It is impossible to tell about all of them, but there is an urban “necklace” in Lithuania that is really worth telling about. Its gems start in Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania, then continues to the ancient capital Trakai, with a beautiful castle on an island, going westwards to the second biggest town of Lithuania – Kaunas, from there we go straight to the coast, to the seaport Klaipėda, and from there – to the Curonian spit, to the most distant town – charming resort Nida.

Three capital cities

Last year Vilnius celebrated its 700th anniversary of becoming a capital city of Lithuania and this year it will be exactly 100 years since the first UNESCO heritage Song and Dance festival took place. When celebrating, don’t forget to visit baroque and gothique rich Vilnius old town, with dozens of churches, over 20 monasteries, artistic Užupis Republic and much more. No wonder that Vilnius old town is entirely part of UNESCO heritage.

Trakai, about 30 km West from Vilnius, was the Lithuanian capital before it moved to Vilnius. In Trakai, although it is quite small, it is possible to find places of worship of several different religions and beliefs – Catholic and Orthodox churches, Karaim kenesa, pagan place of worship and, of course, the iconic castle on an island.

From the old capital Trakai to the once temporary (in the period between the two World Wars) capital Kaunas. There it’s worth visiting the old Town Hall, often called “White Swan”, and don’t miss a chance to walk through the longest pedestrian street – Liberty Boulevard, which connects new and old parts of the city, which was given the UNESCO Design City title. The oldest stone castle in Lithuania is also in Kaunas. But the biggest and the most hidden beauty is Pažaislis Monastery and Church, which form the largest monastery complex in Lithuania, and the most magnificent example of Italian Baroque architecture in the country.

To visit all these three capitals you can pick one or more of our tours: Vilnius city and surroundings, Around Vilnius city and Trakai Castle, Trakai Castle and Paneriai Memorial Park, Tour around Kaunas city.

… and for the desert

We move further West to the coast where the biggest Lithuanian port Klaipėda is situated. Don’t be surprised by the German-style architecture in the old town, because for many centuries Memel, as it was called more than one hundred years ago, was part of Prussia and later Germany. It is the oldest city in Lithuania, mentioned already in 1252.

And our last gem in this beautiful necklace is the resort town of Nida on the Curonian spit. It’s not only among the TOP10 European beaches, but the very location – narrow strip of land between the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon – makes it even more diverse and romantic. Mentioned already in the 14th century, now still rich not only with picturesque dunes, but also stylish fishermen houses decorated in bright colours, carvings and boats.

To visit the Lithuanian coast, check our Tour to Curonian Spit National Park, 4-day Scenic Lithuanian Experience or 6-day Best of Lithuania. See you there!

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100th Anniversary of the Lithuanian Song Celebration

Many know about the Baltic way and the Singing Revolution which helped Lithuania regain its independence in 1990 and to put an end to the Soviet era.

But not so widely known is the hundred years old tradition to gather for a huge song and dance celebration, which is now part of the UNESCO heritage.

From 29 June till 6 July 2024, Vilnius, together with Kaunas, will host the Lithuanian Song Celebration and it will be its 100th anniversary! Organizers of this celebration already promised us that it will be very special and will take place in multiple indoor and outdoor locations. Moreover, there will be a chance to experience it from behind the scenes by booking an International Study Tour, organized in cooperation with the European Choral Association.

Baroque Jewel of Eastern Europe

Vilnius is widely known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city features a well-preserved Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It boasts beautiful architecture, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings. If you have an interest in history, art, and architecture, Vilnius offers a unique experience.

Vilnius is a dynamic city with a lively atmosphere. It offers a range of cultural events, festivals, and nightlife, especially in the summer months. The city has a vibrant food scene, including several new and old restaurants, which offer traditional food with recipes dating back several hundred or even several thousand years.

While Vilnius is primarily known for its urban charm, Lithuania as a whole offers picturesque natural landscapes. If you enjoy nature, consider exploring areas outside Vilnius, such as Trakai Castle or the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage site with sand dunes and pine forests.

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If you would like to visit Vilnius and are not sure where to start from, Vilnius city tour organised by Discover Lithuania will let you discover the capital of Lithuania and spend some pleasant free time in whatever the company you are – whether on your own, or travelling with your family or friends. Embrace the finest sites of Vilnius and forget all your troubles!

