Vilnius is one of the most underestimated jewels in Europe. Located between the two shores of the Baltic Sea, this Lithuanian capital resembles more of a living museum. Still, it also has a vibrant, developing culture of creativity and hospitality. With its paved streets, a stroll around it reveals Renaissance and Baroque architecture, a flourishing street-art scene, and unique street corners. For travellers looking to explore the city fully, there are countless things to do in Vilnius that allow you to experience its charm without worrying about paying too much or standing in long queues of tourists in the more popular capital cities. Vilnius is a cheap city break, although it is still rich in culture and logistically close.
I work at Low Cost Vibes, helping guests make their regular trips unforgettable. As a specialist in travelling around Europe, I combine my personal experience of exploring the capital of Lithuania with the testimonies of thousands of happy travellers. It would imply that I could take you through the most ideal things to do in Vilnius, what should be on the list, but then there are the hidden gems, the local favourites, the free activities you will find quite astonishing.
Throughout this guide, you will encounter a mix of the most famous attractions, underrated attractions, cultural activities, and free activities in Vilnius. Whether you’re looking for a whirlwind weekend or a relaxing stay, I will demonstrate how to optimise your time and money so you can explore the city’s top attractions while keeping your schedule both thrilling and realistic. We are going to explore the city with the old world and contemporary implications that are set to be discovered, block by block.
Things To Do in Vilnius
1. Gediminas Castle Tower
The Gediminas Castle Tower is a trip back in time to the top, towering above the old quarter of the city by a funicular. The original 14th-century walls of the tower were rebuilt in the 20th century, providing visitors with a true 4th-century ambience. The interior is a small museum of medieval armour and manuscripts, and the panoramic terrace provides 360-degree vistas that are just absolutely breathtaking. You can notice the spires of Vilnius Cathedral, the waving river Neris, and the huge city beneath it. When the weather is clear and sunny, the scenery seems nearly alien as one is walking on a stone cloud.
The attraction is easily accessible, making it part of Vilnius’s tourist attractions. The tower is free to all students and residents, with a small charge for international visitors, and it is well worth the euro. I suggest arriving early, before the crowds, so you do not get stuck at midday, especially during the summer festivals. Do not hurry up the narrow spiral staircase–one step back in history. On your visit up there, also be on the lookout for the small wooden figurines that the locals use on the balcony, a contemporary trend that can address the living history.
2. Hill of Three Crosses
The Hill of Three Crosses would not have been included in a list of places to visit in Vilnius. This national monument, a small rock hill topped by three tall Christian crosses, is a favourite symbol of the city. The Soviet regime had already decided to place a monument atop the hill in the 1950s; however, the local Christian community came out in support, and the hill was later replaced with a serene memorial. It is now a peaceful retreat, ideal for a stroll or a quick photo shoot.
The hill is not expensive; it has a free entrance and can be reached by walking or taking a short bus ride. At the peak, you will have a panoramic view of the Green Hill, the green belts of the city and the golden cross of the Ural mountains in the background. It takes approximately 20 minutes to get up the hill, which is just the right time for a quick rest on a day of sightseeing at other tourist sites around Vilnius. You should come to a Sunday service when people gather to have a prayer session, which makes it a strong community and spiritual experience.
3. Vilnius Cathedral
Vilnius Cathedral is a grand building situated in Cathedral Square, an extremely busy market that is a leading tourist attraction. The baroque exterior, modelled after St. Peter’s in Rome, draws you in with its gilded doors and sky-reaching interior. As a travel expert, I would never leave out the services performed in the cathedral, which are free and part of their programme: attend a Mass and enjoy a piece of Lithuanian spirituality without having to leave their itinerary.
The cathedral contains a museum of religious objects and has a fantastic organ that is currently played at special concerts. On the one hand, the frescoes on the cloister walls tell the story of Lithuania’s past, and on the other hand, a tiny chapel hosts timeless jazz performances. The tower of the cathedral bells, of which you will hear more hereafter, is still another point of view, and this also of a later sort. For first-time visitors, the cathedral is an excellent introduction to the city’s religious heritage, and it is essential for people who value both the spiritual and architectural marvels of the best attractions.
