If you’re short on time and/or on a budget but want to make the most of your visit to Vilnius then this post is for you.
Having shared my top tips for where to eat, drink and stay in Vilnius, I’m back with three of the most affordable ways to see this stunning city.
We only had two full days in the city and wanted to see as much of Vilnius as we could. We stayed in the oldest and most ornate street in the Old Town, Pilies Street and from there we were able to explore and visit these three places on foot and see Vilnius at it’s finest.
Come with me as I show you three of the most affordable ways to see Vilnius. Oh, and don’t forget to bring your comfy shoes because Old Town streets are exceptionally cobbly!
Take a Free Walking Tour
Whether you’re short on time or have plenty of it, a free walking tour is a great way to orientate yourself, see the sights and learn about the history of this fascinating country and it’s capital. There are a number of free walking tour outfits in Vilnius but Vilnius with Locals Tours is our pick of the bunch.
The Vilnius tours start on the steps of the Town Hall and the guides are easily recognisable by their yellow bags and name tags. Tours run daily at 11am, last about 2.5 hours and explore the UNESCO Heritage Old Town, the former Jewish Quarter and Uzupis, a self declared republic of artists.
Of course, you can explore many of these spots on your own but this tour is so much more than just seeing a series of buildings and places, it’s about seeing Lithuania through the eyes of it’s people. The guides speak excellent English and not only do they have a vast knowledge of the history of Lithuania, it’s people and Vilnius itself, they are also passionate, enthusiastic and have a great sense of humour.
There’s so much to see and learn about Vilnius and it’s rich, fascinating history that the time sure flies by and you’ll be saying goodbye to your guide before you know it. Bear in mind that the tour is free but it’s tip based so the guide’s salary depends on their performance. Be prepared to make a contribution at the end of the tour – cash or card is fine – and be sure to wear comfortable shoes! If time and/or your budget allows, check out the other Vilnius With Locals tours – there’s a great selection of both free and paid tours.
Enjoy Furnicular Fun at Gediminas Castle
With it’s hilltop location, sitting above the Neris and Vilnia rivers, Gediminas Tower is the last remaining part of a castle complex that protected Vilnius for centuries. The viewing platform has spectacular views of both Vilnius Old Town and Vilnius CBD and it’s completely FREE!
If you’re feeling energetic, you can take the path up Castle Hill (on the side of the Vilnia River) but with it being pretty steep and finishing with about 30 steps, it’s not suitable for bikes, wheelchairs, prams… Or me! LOL!
The furnicular saves time and energy, provides amazing views and is excellent value at 3 euros return although one way tickets are also available. The viewing platform offers spectacular scenery but not much else in the way of refreshments or facilities.
Talking of facilities, there are no toilets on either the viewing platform or in the museum so if nature calls make sure you use the bathroom at the bottom in the furnicular station.
We don’t have time to check out nor do we feel like paying for the museum inside the castle but if you do, you’ll find exhibitions over a number of floors (be prepared for stairs!) The exhibits explore past centuries of warfare, medieval weaponry and contemporary history with the jewel in the crown being the roof top observation deck with it’s 360 degree panaromic view of Vilnius.
Get a Bird’s Eye From St John’s Bell Tower
Vilnius University’s St John’s Bell Tower is over 400 years old, spread over five floors and at 68m high, is the tallest building in Vilnius Old Town. The bell tower is higher than the Gediminas Tower and less touristy too! Entry to the bell towers is 5 euros for adults and 3 euros for concessions.
You can climb the 193 authentic wooden stairs to the bell tower or opt for a glass elevator ride to the observation deck. However, it’s important to note that even if like us you take the elevator, you’ll still have to navigate some of those ‘authentic’ wooden stairs. The closer you get to the top of the tower, the more ‘authentic’ the stairs become and they’re not for the faint hearted or those with a fear of heights! The final steps are very narrow only allowing for 1 way traffic. I grip on to the handrail for dear life.
However, the view from the 60m high observation deck really is a sight to behold. Here you can enjoy the panaromic, unobstructed views of Vilnius Old Town and the city skyline beyond. Look out for St Anne’s Church, Gedinimas Tower and the oldest street in the city, Pilies Street. It’s absolutely stunning and worth the climb.
Be sure to stop off on the second floor to check out Foucault’s Pendulum which demonstrates the effect of the earth rotating around it’s axis. During the day, the swinging ball changes it’s position and imitates the Earth’s rotation around it’s axis.
On your way out take a few minutes to appreciate the spectacular Vilnius university. With it’s beautiful buildings and courtyards, it looks like something straight out of a Harry Potter movie. The university was established in 1570 and is one of the oldest universities in the world.
Have you got any other spots to add to the list? How do you like to do your sightseeing – from up high or with feet firmly on the ground?!
All of these activities were independently paid for and all opinions are my own.
