Vilnius: Historical and Cultural Must-See Spots

Standing tall in the heart of the Užupis district, the Angel of Užupis statue represents the area’s artistic spirit and independence. The vibe here is unlike anywhere else. It feels like a bohemian republic within the city. I loved walking around, discovering murals, sculptures, and quirky galleries. If you’re there on April 1st, you can experience Užupis Independence Day, a celebration like no other!

I wandered around the quirky Užupis district and stumbled upon the cute little Mermaid statue by the river. She’s small and easy to miss, but she adds so much charm to the area. There’s a legend that says she lures people to Užupis, and once you visit, you never want to leave. Honestly, I can see why. The whole area is filled with street art, galleries, and cozy cafés, making it a perfect spot to explore.

This is one of the city’s most iconic buildings on an old pagan temple site with 11 side chapels, and its classical architecture is beautiful both inside and out. I joined a guided tour of the crypts beneath the cathedral, and it was fascinating to learn about the past rulers and saints tied to this place. If you’re interested in history, I highly recommend booking the tour in advance. It’s a peaceful and impressive spot that really showcases the city’s rich history.

If you’re eager to taste authentic Lithuanian food, this is the spot to go! I tried the Cepelinai (potato dumplings with filling), and it was so hearty and satisfying. The Šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup) was a refreshing start to the meal, and the Kepsta Duona (fried bread) was crispy, garlicky, and completely addictive. The cozy, rustic atmosphere of the restaurant just made the experience even better. Since it’s a popular spot, I’d recommend making a reservation to avoid waiting. You won’t regret it.

I found the "Stebuklas" tile, also known as the Magical Brick, in Cathedral Square. There’s a fun legend that says if you stand on it, make a wish, and spin around three times, your wish will come true. Of course, I had to give it a try! It’s a quirky little hidden gem that’s easy to miss, so keep an eye out. Give it a spin and see if your wish comes true!

Located near Cathedral Square, this monument honors Grand Duke Gediminas, the founder of Vilnius. It’s a striking statue and a popular spot for photos. From here, it’s easy to access other nearby attractions like the castle and cathedral.

This reconstructed palace is filled with modern exhibits that bring history to life. I was impressed by how they’ve combined historical artifacts with multimedia displays. There’s so much to see here, so plan to spend a couple of hours exploring. The audio guide was really helpful and added a lot to the experience.

This museum is a treasure trove of Lithuanian history, covering everything from prehistoric times to the 20th century. The exhibits are well-curated and informative, so it’s easy to get lost in time while exploring. If you love history, you could easily spend a few hours here. Consider getting a combined ticket for the nearby museums to make the most of your visit.

It’s a bit of incline to get to the top but really worth climbing. You’ll get one of the best panoramic views of Vilnius from up there. The monument itself has a rich history, adding a deeper meaning to the experience. Around sunset the lighting are perfect for photos. Highly recommend this to any nature lovers or photographers!