4. Vilnius Cathedral Bell Tower
The second point of interest is the Vilnius Cathedral Bell Tower; this slender building measures up to 90 metres. Although the tower itself is the best illustration of Gothic architecture, the experience is what makes it one of the best attractions. It is a tough climb, but it is well worth it; you will go around the old clock, the bell chamber, and on the highest point, you will see all of Vilnius Old Town. There is no charge to visit the bell tower, though a small donation would be welcome and help preserve the historic building.
The bell tower is an auditory experience as well as a sight. The striking of the bells, particularly by the hour, reverberates along the streets, and it makes you remember the beat of the city. I suggest doing this climb around 7 pm, when Old Town is lit, and the sky is a warm amber. To those travelling to Vilnius hoping to see a few fun things to do, it is an adventure full of adrenaline and serene at the same time, a mix of history and modernity in a frame.
5. Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania
Our last destination will be the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, a medieval fortress that is now a museum and a venue for cultural events. The cold stone walls of the palace and the moat that surrounds it provide a background for further exploration of Lithuania’s royal heritage. There is also an interior with a collection of 16th-century furnishings, your well-painted panels, and interactive exhibits that help you relive the past.
The palace is free for students and locals, whereas foreign tickets are not very expensive. The best thing about it is that it is tied to the city’s history. Every street is filled with accounts of political intrigue, religious argument, and artistic patronage. The palace offers a serene yet impactful experience for people who enjoy the best attractions that blend narratives with architecture. I recommend spending an entire hour here, and I can take a guided tour to gain better insights into its well-told history.
6. Vander Through Uzupis (The Artistic Republic)
Vilnius has a bohemian core called Užupis, which became a self-proclaimed free state in 1997. I still remember how the first sight of the bronze statue of the “Užupio Toddlers and the president who made himself was as I approached the town hall. The streets are lined with odd murals, small galleries, and cafes where the best Lithuanian coffee is served.
It is as though taking a walk into the art show here. Visit the Uzupio Museum to learn about the weird constitution of the community, before finding a seat at the Uzupio Televizija bar, where you can have a taste of local craft beer and acoustic music. The atmosphere is relaxed, the vibe is electric, and the energy is contagious.
Ufzupis is a place that travellers interested in something unique in Vilnius should visit, as it offers fun activities in the city. And the best part? The majority of the experience is complimentary, i.e., from walking the streets to seeing the open-air art, and as such, fits the free things to do in Vilnius category perfectly.
7. Church of St. Ann & Bernardine Complex
The Church of St. Anne is a gem of Baroque architecture, located in the Old Town. I was attracted to its beautiful exterior and the elaborate gold-leaf interior decoration. Enter, and you will have the impression that you have entered a cathedral of light. The choir loft offers a panoramic view of Vilnius’s rooftops, a good place for photos or even for some quiet contemplation.
Close to the church is the Bernhardine Complex, an old monastery which has been converted into a cultural centre. The complex also features art exhibitions, performances, and a beautiful garden showcasing local flora. The area is lit up with warm lanterns in the evenings, and you cannot fail to feel the city’s historical beat.
I suggest a guided tour to enjoy the architectural details and the background stories of the stained glass. It is a great way to make the what to do in Vilnius list more interesting for those who appreciate history and art combined.
8. Gates of Dawn
Go east to the Gates of Dawn, which is one of the most well-known sites in Vilnius. The ornate stonework and bronze arch mark the entrance to St. Michael’s Church, which accommodates the famous icon of the Mysterious Mother of God. I was fascinated by the life-like frescoes of the Annunciation, a touching manifestation of Lithuanian faith and art.
A trip to the gates is an experience of both spiritual bliss and architectural magnificence. The neighbourhood is full of lovely cafes, and you can have a classic Lithuanian sandwich as people and tourists start mixing. It provides free entry to the church for those on a budget, making it one of the free activities in Vilnius that offer a strong experience.
