Vilnius Cathedral, Bernardine Garden, Gate of Dawn
Kaunas, Lithuania - Westlife 25th Anniversary Concert, Žalgirio arena, Nemunas and Neris Confluence Park
Kaišiadorys Christ Transfiguration Cathedral, Moters sveikatos centras, Kaišiadorių geležinkelio stoties vandens bokštas
Lithuanian Sea Museum, Dolphinarium of the Lithuanian Maritime Museum, Theatre Square
Druskininkai Aquapark, Musical fountain🧘🏻♀️, Hoist "Cableway"
Cape of Ventė Lighthouse
Iron Fox, Šiauliai Arena, Chaim Frenkel's Villa
Looking for things to do in Lithuania? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.
Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Lithuania dishes and foodie spots.
After arriving at Tallinn International Airport in Estonia, we checked into our hotel, dropped off our luggage, and headed out to stroll around the Old Town. The weather forecast called for rain, but we were lucky enough to get gorgeous weather! The view from the Kohtuotsa viewing platform on the hill was spectacular! The red roofs are so beautiful. After our walk, it was time for lunch. "Restaurant Rataskaevu 16" is a highly popular spot. Reviews mentioned it's impossible to get in without a reservation, but perhaps because it was a bit late, we only had to wait about 10 minutes for a table. When I told a friend who knows the place, they said we were incredibly lucky to get in. The interior retains its old walls, giving it a fantastic atmosphere. I missed it, but apparently, the restroom has a glass floor where you can see excavated ruins. I wish I had checked it out! Anyway, first things first: wine. Our first bottle was a white wine chosen by my wife, a German Riesling called "Hessenstein." It was a crisp, dry wine that went down very smoothly. While waiting for our food, we had some complimentary bread, which was surprisingly delicious. A lot of the bread around here tends to be sour or dry, but this one had a nice, slightly bitter, roasted flavor that paired perfectly with the butter. The "3-Cheese Pie (€11.4)" was filled with rich cheese inside a crisp, delicate pastry. The presentation, complete with spinach sauce and walnuts, was also beautiful. The "Sautéed Flounder (€19.9)." The soft, flaky meat of the flounder had a lovely buttery aroma, and the sour cream and chive sauce with herring roe added a great pop of texture that perfectly complemented the mild white fish. It made the white wine taste even better. Even though it was just lunch, we ordered another bottle of wine. Our next choice, recommended by the young waiter attending our table, was "Villa Girardi," a Valpolicella Ripasso. It's a red wine made using a somewhat unique method, characterized by a full body and a gorgeous, rich flavor profile. If we're having red wine, we need meat. So, we went with the "Slow-Roasted Elk (€28.6)." Since my suggestion to eat beaver was strongly vetoed in Lithuania, I pushed my request through here. Elk is usually known to be quite gamey, but this was roasted for over five hours before being stewed, making it fall-apart tender with absolutely no gamey taste. The pearl barley, colored bright red with beets, provided a nice chewy texture and served as a great accent. The blackcurrant and mustard sauce had a clean sweetness that paired incredibly well with the meat! For dessert, we had the "Bread Pudding (€8.8)." I fell in love with it at first sight after seeing photos in the reviews, and it was a total winner! The rich sweetness of the bread pudding and the tartness of the rhubarb ice cream were a match made in heaven. All the dishes were delicious, and the waiter taking care of our table was exceptional. When we mentioned that we were also celebrating my mother-in-law's birthday, he surprised us on our way out with a handwritten message in Japanese, which completely touched our hearts. The prices are a bit on the higher side, but the outstanding food and hospitality made for a truly wonderful experience. Restaurant Rataskaevu 16 Rataskaevu tn 16, 10123 Tallinn +372-642-4025 Hours: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM Fri & Sat until 12:00 AM Closed: None
