Visiting Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, often begins with a simple question.
Is it worth visiting, especially if you are travelling on a budget?
The answer is a confident yes.
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is one of Europe’s most walkable and affordable capital cities, rewarding travellers who enjoy exploring on foot, discovering history through place rather than price tags, and experiencing everyday local life rather than curated attractions.
Many of the best things to do in Vilnius are either free or low cost, distances are short, and prices for food, museums and transport remain refreshingly reasonable compared with other Baltic countries and western European capitals.
What makes Vilnius stand out is not a single headline attraction, but the way its layers fit together.
Sitting at the crossroads of eastern Europe, northern Europe and central Europe, and shaped by centuries of shifting borders, occupations and cultural influences, Vilnius today is a proud independent republic with a fascinating history, a lively food scene and one of the largest and most intact old towns on the continent.
The city has been shaped by the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, absorbed into empires, scarred by the Soviet Union and reborn as an independent republic.
That history is still visible today in the layout of the streets, the castle complex above the city, the churches of Vilnius old town and the steady rhythm of life along the Vilnia River.
For first time visitors to the Baltic states, Vilnius feels approachable and human in scale – the city centre is compact, public transport is cheap and reliable, and it is easy to combine classic sightseeing with relaxed wandering, people-watching and café stops.
You can have a great time here without planning every hour or spending heavily.
This guide brings together the best things to do in Vilnius with a clear focus on good value travel.
It covers Vilnius old town, major attractions in Vilnius, free and low-cost experiences, food markets and traditional Lithuanian food, practical advice on how to get to Vilnius and where to stay, plus ideas for day trips from Vilnius that add depth to your visit.
If you enjoy cities that feel lived-in rather than polished, places where history sits comfortably alongside modern culture, and destinations where your money genuinely goes further, Vilnius is a better place to start than many travellers expect.
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Vilnius Old Town and Why You Should Visit
Things to do in Vilnius start, quite naturally, in the old town
Vilnius’ old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Europe.
Walking through it is the best way to understand the city and also the best way to spend your first day.
The old town of Vilnius is a dense weave of narrow streets, pastel buildings, courtyards and church spires.
Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical styles sit side by side, often on the same block. This layered look tells the story of a city that has been rebuilt many times over a long time.
Start on Pilies Street, one of the oldest street routes in the city and the main artery through the old town.
This is where souvenir shops, cafés and street musicians cluster, making it a natural first place to soak up the atmosphere.
Pilies Street leads directly to Cathedral Square, which appears again and again as a reference point when navigating the city centre.
Cathedral Square and Vilnius Cathedral
Cathedral Square is the symbolic heart of the Lithuanian capital – where national celebrations, protests and gatherings take place, and it anchors the historic castle complex.
Dominating the square is Vilnius Cathedral, officially the Cathedral Basilica of St Stanislaus and St Ladislaus.
Vilnius Cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in the Baltic states and a key stop for anyone interested in Lithuanian history.
The cathedral stands on the site of a former pagan temple, reflecting Lithuania’s late conversion to Christianity.
Entry to the cathedral is free, making it one of the best places to visit on a budget.
Inside, the space is elegant and restrained, with chapels dedicated to Lithuanian saints and rulers.
Next to the cathedral stands the Bell Tower, a separate structure that once formed part of the city’s defensive walls.
You can admire it from Cathedral Square for free or pay a small commission to climb it.
From the top, the bell tower offers a great view over the old town rooftops and Gediminas Hill.
Behind the cathedral sits the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania.
This reconstructed palace marks the centre of power of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, once one of the largest states in Europe during the 15th century.
Today it houses a museum covering statehood, court life and the history of Lithuania.
It is not free, but it is worth visiting if you want deeper context.
Gediminas Tower, Upper Castle and Best Vilnius Views
From Cathedral Square, your eye is naturally drawn upwards to Gediminas’ Tower on top of the hill.
This is the last remaining structure of the Upper Castle and one of the city’s main attraction points.