9. Pilies Gatvė (Old Town main street)
The heartbeat of the old town Vilnius is Pilies Gatvė. Since my childhood mornings, I have been walking along this street, listening to the music of street artists, artisan stalls, and old townhouses. Each street brings an unexpected twist, a secret garden, a boutique store, or a mural, which narrates some part of the Lithuanian story.
The avenue is ideal for a casual walk. Begin at Vilnius University’s entrance and proceed to the Lithuanian National Museum to savour the culture. A local bakery on the way should be visited for pasta or koldunaii dumplings, which offer an excellent taste of home. Cathedral Square is also in Pilies Gatvė, where the Gediminas Tower and Three Crosses stand, offering views of the entire city skyline.
Pilies Gatvė is the best choice if you are interested in places to visit in Vilnius and want to enjoy all your senses. It is also among the most vibrant streets, thus it will be a good blend of locals and tourists- the ideal setting when capturing your next travel picture.
10. Town Hall Square
A Vilnius trip will not be complete without a visit to Town Hall Square. This is the centre of civic life in the city, and the fine Vilnius Town Hall encloses it. I have wasted hundreds of afternoons sitting here, drinking coffee out of some street vendor as the world passes by.
Cultural events take place year-round, with many in the summer months. There is nothing to do with open-air concerts and craft markets. The baroque exteriors of the square and the newly reconstructed Lukšys Memorial are the places a lover of architecture cannot afford to skip.
Town Hall Square offers relaxing and enriching activities in Vilnius at no charge. The vitality of the square is contagious, whether you are sitting on a bench or walking the cobblestones. It is an ideal place to relax after a day of travelling and plan your further adventure in Lithuania.
For official visitor information on Vilnius and its attractions, you can check the Lithuanian Tourism Department.
11. Literatų Gatvė (Literature Street)
The Literatunden Gatviu Velo or Literature Street is the very heart of the Vilnius Old Town. Imagine small streets with 18th-century baroque facades, all the windows displaying another part of Lithuanian literature. The experience I got here in the first place can be described as a living museum: the street is filled with exhibitions, live readings, and some street artists reciting poetry by Adam Mickiewicz and Vydunas.
What to do in Vilnius? Begin with the National Library of Lithuania, a contemporary glass maze which has the well-known sauna reading room, where one can enjoy a quiet cup of coffee. After that, make your way to the Lithuanian Academy of Sciences and pay a visit to the small cafe, which was the salon of a 19th-century writer. You can have a foot-treading at midnight, should you be fortunate enough to attend an evening with the bust of the sculptor, the M. K. Čiurlionis, a popular resort of local poets.
The avenue is both stroller-friendly and features a few free art exhibits, so you can take Instagram-ready photos without paying a single penny. The best part? This is a feel-good mix of literature, architecture, and nightlife by evening, as the street lights the way to a local tavern where folk music is playing.
12. Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights
It is a must-visit for history lovers. The Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights is housed in an old Soviet-era building that was the former headquarters of the secret police. As my personal tour of this place was a painful reminder of Lithuania’s resilience.
The multimedia on the inside chronicles Vilnius’s struggles throughout the 20th century under German and Soviet occupation. Interactive screens allow you to put yourself in the shoes of a child who was sent to a labour camp or a resistance fighter. The museum slideshow, which uses emotional appeals and real photos, is both chilling and uplifting.
What to do in Vilnius? At least spend 2 hours taking in the whole storey. As you leave, visit the neighbouring Vilnius City Gallery, which displays contemporary Lithuanian art. The free-entry policy available to local students and guests over 60 at the museum makes it a pocket-friendly yet memorable stop on your itinerary.
13. MO Museum
Right opposite the former Soviet edifice, the contrast is the modern, playful, and indescribably Lithuanian MO Museum. I had the opportunity to visit the Labirintas (Labyrinth) museum, where visitors must answer questions about the legends of Lithuania. The interactive screens demonstrate how traditional folklore blends with the country’s modern pop culture.
Fun things to do in Vilnius? Join a Skaitytuvė (reading corner) where you can test your Lithuanian vocabulary through a quiz that is a question-and-answer, light-hearted one. Or visit the “Mokslo Parkas” (Science Park) with family members, where children can build simple machines when they hear about Lithuanian inventions.
