Things to Do in Vilnius in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Vilnius
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect spring weather for extensive walking - comfortable 15-18°C (59-65°F) afternoons ideal for exploring Old Town's 1.5 km² (0.6 sq miles) cobblestone streets without summer heat exhaustion
- Lilac season transforms the city - over 40 varieties bloom in Bernardine Gardens and Vingis Park, creating Instagram-worthy purple canopies that locals call 'Vilnius snow'
- Pre-tourist season pricing - accommodation costs 30-40% less than summer peak, with excellent availability at boutique hotels in Užupis and Old Town
- Extended daylight hours reach 16+ hours by late May, giving you sunrise at 5:30am and sunset after 8:30pm for maximum sightseeing time
Considerations
- Unpredictable weather swings - temperatures can jump from 8°C to 20°C (46-68°F) within hours, requiring layers and making outdoor planning challenging
- Frequent light showers on 10+ days mean constant umbrella carrying and potential indoor backup plans for major sightseeing days
- Some outdoor terraces and rooftop bars remain closed until late May when temperatures stabilize above 15°C (59°F) consistently
Best Activities in May
Old Town Architecture Walking Tours
May's cool temperatures make this UNESCO World Heritage site exploration perfect - you can walk 3-4 hours without overheating while lilacs frame Gothic and Baroque buildings. Morning tours (9-11am) avoid afternoon showers that typically start around 2pm. The cobblestones are less slippery than winter but still require proper footwear.
Trakai Castle Day Trips
Located 28 km (17 miles) from Vilnius, this island castle is spectacular in May when surrounding Lake Galvė reflects blooming trees. Cool weather makes the 1 km (0.6 mile) lakeside walk comfortable, and you'll avoid summer's tourist crowds. Castle interiors are perfect rainy day backup plans.
Uzupis District Art Quarter Exploration
This 'Republic of Uzupis' artist neighborhood comes alive in May as outdoor galleries reopen and street art tours resume. Cool weather is perfect for climbing the hilly streets and discovering courtyard studios. Late afternoon light (6-7pm) provides excellent photography conditions.
Vilnius TV Tower and Panoramic Views
Europe's tallest TV tower at 326m (1,070 ft) offers unparalleled city views enhanced by May's clear spring air and blooming parks below. The indoor observation deck at 165m (541 ft) is perfect for rainy days, while good weather days provide 40+ km (25 mile) visibility.
Traditional Lithuanian Cooking Classes
May marks spring ingredient season with fresh herbs and early vegetables appearing in traditional dishes like cepelinai and šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup). Indoor cooking classes provide perfect rainy day activities while learning authentic recipes using seasonal produce.
Vilnius University Historical Campus Tours
Founded in 1579, this historic university campus showcases stunning courtyards and libraries perfect for May exploration. Cool weather allows comfortable 2-3 hour walking tours through 13 interconnected courtyards spanning 5.6 hectares (13.8 acres). The St. John's Church tower climb offers city views.
May Events & Festivals
Vilnius Festival
Lithuania's premier classical music festival featuring international orchestras and soloists performing in historic venues like St. Catherine's Church and Lithuanian National Philharmonic. Combines outdoor concerts in courtyards with indoor performances perfect for variable May weather.
Night of Museums
Annual citywide event where 40+ museums, galleries, and cultural institutions open their doors for free evening visits. Perfect for May's extended daylight hours and provides excellent indoor alternatives during rainy evenings.