You can walk up from the Vilnia River side, following shaded paths through the park, or take the funicular if your legs are protesting.
Either way, Gediminas Tower is worth seeing.
From the top, you get some of the best views in Vilnius, stretching across the old town, the modern districts and out towards green hills.
The tower also houses a small exhibition on the castle complex and the history of Lithuania, including the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and later periods under the Russian Empire and Soviet Union.
For another perfect spot, head to the Three Crosses Monument, often cited as the highest point accessible to visitors.
This viewpoint offers a sweeping panorama and is especially popular at sunset.
Both viewpoints are a great way to understand the geography of the city and how the Vilnia River curves through it.
Churches in Vilnius and Sacred Landmarks
Vilnius is famous for its churches. There are over 30 within the old town alone, each reflecting a different era and influence.
St. Anne’s Church is the most photographed.
This red-brick Gothic masterpiece stands near Bernardine Garden and is often described as one of the most beautiful churches in eastern Europe. Entry is free and the exterior alone is worth seeing.
Nearby is the Franciscan friars complex at St Francis and St Bernard Church, adding Renaissance and Baroque layers to the skyline.
Another essential stop is the Gate of Dawn, also known as the Gates of Dawn.
This is the only remaining city gate and a major pilgrimage site.
Inside the gate chapel is a revered icon of the Virgin Mary. This site remains deeply meaningful to locals and is free to enter.
Together, these churches and religious sites explain why Vilnius’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and why it remains one of the best places for slow, reflective travel.
The Jewish Quarter
Vilnius was once known as the “Jerusalem of the North,” home to a thriving Jewish community before World War II.
The Jewish quarter in Vilnius was officially established in the 17th century and became the heart of Jewish religious and communal life, featuring the famous Great Vilnius Synagogue and numerous other institutions.
At its peak, Vilnius had more than 100 synagogues, and Jews represented 40% of the city’s population.
Tragically, the Holocaust and subsequent Soviet occupation decimated the community, with only a fraction surviving.
Today, only one synagogue remains, and the Tolerance Centre, a poignant reminder of this lost heritage.
If you are looking to better understand this tumultuous past, the centre offers exhibits on Jewish history, culture, and the devastation of the 20th century.
Užupis and the Arty Side of Vilnius
Cross the bridge from the old town and you arrive in Užupis, often compared to Montmartre or Christiania, though it has its own flavour.
Užupis is known for art galleries, murals and its playful approach to identity. It is an excellent example of how Vilnius blends creativity with everyday life.
This area is also a cultural centre, hosting small exhibitions, pop-up events and open-air art.
Literature Street, back in the old town, complements this artistic side. The walls here are covered with plaques dedicated to writers connected to Lithuania, turning a quiet lane into an open-air gallery.
Free Things to do in Vilnius
One of the reasons Vilnius is such a great place for budget travellers is the number of free attractions.
A free walking tour is one of the best way to get oriented.
Tours typically start near Cathedral Square and cover the old town, Užupis and key historical events, from pagan times to the Soviet occupation and independence.
Wandering Užupis itself is free and endlessly entertaining.
Its humorous, philosophical and oddly moving constitution is displayed on plaques along the Vilnia River and it embodies the creative spirit of the area.
Bernardine Garden is another free highlight.
Located along the Vilnia River, it is a peaceful green space with flowerbeds, fountains and benches, perfect for a pause between sightseeing.
Simply walking the narrow streets, crossing bridges over the Vilnia River and exploring courtyards is one of the best things to do in Vilnius and costs nothing.
And if you are in the area, why not peek in another city for a second?
You’ll know it when you see it, the striking Video Portal public installation is a circular screen installation allows passersby in Vilnius to see and interact visually in real-time with other people from cities like Dublin, Ireland or Lublin, Poland.
Come and say hi to whoever waits on the other side!