The city centre and the Old Town

Vilnius city centre and the Old Town can boast an exceptionally long list of sites worth visiting. On the list you can find the Town Hall, the old Vilnius University, the Presidential Palace, the magnificent Cathedral square, Gediminas hill, Gothic St. Ann’s Church, the Bernardinai architectural ensemble and many more.

One of the most remarkable visiting sites in the capital is the Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Ladislaus of Vilnius and the bell tower which is considered to be the symbol of baptism of Lithuania. Vilnius Cathedral is built in Classicism style, but it also contains elements from Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. The magnificent Cathedral is located in the very heart of the city centre, next to the defensive wall of the city, and has witnessed many outstanding and dramatic historic events in the history of Vilnius and Lithuania. Gediminas Castle is visible from many locations of the Old Town and is the key symbol of the city glorified in various works of art. The top of the Hill of Gediminas offers a magnificent panoramic view of Vilnius. The guests at Gediminas Castle are also invited to go up to the observation spot of Gediminas Tower. Just a few steps downhill you will find yourself in the Orchard of Bernardinai, the beloved place of Vilnius residents. Next to the park grows the oldest oak of Vilnius dating back 400 years.

Other sites popular among tourists

The Republic of Užupis. Užupis, the bohemian district of Vilnius often compared to Montmartre of Paris, is surrounded by tiny workshops of painters, musicians, cosy cafes and picturesque narrow streets. The “Republic” of Užupis was established in 1997 when the residents of this district decided to become independent. Užupis is one of the oldest and most prestigious districts in Vilnius, boasting its own hymn, constitution, and the president.

The Church of St. Peter and St. Paul the Apostles. This church is a Baroque masterpiece from 17^th century, topping the list of the most beautiful Catholic churches in the world. Located in Antakalnis district the church has 13 chapels, the chandelier in the form of a vessel, two thousand stucco figures, frescoes, relieves and religious paintings.

The outcrop of Pūčkoriai. Vilnius city tour also covers exploration of the areas surrounding Vilnius. The outcrop of Pūčkoriai is one of the most remarkable and highest outcrop in Lithuania, which is 65 metres in height and 260 metres in width. This unique geological site was declared a natural monument back in 1974. The outcrop offers a splendid panoramic view of Vilnius surrounding areas, Pūčkoriai manor homestead, the twists and turns of the River Vilnia, hills and forests of Pavilnys regional park.

The museum of Alexander Pushkin. You are welcome to visit the Markučiai manor homestead in Vilnius which is home to the museum of Alexander Pushkin. The complex is made up of the former residential house, a 18-ha park with ponds, family cemetery, St. Barbara’s Chapel and a monument to Alexander Pushkin. The exhibits on the museum’s display show glimpses of the life and works of the poet.

Private tour in Vilnius city with Discover Lithuania

Vilnius is a cosy, colourful city, a home to many historic and cultural memories. A romantic and engaging, artistic and robust Vilnius is inviting tourists from all across the world. The Old Town of Vilnius, which is a UNESCO world heritage site, boasts almost two thousand buildings from Middle Ages, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque epochs. You shall not be deceived by this plenitude of historical buildings, though, as Vilnius is also a cosmopolitan and modern city full of attractions, cosy cafes and restaurants, marvellous architectural masterpieces and green parks. Start your adventure with Discover Lithuania – meticulously planned tourism services in Lithuania!

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The city has many faces and the Old Town being the heart of it has retained its uniqueness and is included in UNESCO World Heritage list. Vilnius Old Town is one of the biggest in Central and Eastern Europe. Far reaching and prominent city started as Duke’s city but the remains of paganism still could be found even after its destruction. Other religions made their way into cozy narrow streets of the Old Town where a wide array of Catholic and Orthodox churches, synagogues and even mosques are spread throughout it and beyond.

Lithuanian territory has always been a borderline not only between East and West but also North and South. Not surprisingly, architecture is strangely confusing and Vilnius is the most baroque style city under the northern sky. The modern day capital is not confined to the Old Town. It extends to Zverynas with original wooden architecture, lively Antakalnis and Uzupis adjacent to the Old Town. The latter has been lived in from 16^th century and since April 1997 has become an Independent Republic of Uzupis. You would think it is April Fool’s Day joke if it didn’t have its president, ministers, army, currency, flag and constitution which has been translated into more than 50 languages. If you want to feel artistic spirit, have a stroll through it.

