Agnė’s guidebook: Gediminas Avenue Apt
Sightseeing
Few minutes form the apartment you will find a recently renovated square in the city centre that’s great for a quick rest during your explorations. Take a seat on a bench or straight on the grass to rest your feet, grab a book from the open-air public library, or jump in the dancing fountain if you’re not tired yet or just want to refresh yourself. If you’re into history, this square has a few important monuments around it.
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Lukiškių aikštė
Few minutes form the apartment you will find a recently renovated square in the city centre that’s great for a quick rest during your explorations. Take a seat on a bench or straight on the grass to rest your feet, grab a book from the open-air public library, or jump in the dancing fountain if you’re not tired yet or just want to refresh yourself. If you’re into history, this square has a few important monuments around it.
A mock republic with their own constitution, government and an army of 12 founded by local artists. Take a walk through this exeptional neighbourhood to find various pieces of street art, sculptures and artsy squares. Check out their constitution and of course, visit the core of it all – the Užupis Art Incubator and Gallery.
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Uzupis
A mock republic with their own constitution, government and an army of 12 founded by local artists. Take a walk through this exeptional neighbourhood to find various pieces of street art, sculptures and artsy squares. Check out their constitution and of course, visit the core of it all – the Užupis Art Incubator and Gallery.
The most important Catholic building in Lithuania, Vilnius Cathedral as it’s more commonly known was first built in 1251 by newly converted Grand Duke Mindaugas on the site of a pagan temple.
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Cathedral Square
The most important Catholic building in Lithuania, Vilnius Cathedral as it’s more commonly known was first built in 1251 by newly converted Grand Duke Mindaugas on the site of a pagan temple.
One of the city’s most famous landmarks, St. Anne’s has a history that starts with the alleged construction in the 14th century of a wooden house of worship on this spot in honour of Ona, the wife of Vytautas the Great.
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St. Anne's Church
8 Maironio g.One of the city’s most famous landmarks, St. Anne’s has a history that starts with the alleged construction in the 14th century of a wooden house of worship on this spot in honour of Ona, the wife of Vytautas the Great.
Dating from the 13th century, the castle was rebuilt by Grand Duke Vytautas after a major fire in 1419. By the early 1600s it was being used as a prison for disobedient members of the ruling classes, but during the chaotic 17th-century Russian occupation the towers and defensive walls were almost completely destroyed, with partial restoration work only beginning in 1930. Inside the tower are models of the structure as it appeared in the 14th and 18th centuries, plus other bits and pieces on its history. The views from the top are worth the visit alone.
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Gediminas Castle Tower
5 Arsenalo g.Dating from the 13th century, the castle was rebuilt by Grand Duke Vytautas after a major fire in 1419. By the early 1600s it was being used as a prison for disobedient members of the ruling classes, but during the chaotic 17th-century Russian occupation the towers and defensive walls were almost completely destroyed, with partial restoration work only beginning in 1930. Inside the tower are models of the structure as it appeared in the 14th and 18th centuries, plus other bits and pieces on its history. The views from the top are worth the visit alone.
This hill likes crosses – the first was built in the 17th century to commemorate monks martyred in the 14th century. Today, three giant crosses built in 1989 to replace the ones that were destroyed under Soviet rule, sit at the top of the hill. It's a great place to enjoy a view of the city.
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Three Crosses
This hill likes crosses – the first was built in the 17th century to commemorate monks martyred in the 14th century. Today, three giant crosses built in 1989 to replace the ones that were destroyed under Soviet rule, sit at the top of the hill. It's a great place to enjoy a view of the city.
A popular destination for visitors looking to get away from Vilnius for a few hours, the small town of Trakai is located less than 30km west of the capital and is easily reached by bus, train or car. First mentioned in 1337 by the Teutonic Knights and known for its many different inhabitants both past and present, among them Lithuanians, Jews, Poles, Russians, Tatars and the mysterious and now almost completely extinct Lithuanian Karaite, today most people are drawn to the town for its fabulous Gothic castle, although closer inspection reveals many more things to explore when in town.
The self-proclaimed “Republic” of Užupis is Vilnius’ Bohemian and artistic district. It has its own anthem, constitution, president, bishop, two churches, the Bernadine Cemetery – one of the oldest in the city -, seven bridges, and its own guardian called The Bronze Angel of Užupis, who was put in the centre of the district in 2002.
