Free things to do in Vilnius: 21 recommendations
1. Climb the tower of Gediminas Castle
Gediminas Castle Tower is one of the most visited tourist attractions not only in Vilnius, but also in Lithuania. The tower is only a small part of the Gediminas Hill castle, which was built in the 13th century.
Why visit: Gediminas Tower is a historical monument that dates back several centuries of Lithuanian history. The panoramic view of Vilnius from the top of the hill will not disappoint.
2. Take a walk in Vilnius Old Town
Vilnius Old Town is a Unesco Cultural Heritage Site. It is one of the oldest and largest old towns in Eastern Europe. Here you can see examples of Baroque, Gothic and Classical architecture.
Why visit: one of the reasons why Vilnius is such an attractive capital city is that you can walk around the Old Town of Vilnius in just half a day. Every street offers new discoveries, a panoramic view of the city and cozy local shops and cafés.
3. Visit Užupis
Užupis is the smallest and one of the oldest districts of Vilnius. It was once home to monks when it was built, but these days it is a famous artists’ and craftsmen’s district where you can see exquisite works of art.
Why visit: If you’re looking for an interesting place in Vilnius, you should definitely visit Užupis. Here you will discover the work of local artists and wander through narrow streets filled with frescoes, sculptures and other works of art. In addition, Užupis has declared its independence and its own republic, with its own constitution, national anthem, public holidays and even monetary units.
4. Vilnius Cathedral
Vilnius Cathedral of St. Stanislaus and St. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Vladislaus is one of the most famous places in Vilnius. Classical architecture is an important symbol of Vilnius. When you arrive, you can not only admire the exterior of the cathedral and the square next to it, but also go inside.
Why visit: It is one of the most famous places in Vilnius and a must-see when you are in the capital of Lithuania.
5. Vilnius Green Bridge
The 100 meter–long bridge connects the old and new parts of the city. Interestingly, this bridge got its name even before it was built. In the 18th century, a wooden bridge stood on the site of this bridge. It was painted green, but its name was retained and passed on to the new bridge.
Why visit: The bridge offers an unparalleled view of the River Neris, and you can walk down to the banks of the Neris below the bridge and watch the rushing rhythm of the city in peace.
6. A picnic by the Neris River
When the weather warms up, Vilnius residents gather on the banks of the Neris. Here you can bring your own snacks and drinks and have a picnic.
Why visit: The Neris Embankment offers a short escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and a view of the river. During the summer, it is also a frequent venue for concerts and events.
7. The Bernardine Garden in Sereikiškės Park
The Bernardine Garden, located by the Vilnelė River, was created by the nearby Bernardine Monastery. Located in the very center of the city, the park enchants with its variety of plants, cozy seating areas and the slowly flowing Vilnelė River.
Why visit: The Bernardine Garden is an oasis of nature in the city center. In summer, you can go for walks, listen to music and enjoy the view of the nearby river.
8. Visit the Hill of the Three Crosses
The Three Crosses on Crooked Hill are a symbol of the monks who died here in the 12th century. It is a symbolic place that offers an unparalleled panorama of Vilnius.
Why visit: The Three Crosses monument is impressive, as is the view from the hill. At night, the Three Crosses are illuminated in a variety of colors, making the site even more impressive.
9. Free exhibitions and events at the Martynas Mažvydas Library
The Martynas Mažvydas National Library of Lithuania is one of the largest libraries in Lithuania. Founded at the beginning of the 20th century, it is still an important cultural place.
Why visit: The library regularly hosts various exhibitions, talks with famous people, film screenings and many of these events are free of charge. It’s a great place to get to know local and international artists and to take shelter from the rain and cold during the cold season.
10. Discover the contrast of Žvėrynas
Žvėrynas is a famous district in the center of Vilnius. It is famous for the fact that in one part of the district there are still wooden houses built in the early 20th century, and just around the corner there are modern skyscrapers and new buildings.
Why visit: Žvėrynas is a place where the old Vilnius and the modern capital collide. It is the place where you can best see this contrast.
11. The Money Museum
Always free – The Money Museum invites you to learn about the history of Lithuanian money and see the monetary units of other countries.
Why visit: Learn about the history and see how people used to exchange money and how the country’s economy has changed over several hundred years.
