# What to See in Vilnius – Lithuania May Road Trip

- Link: https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/europe/lithuania-may-weekend-what-did-we-see-in-vilnius/
- Published: 2024-12-16T23:28:01+01:00
- Author: Filip Chochół

Ten wpis jest również dostępny w języku:  [⌊Switch to Polski⌉Polski](https://warsawtravelers.pl/europa/litwa-majowkowy-urlop-co-udalo-nam-sie-zobaczyc-w-wilnie/)

 Table of contents

## Hello! 👋

[Vilnius](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&city=6960),
though small, has its surprises. We spent two days here – or rather a day and a 
half – exploring at a relaxed pace. As is often the case during trips, time always
feels shorter than you’d like.

Lithuania’s capital, as we quickly realized, is a compact city, perfect for exploring
on foot. Its charming Old Town, hidden corners, and accessible history make it a
pleasant place to wander. Don’t expect jaw-dropping attractions, but it’s this simplicity
that gives Vilnius its unique charm.

In today’s post, we’ll show you what we managed to see during our short stay. It’s
not a long list, but who knows – maybe we’ll inspire you to visit this city and 
discover it in your own way? 😊

## How our journey began

Our May getaway began in Vilnius – the small, peaceful capital of Lithuania. What
did this stop have in store for us? What was I able to see? 📍 [Enjoy the recap of the first part of the trip! ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/europe/lithuania-beginning-of-may-weekend-journey-2023-part-1/)
✨

 [ ⌊Couple posing in front of a classical colonnade at Vilnius, Lithuania, on a sunny day⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-005-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Old town

The Old Town in [Vilnius](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&city=6960)
is the essence of Lithuania’s capital. Narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming
squares create a calm, almost idyllic atmosphere. Strolling through this part of
the city, you can truly soak in its vibe – lively, yet free of unnecessary rush.

It’s one of the largest and best-preserved examples of Baroque architecture in Central
and Eastern Europe, earning it a well-deserved spot on the UNESCO World Heritage
list. The Old Town showcases Vilnius at its most picturesque and charming, making
it a must-see, even if your time in the city is limited.

 [ ⌊Man in dark jacket standing in Vilnius Old Town with a church tower in the background⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-022-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Vilnius Old Town street with ornate buildings and a Lithuanian flag on a lamppost⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-021-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Lithuania, Vilnius Old Town: historic building facade with an open-air art window display⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-023-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Gate of Dawn

The Gate of Dawn is one of the most recognizable landmarks in [Vilnius](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&city=6960).
It’s the only surviving one of the ten city gates that once surrounded the city.
Built in the early 16th century as part of the city’s fortifications, it now serves
as an important religious sanctuary.

Above the gate is a chapel housing the miraculous image of Our Lady of the Gate 
of Dawn, also known as Our Lady of Mercy. This image is venerated by both Catholics
and Orthodox Christians, drawing numerous pilgrims from all over the world.

👉 _For more information, visit the [official website of the Gate of Dawn](https://ausrosvartai.lt/)_.

 [ ⌊Vilnius Gate of Dawn in Lithuania, blue arched entrance with visitors and lanterns under a golden emblem⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-024.jpg)

 [ ⌊Lithuania, Vilnius Gate of Dawn exterior with ornate stone facade and archway, people walking through under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-025jpg-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Archcathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Vladislav

The Archcathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Vladislav is the most important
Catholic church in Lithuania and one of the most recognizable symbols of Vilnius.
Located in the heart of the city, on Cathedral Square, it attracts both tourists
and locals, serving as a central point for religious and cultural life in the capital.

The first cathedral on this site was built in 1387, the year of Lithuania’s baptism,
at the initiative of Władysław Jagiełło. The current Neoclassical appearance is 
the result of a reconstruction in the late 18th century, designed by architect Laurynas
Gucevičius. The cathedral’s monumental façade with its colonnade and the freestanding
bell tower draw attention, giving the church its distinctive character.

It’s a place worth visiting, whether you’re interested in history, architecture,
or the spiritual aspect of [Vilnius](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&city=6960).
The basilica is one of those landmarks in the city that never fails to leave an 
impression.

👉 _For more information, visit the [official website of the Archcathedral Basilica.](https://www.katedra.lt/)_

 [ ⌊Lithuania, Vilnius Cathedral: white church tower and colonnaded facade with statues under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-027-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Vilnius Cathedral in Lithuania, with a white clock tower and church façade under a blue sky and clouds⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-026-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Lower Castle in Vilnius

The Lower Castle, also known as the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, is a
reconstructed former residence of the Lithuanian rulers, located right next to the
Vilnius Cathedral on Cathedral Square. Originally built in the late Gothic style
during the reign of Alexander Jagiellon, the castle was repeatedly renovated, adopting
Renaissance and early Baroque features over time.

In the 17th century, the castle was damaged, and its remnants were dismantled at
the beginning of the 19th century. It wasn’t until 2002 that reconstruction work
began, which was completed in 2009, restoring the castle to its former glory.

Currently, the castle houses a museum that showcases the history of Lithuania and
the daily life of its rulers. Visitors can admire the recreated interiors, art collections,
and participate in various cultural events held at the palace.