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Trakai Island Castle
43C Karaimų gatvėA popular destination for visitors looking to get away from Vilnius for a few hours, the small town of Trakai is located less than 30km west of the capital and is easily reached by bus, train or car. First mentioned in 1337 by the Teutonic Knights and known for its many different inhabitants both past and present, among them Lithuanians, Jews, Poles, Russians, Tatars and the mysterious and now almost completely extinct Lithuanian Karaite, today most people are drawn to the town for its fabulous Gothic castle, although closer inspection reveals many more things to explore when in town.
The self-proclaimed “Republic” of Užupis is Vilnius’ Bohemian and artistic district. It has its own anthem, constitution, president, bishop, two churches, the Bernadine Cemetery – one of the oldest in the city -, seven bridges, and its own guardian called The Bronze Angel of Užupis, who was put in the centre of the district in 2002.
The five impressive Kernavė hills are one of the largest archaeological expositions in the open air, full of historical finds. Ironically, it is located on a relatively small 194 hectare piece of land, where the abundance of cultural values remains. The landscape formed in the course of history, is a testimony to the cultures that have existed in this area throughout 11 thousand years – from the late Paleolithic times (IXc. B.C.) to the present day. Sometimes flourishing and sometimes slow, life in the area has never ceased. The Kernavė Archeological Site, with its remaining artifacts that reflect the lifestyle of the last Pagan state in Europe is also unique in the way that its burial grounds and other archaeo-logical finds confirm the juncture and coexistence of Pagan and Christian cultures. True, part of the story still looms beneath our feet, so if you wish to see it up closer, head towards the Kernavė Archeological Site Museum, located 800 steps away.
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Kernavė
The five impressive Kernavė hills are one of the largest archaeological expositions in the open air, full of historical finds. Ironically, it is located on a relatively small 194 hectare piece of land, where the abundance of cultural values remains. The landscape formed in the course of history, is a testimony to the cultures that have existed in this area throughout 11 thousand years – from the late Paleolithic times (IXc. B.C.) to the present day. Sometimes flourishing and sometimes slow, life in the area has never ceased. The Kernavė Archeological Site, with its remaining artifacts that reflect the lifestyle of the last Pagan state in Europe is also unique in the way that its burial grounds and other archaeo-logical finds confirm the juncture and coexistence of Pagan and Christian cultures. True, part of the story still looms beneath our feet, so if you wish to see it up closer, head towards the Kernavė Archeological Site Museum, located 800 steps away.
Seimas Palace
Lithuanian Parlament
Grocery stores
Small grocery store near by
IKI Express
13 Vokiečių g.Small grocery store near by
Green spots
Green spots where you can always get behind the bush
Probably the oldest park and botanical garden in Vilnius, right in the heart of the city. It boasts rather avant-garde fountains, rock gardens and some of the best children’s playgrounds in the city.
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Bernardine Park
8A B. Radvilaitės g.Probably the oldest park and botanical garden in Vilnius, right in the heart of the city. It boasts rather avant-garde fountains, rock gardens and some of the best children’s playgrounds in the city.
Outside the city, this garden has a huge territory that you can choose for an afternoon trip. The Botanical Garden of Vilnius University is not only the largest garden in Lithuania but also the richest one in terms of its plant collections. Also check out the Vilnius University laboratory – the green plant, which is an exceptional example of green architecture in Lithuania.
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Vilniaus universiteto botanikos sodas
43 Kairėnų g.Outside the city, this garden has a huge territory that you can choose for an afternoon trip. The Botanical Garden of Vilnius University is not only the largest garden in Lithuania but also the richest one in terms of its plant collections. Also check out the Vilnius University laboratory – the green plant, which is an exceptional example of green architecture in Lithuania.
A real getaway from the city, without actually going far from it. Located about 10km from the city centre, it’s easy to reach by car, bus or taxi. The place is popular among locals because of the so-called Green Lakes, Verkiai Mill, Verkiai Palace and of course, the amazing nature. If the day seems too hot to explore the city, this is the closest spot to get to the beach and enjoy the perks of summer.
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Verkiai Regional Park
Žaliųjų Ežerų gatvėA real getaway from the city, without actually going far from it. Located about 10km from the city centre, it’s easy to reach by car, bus or taxi. The place is popular among locals because of the so-called Green Lakes, Verkiai Mill, Verkiai Palace and of course, the amazing nature. If the day seems too hot to explore the city, this is the closest spot to get to the beach and enjoy the perks of summer.