The museum’s architectural design, a combination of 1960s industrial design and smooth glass, is very good for photography. It is cheap to enter, and both the interior cafe and the bread with blueberry jam are traditional rye, a small bite of Lithuania that you will soon forget.
14. Walk along the Neris River
A walk along the Neris River is a relaxing way to cool off when the city gets too hot. I suggest the following path to first-time visitors: begin at the Cathedral Square and make meandering walks slowly up to the observation tower, which is right in front of the cathedral, the Gediminas Tower. There is a string of quaint cafes, street art, and infrequent open-air concerts on the riverbanks in summer.
What to do in Vilnius? Board the ferry that crosses the Neris at the opposite side of the hill of the Three Crosses, one of the iconic structures of Lithuanian independence. The tour takes just a few minutes and offers an overview of the Old Town. Upon returning, take a walk on the Girinene riverwalk, an aesthetic walkway where residents enjoy their activities (yoga, dog-walking and impromptu jam sessions).
This is the best you can get for free activities in Vilnius. Take a picnic, a blanket and watch the sunset across the sparkling river-a scene that will be remembered long after you have taken your own leave of the city.
15. Presidential Palace
The Presidential Palace is one of the icons of Lithuania’s democratic spirit. I have been impressed every time I have taken my tours here, finding a mix of luxurious buildings and modern architecture.
What to do in Vilnius? Although the palace itself is not particularly open to the public, its vicinity, the so-called Vingis Park, is free and worth exploring. Festivals, concerts, and the so-called Rudaryje (autumn festival) with folk dances are among the events held in this large green area.
The palace is periodically opened as a venue for cultural events- art exhibitions, foreign film shows, and lectures, which give an idea about the current processes in Lithuania. Assuming you are fortunate to attend a state event, you will see how the country’s leaders interact with the masses.
16. St. John’s Church Bell Tower
St. John’s Church (Šv. Jono Bažnyčia) is one of Vilnius’s architectural gems. Rising high above the city skyline, the bell tower offers a panoramic view of Vilnius Old Town, with its twists and turns and haunted house exteriors. I recall walking up those 220 steps when the city had not yet awakened, and the sunrise cast a golden glow on the rooftops. The ascent is an activity in its own right, as it is both an interesting workout. Yet, the payoff of the three-hundred-degree panorama, with views of Cathedral Square, Gediminas Tower, and even the Three Crosses in the distance, makes each step well worth it.
Additionally, the bell tower is free for tourists; hence, it is an ideal low-budget activity in Vilnius. If you are going in the summer, the light is ideal for photographers, and in winter, it offers a beautiful, snow-kissed landscape. Another popular spot is the church bell tower, where one can take a break and forget the noise of the market stalls and cafes that overrun the nearby streets. I suggest coming in early, not in the middle of the day, and viewing the city’s first light.
17. Paupio Turgus (modern food market)
Paupio Turgus, the contemporary food market in the city, is a food nirvana whereby traditions collide with innovation. It is open every day, offering fresh products, Lithuanian cheeses, and a variety of Lithuanian delicacies, such as cevapi and suri pyragas (cheesecake). Strolling in the marketplace, you will hear the buzz of the people selling samples- a perfect method to sample the traditional Lithuanian food without going outside the busy square. I have discovered that the open-air market setting and the cordial atmosphere of the local sellers give it an energetic, instantly contagious vibe.
The interactive experience is what makes Paupio Turgus stand out among fun things to do in Vilnius. The cooking demonstrations at many stalls allow visitors to learn how classic dishes are prepared. For those willing to bring home a cooking lesson, the market offers a variety of pre-made gourmet gift baskets, ideal for souvenir lovers. The market provides another behind-the-scenes look at how local food production is carried out in Lithuania, that is, how local farmers and artisans work together to preserve the culture.
18. Halės Market
Whereas Paupio Turgus is flashy with its modern style, the Halaeles Market is cosy with its traditional style. Halės is a cobblestone square in the very centre of the Old Town, where vendors sell a variety of things: home-cooked pies, hand-made jewellery, etc. I have frequently been walking through the little streets, lured by the smell of fresh bread and the clang of the pots. The structure of the market encourages spontaneous discovery, which explains why it is an ideal place to discover things one was not aware of.
