Lithuania’s capital Vilnius combines one of Europe’s largest baroque old towns with a growing gastronomic scene, making it perfect for UK travellers planning to visit.
The city is green and highly walkable, and its historic centre has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site for more than 30 years.
Visitors will get their culture hit when they wander along the narrow, cobbled streets, taking in more than 700 years of history through the Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Classical architecture. Amongst the streets, there are hidden cafés and contemporary art, making for a great day of discovery.
Some of the main attractions that must be on a visitor’s list include Vilnius Cathedral, the 16th-century Gates of Dawn, and Gediminas Tower, which offers panoramic views across the city’s red-tiled roofs.
Additionally, Lukiškės Prison, a former jail that has been reimagined and is now a vibrant cultural space, and Užupis, a bohemian arts district, should be included on the itinerary.
Culinary creations
When it comes to cuisine, traditional Lithuanian recipes and locally-sourced ingredients are the main focus.
There are plenty of options to choose from when dining in Vilnius, from authentic dishes like Šaltibarščiai, which is a cold beetroot soup, or contemporary offerings, with chefs serving up plates across the globe, from Italy to India.
Vilnius has 28 restaurants listed in the Michelin Guide, including three with a Michelin star. These are Demo, Džiaugsmas, and Nineteen18, the latter located within the elegant Senatorių Pasažas.
When it comes to the famed soup, the residents of Vilnius take it very seriously, with their own Pink Soup Fest, celebrating it.
The annual festival saw more than 93,000 visitors attend in 2025. The 2026 edition is due to take place between 29-31 May and featurespink parades, themed costumes, inventive soup creations and races.
Meet a local
To add to its cultural offering, Vilnius launched a free ‘Meet a Local’ programme in late 2024 which connects tourists with residents who share their personal insights and recommendations for the city. Local ambassadors provide tips on things such as where to get the best coffee, as well as must-see museum exhibits and evening events. So far, more than 300 tourists have experienced Vilnius through the programme.
For the travel trade looking to find out more about Vilnius, visit https://www.govilnius.lt/visit-vilnius
