Private day trips from Vilnius to places you'll never forget

Lithuania uses the euro as its official currency, having adopted it in 2015. ATMs are widely available throughout Vilnius, and most establishments accept credit cards. It's useful to carry some cash for smaller purchases at markets or local cafes. Currency exchange services are readily available, though ATM withdrawals typically offer better rates than exchange offices.

Trakai Island Castle and Kaunas is the most popular day trip, combining a medieval castle on an island with Lithuania's second-largest city. Other excellent options include the Hill of Crosses, a unique pilgrimage site with thousands of crosses, or combine it with Panevezys. You can also visit just Kaunas or explore Kaunas and Panevezys together. Each destination offers distinct historical and cultural experiences within easy reach of the capital.

The Old Town is the most convenient area for first-time visitors, placing you within walking distance of major attractions, restaurants, and cafes. The area offers accommodations ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Staying in the Old Town allows easy exploration without relying on public transportation. Alternative areas include the city center near Gediminas Avenue for a more modern feel, or quieter residential neighborhoods if you prefer a local experience with easy access to public transport.

Uzupis is a bohemian neighborhood in Vilnius that declared itself an independent republic on April 1, 1997. This artistic district across the Vilnia River has its own constitution, displayed on walls in multiple languages, and even has a president. The area is filled with art galleries, quirky cafes, street art, and creative spaces. It's often compared to Montmartre in Paris and attracts artists, musicians, and free spirits. Visitors can get unofficial passport stamps as souvenirs.

The best time to visit Vilnius is from April to September when temperatures are pleasant and the city is most vibrant. Spring brings colorful blooms and perfect weather for exploring, while summer offers warm temperatures and outdoor festivals.

Vilnius Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Northern Europe. It features stunning Baroque architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and over 1,200 buildings spanning various architectural styles from Gothic to Renaissance. The Old Town centers around Cathedral Square and includes landmarks like Gediminas Tower, the Gate of Dawn, and numerous historic churches. The area is entirely walkable and offers countless cafes, restaurants, and cultural venues.

Lithuanian is the official language of Lithuania and is one of the oldest surviving Indo-European languages. While Lithuanian is the primary language, many young Lithuanians speak English well, especially in Vilnius and tourist areas. Russian is also understood by older generations due to historical ties.

Vilnius is generally very safe for tourists and is considered one of the safest capitals in Europe. The city has low crime rates, and violent crime is rare. Standard precautions should be taken, such as watching your belongings in crowded areas and being aware of your surroundings at night.