The top five must-do’s in Vilnius, Lithuania’s Captivating Capital

Vilnius is remarkable, yet for a city that has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, European City of Culture and one of the 25 Global Cities of the Future, it remains perplexingly under appreciated. Yet those who venture to Lithuania’s capital city will find a place that not only honors tradition and celebrates history, but has one eye firmly planted on the future. So, as you plan your trip to Lithuania’s capital city, here’s 5 things you absolutely must do while in Vilnius.

1. Walk with your head on a swivel
Vilnius is, by most metrics, a small city, which means it’s the perfect opportunity to give your legs some work. While trams, buses and taxis abound, undoubtedly the best way to see the city is on foot. Whether you’re perusing the magnificent Old Town and its cobbled streets (one of the largest in Northern Europe) or strolling along the Vilnia River surrounded by lush forest, it’s your feet that will best connect you to the soul of the city and its people. Yet, be sure to keep your head on a swivel, Vilnius is famous for its beautiful baroque architecture that adorns nearly every nook and cranny.

2. Embrace History
History is the lifeblood that beats loudly through Lithuania, and it can be heard screaming through Vilnius’ traditions, food and people. In the 17th and 18th century, Lithuania was part of a hugely powerful commonwealth with Poland, yet its 20th century history has been one of repression and oppression from the Soviet Union and Germany. Head to Gediminas Square to visit the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania for a more holistic look at the cities’ history (including its Italian Grand Duchess) while the KGB museum and Holocaust Museum provide a poignant insight into the countries more turbulent recent history. Oh, and don’t forget to take time to visit the nearby town of Trakai (easily accessible by car or train) and explore the 15th century castle and the pristine lake that surrounds it.

3. Calories are your friend
There’s no getting around it, you’re going to need to fuel all your sightseeing, and thankfully, Vilnius is a wonderful city for foodies. Be sure to keep your nose at the ready for the heavenly smell of Lithuania’s traditional fare, such as Cepelinai (a potato dumpling filled with meat), Kibinai (a meat filled pastry) and Šaltibarščiai (a cold soup that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is the mouth). For those more in tune with their international side, Paupio Turgus is a beautiful street food market and is the perfect place to gorge on everything from Mussels to Yakitori. Chocoholics should head to Ali Šokoladinė for the finest artisanal cacao, whilst Pizza lovers must try Užupio Picerija for Italian owned, wood fired pizza perfection and some of the very best Tiramisu anywhere in the Baltics.

4. Revel in the Bohemian Rhapsody of Uzupis
Vilnius can be separated into two distinct areas, the modern city itself and its medieval old town, yet it’s also home to its very own republic: the Republic of Uzupis, with its own constitution (written on plaques in a multitude of languages), president and unofficial currency. Don’t worry, there’s no passports or visas required, just a good sense of humour and a laissez-faire attitude. Uzupis is where you’ll find cobbled streets filled with quirky street art and quaint coffee shops for your caffeine hit. It’s unashamedly, uncompromisingly bohemian. Just remember, as rule number 25 of the constitution of Uzupis says “Everyone has the right to be of any nationality” so for one day, try being a citizen of the Republic of Uzupis. You won’t regret it!

5. Get high 😊
Vilnius is a beautiful city from ground level, but it’s up towards the clouds where it really shines. Vilnius is one of the only capital cities that allows hot air balloons to float effortlessly above its rooftops and it’s a fantastic way to see the cities perfect melding of urban and natural. If you’re not one for heights, head to the Hill of 3 Crosses and Gediminas Tower for stunning views over the city. Alternatively, go to St John’s Church Bell Tower housed in the University grounds, for a lesser-known vantage point. There’s even a lift, so sufferers of bathmophobia can rest easily!

Vilnius is as enchanting as it is beautiful and cosmopolitan, and travellers who choose to spend their time glued to its streets will find a city with a friendly and charming heartbeat that will thoroughly reward their curiosity.