👉 _For more information, visit the [official website of the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania](https://www.valdovurumai.lt/en/tickets/)._

 [ ⌊Vilnius Palace of the Grand Dukes entrance with ornate archway and coat of arms on the facade in Lithuania⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-029-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Vilnius Palace of the Grand Dukes courtyard with white arcades and chimneys under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-028-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Gediminas Hill

Giedymin Hill, also known as Castle Hill, is one of the most iconic landmarks in
Vilnius. According to legend, it was here that Prince Giedymin had a dream about
an iron wolf, which inspired him to found the city.

At the top of the hill stands the Gedymin Tower – the only remaining tower of the
former Upper Castle. From its viewing platform, visitors can enjoy an impressive
panorama of Vilnius, which includes both the historic Old Town and the modern districts
across the Neris River.

You can reach the hill on foot, but for those who prefer to avoid the steep climb,
there is a cable car available. However, it’s important to note that there is an
entrance fee to the tower itself.

 [ ⌊Vilnius Gediminas Tower in Lithuania, a brick tower atop a grassy hill under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-030-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Vilnius Gediminas Tower in Lithuania, with visitors walking on the stone path under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-032-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Gediminas Tower in Vilnius wall covered with colorful heart-shaped messages on Lithuanian flags⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-033-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Panoramic view of Vilnius Gediminas Tower over a river with city skyline and red-roof buildings in Vilnius, Lithuania⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-031-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Vilnius Gediminas Tower in Vilnius, Lithuania, with brick ruins and an observation tower on a hill under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-034-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## St. Anne’s Church in Vilnius

St. Anne’s Church in Vilnius is a true gem of late Gothic architecture, distinguished
by its intricate, lace-like façade made from 33 types of brick shapes. According
to legend, Napoleon Bonaparte, captivated by its beauty, wanted to move the church
to Paris.

The church was built at the turn of the 15th and 16th centuries, funded by the Grand
Duke of Lithuania and later Polish King Alexander Jagiellon. Though the interior
of the church is small, it captivates with its late Baroque altars designed by Jan
Krzysztof Glaubitz.

Next to the church stands a Neo-Gothic bell tower from 1874, designed by Nikolai
Čagin, as well as a monument to Adam Mickiewicz. Nearby, it’s also worth visiting
the Church of St. Francis and St. Bernard, which, together with St. Anne’s Church,
forms a harmonious architectural ensemble.

 [ ⌊Vilnius church complex with tall Gothic spires and a central statue under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-015-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Lithuania, Vilnius St. Anne’s Church exterior with tall spires and red-tiled roof under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-035-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## The Rasos Cemetery

The Rasos Cemetery in Vilnius, established in 1801, is one of those places that 
leaves an impression with its location and atmosphere. Spanning picturesque hills
and filled with old tombstones and monuments, it seems to tell the story of past
generations. Among the many graves, you can find those that have withstood the test
of time and the storms of history.

This place is especially significant for Poles, as it houses the “Mother and Son’s
Heart” Mausoleum, where the heart of Józef Piłsudski rests beside that of his mother.
But these aren’t the only interesting graves – as you walk among them, you’ll come
across the final resting places of professors, artists, and soldiers who shaped 
the history of the region.

We hadn’t visited cemeteries during our previous travels, but this place made us
realize how much you can learn from them. Every tombstone is part of a larger story,
often shaped by time and nature, yet still present. A walk through Rasos Cemetery
is not just a moment of contemplation, but also a reflection on the passage of time
and history, something truly worth noticing.

 [ ⌊Gravestones and a stone bench in Lithuania’s Vilnius Rasos Cemetery, framed by trees and a winding path.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-040-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Vilnius Rasos Cemetery in Lithuania, with stone graves and bare trees under a cloudy sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-036-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Vilnius Rasos Cemetery in Lithuania with rows of gravestones and crosses among green grass under leafless trees⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-037-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Vilnius Rasos Cemetery chapel with ornate stonework, arched entrance, and blue roof against a clear sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-039-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Grassy grounds of Lithuania’s Vilnius Rasos Cemetery with rows of white and gray gravestones under blue sky.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-038-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Portal

At the Vilnius railway station stands something that immediately catches the eye–
the Wilno-Lublin Portal. This circular structure, featuring a screen and camera,
allows residents of these two cities to “see” each other in real-time. The entire
project was initiated by the Benediktas Gylys Foundation with one main goal – to
bring people closer together, no matter where they live, and promote a sense of 
community.

The portal was launched in 2021 and has since served as a symbolic bridge between
Vilnius and Lublin. In the Lithuanian capital, it is located right in front of the
railway station, while in Lublin, it can be found at the Lithuanian Square. Moreover,
thanks to live streaming, passersby in both cities can catch a glimpse of daily 
life in their partner city – a bit like a quick “trip” to another country without
leaving their spot.

And it doesn’t stop there. In 2024, the project took on a global dimension with 
the addition of new connections to New York and Dublin. This made the Portal even
more special, connecting not just two cities in Europe, but also people from different
continents.

