What to see in Vilnius
My favourite places to visit in the Old Town of Vilnius and beyond. The selection includes the independent Republic of Uzupis, the Hill of Three Crosses, the MO Museum of modern art, the Bernardine Garden and the Trakai Castle.
VILNIUS beyond the old town
© Go Vilnius
A selection of interesting places to see in the city of Vilnius outside its medieval Old Town.
The list includes places of cultural interest, museums and city districts recommended to visit in order to experience the Lithuanian capital in a more complete way.
© Go Vilnius
Užupis Republic
Guarded by its famous angel statue, Užupis Republika is a cool and vibrant district in Vilnius that inspires every visitor. Only a bridge span from the Old Town, this once community of artists has grown into a bohemian living place for local creators and entrepreneurs.
The area is full of open-air sculptures, street art and exhibitions, as well as many artsy shops that give to Užupis a special atmosphere. A great place to experience Vilnius outside its historical Old Town.
Best way to get there:
From the iconic St. Anne’s church, head south along Maironio gatve until you reach the Bridge of Užupis on the left. Cross is and you will be at your destination.
Check the location here.
© Go Vilnius
Hill of Three Crosses
Erected as a memorial during the Second World War, these 12 meter white crosses over-looking the city of Vilnius are now a symbol of Lithuanian national identity and resistance to occupation.
With Bernardine Garden and Vilnele River at its foot, the Hill of Three Crosses is the most accessible viewpoint in Vilnius from where to enjoy impressive scenic views over the Old Town.
Best way to get there:
At Bernardine Garden, reach the Lithuanian National Culture Centre and follow the small road up the hill that starts from there.
Check the location here.
© Go Vilnius
Open Gallery
This alternative “open-air gallery” south of the Old Town exhibits some very cool paintings from the best Lithuanian and foreign street art talents.
A cultural project based on the revitalisation of post-industrial Vilnius to bring old city areas to a new life, this open gallery in Vilnius holds many cultural events, performances and film screenings.
Best way to get there:
Located in the courtyard of the former Elfa factory, you can get there from the Old Town taking Naugarduko gatve until Vytenio. Then turn left and walk pass Kauno gatve. The gallery will be on your left side.
Check the location here.
© Go Vilnius
Trakai Island Castle
Only accessible after crossing a long wooden bridge, this picturesque gothic castle standing on an island of one of the deepest lakes in Lithuania seems to come straight out of a fairy tale.
Featuring medieval festivals, events and concerts in the summer, Trakai island Castle is definitely a place where to admire the most impressive medieval heritage in Lithuania beside the Old Town of Vilnius.
Best way to get there:
By train: from the train station on Geležinkelio g. 16
By bus: from the Vilnius Bus Station on Sodų g. 22
Check the location here.
© Go Vilnius
Mo Museum
One of the newest additions to the collection of museums in Vilnius, this modern art one features over 5,000 works of modern and contemporary Lithuanian artists.
A must visit for art lovers and anyone interested on European modern art, the MO Museum is a top choice to visit in the Old Town.
Best way to get there:
Follow Traku g. westward until Pylimo g. Turn left on the street and your destination will be on your right side.
Check the location here.