Other Green Spaces and Modern Vilnius
Did you know that Vilnius is one of Europe’s greenest capitals, with nearly half of its territory covered by parks, woodlands, and open spaces?
Moreover, the city’s commitment to sustainability has earned it the title of European Green Capital 2025!
Baltasis Tiltas
Just steps away from the Bernardine Garden, the area around Baltasis Tiltas (White Bridge) becomes a lively social hub in warmer months, drawing locals for everything from casual sports and picnics to open-air hangouts.
New Town
As you move away from the Old Town, the New Town reveals a different side of Vilnius, one that’s modern and functional, home to banks, government offices, and contemporary architecture.
Take your trip even further, among the Soviet-era apartment blocks, where many locals live today, and head to the Vilnius TV Tower in the Karoliniškės district.
At 326.5m, the TV tower is Lithuania’s tallest structure and offers a great view from its observation deck and rotating café.
Beyond the views, the tower is a place of remembrance.
In January 1991, 14 civilians lost their lives here during a Soviet assault on Lithuanian independence efforts, and now a small on-site museum honours their memory.
Budget Tip: if you are only paying for one viewpoint experience, compare the TV Tower with the bell tower option and choose based on your interests.
Old town charm versus wide-angle cityscape.
Museums Worth Visiting in Vilnius
Vilnius has a strong museum scene, many of which are low cost or free on certain days.
Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights
The Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, also known as the KGB Museum, is one of the most impactful.
Located in the former KGB headquarters, it documents the Soviet occupation, resistance movements and the brutal realities of Soviet times. This is essential for understanding 20th century Lithuania.
Užupis Art Incubator
Located in the heart of the bohemian Užupis district, the Užupis Art Incubator is a creative hub where artists freely experiment and display their works in the open air, on riverbanks, and in courtyards.
The Open Gallery
The Open Gallery is a unique open-air art gallery set in the urban environment of former factories and warehouses, within easy reach from the train station.
With more than 30 works of art and light installations by both Lithuanian and international street artists, this space is constantly evolving and offers a fresh perspective on urban creativity.
National Museum of Lithuania
The National Museum of Lithuania focuses on the broader history of Lithuania, from prehistoric times through the Grand Duchy and modern independence.
MO Museum
MO Museum is a contemporary art museum housed in a striking modern building.
It focuses on Lithuanian art from the 20th century to today and is a good counterpoint to the historical museums.
Vilnius University
Vilnius University is another highlight.
Founded in 1579, it is the oldest university in the Baltic countries.
Wandering its courtyards is free, and you can pay to climb the bell tower for another great view.
The TSEKH Art Gallery
The TSEKH Art Gallery is celebrated for its stunning contemporary art pieces and welcoming atmosphere.
It’s a lesser-known spot where you can discover works by innovative Lithuanian and international artists, making it a favourite among those seeking something off the mainstream art trail.
Vytautas Kasiulis Art Museum
The Vytautas Kasiulis Art Museum is dedicated to the works of Vytautas Kasiulis, a Lithuanian artist known for his vibrant and expressive paintings.
The museum provides a peaceful, contemplative space to appreciate a distinctive style rarely found elsewhere in Vilnius.
Contemporary Art Centre
Known as the CAC, The Contemporary Art Centre is one of the largest venues for contemporary art in the Baltic states, renowned for its ambitious exhibition program, including the prestigious Baltic Triennial.
With its ever-changing exhibitions and the unique Fluxus Cabinet, the CAC is a must for anyone interested in contemporary and experimental art.
Attractions in Vilnius You Might Not Have on Your List
If you are building an ultimate guide to attractions in Vilnius, it pays to go beyond the obvious skyline hits.
Vilnius is a city where the “best things” are often a little quieter: a former prison turned cultural venue, a grand boulevard locals actually use, and viewpoints that do not require a major hike.
These are some of the top things to add if you want your Vilnius sightseeing to feel fuller, more local, and still very good value.
Lukiškės Prison
For something completely different, put Lukiškės Prison on your Vilnius list.