#springtravel 🕒 Vilnius in 120 Minutes: A Quick Escape from Mabre Residence. ✨ If you only have a couple of hours to spare, staying at the Mabre Residence Hotel is a total game-changer. Located in a former monastery right on the edge of the Old Town, it puts the city's most iconic spots right at your doorstep. Here is how to make the most of a 2-hour stroll: 🎨 The Republic of Užupis (5 mins away) Just cross the small bridge over the Vilnia River and you’re in Vilnius’ most bohemian district. • Top Pick: Walk down Paupio street to read the "Constitution of Užupis" (available in many languages). It’s quirky, heartwarming, and very photogenic! 🧱 Gothic Masterpieces (3 mins away) Literally steps from the hotel, you’ll find St. Anne’s Church. Legend has it that Napoleon was so charmed by this red-brick masterpiece that he wanted to take it back to Paris in the palm of his hand. It’s a must-see for architecture lovers. 🌳 Bernardine Garden If you need a breath of fresh air, head into this peaceful park located right behind the church complex. It’s the perfect spot to grab a takeaway coffee and watch the river flow by. 🏛️ The Old Town Vibes Wander through the narrow medieval streets leading toward Pilies Street. Even a short walk here gives you the perfect essence of Vilnius: cobblestones, hidden courtyards, and the smell of fresh pastries. 💡 Pro Tip: Vilnius is incredibly walkable. Even if you're on a tight schedule, the area around Mabre Residence allows you to see the "soul" of the city without ever needing a taxi. #Vilnius #Lithuania #TravelGuide #CityBreak #Uzupis #HiddenGems #TripMoments
Avoid the crowds, from the Baroque streets of Vilnius to the medieval spires of Tallinn 🚄 Transportation: · Vilnius → Riga: Choose the daily direct train taking 5 hours. Book a second-class seat 5 days in advance at the Lithuanian station window for 5 euros; add 1.4 euros for a comfortable carriage. Enjoy the scenery transitioning from plains to forests along the way. · Riga → Tallinn: Transfer at Valga station, total about 5 hours, with 3 daily trains to choose from. Allow 20 minutes for transfer. The vintage platform at the border station is very photogenic. 📅 Itinerary: D1-2: and Surroundings D1️⃣ Old Town Stroll: Climb Gediminas Tower in the morning; the panoramic view of red rooftops at sunset is a visual feast. In the afternoon, visit the Užupis “Republic,” where riverside cafes are perfect for daydreaming. For dinner, try potato dumplings with mushroom sauce—soft, glutinous, and rich in flavor. D2️⃣ Trakai and Kaunas: Take a 30-minute early morning train to Trakai, rent a kayak to circle the lake and capture reflections of the water castle. At noon, try the town’s kibinai (Karelian pies). In the afternoon, return to Kaunas, visit Lithuania’s ancient university, and shop for handmade amber at the Old Town Hall Square. D3-4: and Surroundings D3️⃣ Riga Old Town and Art Nouveau District: In the morning, check out the House of the Blackheads and the Three Brothers houses. Enjoy smoked meat and cheese sticks hot from the Central Market—super stringy cheese! In the afternoon, stroll along Albert Street; the Art Nouveau architectural relief details are worth savoring. Climb St. Peter’s Church for a bird’s-eye view of the Old Town and the Daugava River. D4️⃣ Sigulda Secret Spot: Take a 1-hour train to “Latvian Switzerland,” hike the Gauja River Valley, and see medieval castle ruins hidden in the forest. In the afternoon, visit Rundāle Palace, where the French garden’s roses and the Rococo carvings in the Golden Hall showcase Baltic Versailles charm. Day5-6: D5️⃣ Old Town: Explore Toompea Hill and visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral with its exquisite mosaic murals. In the Lower Town, listen to street performers at Town Hall Square. At dusk, climb St. Olaf’s Church tower to watch the Baltic sunset over the ancient city. For dinner, choose a small restaurant on the Old Town’s edge; slow-cooked beef with root vegetables suits the Chinese palate perfectly. D6️⃣ In-Depth Exploration: In the morning, visit Toompea Hill castle ruins. In the afternoon, relax in Kadriorg Park and experience European leisure. I still remember a young lady here saying “You’re beautiful,” and I gave her the same compliment. In the evening, browse souvenir shops in the Old Town and pick up handmade knitted items. D7️⃣ After breakfast in Tallinn Old Town, take the train to the airport. 🎫 Using the Eurail Pass for this trip was very convenient, easily connecting the three countries. Once activated, just board the trains without repeatedly buying tickets. Cross-border transfers only require following the signs. 🌟 Activation 1. Activate online via the app by filling in personal information and uploading a passport scan; 2. Or activate at a staffed train station window locally, where staff will mark the activation date and validity on the pass. 🌟 Usage Although printing tickets is not required, it is recommended to manually add each trip segment in the app. The generated QR code used with the physical pass is more reliable.
