WHERE IS VILNIUS?
An excellent question!
Spoiler: it's in Lithuania.
Don't worry, a lot of people don't know where it is either.
Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania — one of the three Baltic countries in northern Europe, just above Poland and next to Latvia. It's part of the EU, uses the euro, and prefers The Baltics, not "Eastern Europe".
So, where exactly is it on the map?
Right here 👇
How to get here
Vilnius has a small but well-connected airport (VNO), which they've just renovated (bigger departures, cool pick up/drop off area). It has direct flights from many European cities like London, Berlin, Paris, and Warsaw.
You can also get here by train or bus from nearby capitals.
A brief, no-BS history of Vilnius
Vilnius has been around since the early 1300s. It was once the heart of a massive Grand Duchy, ruled by dukes and kings who somehow kept Catholic, Orthodox, Jewish, and Pagan traditions all swirling together.
Over the centuries, Vilnius has been ruled by Lithuanians, Poles, Russians, Nazis, Soviets — and finally, Lithuanians again. It’s complicated. But that mix of influences is what gives the city its unique flavor.
Today, Vilnius is an independent, proudly unusual capital that blends old-world charm with a young, creative energy.
Why visit?
- Gorgeous Old Town (UNESCO-listed)
- Calm, cosy, compact
- Definitely feels like it has its own identity - not much international stuff
- Hidden spots and hip cafes
- Very safe
- Forests, castles and baroque churches - all in walking distance
- Less touristy than Talinn, bigger old town than Riga (and no stag dos!)
- All-round good vibe
If you're still not sure
Swing by for a weekend. It’s cheap to get here, fun to explore, and small enough that you won’t get overwhelmed.
Think European capital without the stress.
And yes, we do have excellent beer.
Want advice?
I've travelled between Vilnius and UK a lot, and been all over the Baltics with Vilnius as my base. Lithuania is an awesome country in general. There's a lot to do and see outside Vilnius as well.
If you're not sure on visiting, or want some guidance, let me know!
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Give me a shout if you want info on Vilnius - travel, things to see, things to do etc.