Plizio Visual Lab
Vilnius Old Town
Vilnius Old Town is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval city centers in Eastern Europe, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994. It covers an area of nearly 360 hectares and is characterized by a fascinating labyrinth of narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and grand squares. The architecture of the Old Town is a melting pot of different eras, where Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles meet harmoniously. The 'Vilnius Baroque' style has particularly shaped the cityscape, earning it the nickname 'Rome of the East.' Outstanding landmarks include the Vilnius Cathedral, the Vilnius University with its 13 courtyards, and the Gothic ensemble of St. Anne's Church. Historically, the Old Town was the political and cultural heart of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and an important site for interreligious dialogue. Today, it is a lively district with numerous cafes, museums, and galleries, seamlessly blending tradition and modernity.
- Location: Lithuania
- Top sights: St. John the Baptist and St. John the Apostle and Evangelist · House of the Signatories · Fresco ,,The Seasons"
- Nearby: Grigiškės (13 km)
- Population: ~542.366 (2021)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -7 | -6 | -1 | 6 | 13 | 16 | 19 | 18 | 13 | 6 | 1 | -4 |
| Rain mm | 52 | 43 | 44 | 47 | 74 | 77 | 102 | 83 | 54 | 68 | 56 | 54 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The Old Town consists of 74 quarters with a total of 1,487 historic buildings.
- Vilnius University was founded in 1579 and is one of the oldest in Europe.
- Pilies Street is the oldest and most prominent street in the historic center.
- Vilnius was historically known as the 'Jerusalem of the North' for its Jewish culture.
- St. Anne's Church is famous for the use of 33 different types of bricks in its facade.
- The Užupis district within the Old Town declared itself an independent republic in 1997.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Vilnius Old Town (10)
House of the Signatories🏛 museum
Memorial museum in Vilnius, site of the signing of the Act of Independence.
Literatų street project
Art project on Writers' Street with commemorative plaques.
Amber Museum-Gallery🏛 museum
Museum and gallery featuring amber exhibits in Vilnius.
The narrowest alley in Vilnius
Officially the narrowest street in the city.
VU kiemo teatras
Open-air theatre in the courtyard of Vilnius University.
Marija and Jurgis Šapelis home museum🏛 museum
Museum in the former home of the Šapelis family.
Art Center of Baltic Amber
Center for Baltic amber with exhibitions and workshops.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Vilnius Old Town large?
Which architectural style dominates?
What is the Gate of Dawn?
Are there many churches there?
Is the Old Town a World Heritage site?
Vilnius Old Town: where is it located?
Vilnius Old Town: what is there to see?
Vilnius Old Town: when is the best time to visit?
Vilnius Old Town: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
History & landmarks