This is not your standard museum corridor with polite signage. It’s a former prison complex that has been reimagined as a creative space, with exhibitions, events and guided tour options that walk you through the building’s history and how it functioned.
It is one of the most unusual attractions in Vilnius because it sits right at the intersection of culture and the difficult parts of modern Lithuanian history.
If you are travelling on a budget, this is also a good example of paying for one well-chosen experience rather than lots of smaller ones.
It can be a great way to add depth to your first day in the city centre if you have already covered the classic old town sights.
Presidential Palace
Many visitors walk past the Presidential Palace and assume it is off limits.
In fact, free tours are offered on weekends, with pre-registration required.
For value-focused travellers, this is gold.
You get context on Lithuania’s modern statehood, the role of the presidency, and a peek into one of the most important official buildings in the Lithuanian capital, all without paying an entry fee.
This is also a handy add-on for anyone asking is Vilnius worth visiting for history and politics, rather than purely pretty streets. It makes the city feel like a living capital of Lithuania, not just a preserved old town.
Gediminas Avenue
Gediminas Avenue is the city’s main boulevard and one of the best places to understand modern Vilnius Lithuania.
Unlike some capital-city high streets, it still feels local – think bookshops, cafés, galleries, and public buildings, with plenty of benches for people-watching.
If you want a simple, low-cost afternoon, do this: start near Cathedral Square, wander towards Gediminas Avenue, grab a coffee, and let the day unfold.
It’s a great way to balance your itinerary if you have spent the morning deep in churches in Vilnius or museums that cover the Soviet occupation.
Town Hall and Market Square
Most visitors focus on religious landmarks, but the Town Hall area shows you the civic side of the old town of Vilnius.
The Town Hall sits close to the market square zone, where you will find seasonal events, small markets, and a general buzz that feels more everyday than postcard-perfect.
This is a better place to pause than the busiest parts of Pilies Street if you want a calmer slice of the old town.
It also adds variety to your itinerary so your day is not just church spires and viewpoints.
Vilnia River Walks
I’ve already mentioned the river, but it deserves its own mini-plan because it is genuinely one of the best things to do in Vilnius for free.
The Vilnia River loops past some of the city’s loveliest corners: bridges, paths, leafy pockets and the edges of Užupis.
Here are 3 easy Vilnia River ideas that feel like the best way to explore without spending anything…
- Old Town to Užupis loop: cross into the independent republic vibe, read the plaques, then wander back over a different bridge.
- Bernardine Garden to viewpoints: stroll the paths, then work your way up towards a lookout for a great view.
- Golden hour riverside: bring a snack from a bakery and sit by the Vilnia River for a slow-travel moment that costs pennies.
Hot Air Balloon Over Vilnius
Vilnius is one of the few European capitals where hot air balloon flights are a real option, not just a marketing line.
This is not a budget activity, but it is a memorable “save up” pick for anyone celebrating something, travelling for a great time, or simply wanting a story that outlives your souvenir shops receipt.
Flights are typically scheduled at sunrise or near sunset because balloon flying depends heavily on calm conditions.
Some operators run Vilnius and Trakai flights, which can be a lovely way to combine two icons in one experience.
Food Markets and Cheap Eats
Halės Market
Halės Market is the oldest market in the city and a fantastic place to eat on a budget.
Set inside a spacious, historic building dating back to 1906, inside you will find stalls selling traditional Lithuanian food, fresh produce and snacks.
Try potato pancakes, local cheeses and baked goods.
Around the market area, food trucks and late-night bars offering affordable street food, especially in warmer months, add to the vibe of this place/
The market and surrounds are a great place to sample traditional Lithuanian dishes like cepelinai, bagels, and fresh juices, and its lively atmosphere makes it a cultural experience as well as a culinary one.
Kalvarijų Market
If you’re looking to explore other markets, Kalvarijų Market offers a more traditional, no-frills experience with its lively mix of fresh produce, local meats, and secondhand treasures, for those of you wanting to connect with Vilnius’s everyday rhythm.
