Attractions and Places To See in Vilnius County - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Vilnius County, located in southeastern Lithuania, include a rich array of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. The region is characterized by its diverse architectural styles, significant historical sites, and picturesque natural landscapes. Visitors can explore both the vibrant capital city of Vilnius and numerous points of interest spread throughout the wider county. The area offers a blend of urban exploration and natural escapes.
Best attractions and places to see in Vilnius County
- The most popular attractions is Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Ladislaus of Vilnius, a religious building that is a national symbol of Lithuania. This imposing neoclassical cathedral received its current appearance after being rebuilt at the end of the 18th century.
- Another must-see spot is Gediminas Tower, a castle remnant providing panoramic views of Vilnius Old Town. The ascent to the tower offers a significant perspective of the city.
- Visitors also love Three Crosses Monument, a man-made monument offering great views of the old town. This monument stands on a hill overlooking the city and the Vilnia River.
- Vilnius County is known for its historical sites, religious buildings, and natural viewpoints. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient castles to modern art museums and expansive regional parks.
- The attractions in Vilnius County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 393 upvotes and 29 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
King Mindaugas Bridge
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Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Ladislaus of Vilnius
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The church is located at the foot of the Castle Hill of the Upper Castle on Cathedral Square in Vilnius's Old Town and is therefore on historical ground. There has been a settlement here since the earliest times, so the church is closely linked to Lithuanian history. Coronations of Lithuanian grand dukes took place here, many Lithuanian dignitaries were buried here.
The basilica in its current form was designed by Laurynas Gucevičius in the classicist style and was completed in 1801. As with many churches in the Baltic States, its bell tower stands separately.
The church is dedicated to St. Stanislaus, Bishop of Kraków, and St. Ladislaus I, King of Hungary, two important supporters of the Catholic Church in east-central Europe in the 11th century (Wikipedia).
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Church of St. Anne and Bernardine Complex
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Cathedral Square (Katedros Aikštė)
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Vilnius Cathedral Bell Tower
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The cathedral itself is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and an important place for Lithuanian culture and history. The bell tower is a symbol of the strength and resilience of the Lithuanian people and has survived many political and cultural changes over the centuries.
Today the bell tower is a popular tourist attraction and offers wonderful views of Vilnius' Old Town. It's worth climbing the steep steps to enjoy the impressive views of the city and its surroundings.
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Gediminas Tower
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Užupis District
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Uzupis is a popular tourist spot, known for its street art, cafes and bars. The area is full of life and has a unique, alternative vibe. There are also a number of galleries exhibiting works by local artists.
One of the special features of Uzupis is the "Constitution of Uzupis", which is similar to the constitution of a real state. It contains rules for the residents and tourists staying in Uzupis and includes the rights to happiness, freedom and peace.
The place offers a unique insight into the alternative art and culture landscape of Lithuania and is an ideal place to spend a relaxing afternoon. Try some of the local cafes and bars, visit a gallery or just stroll the streets and soak up the atmosphere.
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St. Casimir's Church
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St. Kasimir is especially known for its architecture. It is an example of Gothic style, which is very rare in Lithuania. The church is full of rich details, from the lancet windows to the filigree capitals.
The interior is also impressive, with beautiful frescoes and impressive altars. It is a peaceful place to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the church.
St. Casimir also has spiritual significance for Lithuanians. It is an important place of pilgrimage for the faithful and is celebrated every February in honor of Saint Casimir.
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Lithuanian Presidential Palace
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Three Crosses Monument
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Tips from the Community
Great view of the modern and historical part of Vilnius. You can go up on foot or by funicular.
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Užupis is a republic of artists that is sometimes compared to the Parisian district of Montmartre or Christiania in Copenhagen. It is famous for its own anthem, its constitution (which can be read at the beginning of Paupis street on the fence), its president, its bishop, one of the oldest cemeteries, the Bernardine Cemetery of Vilnius, two churches, and the bronze Angel of Užupis that crowns it all. This is one of the oldest districts of Vilnius and is already mentioned in historical sources in the 16th century. In ancient times, numerous mills flourished here; it was a poor suburb where mainly artisans lived, and once there was a red-light district nearby.
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St. Anna is only original on the outside. Inside, Napoleon destroyed a lot. Nothing is original anymore.
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The Church of Saint Anne is a masterpiece of the late Gothic period. It is surrounded by many legends. The most famous one says that Napoleon Bonaparte, after seeing this beauty, would have liked to carry the Church of Saint Anne on his palm to Paris.
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A must when you are there
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The Baroque church was completed in 1615. The dome, featuring the crown of the Grand Duke of Lithuania, is very impressive.
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Beautiful Gothic church from 1500. Right next door is the Church of St. Francis of Assisi.
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Vilnius Cathedral was built in 1779.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Vilnius County?
