Discover the main sights and hidden gems in Vilnius Old Town
Description
Join us on an excursion through Vilnius Old Town, the Castle grounds, Užupis—the city’s bohemian district, and an amber gallery. You’ll discover hidden courtyards and secret spots, while hearing fascinating stories along the way. Vilnius Old Town is one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Northern Europe, featuring 25 churches, two castles, medieval streets, a 16th-century university campus, the Gate of Dawn, and the former Jewish quarters that became ghettos during WWII. We’ll also visit Užupis, an artists' district that declared itself a 'free state' on April 1st, 1997, now celebrated annually as Užupis Independence Day. Here, you’ll explore its galleries, quirky sculptures, and the unique Užupis constitution. Optional: We can stop to enjoy Lithuanian beer or try local dishes (additional cost). All entrances are free during this tour.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Vilnius Old Town is one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Northern Europe, boasting 25 churches, two castles, medieval streets, hidden cozy courtyards, a 16th-century university campus, and more. No paid entrances during this tour.
Užupis, the artists' district, is one of the most interesting places in the city. In a symbolic gesture, the community of artists declared it a 'free state' from Lithuania on April 1st, 1997. Now, April 1st is celebrated as Užupis Independence Day. We will explore the district with its galleries, artists, unique constitution, and sculptures. We will visit free-of-charge places such as a gallery and a craftsmen's workshop, if it is open.
We will explore the castle grounds, Vilnius Cathedral, and the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. As we walk through these historic landmarks, you will learn about their architectural evolution, their role in shaping Lithuanian history, and the fascinating stories of the Grand Dukes who once resided here. The cathedral, a symbol of Lithuania’s Christian heritage, stands alongside the Palace, which was a political, cultural, and diplomatic hub during the Grand Duchy era. No entrance fees are required for the castle territory and the Cathedral.
We will explore the former Jewish ghetto and discuss the Jewish heritage in the city, as well as the tragic events of the Holocaust. No paid entrances.
We will visit Vilnius University, the oldest and largest university in the Baltic states. Established in 1579, it has played a key role in the region’s intellectual and cultural development. As we explore its historic campus, you'll discover its stunning courtyards, the Baroque St. John's Church, and the impressive library, learning about the university's rich academic legacy and its influence on Lithuanian society. We will visit the library courtyard, which is free to enter.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
I will meet you at the hotel or an other place in the center of VIlnius you choose.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
Reviews(4)
Great tour and tailored to our abilities.
Lukas is an excellent guide who is very knowledgeable of his city, both past and present. He is clearly proud of his city and country. Outstanding communication skills!
As a royal city, it was first mentioned in 1323, by Grand Duke Gediminas. Everyone who visits Vilnius, learns the legend about the Iron Wolf and Gediminas, the founder of the city. No wonder, the Gediminas Tower on the hill serves the emblem of Lithuania. Today the Old Town of Vilnius covers a large area. Its attractive lanes and enclosed backyards are easy to reach from the main Cathedral or Town Hall squares. The reconstructed Royal Palace in Cathedral Square recalls the local nobility and royal figures, and their simple human passions. The country's rulers stayed here - Grand Lithuanian Dukes and Polish Kings, the successors of Gediminas-Jagiellon house. Through relationship by marriage, they were connected to the outstanding royal families of Habsburg in Austria, Sforza in Milan, the Vasa dynasty in Sweden and others. Amazingly, a real love story took place here in the 16th century between king Sigismund August and the beautiful widow Barbara Radziwill (Barbora Radvilaite) from an influential Lithuanian noble family. The Queen Barbora nowadays was elected the most prominent woman of Lithuania of all times... Having passed the Church of St. Ann, a tiny masterpiece of Gothic style, you will reach the Republic of Uzupis, situated on the banks of the River Vilnia (Uzupis means "the place beyond the river"). This is Vilnius Montmartre, an area of artists and people with a sense of humour. You can find the key postulates of the Republic of Uzupis Constitution, displayed on the street wall, likewise: "Everyone has the right to be happy. Everyone has the right to be unique...", etc.
