Vilnius: attractions, restaurants, itineraries

Vilnius - the ancient European capital

Vilnius is not only the capital of Lithuania but also a remarkably picturesque city with a centuries-old history that dates back to the Middle Ages. Vilnius is perfect for long walks through its ancient narrow streets.

Lithuanians take great care of their heritage, so in the Old Town, you won't find concrete and glass buildings of futuristic designs. Here, the atmosphere of old kindly Europe reigns with terracotta roofs, Christmas markets, and cathedral spires. Most of the main attractions are located in the central district of Šanamieštis. Be sure to visit St. Anne's Church, Cathedral Square, and Castle Hill.

Vilnius also has a modern side. The Šnipiškės area is home to many shopping centers, offices of large companies, and sophisticated restaurants. To feel the traditional atmosphere of Vilnius, head to the Žvėrynas district. Here, colorful 19th-century stone houses sit side by side with equally remarkable cathedrals and churches.

Vilnius is a kaleidoscope of charming details that help you fall in love with this city forever. It is imbued with the sweet aroma of mulled wine and chocolate, the taste of traditional dishes, and decorated with the colorful patterns of picturesque souvenirs.

When to go?

The capital of Lithuania, Vilnius, boasts a moderate and mild climate. The best time to visit this ancient city is considered to be from May to September. However, it's worth noting that July and August in Lithuania can often be rainy. Winter is also a great time to visit Vilnius. The average temperature rarely falls below -2 to -3°C. Therefore, you can confidently travel here to enjoy the Christmas market and the colorful festive illumination.

What to buy?

The main symbol of not only Vilnius but also the entire Lithuania is amber. This natural gemstone mesmerizes with its sunny shimmer and depth. In some shops in Vilnius, you can purchase amber jewelry for women, cufflinks, chess sets, photo frames, decorative figurines, and much more. You can also buy a piece of amber with insects or plants encased within it as a souvenir. This feature is a prime indication of the amber's authenticity.

In Vilnius, they also produce high-quality wool and linen products: hats, mittens, scarves, bedding, bags, tablecloths. In souvenir shops, you can often find amazing handcrafted glass items: figurines, decorations, dishes. Children can be delighted with traditional wooden toys. Another, one might say, essential purchase for tourists in Vilnius is liqueurs. In specialized stores, you can find a variety of liqueurs made from fruits, honey, herbs with strengths ranging from 12 to 75 degrees.

What to try?

Lithuanian cuisine is unimaginable without its traditional dessert – the "Šakotis" cake. This cake can be sampled in virtually every restaurant in Vilnius, and is also available in supermarkets and street stalls. Outwardly, this amazing dessert resembles a tower or a fir tree, and its cross-section looks like a tree trunk with characteristic rings. This wonder-dessert is not baked in a regular oven but on a special spit (in the authentic version – over an open flame).

The cuisine of Vilnius is Baltic uniqueness enhanced by the influence of German and Slavic culinary traditions. Among the starters, one should try the mushroom borscht with dumplings, beer soup, and cold borscht on kefir. Traditional Lithuanian cuisine features a plethora of potato dishes: potato sausages called vedarai, potato sticks with švilpikai sauce, and potato pudding. The main Lithuanian delicacy from the sea is smoked eel.