Things to Do in Vilnius University, Lietuva

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a captivating Baltic gem that seamlessly blends medieval charm with modern sophistication. The city's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town is one of Europe's largest and best-preserved medieval quarters, featuring winding cobblestone streets, Gothic churches, and baroque architecture that tells the story of centuries of Polish, Russian, and Lithuanian influence. At its heart lies Vilnius University, founded in 1579, making it one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe and a cornerstone of the city's intellectual and cultural life. Beyond its historical significance, Vilnius has emerged as a vibrant cultural hub with a thriving arts scene, innovative restaurants, and a youthful energy driven by its large student population. The city offers visitors an authentic Eastern European experience without the crowds of Prague or Krakow, where you can explore centuries-old churches, discover quirky neighborhoods like the self-proclaimed Republic of Užupis, and enjoy surprisingly affordable prices for accommodation, dining, and entertainment.

Top Things to Do in Vilnius University

Vilnius Old Town Walking Tour

Explore one of Europe's largest medieval old towns through its labyrinthine streets, discovering Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The tour typically covers major landmarks including the Gates of Dawn, St. Anne's Church, and the historic Vilnius University complex with its beautiful courtyards and ancient library.

Booking Tip: Free walking tours are available daily and operate on a tip-based system (€5-10 suggested). Private tours cost €80-120 for groups up to 6 people. Book morning tours for better lighting and fewer crowds, especially during summer months.

Vilnius University Campus Visit

Tour the historic campus of one of Northern Europe's oldest universities, founded in 1579. The complex features 13 courtyards, the stunning St. John's Church, and the historic library with ancient manuscripts and beautiful frescoed halls that showcase the institution's 400+ year academic legacy.

Booking Tip: Guided university tours cost €3-5 and run several times daily except Sundays. Student ID holders often get free admission. Visit during term time (September-May) for the most authentic campus atmosphere.

Gediminas Tower and Castle Hill

Climb to the symbol of Vilnius for panoramic views over the old town and modern city. The remaining tower of the Upper Castle houses a museum showcasing Lithuanian history and medieval artifacts, while the hill itself offers excellent photo opportunities and hiking trails through surrounding parkland.

Booking Tip: Tower admission costs €5 for adults, €2 for students. The funicular operates April-October for €2 each way, or hike the trail for free year-round. Visit at sunset for spectacular views and bring layers as it can be windy at the top.

Užupis Art District Exploration

Discover Vilnius's bohemian quarter, a self-proclaimed independent republic complete with its own constitution, president, and quirky artistic installations. This former neglected neighborhood has transformed into a creative hub filled with galleries, artist studios, cafes, and the famous Angel of Užupis statue.

Booking Tip: The area is free to explore independently, though guided art tours cost €15-25 per person. Visit on weekends when most galleries and studios are open. Many establishments close on Mondays, so plan accordingly.

Lithuanian Cuisine Food Tour

Sample traditional Lithuanian dishes including cepelinai (potato dumplings), šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup), and local craft beers while learning about the country's culinary heritage. Tours typically visit traditional restaurants, local markets, and sometimes include cooking demonstrations of regional specialties.

Booking Tip: Food tours range from €45-75 per person and typically last 3-4 hours including 4-6 food stops. Book tours that include both traditional and modern Lithuanian cuisine. Vegetarian options are available but should be requested when booking.

Getting There

Vilnius International Airport is located just 7km south of the city center and serves numerous European destinations with budget carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air offering affordable connections. From the airport, buses run every 15-30 minutes to the city center (€1), while taxis cost €8-12 and ride-sharing apps are readily available. For overland travel, Vilnius is well-connected by bus to other Baltic capitals and major European cities, with the central bus station located near the train station. The city is also accessible by train from Poland and Belarus, though services are limited.

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 available from drivers or via mobile app. 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 are affordable and widely available through apps like Bolt, while bike-sharing systems operate during warmer months. For longer distances or trips outside the city, rental cars are available, though parking in the Old Town can be challenging and expensive.

Where to Stay

Old Town (Senamiestis)

New Town (Naujamiestis)

Užupis

Žvėrynas

Antakalnis

Šnipiškės

Food & Dining

Vilnius's dining scene has evolved dramatically in recent years, offering everything from traditional Lithuanian cuisine to innovative Nordic-inspired restaurants and international options. The Old Town features numerous traditional restaurants serving hearty dishes like cepelinai and kibinai, while the trendy Užupis district offers hip cafes and contemporary eateries. For budget dining, try local favorites like Senoji Trobelė for traditional fare or explore the growing number of modern bistros in the New Town area. The city also boasts several craft breweries and wine bars, with many restaurants offering excellent value lunch menus for €8-12. Don't miss trying šakotis (tree cake) and local honey-based desserts at traditional cafes.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Vilnius is from May to September when temperatures are mild (15-25°C) and daylight hours are longest, perfect for exploring the outdoor attractions and enjoying the numerous festivals and events. Summer months offer the warmest weather and vibrant street life, 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 lower prices, making them ideal for budget travelers. Winter can be harsh with temperatures often below freezing and limited daylight, but the city takes on a magical quality with Christmas markets and snow-covered medieval streets, plus accommodation rates drop significantly.

Insider Tips

Visit on the first Sunday of each month when many museums offer free admission to EU citizens and students

Download the Trafi app for real-time public transportation schedules and the easiest way to navigate the bus system

Exchange money at local banks or Forex bureaus rather than hotels for much better rates, and note that many places accept euros even though Lithuania uses the euro

Things to Do in Vilnius University