Whether you're traveling to Vilnius for the first time or you're a local who wants to explore this historic city, there are several things to do. Vilnius is a UNESCO heritage site and is also one of the largest remaining old towns in Europe. With cobblestone streets and parks, the city's old town is a great place to explore. There are also many restaurants and bars in the city. It's easy to get lost without a map, so you should have one. A local might be able to help you find your way around.
The most famous landmark in Vilnius is Gediminas' Tower, which crowns Gediminas Hill. This tower was constructed in the 14th century by Gediminas, the Grand Duke of Lithuania. The tower is also home to a museum that reveals the history of the tower. There are many different displays, so you can get a taste of the history of the city. You'll also find a beautiful view of the Old Town. On a sunny day, you can see golden sunsets from the tower.
If you're looking for something more artsy, head to the Uzupis district, a neighborhood on the outskirts of the city that's known for its eccentricity. There's a riverside path that's a great way to explore the district. There are also sculpture gardens and models of Soviet prison camps.
If you're looking for something a little more adventurous, there are plenty of free walking tours you can take. These take you past many of the main sites in the Old Town, including Cathedral Square and the old Jewish Quarter. You can also stop for a coffee and a bite to eat in the covered market. This is a great place to grab some local produce or fresh food, as well as a Baltic pastry.
If you want to learn more about the history of Lithuania, the Museum of Genocide Victims is a great place to do so. This museum is located outside the Old Town, and is accessible by bus or uber. The former KGB building where the museum is located was once a prison, and visitors can tour the cells.
Another great place to explore Lithuania's history is at the Memorial Museum of Paneriai, which commemorates thousands of Jews murdered by the Nazis. You can visit the museum's exhibits, which feature a mass grave, a massacre pit, and memorial stones. You'll also find traditional Lithuanian costumes and toys.
There's also a money museum that's located on the site of the former Bank of Lithuania. Here, you can learn about the history of the litas, or money, and compare the values of different currencies.
Vilnius's Jewish Quarter is a beautiful part of the city's old town. There are many churches with bell towers, and you can often find people sitting outside under colourful parasols in the summer. The area also features some great murals, many of which have gained worldwide notoriety.
The best way to enjoy the sunset in Vilnius is to head to the Hill of Three Crosses. You can see three white crosses, each gleaming in the light. This is a popular tourist attraction, and is a great way to end a day in Vilnius. It's also a short distance from Siaulia, so you can easily take a cab or uber to this area.
