48 Hours in Vilnius - Europe’s Hidden Gem
Looking for a fresh destination, unspoilt by stag parties and coach loads of tourists? Then, Lithuania’s cool capital is the place for you - just don’t tell anyone! We spent a weekend exploring this small, but vibrant city and discovered it is Europe’s hidden gem.
What’s the story, where is Vilnius?
When we landed in Vilnius International Airport we were greeted by a poster in the arrivals hall that read “I didn’t know where Vilnius was (luckily the pilot did).” This was a sign of things to come. Lithuania has nothing to prove so they can poke fun at themselves and their under-the-radar-country, safe in the knowledge that it is one of the most beautiful places in Europe.
This Baltic state in eastern Europe has it all, lush green countryside, a stunning coastline and a vibrant capital that has all the beauty of Krakow, but all the coolness of Berlin.
Vilnius is easily accessed by air, rail or road. The airport is a 20 minute drive or 8 minute train journey from the city centre and is serviced by frequent bus and rail services costing around €1.00 each way. Alternatively, grab one of the many taxis lined up outside (approx. €14.00). The main train station is located on the edge of the Old Town in the lively and culturally rich Station District and the airport bus conveniently drops you off at the gates to the Old Town.
Getting Around
Getting around this compact city couldn’t be easier. Its a great city to simply walk around as there is something to see around most corners, be it impressive street-art or a swing suspended from bridge over the river. Meander through the shop-lined streets of the Old town where floral garlands edge doorways and sky-art is suspended above. Take time-out and stroll around the beautiful grounds of Kalnu Parkas, a river-side park on the edge of Užupis or pull up a stool outside a tiny craft beer bar.
If you prefer a quick, but just as eco-friendly way to get around, hop on one of the hundreds of scooters dotted around the city. Download the Bolt App, unlock your scooter and start riding hassle-free.
Where should I stay?
With many neighbourhoods to choose from, there is no shortage of great places to base yourself. We opted for Mai Ram Yoga House, an Ashram in the Old Town. A beautiful walled space comprising of accommodation, yoga studios and SOMA, a gorgeous vegetarian café. Tucked away on a quiet street and housed in a former Augustinian monastery, Mai Ram is a peaceful haven in the heart of the city.
Yoga classes are included in the price of your stay. Even though the classes are taught in Lithuanian, I was fully immersed in the practice as the teacher was very sympathetic and ensured that I understood all of her directions.
Don’t miss lunch in SOMA, the cosy vegetarian café that serves healthy dishes inspired by India and Asia. The décor is simple and stylish with low lying tables and floor cushions surrounded by Moroccan lanterns and the smell of incense.
What Areas Should I Focus On?
We had two days in the city so we focused on the Old Town, the up-and-coming Stotis (Station) District and the bohemian Republic of Užupis. Each area completely different from other despite their close proximity to each other.
The Old Town
The Old Town, with its mix of preserved architectural styles, is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site. Dating back to the middle Ages, it is one of the largest surviving Medieval old towns in Europe where history and contemporary culture blend together perfectly. Explore the historic core of the city on foot, meander through its narrow streets, visit old palaces and loose yourself in the beauty of the Baroque and Gothic buildings.
Stotis District
Stroll around to see the city’s best street art, head to the cool Halės food market or grab a drink on a station platform with a 15-foot Tony Soprano and you’ll discover the Stotis District. This up-and-coming area is having a revival, brimming with underground music venues and outdoor markets it was voted one of the ‘coolest’ neighbourhoods in the world by Time Out. Don’t miss this fun and colourful neighbourhood.
Užupis
The self-proclaimed Artists’ Republic of Užupis started as an April’s Fool’s Day joke in 1995. A group of local artists and intellectuals had erected a statute of Frank Zappa two years prior and shortly after four national flags were designed a constitution was drawn up. The Republic's constitution is a fine example of humanity and community and includes ‘the right to be happy’ and ‘the right for a dog to be dog.’ It is displayed in 23 languages on Paupio Street. Wade through the Vilnia River and take a seat on the Swing of Fate that hangs from the Bridge of Užupis surrounded by giant dream catchers or wander through the streets and alleyways of this eccentric and bohemian neighbourhood as there is art to be found around every corner.
