🏰 Vilnius, Lithuania: Baroque Beauty, Bohemian Soul & Baltic Spirit

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al heart of the city; climb the bell tower for sweeping views.

📍 Cathedral Square
🎫 Tower entry: ~$5 USD

5. MO Museum (Modern Art)

A striking glass structure showcasing Lithuania’s modern art scene.

📍 Pylimo g. 17
🎫 Entry: ~$9 USD

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🏞️ Day Trips & Nearby Sights

• Trakai Castle – A fairytale red-brick castle on an island, just 30 minutes from Vilnius.

• Hill of Crosses – A surreal pilgrimage site filled with thousands of crosses (2.5 hours away).

• Kaunas – Lithuania’s second city with Art Deco charm and riverside walks (1.5 hours away).

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🍽️ What to Eat in Vilnius

• Cepelinai (Zeppelins) – Potato dumplings stuffed with meat or cheese, topped with sour cream and bacon.

• Šaltibarščiai – A cold beet soup served with dill, cucumber, and boiled egg—iconically pink.

• Kibinai – Pastry pockets filled with meat, popular from nearby Trakai.

• Midus – Lithuanian mead made from honey, a traditional drink.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Etno Dvaras – Traditional Lithuanian fare in a cozy, rustic setting.

• Senoji Trobelė – Authentic countryside-style cooking.

• Sweet Root – New Baltic cuisine with a seasonal, farm-to-table approach.

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🛌 Where to Stay in Vilnius

• 🏨 Grand Hotel Kempinski – Historic 5-star luxury near Cathedral Square.

• 🏡 Artagonist Art Hotel – Boutique stay with creative design and central location.

• 💰 Jimmy Jumps House – Lively and budget-friendly hostel for backpackers.

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✈️ Getting There & Around

• ✈️ Vilnius International Airport (VNO) – Just 15 minutes from downtown by taxi or train.

• 🚶 Old Town is highly walkable and safe.

• 🚕 Taxis are affordable; ride apps like Bolt are commonly used.

• 🚲 Bike paths and electric scooters make getting around even easier.

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☀️ Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April–June) – Pleasant temperatures, blooming parks, and fewer crowds.

• Summer (July–August) – Warm, lively, with open-air festivals and long days.

• Autumn (September–October) – Crisp air and colorful foliage.

• Winter (December–February) – Magical with snow, Christmas markets, and cozy cafés.

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💡 Travel Tips

• 💶 Lithuania uses the euro (€).

• 🧠 English is widely spoken, especially among younger people.

• 📶 Wi-Fi is strong in most cafés, hotels, and public spaces.

• 🧣 Pack layers—even in summer, evenings can be cool.

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✨ Final Thoughts

Vilnius may be small, but its spirit is big, bold, and beautifully baroque. Whether you come for the history or stay for the hipster charm, Lithuania’s capital will surprise you at every turn. Romantic, rebellious, and refreshingly real, Vilnius is a Baltic treasure waiting to be explored.