Things to Do in Vilnius University
Vilnius University, Lietuva - Complete Travel Guide
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a captivating blend of medieval charm and modern vibrancy, centered around one of Europe's largest and most prestigious universities. Founded in 1579, Vilnius University stands as a testament to the city's rich academic heritage, with its stunning baroque courtyards, historic libraries, and beautiful church of St. John's seamlessly integrated into the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. The university's red-brick buildings and cobblestone courtyards create an atmospheric backdrop that has inspired scholars and students for over four centuries.
Beyond the university grounds, Vilnius enchants visitors with its remarkably well-preserved medieval old town, featuring narrow winding streets, Gothic churches, and colorful baroque facades. The city successfully balances its historical significance with contemporary culture, offering vibrant arts districts, innovative restaurants, and a thriving nightlife scene. As one of the Baltic region's most affordable capitals, Vilnius provides exceptional value while delivering authentic Eastern European experiences, from traditional Lithuanian cuisine to cutting-edge contemporary art installations.
Top Things to Do in Vilnius University
Explore Vilnius University Historic Campus
Wander through the magnificent courtyards and halls of one of Europe's oldest universities, founded in 1579. The campus features stunning baroque architecture, ancient libraries, and the beautiful St. John's Church, all seamlessly integrated into the old town's fabric.
Booking Tip: Free to explore the main courtyards during daytime hours. Guided tours of the university interior cost around €5-8 and are available in multiple languages. Book tours in advance during summer months and academic ceremonies.
Vilnius Old Town Walking Discovery
Navigate the UNESCO World Heritage old town's labyrinthine streets, discovering medieval churches, baroque palaces, and hidden courtyards. The compact old town contains over 1,200 buildings representing various architectural styles from Gothic to Renaissance.
Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free and highly recommended. Professional walking tours cost €15-25 per person and typically last 2-3 hours. Early morning or late afternoon tours offer the best lighting for photography.
Traditional Lithuanian Culinary Experience
Sample authentic Lithuanian cuisine including cepelinai (potato dumplings), šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup), and locally brewed beer. Many restaurants near the university quarter offer traditional dishes with modern presentations.
Booking Tip: Food tours range from €35-60 per person and include 4-6 tastings plus drinks. Book evening tours for the best restaurant availability. Look for tours that include both traditional taverns and contemporary Lithuanian cuisine.
Gediminas Castle Tower and Hill
Climb to the iconic symbol of Vilnius for panoramic views over the old town and university district. The remaining tower houses a museum showcasing the city's medieval history and offers spectacular photo opportunities.
Booking Tip: Tower admission costs €5 for adults. Take the funicular (€2) or hike the hill path for free. Visit during golden hour for the best photography, and allow 1-2 hours for the full experience including museum.
Užupis Republic Alternative District
Explore this bohemian neighborhood that declared itself an independent republic, complete with its own constitution, currency, and quirky art installations. The area attracts artists, students, and free spirits with its alternative galleries and cafes.
Booking Tip: Free to explore independently. Alternative culture tours cost €20-30 and provide insider access to artist studios and hidden galleries. Visit on weekends when most galleries and artist spaces are open.
Getting There
Vilnius is easily accessible via Vilnius Airport (VNO), located just 6km from the city center with direct flights from major European cities. The airport connects to downtown via regular buses (€1) or taxis (€10-15). For overland travel, Vilnius serves as a major hub with excellent bus connections to other Baltic capitals, Warsaw, and major European cities. The central bus and train stations are within walking distance of the old town and university district. Many visitors also arrive via organized Baltic tours that include all three capital cities.
Getting Around
Vilnius old town and the university area are best explored on foot, as most attractions lie within a compact, pedestrian-friendly zone. The city operates an efficient public transportation system of buses and trolleys (€1 per ride, or €3 for day passes) that connect outer districts to the center. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt are readily available and affordable, with most rides within the city costing €5-10. Bicycle rentals are increasingly popular during warmer months, with several bike-sharing stations near the university and main tourist areas.
Where to Stay
Old Town Historic Quarter
University District
Gedimino Avenue
Užupis Bohemian Area
New Town Business District
Green Bridge Vicinity
Food & Dining
Vilnius offers an exciting culinary scene that ranges from traditional Lithuanian taverns to innovative Nordic-inspired restaurants. The university quarter and old town feature numerous cozy restaurants serving hearty local specialties like cepelinai and kibinai, often paired with excellent local beers and honey liqueurs. For contemporary dining, the city boasts several acclaimed restaurants that reimagine Baltic cuisine with modern techniques and presentation. Street food markets and casual eateries around the university provide budget-friendly options, while the trendy Užupis district offers quirky cafes and international cuisine. Don't miss trying šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup) and traditional rye bread, both Lithuanian staples.
Top-Rated Restaurants in Vilnius
Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)
When to Visit
The ideal time to visit Vilnius is from May through September when temperatures are mild and the university courtyards and old town squares come alive with outdoor activities. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, perfect for exploring on foot, though this is also peak tourist season. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds and beautiful seasonal colors in the city's parks and courtyards. Winter visits offer a magical atmosphere with potential snow coverage and festive Christmas markets, though temperatures can be quite cold and daylight hours are limited.
Insider Tips
Visit the university's library courtyard early in the morning for the best photos without crowds and beautiful natural lighting on the baroque facades.
Many restaurants offer excellent lunch specials between 11 AM and 3 PM, providing substantial Lithuanian meals for €8-12, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
The Vilnius City Card provides free public transportation and discounts at major attractions, paying for itself if you visit 3+ paid sites during your stay.