Things to Do in Cathedral Square, Lietuva

Cathedral Square (Katedros aikštė) forms the heart of Vilnius Old Town, Lithuania's capital and largest city. This historic cobblestone square is dominated by the neoclassical Vilnius Cathedral and the iconic 57-meter bell tower, creating one of the most photographed and significant locations in the Baltic States. The square serves as both a spiritual center and a gathering place for major national celebrations, concerts, and cultural events throughout the year. Surrounding the cathedral, visitors will find themselves immersed in centuries of Lithuanian history, with the square connecting to the narrow medieval streets of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. The area represents the perfect starting point for exploring Vilnius, offering easy access to Gediminas Castle Hill, the Royal Palace, and the charming network of baroque churches, artisan workshops, and cozy cafes that make the Lithuanian capital so enchanting. The square's central location and historical significance make it an essential stop for anyone wanting to understand Lithuania's rich cultural heritage and national identity.

Top Things to Do in Cathedral Square

Explore Vilnius Cathedral and Bell Tower

Visit the stunning neoclassical Vilnius Cathedral, rebuilt multiple times throughout history, and climb the separate bell tower for panoramic views over the Old Town. The cathedral houses the Chapel of St. Casimir, Lithuania's patron saint, featuring beautiful baroque decorations and frescoes. Don't miss the miracle tile in the square - local legend says making a wish while spinning on it three times will make it come true.

Booking Tip: Cathedral entry is free, but bell tower visits cost around €4.50 for adults. Best visited in morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and fewer crowds. No advance booking required, but tower may close during bad weather.

Tour Gediminas Castle and Museum

Climb Gediminas Hill directly behind Cathedral Square to explore the remains of the 14th-century castle that gave Vilnius its start. The tower houses a museum showcasing Lithuanian history and medieval artifacts, while the hilltop offers the best panoramic views of the Old Town's red-tiled roofs and church spires. The site is considered the symbolic heart of Lithuanian statehood and independence.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around €5 for adults, €2 for students. Open daily except Mondays. Can be reached by foot (steep climb) or funicular for €2. Best visited in clear weather for views - check conditions before climbing.

Discover the Old Town's Historic Streets

Wander through the cobblestone streets radiating from Cathedral Square to explore one of Europe's largest and best-preserved medieval old towns. Visit the Gothic St. Anne's Church, browse amber jewelry shops, and discover hidden courtyards filled with galleries and cafes. The area contains over 1,200 buildings spanning Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical architectural styles.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but consider a guided walking tour (€15-25) for historical context. Many churches charge €1-3 entry. Best explored on foot wearing comfortable shoes due to uneven cobblestones.

Visit the Palace of the Grand Dukes

Explore this reconstructed Renaissance palace that once served as the political and cultural center of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The museum features archaeological findings, period furnishings, and exhibitions about Lithuanian nobility and court life. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations bring medieval and Renaissance Lithuania to life for visitors of all ages.

Booking Tip: Entry costs €6 for adults, €3 for students. Audio guides available for €3. Open Tuesday-Sunday, closed Mondays. Allow 2-3 hours for full visit. Book online to skip ticket lines during peak season.

Experience Traditional Lithuanian Culture

Attend folk performances, traditional craft demonstrations, or seasonal festivals that frequently take place in Cathedral Square throughout the year. Sample traditional Lithuanian cuisine at nearby restaurants, visit local artisan shops selling handmade crafts, and learn about customs like the human chain that connected the Baltic states during independence movements. The square often hosts concerts, markets, and cultural celebrations.

Booking Tip: Events vary by season - check local tourism websites for schedules. Traditional restaurants nearby range €10-25 per person. Folk performances often free, but donations appreciated. Summer months offer most frequent cultural events.

Getting There

Vilnius International Airport is located 7km south of the city center, with regular bus connections (€1) taking 15-20 minutes to reach Cathedral Square area. Taxis cost €8-15 to the center, while ride-sharing services are also available. The city is well-connected by bus to other European capitals, with the main bus station about 2km from Cathedral Square. Train connections exist to Poland, Belarus, and Russia, though services are limited. Many visitors arrive via budget airlines from other European cities, making air travel often the most convenient option.

Getting Around

Cathedral Square and the entire Old Town are best explored on foot, as most attractions are within walking distance and many streets are pedestrian-only. The city operates an efficient public bus and trolleybus system (€1 per ride, day passes €3) connecting to areas outside the historic center. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt are readily available and affordable for longer distances. Bicycle rentals are available throughout the city center, though cobblestone streets can make cycling challenging in the Old Town area.

Where to Stay

Old Town near Cathedral Square

Gedimino Avenue

Užupis district

New Town business district

Near Vilnius University

Antakalnis neighborhood

Food & Dining

The area around Cathedral Square offers excellent dining options ranging from traditional Lithuanian taverns serving cepelinai (potato dumplings) and cold beet soup to modern European restaurants and trendy cafes. Pilies Street and nearby cobblestone lanes house numerous restaurants with outdoor terraces perfect for people-watching. Local specialties include dark rye bread, smoked fish, and locally brewed beer. The Old Town features everything from budget-friendly local eateries (€8-15 per meal) to upscale restaurants (€25-40 per person), with many establishments occupying historic cellars and courtyards that add atmosphere to the dining experience.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Cathedral Square is late spring through early autumn (May-September) when weather is warmest and outdoor events are most frequent. Summer brings the famous Song Festival and numerous cultural celebrations to the square, though this is also peak tourist season. Winter can be quite cold but offers a magical atmosphere with Christmas markets and fewer crowds, plus the chance to see the square covered in snow. Spring and early autumn provide mild weather, fewer tourists, and good conditions for walking tours, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Insider Tips

Look for the 'Stebuklas' (miracle) tile in the square - it marks the end point of the 1989 Baltic human chain and locals believe spinning on it brings good luck

Visit early morning or evening for the best photos without crowds, and to see the cathedral beautifully lit

Many museums and attractions are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly and focus on outdoor exploration and church visits on those days

Things to Do in Cathedral Square