Vilnius County offers several picturesque natural areas. You can visit Neris Regional Park, known for its winding trails and ancient oak forests, or Verkiai Regional Park, which features the beautiful Green Lakes. Pavilniai Regional Park is notable for the Pučkoriai Outcrop, offering expansive views, and trails along the Vilnia River. For swimming and recreation, Balsys Lake and Balžis Lake are popular choices.
Are there historical castles or significant landmarks outside of Vilnius city?
Yes, just outside Vilnius, you'll find the iconic 14th-century Gothic Trakai Island Castle, situated on an island in Lake Galvė. Another historical site is Medininkai Castle, located in the wider Vilnius district, which provides insights into the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.
What cultural sites are notable in Vilnius County?
Beyond the capital's main attractions, the Užupis District in Vilnius is a bohemian 'republic' known for its artistic vibe and independent galleries. You can also explore the historic Vilnius University, the poignant Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights (KGB Museum), or the modern MO Museum for contemporary Lithuanian art. The Open Air Museum of the Center of Europe (Europos Parkas) is an outdoor sculpture park defining the geographical center of Europe.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Vilnius County?
Many attractions in Vilnius County are suitable for families. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Ladislaus of Vilnius and Cathedral Square are considered family-friendly. The Užupis District offers a unique and engaging atmosphere for all ages. Additionally, the Green Lakes within Verkiai Regional Park provide recreational opportunities like swimming, which are great for families.
What kind of outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, are available in Vilnius County?
Vilnius County offers a variety of outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore trails in Neris Regional Park or Verkiai Regional Park. Popular hiking routes include the Varnikai Boardwalk Trail near Trakai and trails around Karmazinai Burial Mounds. Cyclists can enjoy routes like the Vingis Park Bridge loop from Vilnius. For more options, check out the hiking guide or cycling guide for Vilnius County.
Can I find easy hiking trails in Vilnius County?
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels. For instance, the Varnikai Boardwalk Trail near Trakai is an easy 4.2 km loop. Other easy options include routes around Karmazinai Burial Mounds and the Karmazinai Outcrop. These trails offer a chance to experience the region's nature without significant difficulty. You can find more easy routes in the hiking guide for Vilnius County.
What are some good viewpoints to see the city and surrounding area?
For panoramic views of Vilnius, the Gediminas Tower is a must-visit. The Three Crosses Monument also offers spectacular views of the Old Town and the Vilnia River. The Vilnius TV Tower provides a modern perspective of the city, and the Pučkoriai Outcrop in Pavilniai Regional Park offers expansive natural vistas.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Vilnius County?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views from landmarks like Gediminas Tower and the Three Crosses Monument. The historical significance and architectural beauty of sites such as the Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Ladislaus are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the regional parks and the unique, artistic vibe of the Užupis District.
What are some significant religious sites in Vilnius County?
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Ladislaus of Vilnius is a national symbol and a prominent religious landmark. The Gates of Dawn, housing a revered icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is a significant pilgrimage site. Other notable churches include St. Anne's Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and St. Casimir's Church.
Are there any attractions with wheelchair accessible paths?
The King Mindaugas Bridge is noted as wheelchair accessible. While many historical sites in the Old Town may have cobblestones, efforts are often made to improve accessibility in key areas. It's advisable to check specific venue information for detailed accessibility options.
What is the best time of year to visit Vilnius County for sightseeing?
The best time to visit Vilnius County for sightseeing is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring historical sites, enjoying outdoor activities in the regional parks, and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Vilnius. Autumn also offers beautiful foliage, particularly from viewpoints like the Three Crosses Monument.
Are there any notable lakes or swimming spots in the region?
Yes, Vilnius County features several beautiful lakes. The Green Lakes (Žalieji ežerai) within Verkiai Regional Park, particularly Balsys Lake, are popular for recreation and swimming with sandy beaches. Gėla Lake, near Nemėžis, is known for its unique white clay beach and pine forests, offering a relaxing natural escape. Balžis Lake, one of Vilnius's deepest, is also popular for swimming and sun-tanning.
Where can I find ancient historical sites or archaeological parks?
For ancient history, consider a trip to Kernavė, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site just a short distance from Vilnius. It was the former capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and is famous for its hilly landscape and ancient mounds. Within Pavilniai Regional Park, a sundial marks a Stone Age camp, offering another glimpse into the distant past.
Are there any unique natural landscapes like dunes or specific river features?
Beyond its forests and lakes, Vilnius County has some unique natural features. Bartkuškio Dune, located approximately 30km from Vilnius, offers an unexpected 'sand dune in the forest' landscape. The Neris and Vilnelė rivers, flowing through the county, are significant natural elements. The Vilnelė River, especially in Pavilniai Regional Park, is notable for its winding, rocky course, creating enchanting scenery.
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Most popular attractions in Vilnius County
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