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National Museum of Lithuania, Lietuva - Things to Do in National Museum of Lithuania

Things to Do in National Museum of Lithuania

National Museum of Lithuania, Lietuva - Complete Travel Guide

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a captivating Baltic city where medieval charm meets modern sophistication. The city's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town is one of Europe's largest surviving medieval quarters, featuring cobblestone streets, Gothic churches, and baroque architecture that tells the story of centuries of cultural crossroads between East and West. The National Museum of Lithuania serves as the perfect introduction to this rich heritage, housing extensive collections that chronicle the nation's journey from ancient Baltic tribes to modern independence. Beyond its historical significance, Vilnius pulses with contemporary energy through its thriving arts scene, innovative restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. The city seamlessly blends its complex past with a forward-looking spirit, evident in its restored Jewish quarter, Soviet-era monuments repurposed as cultural spaces, and the bohemian Užupis district that declared itself an independent republic. This unique combination of preserved history and creative renaissance makes Vilnius an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking authentic European culture without the crowds of more famous capitals.

Top Things to Do in National Museum of Lithuania

Explore Vilnius Old Town

Wander through one of Europe's largest surviving medieval old towns, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The cobblestone streets lead past historic churches, courtyards, and the impressive Vilnius Cathedral, while hidden passages reveal charming cafes and artisan workshops. This living museum showcases over 500 years of architectural evolution in a remarkably preserved setting.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on your own, but guided walking tours cost €15-25 per person and provide valuable historical context. Early morning or late afternoon offer the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds. Look for tours that include entrance to key churches and museums.

Visit the Republic of Užupis

Discover this self-proclaimed independent republic within Vilnius, complete with its own constitution, currency, and bohemian spirit. This former rundown district has transformed into an artistic haven filled with galleries, quirky cafes, and creative installations. The area's constitution, written in multiple languages on a wall, includes whimsical rights like 'the right to be happy' and 'the right to love and take care of a cat.'

Booking Tip: Free to explore independently, though some galleries may charge €3-5 entrance fees. Visit on weekends when more galleries and studios are open to the public. Consider combining with a broader alternative culture tour for deeper insights into the artistic community.

Tour Soviet-Era Sites and Museums

Examine Lithuania's complex 20th-century history through preserved Soviet monuments, the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, and the former KGB headquarters. These sites provide sobering insights into life under Soviet rule and Lithuania's path to independence. The underground prison cells and interrogation rooms offer a particularly moving experience of this dark period.

Booking Tip: Museum entrance fees range from €4-8 per person, with combined tickets available for multiple sites. Book guided tours (€20-30) for deeper historical context and access to restricted areas. Afternoon visits work well as these indoor attractions complement morning outdoor exploration.

Experience Lithuanian Cuisine

Sample traditional Lithuanian dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings), šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup), and locally brewed beer in authentic restaurants and modern bistros. The city's food scene ranges from traditional taverns serving hearty peasant fare to innovative restaurants reimagining Baltic cuisine. Don't miss the bustling Hales Market for local produce and artisanal products.

Booking Tip: Food tours cost €40-60 per person and typically last 3-4 hours, including multiple tastings and restaurant visits. Book tours that include both traditional and contemporary venues for a complete culinary picture. Evening tours often include craft beer or local spirits tastings.

Day Trip to Trakai Castle

Visit the stunning 14th-century island castle located 30 kilometers from Vilnius, set on Lake Galvė and surrounded by pristine wilderness. This Gothic castle served as a residence for Lithuanian Grand Dukes and now houses a museum showcasing medieval artifacts and the unique culture of the Karaite people. The scenic lakeside setting makes it one of Lithuania's most photographed landmarks.

Booking Tip: Castle entrance costs €8 for adults, with audio guides available for €3. Organized day trips from Vilnius cost €35-50 including transportation and entrance fees. Summer visits allow for boat rides on the lake, while winter offers beautiful snow-covered scenery. Book tours that include time in Trakai town to try traditional Karaite kibinai pastries.

Getting There

Vilnius International Airport (VNO) is located 7 kilometers south of the city center and serves as the main gateway, with direct flights from major European cities and connections to North America via hubs like Amsterdam or Frankfurt. The airport is connected to the city center by regular buses (€1), taxis (€10-15), or ride-sharing services. Alternatively, Vilnius is well-connected by bus to other Baltic capitals and major European cities, with the central bus station located near the Old Town. Train connections are limited but available to a few regional destinations, while driving from Western Europe involves crossing through Poland via well-maintained highways.

Getting Around

Vilnius has an efficient public transportation system consisting of buses and trolleybuses that cost €1 per ride or €3 for a day pass, with tickets purchased from drivers or via mobile apps. The compact Old Town is best explored on foot, as most major attractions are within walking distance of each other and many streets are pedestrian-only. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt are readily available and affordable for longer distances or late-night travel, while bike-sharing systems operate during warmer months. The city center is very walkable, and many visitors find they rarely need public transport once they're in the historic core.

Where to Stay

Old Town (Senamiestis)
New Town (Naujamiestis)
Užupis District
Žvėrynas
Antakalnis
Šnipiškės

Food & Dining

Vilnius offers a diverse dining scene that ranges from traditional Lithuanian taverns serving hearty comfort food to innovative restaurants putting modern twists on Baltic cuisine. The Old Town contains numerous atmospheric restaurants in historic cellars and courtyards, while the Užupis district features trendy cafes and bistros popular with the artistic crowd. For authentic local experiences, seek out restaurants serving cepelinai, kugelis, and fresh fish from local lakes, paired with Lithuanian beer or honey mead. The city's growing international food scene includes excellent Italian, Asian, and Middle Eastern options, while food markets like Hales Turgus offer fresh local produce and street food stalls perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Vilnius

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Casa La Familia

4.5 /5
(2157 reviews) 2

Osteria da Luca

4.6 /5
(1215 reviews)

Da Antonio

4.6 /5
(976 reviews) 3

CASA DELLA PASTA - PC Akropolis

4.5 /5
(996 reviews) 2
cafe

Firenze Vilnius

4.5 /5
(664 reviews) 2

Le Travi

4.6 /5
(494 reviews)
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When to Visit

The best time to visit Vilnius is from May to September when temperatures are mild (15-25°C), daylight hours are long, and outdoor cafes and festivals bring the city to life. Summer months offer the warmest weather and numerous cultural events, though this is also peak tourist season with higher accommodation prices. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds and beautiful foliage, making them ideal for exploring on foot. Winter visits can be magical with Christmas markets and snow-covered architecture, but temperatures drop well below freezing and daylight hours are limited, though this season offers the most authentic local experience and lowest prices.

Insider Tips

Visit the National Museum of Lithuania on Thursdays when admission is free for students and seniors, and consider purchasing a combined ticket that includes access to multiple museum branches throughout the city.
Climb the bell tower of St. John's Church for panoramic views of the Old Town - it's less crowded than other viewpoints and offers unique perspectives of the red-tiled roofs and church spires.
Exchange money at local banks or authorized exchange offices rather than at the airport or hotels to get better rates, and note that most establishments accept cards, but small vendors may prefer cash.

Explore Activities in National Museum of Lithuania