Traditional Lithuanian food is hearty and filling.
Cepelinai, potato dumplings, are the most famous.
Šaltibarščiai, the bright pink cold beetroot soup, is a summer favourite. These dishes are inexpensive and widely available.
Paupys Market
On the other end of the spectrum, Paupys Market brings a modern twist to market culture, with its sleek design, global cuisine, and chef-led food stalls set in a trendy, revitalised district.
Both markets offer unique glimpses into the city’s evolving food and shopping scene, so take your pick!
Day Trips from Vilnius
Vilnius is also a perfect base for a Lithuanian day trip.
Trakai Castle
Trakai Castle is the most popular.
Located on an island in Lake Galvė, it looks like something from a fairy tale.
Trakai is easily reached by train or bus and makes a great day trip from Vilnius.
Add a food angle by trying kibinai, a Karaite pastry that is strongly associated with Trakai.
This is also the day trip that works best for first time visitors because it is short, simple, and highly photogenic.
Kernave
Kernavė, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers insight into early Lithuanian settlements and pagan temple sites.
Aukštaitija National Park
Aukštaitija National Park is about 1.5 hours away, this lush park is famous for its pristine lakes, making it a haven for hikers, kayakers, and nature lovers.
With over 120 lakes and charming wooden villages, it offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse of rural traditions.
Kaunas
Kaunas, Lithuania’s second largest city, is just over an hour away from Vilnius and offers a different urban feel, with strong interwar architecture and museums.
Best Time to Visit Vilnius for Value
For good value travel, your best time to visit Vilnius often comes down to shoulder seasons.
Late spring and early autumn tend to offer pleasant walking weather with fewer crowds, which matters because so many things to do in Vilnius are outdoors: river walks, viewpoints, courtyards and café terraces.
Winter can be a brilliant option too if you are chasing lower accommodation prices and do not mind wrapping up.
Vilnius is compact enough that you can duck into churches, cafés, museums and markets without spending hours outside.
Summer is lively, but it is usually the priciest time to book flights and hotels.
How to Get to Vilnius
Flying to Vilnius
For most travellers, flying is the easiest option.
Direct flights from many European cities, including London, are readily available, with a typical flight time around 2 hours 40 minutes.
Ryanair, LOT and Wizz Air as airlines that fly direct on the London to Vilnius route, with frequent weekly departures.
As always, I use Skyscanner to get the best rates.
Value tip: if your dates are flexible, winter and January are often among the cheapest periods to fly, although prices always fluctuate.
Train to Vilnius
Taking the train to Vilnius is absolutely doable, with services via major hubs such as Berlin and Warsaw, continuing into Lithuania.
Book through Omio.
Coach to Vilnius
Yes, you can take a coach Vilnius!
Flixbus sells tickets on this route, and it is very much aimed at budget travellers who prioritise price over time.
Where to Stay in Vilnius
Vilnius offers excellent value accommodation, and choosing the right neighbourhood is the best way to make your trip feel easy.
The goal for most travellers is to be walkable to the city centre and Vilnius Old Town, without paying premium old-town prices.
Old Town Edges
If you want to be near the postcard streets, I suggest staying on the edges of Vilnius’s old town rather than directly on the busiest lanes.
This keeps you close to Cathedral Square, cafés and landmarks, but often with better value.
Locals recommend areas around Aušros Vartų street for first timers because it is close to major sights and also convenient for transport links.
Hotel Vilnia is a great choice.
Naujamiestis and New Town
For mid-range travellers, New Town areas often deliver better deals with easy access to attractions.
You will still be within walking distance or a short ride from the old town, plus you get more local dining and less tourist markup.
in Vilnius, staying slightly outside the old town can genuinely be a better place for comfort, price, and food options.
Art City Inn is a fab mid-range option.
Apartments
For longer stays or anyone travelling as a couple or small group, apartment stays in Vilnius can be the best way to keep costs down.