12. Take a walk in Vingis Park
Vingis Park, which covers 157 hectares, is a great place to take a break from the noise of the city. Here you can picnic, cycle, rollerblade, scooter, play games and otherwise relax. During the summer, the park also hosts many events and concerts.
Why visit: It’s the largest park in Vilnius, with many unspoilt areas, so you’ll always find a quiet place to hide from the noise and enjoy nature.
Free museums on Sundays in the last months of the year
If you want to visit Vilnius’ most famous museums and galleries for free, you can do so on the last Sunday of every month. Here are some of the museums you can visit for free in Vilnius.
13. House of History
The House of Stories is a gallery located at 3 T.Kosciuškos St., where works from different periods of history are exhibited and how they intertwine with other parts of life and influence our present.
Why Visit: The House of Stories allows us to immerse ourselves in our history and see it through the prism of today and how we live our past experiences up to the present. It’s a great way to gain perspective on current events and see the flow of the past in the context of art, archaeology and history.
14. Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania
The lower part of Vilnius Castle, built in the 15th century, has now been transformed into the impressive Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. Here you can see different parts of Lithuanian history and various exhibitions of art, history and archaeology.
Why visit: The Palace of the Grand Dukes offers a wealth of ancient vessels, utensils, items of clothing and ruins, as well as a glimpse of how the Lithuanian nobility used to live in the past.
15. The Varnelis Museum
The house of Kazys Varnelis has been transformed into a museum, where you can see the works of this famous Lithuanian painter and artist, as well as the collection of works he assembled during his lifetime.
Why visit: Kazys Varnelis lived in exile and his work reveals the experiences of the people of his time, intertwined with foreign cultures and a longing for his homeland.
16. The National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art is one of the largest art galleries in Lithuania. Here you can see works by Lithuanian artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. The gallery has several main exhibitions and is constantly presenting new works and projects.
Why visit: Here you can see how Lithuanian art has evolved and changed along with the country’s historical events.
Beautiful places in and around Vilnius
17. A trip to Trakai
Trakai, just 30 km from Vilnius, is one of the most beautiful and famous places in Lithuania. It’s just a ten-minute drive or bus ride from Vilnius. You don’t have to go to the castle itself to see and get to know the real Trakai. Although it is worth a visit, you can take a walk in Trakai National Park and admire it from the outside.
Why visit: Trakai is one of the oldest and most historically important places in Lithuania, and the town also has the largest Karaite community. Not to mention the spectacular landscape of the area – Lake Trakai, frozen over in winter, and the snow-covered halls and green panorama of the park in summer.
18. A trip to Pavilniai Regional Park
In just 20 minutes by car, you will reach Pavilniai Park. In Pavilniai Regional Park you will discover nature and tranquility untouched by the hustle and bustle of the city.
Why visit: This park is home to one of the most famous and beautiful places in Vilnius – the Pučkoriai outcrop, which is a spectacular natural monument formed during the Ice Age.
19. Visit Verkiai Manor
Verkiai Manor is one of the oldest manor houses in Lithuania, also known as the Lithuanian Versailles. The interior of the mansion is decorated with exquisite halls, fine art and artworks.
Why visit: Verkiai Manor is a treasured monument of Classical architecture. In addition to the grandeur and history of the palace, you will be enchanted by the surrounding Verkiai Forest.
20. Take a walk around Medininkai Castle
Located 30 km from Vilnius, Medininkai Castle is an important historical monument of the country. The castle is believed to date back to the 14th century. Nowadays, you can visit the exhibition in the castle tower and walk around the castle grounds.
Why visit: It’s a unique place filled with centuries of history. Here you can admire not only the castle, but also the mounds and forests surrounding the castle.
21. Belmont Park
Belmont is a part of the city near Vilnius, surrounded by forests and a river. It is home to famous restaurants, parks and a horse farm. In Belmont, you can take a stroll along a pedestrian walkway.
Why visit: Belmont Park offers a short break from the city, a breath of fresh forest air, walks along the surrounding paths and unspoilt water bodies.
A final note on places to visit in Vilnius
We hope that in this article you have found things to do in Vilnius and new places to visit and try. While you’re exploring Vilnius, you can safely leave your belongings and possessions with us.
SPACE24 storage in Vilnius offers reliable storage rentals for one month or indefinitely. We provide 24/7 security and maintenance. You can find us at 48B Rinktinės St. or contact us and we will find the most suitable place for your belongings together.