Closest restaurants/cafes
Reasonable priced place near by to have some Lithuanian meal or pizza
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Can Can Pizza
282 Ukmergės g.Reasonable priced place near by to have some Lithuanian meal or pizza
RISE Sushi
43 Gedimino pr.Quality sushi & other Asian meals in the same building
Few step from the apartment (Geminas avenue 46) as well as the one in Pilies street you will find chocolate cafe/factory that produces handmade chocolates in the best Belgian tradition. Many sweet recipes are designed by the factory chefs or its owner Algimantas Jablonskas.
Pilies sokoladine, desertu restoranas, AJ sokoladas
4 Pilies g.Few step from the apartment (Geminas avenue 46) as well as the one in Pilies street you will find chocolate cafe/factory that produces handmade chocolates in the best Belgian tradition. Many sweet recipes are designed by the factory chefs or its owner Algimantas Jablonskas.
Gynėjų g. 2
2 Gynėjų gatvėSubmarine
Shopping malls
Akropolis is the largest shopping mall in the Baltics by floor area, a shopping center and entertainment center in VInius.
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AKROPOLIS Vilnius
25 Ozo gatvėAkropolis is the largest shopping mall in the Baltics by floor area, a shopping center and entertainment center in VInius.
Key stores: Marella, Coccinelle, Michael Kors, Escada Sport, Suitsupply, Karen Millen, Stefanel, Max&Co., Weekend Max Mara, Pennyblack, Patrizia Pepe, Pierre Cardin, Baldessarini, Marc O’Polo, Samsonite, Strellson, Vapiano etc.
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Europa
7A Konstitucijos pr.Key stores: Marella, Coccinelle, Michael Kors, Escada Sport, Suitsupply, Karen Millen, Stefanel, Max&Co., Weekend Max Mara, Pennyblack, Patrizia Pepe, Pierre Cardin, Baldessarini, Marc O’Polo, Samsonite, Strellson, Vapiano etc.
The shops are small but varied, with eating and drinking options and sweeping river views.
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Prekybos centras CUP
9 Upės g.The shops are small but varied, with eating and drinking options and sweeping river views.
Ozas PPC
18 Ozo g.Ozas - shopping and entertainment center in Vilnius.
Lithuanian eats & drinks
This popular chain serves classic Lithuanian dishes in a folksy setting as well as more international food and that old favourite, the lunchtime special offer. An excellent value introduction to the wonders of local heart-blocking cuisine, Pilies Katpėdėlė rustles up salads with thick sauces, pancakes, pizzas, snacks from herring to potato wedges, creamy soups, main courses that include tasty sausages and fried salmon and some truly delicious desserts. Wash it all down with a beer or three.
Pilies KATPEDELE Restaurant
8 Pilies g.This popular chain serves classic Lithuanian dishes in a folksy setting as well as more international food and that old favourite, the lunchtime special offer. An excellent value introduction to the wonders of local heart-blocking cuisine, Pilies Katpėdėlė rustles up salads with thick sauces, pancakes, pizzas, snacks from herring to potato wedges, creamy soups, main courses that include tasty sausages and fried salmon and some truly delicious desserts. Wash it all down with a beer or three.
One of the best options for traditional Lithuanian dishes in Old Town, this is a jolly, warm-hearted, meat-and-potatoes place with welcoming cavernous rooms downstairs and window-side tables at street level. Feast and drink amongst antiquated folk utensils and cartoonish wall paintings and be served by smiling young locals in old-fashioned costumes. The potato pancakes with bacon and mushroom sauce are outstanding. Plenty of vegetarian options too.
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Etno Dvaras
16 Pilies g.One of the best options for traditional Lithuanian dishes in Old Town, this is a jolly, warm-hearted, meat-and-potatoes place with welcoming cavernous rooms downstairs and window-side tables at street level. Feast and drink amongst antiquated folk utensils and cartoonish wall paintings and be served by smiling young locals in old-fashioned costumes. The potato pancakes with bacon and mushroom sauce are outstanding. Plenty of vegetarian options too.
Šnekutis was selling craft beer before the term craft beer was even invented, and the man who began serving it was sporting a theatrical moustache when most people now running craft beer bars were still several years away from the needing to own a razor. Running out of several locations, this highly recommended and extremely popular watering hole continues to provide serious beer drinkers with a fabulous array of beers from local producers, some of them as wickedly strong as they are good. The traditional food’s pretty excellent too.