Exploring Vilnius: A Blend of History and Eastern European Architecture If you're seeking a destination brimming with the charm of Eastern Europe, Lithuania is a hidden gem worth discovering. Especially its capital, Vilnius, which is rich in history, exquisite architecture, and breathtaking views. Today, let us take you through four must-visit landmarks in this enchanting city. 🏰 Gediminas Castle Tower The Gediminas Castle Tower is an iconic symbol of Vilnius, perched atop Gediminas Hill and visible from various points in the city. This tower is a remnant of an ancient castle built in the 14th century by Grand Duke Gediminas. According to legend, he dreamt of an iron wolf howling atop the hill, which he interpreted as a sign to establish a city there. Today, the tower serves as a museum showcasing the city's history and offers stunning panoramic views of the old town. ⛪️ Vilnius Cathedral The Vilnius Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Ladislaus, is the heart of Roman Catholicism in Lithuania. Located next to the central square, its towering bell tower is a distinctive feature. The cathedral's architecture reflects the classical era, with traces of Gothic and Baroque influences. Inside, you'll find the tombs of kings and historical figures, as well as chapels adorned with priceless artworks. 🌹 St. Ann's Church St. Ann's Church is a true architectural gem of Eastern Europe, featuring intricate Gothic design crafted from over 33 types of red bricks. Built in the late 15th century, the church has remarkably retained its original form. Legend has it that when Napoleon saw this church in 1812, he was so captivated that he wished to carry it back to Paris "in the palm of his hand." ⛰️ Three Crosses Hill Three Crosses Hill offers the best panoramic views of Vilnius. Located in Kalnai Park, this site is a memorial to Franciscan monks who were martyred during the medieval period. The three white crosses standing tall on the hill symbolize faith and Lithuania's struggle for freedom. From this vantage point, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the old town, especially mesmerizing during sunset. ✨ Lithuania is not just a place to pass through; it is a destination filled with unique stories and unparalleled beauty. From its profound history and stunning architecture to its serene natural landscapes, Vilnius is truly a city worth visiting.
After my trip to the three Baltic States, I really liked Lithuania as an off-the-beaten-path destination. Of course, when you come to Lithuania, you have to visit Vilnius. I've summarized a fun guide to the Old Town of Vilnius, and this article is all you need! ▫️ 💛Fun💛 📍Vilnius Cathedral: A very important local church, the interior is Baroque style, but it used to be wooden Gothic. The building is very well-preserved, and the murals and pipe organ inside are exquisite. · 📍Gate of Dawn: The old city gate, also the only one of the original nine gates that is still intact. Walking through the gate, you enter the Old Town of Vilnius. · 📍St. Anne's Church: A small and beautiful brick-red church, with very delicate lines and turrets. It is said that Napoleon wanted to 'move' the entire building to France because of its beauty. · 📍Užupis: Known as 'the land across the river,' this place used to be a gathering spot for hippies, so you can see a passionate and cheerful style from the graffiti and sculptures. · 📍Gediminas' Tower: It is said that Grand Duke Gediminas had a dream about an iron wolf, and then he ordered the construction of this fortress. It's a great spot to overlook the Old Town and take beautiful panoramic photos. · 📍Hill of Three Crosses: Located on the Hill of Three Crosses, the scenery along the way is truly beautiful in autumn. It's also a good spot to view the cityscape, but there are often many young people who come here to hike and run. · 📍Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania: It is now a museum witnessing the history of Lithuania, but many people say that the museum's collection is not very large, and those who don't like to visit exhibitions or museums can take photos outside. ▫️ ❤️Eat❤️ Lithuanian cuisine is still dominated by big fish and meat, and the cooking methods are relatively simple, so for someone with a Sichuan stomach like mine, it's really not acceptable. However, you can buy Southeast Asian spices in many supermarkets here, so if you want something spicy, you can consider that.
During my previous trip to the three Baltic countries, I really enjoyed Lithuania as a niche destination. When visiting Lithuania, of course, you have to go to Vilnius. I have summarized a guide to the attractions in the old town of Vilnius. Just read this article and you'll have enough information! ▫️ 💛Play💛 📍Vilnius Cathedral: The local church is very important, with a Baroque-style interior that was once a wooden Gothic style. The building is well-preserved, and the murals and organ inside are also exquisite. · 📍Dawn Gate: The city gate of the old town, which is also the only well-preserved gate among the nine gates that once existed, leads you into the old town of Vilnius once you step inside. · 📍St. Anne's Church: A small and beautiful brick-red church, with delicate lines and corner towers. It is said that Napoleon once wanted to "move" the entire building back to France because of its beauty. · 📍Uzupis: Known as the "land across the river", this place used to be a gathering place for hippies, so the enthusiasm and cheerful style can be seen from graffiti, sculptures, etc. · 📍Gediminas Tower: It is said that Grand Duke Gediminas had a dream of a steel wolf here, and then ordered the construction of this fortress. It is a great place to overlook the old city and take panoramic photos. · 📍Thirty Cross Sculpture: Located on the Thirty Cross Mountain, the scenery along the way is beautiful in autumn. It is also suitable for overlooking the cityscape, but there are more young people who come here for hiking and running. · 📍Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania: Currently, it is a museum that witnesses the history of Lithuania, but many people say that the collection in the museum is not abundant. For those who do not like to visit museums, they can take photos outside. ▫️ 💚Transportation💚 It is recommended to take a taxi or walk in the Vilnius city center. The old town is very small and most attractions can be reached on foot. If you want to take a taxi, note that Uber is not used locally. The Baltic States (Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia) all use Bolt for taxi services. ▫️ ❤️Eat❤️ Lithuanian cuisine is mainly based on large fish and meat, and the cooking methods are relatively simple, so it is unacceptable for someone like me with a Sichuan stomach. However, many supermarkets here sell Southeast Asian seasonings, so those who want to eat spicy food can consider it.
The hill of crosses looks like somewhere straight out of a medieval or distopian like movie. Unique tourist attraction, if not a little eerie. It is located a short drive from Siauliai in Lithuania. If you happen to be nearby I recommend stopping by for a visit. The hill is made up of so many different types and sizes of crosses. #historicallandmarks #falltrip #siauliai #lithuania #europe
If you're looking for a European destination off the beaten path, Belarus is a country with a truly unique identity. 🇧🇾 Nestled in Eastern Europe, this landlocked nation borders Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Russia, and Ukraine. It is renowned for its striking Eastern European architecture, quaint old towns, majestic castles, and sprawling forests. 🌲 📍 Top Attractions in Belarus 🏙️ 1. Minsk The capital and largest city, featuring Independence Square, grand Soviet-era architecture, wide boulevards, and a charming Old Town perfect for strolling. 🏰 2. Mir Castle A stunning historic fortress blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. It is a prominent landmark and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. 🏛️ 3. Nesvizh Castle Once the residence of the Radziwiłł family, this ancient castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and lakes, offering a scenic atmosphere steeped in history. 🏰 4. Brest Fortress A significant historical site built in the 19th century that played a crucial role during World War II. Today, it stands as a massive memorial complex. 🌳 5. Białowieża Forest An ancient woodland stretching across the border of Belarus and Poland. It is one of Europe's most vital natural sites, home to ancient trees and the European bison. ✨ The Charm of Belarus · Rich historical architecture and diverse heritage · One-of-a-kind castles and palaces · Pristine nature, forests, and lakes · Cities that blend Eastern European culture with a Soviet-era past ⚠️ Important Travel Advisory As of November 2026, travel to Belarus requires serious safety considerations. The foreign ministries of several countries, including the UK and Norway, continue to advise against all travel to Belarus due to the security situation and legal risks. Furthermore, travel routes are restricted, flights from Europe are complex, and visa requirements vary by nationality and entry point. Always verify details before booking. 💙 Belarus is a land of historical treasures, stunning architecture, and natural beauty waiting to be explored. While it offers many incredible sights, it is best kept as a future destination for when the situation becomes stable and safe.
Our Lithuania trip included a lovely day trip to Palanga by the sea which gave off homely seaside town vibes. On the walk towards the pier the streets are lined with cafes, restaurants and snack stalls making it a perfect spot for lunch and a snack stop! Of course the beach was lovely too but a bit chilly for the time of year! #localfood #travel #travellikealocal #lithuania #seaside
Best time: May to September Getting there: Fly into Vilnius Airport, about 15 minutes from the old town. · Day 1: Walk the Gediminas Castle hill and the Baroque old town. · Day 2: Visit the Uzupis district, the self-declared "republic" with its own constitution. · Day 3: Day trip to Trakai Island Castle on the lake. 🍲 Eat: Cepelinai potato dumplings and kibinai pastries. 💡 Tips: Book Trakai tours or take a local bus, and check weekend schedules. 💬 Uzupis or Trakai castle? 👇 #Vilnius #Lithuania #Baltics #EuropeTravel #TravelGuide
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