Things to Do in Vilnius in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Vilnius

12°C (54°F) High Temp
2°C (36°F) Low Temp
43 mm (1.7 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

  • Easter celebrations transform the city - Šv. Velykos brings unique traditions like margučiai (decorated eggs) markets in Cathedral Square and traditional kugelis meals in local restaurants
  • Perfect temperatures for walking Old Town's cobblestones - 8-12°C (46-54°F) afternoons are ideal for exploring Užupis and climbing Gediminas Tower without overheating
  • Spring awakening in parks means Bernardine Gardens and Vingis Park show early blooms while tourist crowds remain minimal - 60% fewer visitors than summer months
  • Museum season begins with extended hours - most major museums switch from winter schedules (closing 4pm) to spring hours (6pm) starting April 1st

Considerations

  • Unpredictable weather requires constant outfit changes - morning frost at 2°C (36°F) can shift to 12°C (54°F) afternoon sun, then evening rain within 6 hours
  • Many outdoor restaurant terraces and beer gardens remain closed until late April when temperatures consistently stay above 10°C (50°F)
  • Frequent light rain on 10 days means indoor backup plans essential - Lithuanian drizzle can persist for 2-3 hours and dampen outdoor photography

Best Activities in April

Old Town Walking Tours and Museum Hopping

April's cool temperatures make exploring UNESCO World Heritage cobblestone streets comfortable for 3-4 hours without fatigue. Museums like Palace of Grand Dukes extend to spring hours, and you'll have near-private access to St. Anne's Church and Bernardine Gardens before summer crowds arrive.

Booking Tip: Book walking tours 5-7 days ahead through licensed guides - prices typically range €25-40 per person for 2-3 hour tours. Many museums offer April discount packages before peak season pricing starts in May. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Uzupis District Art Gallery Exploration

The self-declared 'Republic of Uzupis' comes alive in April as local artists prepare for summer exhibitions. Cool weather is perfect for gallery hopping along Užupio Street, and you'll catch exclusive preview exhibitions before tourist season. The district's outdoor installations are best photographed in April's soft natural light.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration works best - most galleries are free entry. Art walks with local guides cost €15-25 per person and provide insider access to artist studios. Check current guided options in the booking section below.

Traditional Lithuanian Cooking Classes

April marks the season for traditional Easter foods like kugelis and šakotis preparation. Indoor cooking experiences are perfect for rainy April days, and you'll learn seasonal recipes using spring ingredients that locals actually cook at home. Classes run 2-3 hours in warm kitchens.

Booking Tip: Book 10-14 days ahead as locals often join these classes before Easter. Prices typically range €45-65 per person including meals and recipes. Look for classes in traditional locations like Vilnius University area. Current options available in booking section below.

Trakai Castle Day Trips

April weather is ideal for Trakai's 28 km (17.4 miles) journey - cool enough for comfortable castle exploration without summer heat, yet warm enough for lakeside walks. The medieval island castle offers stunning photography opportunities with spring light reflecting off Galvė Lake, and you'll avoid July's packed tour buses.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost €35-55 per person including transport and castle entry. Book 7-10 days ahead for better prices. Weather backup plans available as castle interiors offer 90 minutes of indoor exploration. See current tour options in booking section below.

Hill of Three Crosses and Gediminas Tower Hiking

April's moderate temperatures make the 100m (328 ft) climb to Gediminas Tower comfortable, offering panoramic Old Town views without summer's intense sun or winter's ice. The Hill of Three Crosses provides excellent photography opportunities with spring's clear air and fewer crowds blocking viewpoints.

Booking Tip: Self-guided climbing is free, but guided historical tours cost €20-30 per person and include tower entry (€5). Weather-dependent activity - check conditions before heading out. Guided options available in booking section below.

Soviet History and KGB Museum Tours

April's indoor focus makes this perfect timing for exploring the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights (former KGB headquarters). Cool weather suits the serious atmosphere of these historical sites, and you'll have more intimate access to exhibitions before summer tourist groups arrive.

Booking Tip: Museum entry typically €6-8 per person, guided historical tours €25-35 per person for 2-hour experiences. Book specialized Soviet history walks 5-7 days ahead. Indoor venues provide perfect rainy day activities. Current tour options in booking section below.

April Events & Festivals

Early April (Orthodox and Catholic Easter dates vary)

Easter Markets and Celebrations (Šv. Velykos)

Traditional Easter celebrations include margučiai (decorated egg) markets in Cathedral Square, palm weaving workshops, and special church services. Local restaurants serve traditional Easter dishes like kugelis and šakotis. Markets feature handmade crafts and traditional Lithuanian foods.

Late April

Vilnius Festival Opening Events

The city's main cultural festival begins planning announcements and early performances in April, with classical music concerts in historic venues and preview events for summer programming. Indoor venues host special spring concerts.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layering system essential - pack lightweight merino wool base layers for 2°C (36°F) mornings and cotton shirts for 12°C (54°F) afternoons
Waterproof jacket with hood - Lithuanian spring rain arrives quickly and lasts 1-2 hours with little warning
Comfortable waterproof walking shoes with good grip - Old Town cobblestones become slippery when wet from April's 10 rainy days
Light scarf and warm hat for morning walks - early April temperatures drop to 2°C (36°F) and Baltic winds add significant chill factor
Umbrella that fits in day pack - sudden showers catch tourists off-guard and finding shelter in narrow Old Town streets is challenging
Power bank and phone protection - documenting spring Vilnius requires device protection from 70% humidity and unexpected rain
Light fleece or cardigan for museum visits - historic buildings maintain cool temperatures around 16°C (61°F) regardless of outside weather
Sunglasses for bright spring days - April's clear weather creates strong glare off wet cobblestones and church facades
Small day backpack with rain cover - carrying layers, umbrella, and camera equipment while keeping everything dry during weather changes

Insider Knowledge

Locals know April restaurant terraces don't open until the last week when temperatures consistently stay above 10°C (50°F) - eat inside traditional venues like Lokys for authentic experience
Free walking tour guides give the best recommendations but only operate when groups of 6+ gather - arrive at Town Hall Square by 11am for English tours to guarantee departure
City heating officially ends April 15th regardless of weather - bring extra layers for accommodation as buildings can feel cold until natural warming occurs
Thursday evening museum openings (6-8pm) offer half-price entry and wine tastings at Palace of Grand Dukes - locals use this for affordable cultural dates

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing only for warm weather after seeing 12°C (54°F) highs - morning temperatures at 2°C (36°F) require proper winter layers until 10am
Assuming outdoor restaurant patios are open - most remain closed until late April when consistent warmth arrives, leaving tourists searching for dining options
Planning full outdoor days without indoor backup plans - April's 10 rainy days can last several hours and ruin photography or walking tours

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