europa Royale Vilnius or Airbnb apartment
Afternoon
- Start your journey at the Vilnius Cathedral Square, a stunning example of Baroque architecture
- Visit the Vilnius University, one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe
- Explore the narrow streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings
Evening
- Enjoy traditional Lithuanian cuisine at Žemaičių smuklė, try their famous zeppelins (zeppelinas) with meat or vegetables
- Take a stroll along the Neris River and enjoy the city’s evening atmosphere
Things to Know
- Vilnius has a compact city center, making it easy to explore on foot
- Be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven pavement in the Old Town
Day 2: Hill of Crosses and Užupis
Morning
- Visit the Hill of Crosses, a unique site with thousands of crosses brought by pilgrims over the centuries
- Take a short bus ride (No. 16 or 17) to the hill, located about 10 km outside Vilnius city center
Afternoon
- Return to the city and explore Užupis, a charming neighborhood known for its bohemian atmosphere and artistic vibe
- Visit the Užupis Art Incubator, a hub for local artists and designers
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at Užupio Kibinai, serving traditional Lithuanian dishes with a modern twist
- Explore Užupis’ bars and cafes, such as Kultūra or Šaltibar
Transportation
- Use public transportation (buses) to get around the city; tickets can be purchased at kiosks or online
- Taxis are also widely available, but more expensive than public transport
Day 3: Museums and Parks
Morning
- Visit the National Museum of Lithuania, showcasing the country’s history and culture
- Explore the Lithuanian Art Museum, featuring a collection of Lithuanian art from the 16th to 20th centuries
Afternoon
- Take a stroll through Bernardinų Park, a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city
- Visit the Botanical Garden, home to over 10,000 plant species
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at Forto Dvaras, serving traditional Lithuanian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
- Take a leisurely walk around the city, enjoying its evening atmosphere
Day 4: Day Trip to Trakai
Morning
- Take a day trip to Trakai, a historic town located about 28 km west of Vilnius (approximately 30-40 minutes by car or bus)
- Visit the Trakai Island Castle, a stunning example of Gothic architecture and a former residence of Lithuanian grand dukes
Afternoon
- Explore Trakai’s charming Old Town, with its wooden houses and picturesque streets
- Try some traditional Karaim cuisine, such as kibinai (pasties) or šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup)
Evening
- Return to Vilnius in the evening and enjoy dinner at Bistro 18, serving modern Lithuanian cuisine
- Visit the Vilnius TV Tower, offering panoramic views of the city
Day 5: Shopping and Departure
Morning
- Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring local markets, such as the Gariunai Market
- Visit the Pilies Street, a pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants
Afternoon
- Check-out of your accommodation and head to the airport (approximately 15-20 minutes by taxi)
- Depart from Vilnius International Airport
Tips and Other Things to Know**
- Learn some basic Lithuanian phrases, such as “Labas” (hello) and “Ačiū” (goodbye)
- Be prepared for variable weather, with layers and waterproof gear
- Try local beer, such as Utenos or Švyturys
- Explore Vilnius’ many festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Vilnius Festival or the Vilnius International Film Festival