Delicious food, stunning views and incredible architecture: tourists simply worship this cheap European city
Vilnius is the capital and largest city of Lithuania, located on the Neris River. It is the second largest city in the Baltic States by population. Recently, Vilnius has been attracting more and more tourists, as it offers a great and affordable vacation for both history and architecture lovers and those seeking entertainment and nightlife.
This year, Vilnius was shortlisted in the Most Desirable City (Europe) category at the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards, according to Express. In addition, Lithuania was ranked second in the Lonely Planet's list of the best countries to visit in 2025.
Tourism experts say that Vilnius has aroused a wave of interest because it offers a combination of culture, history, relatively low housing prices, and delicious food.
Vilnius.
Source: wikipedia.org
The historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Before the Second World War, Vilnius was one of the largest Jewish centers, for which it was even called the "Jerusalem of Lithuania." Napoleon called Vilnius the "Jerusalem of the North" during his campaign in 1812. By the way, in 2009, Vilnius was declared the European Capital of Culture along with Linz, Austria.
It is a clean, green and attractive city for walking, as 69% of the area is covered by greenery. In 2021, Vilnius took 3rd place in the ranking of the greenest cities in the world.
The Lithuanian capital also boasts many architectural landmarks, including the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, the Gediminas' Tower, the Gate of Dawn, etc. For those who love theater, the Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theater offers incredible classical performances.
Vilnius University.
Source: wikipedia.org
According to experts, the architecture of the Old Town in Vilnius alone justifies the cost of an airplane ticket. Vilnius is a pedestrian-friendly city, allowing tourists to appreciate the cultural and artistic greatness on foot without the expense or inconvenience of public transportation.
One of the most interesting neighborhoods is Užupis, or Zarechye, which is surrounded by the Vilnia River on three sides. It is a real oasis of creativity: painters, poets, and sculptors have long settled here, so you can enjoy art in numerous museums, studios, and galleries.
Ostra Brama is a medieval defense gate of Vilnius that has been preserved to this day.
Ostra Brama.
Source: Kontis Šatūnas, wikipedia.org
It's also worth visiting other historical sights, including:
- Vilnius Town Hall;
- St. Anne's Church;
- Vilnius Cathedral;
- Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights;
- Church of Our Lady of the Sign;
- Church of St. Peter and St. Paul.
St. Anne's Church.
Source: wikipedia.org
Gastronomic tours are in demand due to the large number of first-class restaurants serving culinary delights. The year 2024 was an important milestone for the culinary scene in Vilnius, as the city was featured in the first MICHELIN Guide in Lithuania. Four local restaurants - Nineteen18, Dziaugsmas, Demo and Pas mus - received the coveted Michelin star.
Another four Vilnius restaurants, Sweet Root, 14 Horses, Le Travi and Gaspar's, were honored with The Bib Gourmand Award, which is given to restaurants that offer exceptional food at low prices.
In addition, Vilnius offers excellent value for money. It was named the most affordable city in the Post Office Travel Money report.
Major European highways pass through Vilnius, so the city is easily accessible by car or bus.
Vilnius International Airport is located 5 km from the city center and has a direct connection to the railway station.
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