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Vilnius is Lithuania's capital and largest city, with a population of 588,412 as of 2021. Vilnius is the second-largest city in the Baltic republics, located in southeastern Lithuania. It serves as the national government of Lithuania as well as the Vilnius District Municipality.

According to GaWC research, Vilnius is a Gamma global city, and it is recognized for the architecture of its Old Town, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. Before WWII, Vilnius was one of Europe's major Jewish centers. Its Jewish heritage has earned it the moniker "the Jerusalem of Lithuania." When Napoleon passed through in 1812, he referred to it as "the Jerusalem of the North." Vilnius, together with Linz, Austria, was designated as the European Capital of Culture in 2009. Vilnius was designated one of the top 25 fDi's Global Cities of the Future in 2021, making it one of the most forward-thinking cities with the greatest potential in the world.

Best vacation spots and activities

Gediminas Tower is located in Lithuania. Gediminas Tower, a remnant of the Dukes of Lithuania's fortress erected in the 13th century, is one of Vilnius' emblems. The hilltop tower is a location of immense symbolic value for Lithuanians, and it also provides excellent views of the city below. After you've seen the tower, go to the adjacent Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. The rebuilt palace, which was erected on the location of the same building that was destroyed in 1801, was completed in 2018.

The Cathedral of Vilnius. Lithuania, unlike the other two Baltic countries, is predominantly Roman Catholic. The Vilnius Cathedral is the country's most prominent religious structure. The cathedral was erected in the 13th century on the site of a previous Pagan seat of worship. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, yet it remains one of the most remarkable and beautiful structures in the country.

Užupis. Uupis, jokingly dubbed a separate country by its people, was formerly Vilnius' bohemian spirit and home to many of the city's writers, painters, and other artists. Despite growing gentrification over the last decade, the neighborhood remains an important cultural centre and has retained much of its free-spirited vibe. The people of Uupis have built a memorial to Frank Zappa, a prog-rock star, which is worth seeing even if it is in another area of town.

Day-trip Suggestions

Kaunas. Kaunas, Lithuania's second-largest city and Vilnius' main competitor, is a pleasant location to visit. The city is well-known for its picturesque old town, churches, monasteries, and walks along the Nemunas River. Go see it and decide which of the two cities you prefer. It's easily seen on a day trip. Kaunas is located 105 kilometers (63 miles) northwest of Vilnius and can be reached by vehicle in about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Trakai. Trakai, a small but historically significant city, outperforms its size in terms of attractions and sites. It is a former Lithuanian capital that houses the Trakai Castle Museum, the Trakai Historical National Park, and the Tyszkiewicz Palace. The city is also the home of the Lithuanian Karaims, a Jewish group who speak a language related to Tatar and Turkish. The village is about 39 kilometers (24 miles) west of Vilnius and can be reached in 30 to 40 minutes.

Birštonas. Despite its tiny population of around 2,500 people, Birtonas has long been and continues to be an important resort and spa town. Its various gardens, parks, and mineral water springs, as well as sophisticated baths and sanatoriums, attract visitors. Birtonas is also central to the Nemunas Loops River Park. Birtonas is 110 kilometers (68 miles) west of Vilnius and can be reached in about 1 hour and 20 minutes.