Things to Do in Gediminas Castle Tower, Lietuva

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a captivating blend of medieval charm and modern European sophistication. The city's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town is one of Europe's largest and best-preserved medieval quarters, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, baroque churches, and Gothic architecture that tells the story of centuries past. At the heart of this historic landscape stands the iconic Gediminas Castle Tower, perched atop Castle Hill as the symbol of Lithuanian independence and resilience. Beyond its historical significance, Vilnius offers visitors a vibrant cultural scene with world-class museums, contemporary art galleries, and a thriving café culture. The city seamlessly combines its rich Lithuanian heritage with influences from Polish, Russian, and Jewish cultures, creating a unique atmosphere that's both cosmopolitan and authentically Baltic. From exploring ancient churches and climbing castle towers to enjoying craft beer in trendy neighborhoods, Vilnius provides an intimate yet sophisticated European experience.

Top Things to Do in Gediminas Castle Tower

Gediminas Castle Tower and Castle Hill

Climb to the top of Gediminas Castle Tower, the remaining symbol of the medieval Upper Castle, for panoramic views over Vilnius's red-tiled rooftops and the Neris River valley. The tower houses a museum showcasing Lithuanian history and medieval artifacts. You can reach the summit either by hiking up the winding path through the forest or taking the funicular railway for a more leisurely ascent.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around €5 for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photos. The funicular costs an additional €2 each way. Purchase tickets on-site or online, and allow 1-2 hours for the full experience including the museum.

Vilnius Old Town Walking Tour

Explore one of Europe's largest medieval old towns through its labyrinthine cobblestone streets, discovering hidden courtyards, baroque churches, and Gothic architecture. Key highlights include the Gates of Dawn, St. Anne's Church, and Pilies Street with its artisan shops and cafés. The UNESCO World Heritage site offers countless photo opportunities and insights into Lithuanian history spanning several centuries.

Booking Tip: Free walking tours operate daily and last 2-3 hours, though tips are appreciated (€10-15 per person is standard). Private guided tours cost €80-120 for groups up to 6 people. Book through local operators or your hotel, and wear comfortable walking shoes as streets can be uneven.

Vilnius Cathedral and Bell Tower

Visit Lithuania's most important Catholic church, rebuilt multiple times throughout history and featuring a striking neoclassical facade. The cathedral houses royal crypts and beautiful chapels, while the separate 57-meter bell tower offers another excellent vantage point over the city. The cathedral square is also the heart of many national celebrations and cultural events.

Booking Tip: Cathedral entry is free, but crypt tours cost around €4 and bell tower climbs are €3. Tours run hourly during peak season (May-September). Best visited in combination with Old Town exploration. Check for special masses or concerts which may affect visiting hours.

Užupis District Exploration

Discover Vilnius's bohemian 'Republic of Užupis,' a self-declared artistic quarter with its own constitution, president, and quirky sense of independence. This former run-down area has transformed into a creative hub filled with art galleries, studios, cafés, and the famous Angel of Užupis statue. The district hosts numerous cultural events and offers a glimpse into contemporary Lithuanian artistic expression.

Booking Tip: This is a free self-guided experience perfect for wandering and discovering. Art galleries typically charge €2-5 entry fees. Visit during afternoon/early evening when galleries and cafés are most active. Consider joining a specialized Užupis tour for €15-20 to learn about the area's fascinating transformation.

Lithuanian Traditional Food Experience

Sample authentic Lithuanian cuisine including cepelinai (potato dumplings), šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup), and locally brewed beer or honey mead. Many restaurants offer traditional folk performances alongside meals, providing cultural context for the hearty, seasonal dishes that reflect Lithuania's agricultural heritage. Food markets and cooking classes are also available for hands-on experiences.

Booking Tip: Traditional restaurants charge €15-25 per person for full meals. Cooking classes cost €40-60 and should be booked 2-3 days in advance. Look for establishments in Old Town or ask locals for authentic recommendations. Many places offer English menus, and dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated with advance notice.

Getting There

Vilnius International Airport is located 7km south of the city center and serves as the main gateway with direct flights from major European cities including London, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Warsaw. From the airport, buses 1 and 2 run every 15-20 minutes to the city center (€1), while taxis cost €8-12. The city is also well-connected by bus to other Baltic capitals and European cities, with the central bus station located near the train station. If arriving by car, Vilnius is easily accessible via the A1 highway from Kaunas and A2 from Panevėžys.

Getting Around

Vilnius city center is highly walkable, with most attractions within the compact Old Town accessible on foot within 15-20 minutes. The city operates an efficient public transportation system of buses and trolleybuses, with single tickets costing €1 when purchased from the driver or €0.65 with a rechargeable card. For longer distances or convenience, taxis are readily available through apps like Bolt (most popular locally) with rides typically costing €3-8 within the city. Bike rentals are available through various operators for around €10-15 per day, though cobblestone streets in Old Town can be challenging for cycling.

Where to Stay

Old Town (Senamiestis)

New Town (Naujamiestis)

Žvėrynas

Antakalnis

Užupis

Šnipiškės

Food & Dining

Vilnius offers an exciting culinary scene that balances traditional Lithuanian fare with modern international cuisine. The Old Town features numerous restaurants serving hearty local specialties like cepelinai and kugelis, while trendy neighborhoods like Užupis and Žvėrynas host contemporary bistros and international eateries. The city has embraced craft beer culture with several local breweries, and coffee culture is thriving with numerous specialty cafés. For authentic experiences, visit the Hales Market for local produce and prepared foods, or seek out traditional beer halls and cellars. Prices are generally reasonable, with good meals available from €8-15 at casual spots and €20-35 at upscale restaurants.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Vilnius is from late spring through early fall (May to September) when temperatures are mild and daylight hours are longest, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions like Gediminas Castle Tower. Summer months offer the warmest weather and numerous festivals, though this is also peak tourist season. Late spring (May) and early fall (September) provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds and beautiful foliage. Winter can be magical with Christmas markets and snow-covered medieval streets, but temperatures drop well below freezing and daylight hours are very short. Pack layers regardless of season, as Baltic weather can be unpredictable.

Insider Tips

Purchase a Vilnius City Card for free public transport and discounts to major attractions including Gediminas Castle Tower - it pays for itself if visiting 3+ sites

Look for the 'miracle tile' in Cathedral Square - local legend says standing on it and spinning three times while making a wish will make it come true

Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner (3-6 PM), so plan accordingly or seek out cafés which typically stay open all day

Things to Do in Gediminas Castle Tower