 [ ⌊Vilnius Portal in front of a building with Lithuanian signs and a large circular display sculpture in the foreground⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-041-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Vilnius TV Tower

The Vilnius Television Tower is the tallest building in Lithuania, standing at 326.5
meters. Located in the Karolinka district, it is one of the city’s most recognizable
landmarks, visible from many parts of Vilnius. While it is an important site in 
Lithuania’s history, our impressions from the visit were mixed.

Outside, the old antennas catch your eye as part of an outdoor exhibition. Unfortunately,
their condition leaves much to be desired – there are clear signs of weather damage
and a lack of proper maintenance. What could have been an interesting attraction
instead gives off an impression of neglect.

The interior of the building is, to put it mildly, quite dated. The decor and technical
setup seem to have been frozen in past decades, which may have its charm for fans
of retro vibes, but it’s hard to consider it a modern attraction.

The view from the top definitely saves the experience. The revolving restaurant 
at 165 meters offers a stunning panorama of the city and its surroundings – on a
sunny day, you can even spot distant landscapes. For those who love scenic views
from above, a visit to the tower can be a fascinating stop on the trip.

👉 _For more information, visit the [official website of the TV tower.](https://tvbokstas.lt/)_

 [ ⌊Vilnius TV Tower monument bell sculpture against a cloudy sky in Vilnius, Lithuania⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-042-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Inside Lithuania’s Vilnius TV Tower restaurant, with a table set for dining and large panoramic windows⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-045-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Vilnius TV Tower information structure in a grassy park with leafless trees under an overcast sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-044.jpg)

 [ ⌊Lithuania, Vilnius TV Tower: large satellite dish antenna in a grassy garden with trees in the background⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-043-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Lithuania, Vilnius TV Tower⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-vilnius-046-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Trakai

[Trakai](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&city=72632)
is a small, charming town located just a short drive from Vilnius, only a few dozen
minutes away. If you have a car, getting there is quick and easy, making it a perfect
spot for a short getaway from the capital.

The town is famous for its unique atmosphere and picturesque, colorful houses lining
the main street. This distinctive architecture is Karaite – a testament to the multicultural
history of the region. The Karaites, an ethnic minority brought to Lithuania by 
Duke Vytautas, have left their mark here, both in the architecture and culinary 
traditions.

Strolling through [Trakai](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&city=72632),
you can feel the calm, somewhat idyllic atmosphere of the town. It’s the perfect
place to escape the hustle and bustle of Vilnius, enjoy the views, and experience
a different side of Lithuania. While you’re there, it’s worth trying local Karaite
specialties, such as kibinai – meat-filled dumplings that are a local delicacy.

 [ ⌊Lithuania, Trakai Photos: blue wooden house with white columns and triangular gable under a cloudy sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-trakai-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Trakai Photos sign and red heart in a landscaped garden in Lithuania, with a building behind the trees⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-trakai-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Green wooden house in Trakai Photos, Lithuania, with a large gabled roof and white-framed windows⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-trakai-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Person taking a selfie in Trakai Photos in front of a yellow wooden house in Lithuania⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-trakai-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Trakai Castle

The [Trakai](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&city=72632)
Castle is one of Lithuania’s most iconic attractions, located on a picturesque island
in Lake Galvė. Its history dates back to the 14th century, when Duke Kęstutis began
its construction, and his son, Grand Duke Vytautas, continued the work, turning 
the castle into an important political and military center of the Grand Duchy of
Lithuania.

After Vytautas’ death in 1430, the castle’s significance gradually declined, and
in the 17th century, during the wars with Russia, it was severely damaged. It wasn’t
until the 20th century that reconstruction work began, restoring the castle to its
former glory.

Today, the castle serves as a museum, showcasing a rich collection related to the
region’s history. Visitors can admire both the castle interiors and exhibitions 
in the courtyard. Additionally, during the summer, numerous cultural events are 
held here, including concerts and festivals, attracting tourists from all over the
world.

👉 _For more information, visit the [official website of Trakai Castle](https://trakaimuziejus.lt/)._

 [ ⌊Lithuania, Trakai Island Castle with red-roof towers, flag, and a wooden boardwalk by the moat under a cloudy sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-trakai-005-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Lithuania’s Trakai Island Castle stained-glass window with a colorful castle and knight design above an arched doorway⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-trakai-007-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Lithuania’s Trakai Island Castle courtyard with brick walls and wooden walkways under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-trakai-008-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Stained glass windows at Lithuania’s Trakai Island Castle with heraldic figures and a red circular medallion⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-trakai-009-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Lithuania’s Trakai Island Castle with tall brick towers under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/lithuania-trakai-006-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Summary

We’ve checked off our list of things we wanted to see in Vilnius. Everything we’ve
described, we’ve experienced firsthand, and Vilnius turned out to be a calm city
with its own unique vibe – more suited for a short trip than a long stay.

Time to move on – [Estonia](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&city=1460)
awaits, although the forecast predicts rainy clouds to greet us. [But that’s a story for the next part of our May adventure](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/europe/estonia-may-car-trip-to-tallinn-2023-part-2/)!
🚗 🌧️