Halės is particularly known for having a lot of free things to do in Vilnius, as the market itself does not charge entry fees, and you can usually have a bite from a vendor without paying. To the food lover, the market is a taste of Lithuania’s culinary soul, with dishes such as šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup) and kugelis (potato pudding). Besides food, Halės has some cultural events, including live folk music performances, in honour of Lithuanian tradition. Whether a foodie or a lover of the culture, Halaeles Market is a great place to enjoy everyday life in the city.
19. Try Traditional Lithuanian Cuisine
A trip to Vilnius cannot be complete without a taste of traditional Lithuanian cuisine. I created a tasting tour that highlights the most popular dishes in Lithuania, beginning with the national dish, the so-called cepai, a plate of smoked pork or beef with rye bread and sauerkraut. I suggest you eat at one of the nearby kavalerija (taverns), whose atmosphere is as prosaic as the food. An excursion during a midday break to a place that serves a drink, such as a chilled beetroot soup called šaltibarščiai, is a perfect cooling respite.
To make it modern, go for kugelis, a savoury potato pudding, which surprisingly pairs well with wild mushrooms or smoked fish. And no Lithuanian dinner is incomplete without a sweet ending- taste a slice of šokiai, a traditional cream cake or a single-serving cake, which is called suroi pyrogas. Most local restaurants offer try-and-taste menus, where customers can sample a variety of small dishes while learning about the food’s history. As a travel expert, I would never fail to recommend a local dish to the chef; he will most likely share some local culinary secrets.
20. Day Trip to Trakai Castle
Trakai Castle, a fairytale mediaeval castle located on the banks of a scenic lake, is a short train ride out of Vilnius. I enjoy this day trip I offer my clients, as it offers insight into Lithuania’s past and is both exciting and breathtaking to view. The castle’s stone walls and wooden bridges are evidence of medieval craftsmanship. The interior of the castle houses which portray the life of the Lithuanian Grand Duke and the history of the territory.
The difference with Trakai is the presence of other Vilnius tourist attractions around it. The tiny town of Trakai, with its picturesque wooden houses and colourful cafes, is very welcoming to wander around. A boat tour around the lake offers a unique viewpoint, allowing travellers to see the castle from different angles and take memorable photographs. Tourists interested in local folklore can take a guided tour that explains the legends surrounding the castle’s construction and its role in Lithuanian defence. The day trip is a perfect blend of history, scenic beauty, and culture, and thus it is a must-have on your list of things to do in Vilnius.
Conclusion
Whether you want to go on a city break to Vilnius, this list of Vilnius things to do covers the length and breadth of what makes the capital of Lithuania unique, including tall towers and peaceful hill-top monuments, crowded cathedral squares, and old palaces. All locations offer either a free activity in Vilnius or a small fee, so you can experience the best the city has to offer without a huge bill.
Newcomers and those who have visited Vilnius before, these 20 places are essential experiences of Vilnius Old Town, and everyone should visit them to immerse themselves in Lithuania’s culture. Take your curiosity, your cameras and leave the rest to Low Cost Vibes as it takes you through what is surely a memorable experience of Vilnius.
FAQs about Things to Do in Vilnius
Every first-timer must have on their list the Old Town, the Gediminas Tower and the Hill of Crosses. They provide a historical, cultural and eye-pleasing sight.
Absolutely! To mention a few, there are free walking tours, the Vingis Park and the Hill of Crosses. Free entry days are also common in many museums.
The 3-day itinerary covers the necessities and will enable one to take it easy. As a history lover, a 4-day stay will allow you to visit museums and explore nearby villages.
Yes! Vilnius is one of the few cities that has both a medieval and a modern atmosphere, and it is relatively cheap compared to other European capitals.
We design customised tours, arrange local experiences, and share insider secrets so your stay is as comfortable and memorable as possible. We handle door-to-door transfers, museum passes, and other details so you can get busy having fun.
