Vilnius Old Town is one of the largest old towns in Europe and it is a full of historical and cultural sites. Medieval streets, squares, and buildings have led the Old Town to be included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. In Vilnius Old Town, you'll find plenty of cozy cafes, bars, shops, and a charming atmosphere.
Here are 10 must-see sightseeing places in Vilnius Old Town:
Cathedral Square: Vilnius Cathedral Square, located in the heart of Vilnius, is a historic square within the city's castle territory. It's famous for its neoclassical cathedral and serves as a central gathering spot for both locals and tourists. The square hosts various events while the castle buildings house historical museums.
Gediminas' Tower : Gediminas Tower on Gediminas Hill is a very strong symbol of the city. It's a great place to enjoy a nice panoramic view of the city from the hill or the top of the tower. The historical museum is located in the tower.
The Royal Palace : The Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania is the place where Lithuanian rulers lived in the past. The building was destroyed by Russians in the 19th century, but it was rebuilt in 2009. Today, the palace is one of the best museums in Vilnius, where you can find Lithuania's historical links with other European countries, see archaeological findings from the castle's territory, explore recreated interiors, and witness authentic Gothic ruins in the basement.
St. Anne's Church: St. Anne's catholic church in Vilnius is known for its beautiful late Gothic architecture. The church was built about 500 years ago, and it's believed that even Napoleon was impressed by its beauty.
Užupis: Užupis district, known as the Republic of Užupis, is a district of artists in Vilnius. In 1997, the community of artists declared independence. Of course, it was a joke, but today this idea is still alive. The district is officially part of the Old Town now, and it is full of art, galleries, cafes, and bars. You can find the constitution of the Užupis Republic in many languages on the wall in one of the streets.
Vilnius University: Vilnius University was founded in 1579 by Jesuits, making it the oldest university in the Baltic States. Explore its 13 courtyards, library, St. John's Church, frescoes in the library, and vestibules of the faculties. The old campus in the Old Town features Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and classical architecture buildings.
The Gate of Dawn: The Gate of Dawn is the historical gate to Vilnius, but it is also home to the holy and miraculous painting of Vilnius Madonna. The painting and the chapel of the Gate of Dawn is an important pilgrimage site.
Vilnius Town Hall : Vilnius Town Hall Square, in front of the historical Town Hall building, is one of the main squares in the Old Town. It's a place of the former food market. Today, the classical Town Hall building serves as a venue for different events, exhibitions, and concerts, and the square is the place for city events and annual festivals.
Literatu Street: Literatu or Writers' Street in Vilnius is a street with many artworks dedicated to different Lithuanian and foreign writers. The dedications on the walls of the street were created by Lithuanian artists in 2013 and later.
Stikliu Street: Stikliu street in Vilnius, Lithuania, named after glassmakers, was once dotted with glass manufactures. This historic street, once part of the Jewish quarter from the 16th century, now known for it's vibrant atmosphere, active local community, cozy restaurants and beautiful decorations.
To request an excursion in Vilnius with a local guide, you can contact toseevilnius@gmail.com
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