Best things to do and see in Vilnius
Vilnius is the highest populated city in Lithuania. As it is the country’s capital, it is the center of its economic, politic and administrative activity. Located in the southeastern part of the country, it is very close to the Belarusian border where the Vilnius and Neris rivers merge. The first written testimony of Vilnius comes from 1323, found in letters written by the Grand Duke Gediminas. The old town of this city is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Eastern Europe, and it was recognized by UNESCO in 1994 as a World Heritage site. Furthermore, its cuisine is outstanding and pairs perfectly with a stroll down any of its streets which all abound with its charming history and culture.
If you do a free walking tour with a local guide in Vilnius, whether it be in the morning or the afternoon, you will easily come across a large number of essential stops to explore from the old town to the equally beautiful surrounding neighborhoods. On top of being a great way to be able to get to know the secret spots and ancient corners of this city that aren’t so well-known, the itinerary of the guided tour will bring you places like the Gate of Dawn, Vilnius’ City Hall, (Vilniaus Rotušė) to its Cathedral or the Church of Saint Anne. You will undoubtedly end up walking on Pilies Street (Pilies Gatve) in the old town or the Jewish neighborhood, Užupis; the self-proclaimed Republic of Užupis, which is truly worthy of a visit. Other points of interest that are also worth your time on the tour are Gediminas’ Avenue, the Hill of Three Crosses, the Museum of Genocide Victims or the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania.