1. Explore the Unesco World Heritage-listed Old Town
With its twisting alleys of baroque and Gothic architecture, Renaissance-style castles and countless cafés, it’s easy to lose a day or two in the Old Town.
2. Hang out in the arty Užupis Quarter
The bohemian Užupis district has a style of its own: laid-back and endlessly creative. Many of its streets are decorated with lively murals and sculptures.
3. Experience Soviet life
Relaxing it may not be, but a trip to Vilnius’s Soviet Bunker is an enlightening – and moving – taste of life during Soviet rule.4. Venture into the wilds of Aukštadvaris Regional Park
Vilnius County’s Regional Park boasts 77 lakes, acres of rolling pine forest and enough legends and myths to tempt even the most reluctant of hikers. Visit in September to take in the spectacular autumn colours.
5. Uncover Kernavė, Lithuania’s medieval capital
Underneath the unassuming village of Kernavė lie the remains of Lithuania’s medieval capital, plus evidence of Stone, Bronze and Iron Age settlements as well as early Russian trade links.
6. Catch some culture in the city’s green spaces
Of all the Baltic capitals, Vilnius has the largest area of parkland – and it’s certainly put to good use. The annual Culture Night (18 June) sees countless shows in the unlikeliest of places, right across the city.7. Journey to Europe’s centre
So you know where to find the Equator line, but could you pinpoint the geographic centre of Europe? Well now you can – it’s 26km north of Vilnius, near the village of Purnuskes, and is surrounded by a nature reserve.
8. Enjoy the sound of Vilnius
Discover Lithuania’s musical roots by catching the International Festival of Folk Music (26-29 May) or the long-running International Jazz festival (13-16 October).
9. Show off your sporty side
The Vilnius Marathon (11 Sep) is a novel way of exploring the area, or you could time your visit with this year’s European Basketball Championship (31 Aug-18 Sep).
10. Head back in time to Trakai
Just 28km west of Vilnius, Trakai’s tranquil lakes, rolling hills and Island Castle are a monument to old Lithuania.
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