Vilnius city boasts of its greenery with many parks and 2 regional parks, multiple architectural, historical and art monuments that tell the story of the city and country’s past and present: Upper Castle tower named for Grand Duke Gediminas with flying Lithuanian flag, St. Anne’s Church probably the most famous specimen of Lithuanian Gothic architecture, Cathedral as a symbol of Catholicism, St. Casimir’s Chapel, the patron Saint of Lithuania, Hill of Tree Crosses, St. Peter and Paul’s Church, a remarkable baroque jewel, Vilnius University 13 courtyards providing captivating glimpse into the oldest educational institution around which the noble city of dukes flourished.

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In this Lithuania travel guide we give you some travel advice what to visit if you are going to Lithuania for the first time.

First of all, of course, is the capital of Lithuania Vilnius. The Old Town is protected by UNESCO and has a lot of places to visit. The highlights are the magnificent baroque Cathedral and remaining tower of medieval castle – Gediminas Tower, stunning gothic style ensemble of St. Anne and Bernardine Church, classic Town Hall Square, Vilnius University, established in 16th century, and historic Presidential Palace. There are other places outside The Old Town: beautiful Catholic Church of St. Peter and Paul, bohemic Uzupis area as well as one of the tallest buildings in Easter Europe – The Television Tower.

Worth mentioning, that Vilnius is not only famous for its Old Town, but also for its greenery too. For that it’s a good idea to visit Puckoriai Exposure, where wonderful landscape of forest and river can be seen. The top museums of Vilnius are: The Museum of Genocide Victims, known as The KGB Museum, The Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, The Money Museum of the Bank of Lithuania, The Energy and Technology Museum. For those who wants to see the panorama of Vilnius city should be interested in visiting The Bell Tower of St. John’s Church, viewpoints of Subacius Hill or The Hill of Three Crosses.

The second most travelled spot is historical capital of ancient Lithuania – Trakai town, which is famous for its fascinating scenery and medieval Castle. Trakai Castle is the only castle in all Eastern Europe, situated on the island and is the best repository of Lithuanian Grand Dukes history. Do you know the fact that in 14th century The Grand Duchy of Lithuania reached The Black Sea and was the largest country in Europe?

Another ‘must see’ object in Lithuania is probably one of the most spiritual and inspiring place – The Hill of Crosses. Standing upon a small hill are many hundreds of thousands of crosses that represent not even the religious devotion of the Lithuanian people, but also is the symbol of nation’s fight for the independence of USSR.

And talking about the nature, we can’t forget the gem of Lithuanian landscape – The Curonian Spit National Park, which is 98 km long peninsula between Baltic Sea and the Curonian Bay, formed more than 5 000 years ago by the sea surge and streams, sand and wind. It gives an unforgettable impression to visitors with its wind-blown dunes, bright pine forest and authentic homesteads in Juodkrante, Pervalka, Preila and Nida. This object has received the global community recognition and was included in UNESCO World heritage list as a cultural landscape site with a multitude of natural and cultural heritage assets.

As a final point it is necessary to note a few more cities to be considered. Therefore, Kaunas – a temporary capital of interwar Lithuania is famous for its unique modernist architecture, cozy Old Town and well known museums: bizarre Devil’s Museum, an oldest National Art Museum and the largest open-air Rumsiskes Ethnographic Museum in Lithuania. After that, SPA lovers definitely should visit Druskininkai resort, filled with green pinewoods and mineral waters, crystal-blue lakes and other natural riches. Modern and high quality of wellness services turn Druskininkai into an exceptional peace, rest, health and pleasures oasis. In addition Anykščiai town shouldn’t be forgotten as well. This small town is becoming a big ‘star’ for the travellers, because of the various and compact-situated sightseeing spots, such as walking path above the tree tops, traditional craft’s workshops at The Horse Museum and historical and technology exhibits at The Railway Museum.

Discover where to go on your next Baltic adventure with our comprehensive Lithuania travel guide and explore the country that has a rich history and beautiful nature. If you are looking for assistance, contact us and we will suggest you the custom – made trip design.

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