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Šnekutis
15 Šv. Mikalojaus g.Šnekutis was selling craft beer before the term craft beer was even invented, and the man who began serving it was sporting a theatrical moustache when most people now running craft beer bars were still several years away from the needing to own a razor. Running out of several locations, this highly recommended and extremely popular watering hole continues to provide serious beer drinkers with a fabulous array of beers from local producers, some of them as wickedly strong as they are good. The traditional food’s pretty excellent too.
Nice, sweet and cute place right in the Vilnius centre sells homemade style cakes, pies, patties and etc. Most recipes come from first part of XX century and including only natural ingredients. Natural ingredients and handiwork make prices a little bit higher. But You know for what You are paying and so after a few bit Your worst day becomes sunny.
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Pinavija Café & Bakery
21 Vilniaus g.Nice, sweet and cute place right in the Vilnius centre sells homemade style cakes, pies, patties and etc. Most recipes come from first part of XX century and including only natural ingredients. Natural ingredients and handiwork make prices a little bit higher. But You know for what You are paying and so after a few bit Your worst day becomes sunny.
It's probably the most popular place to hang out for Užupio locals, artists and travellers. If there's nice weather during your stay you should definitely come here and enjoy the outdoor terrace right on the banks of the river Vilnelė.
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Užupio kavinė
2 Užupio g.It's probably the most popular place to hang out for Užupio locals, artists and travellers. If there's nice weather during your stay you should definitely come here and enjoy the outdoor terrace right on the banks of the river Vilnelė.
Museums
Few minutes walking to the museum which is situated in the former KGB building, where the crimes of the Soviet regime were planned and executed for fifty years.
Visitors can visit:
the former KGB prison,
the premises where death sentences were implemented,
modern exhibitions telling about the loss of independence in the middle of the 20th century, repressions by Soviet authorities, and the self-sacrificing and persistent fight for independence.
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Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights
2A Aukų g.Few minutes walking to the museum which is situated in the former KGB building, where the crimes of the Soviet regime were planned and executed for fifty years.
Visitors can visit:
the former KGB prison,
the premises where death sentences were implemented,
modern exhibitions telling about the loss of independence in the middle of the 20th century, repressions by Soviet authorities, and the self-sacrificing and persistent fight for independence.
There is a reason why the palace website claims it is the Heart of Vilnius Museum. It is the birthplace of the city. It is precisely here that a wooden settlement existed in the IV-VIII century, part of which was turned into a stone castle in the XIII c. There were no princesses, locked up in towers, or dragons to be found here, however, it was home to almost all rulers of Lithuania. The castle grew bigger and more beautiful, and while it bore gothic characteristics at first, in the XV c. it was developed into a luxurious Renaissance palace. Unfortunately, the Moscow army of the XVII c. devastat-ed the site and, in the XIX c., destroyed it completely. Alongside the vanishing state, vanished, too, the rulers’ palace of the time. It was not rebuilt until 2009. Now you will find a functioning National Museum- Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. Which means you will get to feel like noblemen yourself during a visit! Strolling around the halls you will get to see carefully preserved ancient dishes, clothes and details of interior, and learn about how the elite of the day celebrated events, what they ate and even how they bathed. You are welcome to not only drop in on its permanent expositions and exhibitions, but also attend concerts, events, music and film festivals. And so, the palace that has spent many years in the void, has once again become the centre of attraction. Another Vilnius site, that has been given a second life, is Užupis- found in 1300 steps.
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Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, National Museum
There is a reason why the palace website claims it is the Heart of Vilnius Museum. It is the birthplace of the city. It is precisely here that a wooden settlement existed in the IV-VIII century, part of which was turned into a stone castle in the XIII c. There were no princesses, locked up in towers, or dragons to be found here, however, it was home to almost all rulers of Lithuania. The castle grew bigger and more beautiful, and while it bore gothic characteristics at first, in the XV c. it was developed into a luxurious Renaissance palace. Unfortunately, the Moscow army of the XVII c. devastat-ed the site and, in the XIX c., destroyed it completely. Alongside the vanishing state, vanished, too, the rulers’ palace of the time. It was not rebuilt until 2009. Now you will find a functioning National Museum- Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. Which means you will get to feel like noblemen yourself during a visit! Strolling around the halls you will get to see carefully preserved ancient dishes, clothes and details of interior, and learn about how the elite of the day celebrated events, what they ate and even how they bathed. You are welcome to not only drop in on its permanent expositions and exhibitions, but also attend concerts, events, music and film festivals. And so, the palace that has spent many years in the void, has once again become the centre of attraction. Another Vilnius site, that has been given a second life, is Užupis- found in 1300 steps.