Eastern Europe is full of everyday charm, especially the city of Vilnius in Lithuania. One of the best things about this city is that it’s one of the cheapest breaks around and one of the most picturesque. It’s a place with an incredibly complex and fascinating history, and a gem that many people overlook.
An amazing view
Vilnius offers some stunning views. You can head up the Hill of Three Crosses and take in a picture-perfect panorama from the top. It’s a steep ascent, so you better be prepared to work for it. However, it’s a walk that many locals love to take, so they can stand at the top and take in the city around them. At the top, there is also a monument of three martyred monks, so there’s a bit of history there, too.
If you love art, it’s the place to go
This is a region famous for its freethinkers, artwork, and freedom of expression. If you get to head on over on April 1, then you will be able to experience their independent republic day. Sure, it’s on April Fool’s Day, but it’s a chance to see some of the creative expression and party ideas. It’s a truly unique place to be, and it’s not an opportunity to pass up on.
Take a look at their unique castles
If you head out no more than a half-hour from the center of Vilnius, then you will get to experience the absolutely beautiful Trakai castle. Set on a lake, with the only entrance a narrow walking bridge, it’s an ancient sight to behold. If your visit is more around the time of August, then you will be likely to see their medieval crafts in full swing. Whether you want to try out butter churning, bronze casting, or wood carving, there is something the castle has to offer. It’s the usual reception for when the country has royal visits. It’s an honor to walk those halls and grounds.
The museum of illusions
As promised, Vilnius is a city of art and expression, so of course, they have a museum. If you want to get a fantastic photo opportunity, then this is the place to be. The Museum of Illusions have some fun and mind-turning pieces; you will probably end up staring at one piece for hours on end, trying to work it out. They have stunning views, designs that will mess with your perception of reality, and much more.
Check out the Lithuanian cuisine
You can’t go to a country and not try out their local cuisine, right? Well, you’ll want to get a load of the food in Vilnius. Their staple food is potatoes, but they sure do know how to cook them. They have a knack of presenting them in so many different ways, you won’t be tired of them when you get home. You want to head on over to the old town, as this is where you will find many restaurants selling the more traditional cuisine, giving you a truly unique experience.
The gate of dawn
Hey, you can’t come to a practically medieval city and not go somewhere called ‘The Gate of Dawn’. Sounds incredible, right? They have so many religious monuments, basilicas, and of course, this amazing gate. They’re fascinating and an incredible sight to see.
Vilnius has so much to offer people. From a myriad of things to do inside the city, to secret mineral lakes outside. It’s a fascinating place, and not one you should miss off your travel list.