Having a kettle, fridge and simple kitchen means you can enjoy breakfast at home, carry snacks, and spend money on the experiences that matter, like a guided tour, a museum ticket, or that one splurge meal.
ROOMA Apartments come with good ratings.
Is Vilnius Worth Visiting?
Vilnius is worth visiting for travellers who value substance over spectacle and experience over expense.
As the capital of Lithuania, it offers a rare combination of cultural depth, compact size and excellent value.
Many of the city’s main attractions are free or inexpensive, including churches, historic streets, gardens and viewpoints.
Public transport is affordable, food prices are reasonable, and accommodation costs are lower than in many other European capitals.
Vilnius is particularly well suited to first time visitors to the Baltic countries, as it is easy to navigate, English is widely spoken, and the city centre can be explored almost entirely on foot.
This makes it a stress-free introduction to the region, especially compared with larger or more expensive cities in northern Europe.
History is another reason Vilnius is worth seeing.
From the Grand Duchy of Lithuania to the impact of the Soviet Union and the return to independence, the city offers clear, accessible insight into Lithuania’s past.
Museums such as the KGB Museum, historic sites like the Upper Castle and everyday places like Gediminas Avenue help bring that history into context.
Finally, Vilnius is a city that does not demand urgency.
It rewards slow travel, spontaneous wandering and time spent simply observing daily life.
If you are looking for a destination where you can learn, explore and relax without feeling rushed or overcharged, Vilnius is a great place to be.
If you are planning a longer stay, consider pairing Vilnius with one of Lithuania’s spa towns. You can read more in my detailed guide to Lithuania’s best spa destinations, which links beautifully with a city break here.
Visiting Vilnius on a Budget
Vilnius proves that a city break does not need to be expensive to be rewarding.
With its UNESCO-listed old town, compact city centre, strong cultural scene and wide range of free or low-cost attractions, Vilnius is one of the best value capital cities in Europe.
It allows you to shape your trip around your interests, whether that means history, art, food, green spaces or relaxed wandering, without needing to plan every detail or stretch your budget.
The city works particularly well for travellers who enjoy walking, exploring independently and mixing sightseeing with everyday local experiences.
From castle viewpoints and river walks to markets, museums and neighbourhood cafés, Vilnius offers variety without overwhelm.
For first time visitors to Lithuania, Vilnius is an excellent starting point. It is easy to reach, easy to navigate and easy to enjoy at your own pace.
Combine it with a day trip to Trakai or Kernavė, or extend your stay with time in one of Lithuania’s spa towns, and you have a balanced itinerary that feels both enriching and manageable.
Vilnius does not rely on spectacle. Instead, it offers depth, atmosphere and genuine value.
If you are looking for a European city where curiosity is rewarded and your money goes further, Vilnius is very much worth visiting.
Mini Travel Guide to Vilnius, Lithuania
Best Time to Go:
I think it’s best to visit Vilnius is during the shoulder months of May / June or September to avoid the crowds and still enjoy some good weather.
How to Get to Vilnius:
You can fly to Vilnius Čiurlionis Airport. As always, I use Skyscanner to find the best flight deals.
You can also train to Vilnius from many destinations across Lithuania and beyond. Find routes and book journeys through Omio.
Where to Stay:
In Vilnius, check out Hotel Vilnia, Art City Inn and ROOMA Apartments for good value, top-rated Lithuania accommodation
Travel Insurance:
World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while travelling and claim online from anywhere in the world.
Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.
Travel Money:
Lithuania uses the Euro for its currency.
I always travel with my Wise card, which makes spending abroad cheaper with real exchange rates and no sneaky transaction or ATM fees.
Wise cards works just like a debit card and link easily with Google and Apple pay. Grab yours here.
Best eSIM:
I recommend Holafly for unlimited data across Lithuania.
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My trip to Vilnius was gifted by Lithuania Travel but, as always, all views are my own.
This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.