Where to….?
Eat
Brunch
Don’t miss the avocado toast at our favourite brunch spot Back Stage Cafe located in the Old Town. This laid back cafe is beautifully styled and super dog friendly so we had loads of fun meeting the local pooches. Also a roastery, you are guaranteed great coffee as well has a relaxed atmosphere.
Grab and Go
Halės Market is one of the oldest markets in Vilnius and is an attack on the senses. Inside, traditional stalls and deli’s selling local cheeses and specialities sit side by side with modern coffee bars and burrito joints. Outside, on Saturdays, locals sell freshly harvested berries, plums, flowers and other treats from their gardens and on Sundays, there is street food market during the summer months. When the stalls of Halės Turgus are closed for the evening, head to Young’s Club and see the legendary market in a different light. DJs play on Fridays and Saturdays, which makes it a great dance spot.
Plant Based
Looking for an exclusively vegan menu? Check out Rosehip, a local chain of colourful plant-based bistros. Rosehip serves up delicious vegan alternatives to fast food favourites (the pulled jackfruit burger is a winner), great salads and fun cocktails.
Photo Credit: Rosehip
Fine Dining
Nineteen18 is a beautiful farm to table restaurant housed in a XVII century Vainai mansion in the Old Town. With most of the produce sourced from their own farm (an hour’s drive from Vilnius), chef Andrius Kubilius’ team showcase traditional Lithuanian elements that reflect the seasons. The 9 course tasting menu is a wonderful dining experience.
Drink
Coffee
There’s an old saying that goes “tell me what your favourite stationery item is, and I‘ll tell who you are.” Rastině has to be my favourite stationery store (anywhere) and the coolest place to grab a coffee in Vilnius. This store-cum-café is a beautiful space where you can shop for unique pens, notebooks and quirky desk accessories as well as relaxing with a coffee and the cutest little cakes.
Craft Beer
Beer is an intrinsic part of Lithuania’s culture and Vilnius has a thriving craft beer scene with local ales being served in cool little bars and traditional taverns dotted around the city. Our favorite is the blink and miss it Happy Brew.
Tucked away in the Old Town on a quiet side street, Happy Brew becomes noticeable in the late afternoon when the owner puts out a couple of make-shift, vibrant tables on the street - otherwise, you could easily walk right by this little beer den. With a wide range of bottled IPAs and a few taps this is a great bottle shop for take-out or for sitting outside watching the world go by.
Wine (and so much more)
Housed in beautiful mansion, Senatorių Pasažas is a truly unique city market dedicated to the farm to table culture. Bringing organic produce to the city from their own farm, ‘Farmers Circle’ this project has created a wonderful meeting place in the Old Town. A number of restaurants, bars and shops line a spectacular courtyard which thrives in the evening when locals meet for a great night-out.
Taurės, our favouite wine bar is housed in the corner of Senatorių Pasažas’ gorgeous courtyard. Serving organic wines and oysters from its cosy dining room or on the buzzy terrace outside, Taurres is a great spot to start or end a night-out. You can even visit the wine cellar —an underground space they found while reconstructing the building.
Get Cultured
Contemporary Art Centre (CAC) is the heart of Vilnius’ contemporary art scene. This huge center has five exposition rooms and a cinema hall. In the evening, an intimate bar opens and as the night rolls on, arty locals pour into the street and the courtyard behind where live music adds to the electric atmosphere.
Relax
Leave the bustle of the city behind and find yourself in beautiful walled garden tucked away in the Old Town. Hidden beneath this wild flower garden is Bokšto Spa. This subterranean day spa is a hidden gem, with its 25 meter pool, Himalayan salt sauna, Turkish Hammam and garden facing relaxation room its hard not to relax and let the stress of everyday life melt away. Treat yourself! 1.5 hours costs €35.00
