With cobblestone streets and a wealth of gorgeous architecture in Europe's largest baroque old city center, it's no secret why Vilnius is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Baltic region. The modern era adds a busy business center, shopping and a hot night life scene to round out the experience.
Along with ornate baroque architecture, the historic city center is also full of stunning examples of medieval Gothic and neoclassical structures that line its cobblestone streets.
Vokieciu, Vilniaus, and Islandijos streets are where you will find bars and night clubs that will keep you busy until the early ours of the morning.
Through summertime, open air concerts to theater and performing arts, galleries and more, there is a lot to explore in the city's thriving arts scene.
Along with international designer boutiques like BCBG Max Azria, Vilnius is home to a bustling local designer scene. It is also a traditional center for glassblowing and textile arts.
There are centuries of history waiting to be discovered in the city, from the ramparts of the hilltop Gedimas Castle & Museum - dating from the 15th century - to the more modern Museum of Genocide Victims.
The climate of Vilnius is cool and markedly seasonal, with most visitors opting to arrive during the warmer spring and summer. Temperatures range between 60°F and 70°F between May and September.
The Vilnius International Airport (VNO) is located about 3.5 miles from the city center. There is frequent bus service to the city, with fares of only EUR1. Trains are another option, with fares starting at EUR0.70.
Vilnius is a major rail hub, with train connections to Moscow, St. Petersburg, Minsk and many other major centers.
There are good road connections between Vilnius and nearby Kaunas and Panevėys, with a well maintained highway system that links the city to most major centers in the country.
Eurolines and ECOLINES operate intercity service to and from Vilnius and many major centers throughout Europe. Connections to Warsaw are available through PolskiBus.
For an artistic take on the city, stay at the Moon Garden Art Hotel, where the decor blends historic and ultra modern touches. Stay in modern luxury with hints of the city's Soviet past at the Neringa Hotel.
Baroque Old Town - this neighborhood actually dates back to the 13th century, and it's where every street is packed with historic churches like St. Casimir's and buildings like the neo-classical Town Hall.
Uzupis - this artistic enclave - a self-declared republic - is where you'll find art galleries along with artisan boutiques and cafes with a bohemian ambiance.
Antakalnis - this is one of the city's oldest suburbs, and it's where you'll find the historic Antakalnis Cemetery and beautiful Baroque Saints Peter and Paul church along with an upscale shopping and dining scene.
Vilnius is served by an extensive system of buses and trolley buses, with single fares that start at EUR0.64. A day pass costs EUR3.48.
Taxis are readily available in the city. An average fare within the city should cost about EUR10-15.
Parking can be at a premium, especially in the older areas of the city. A compact rental starts at about EUR16.
In between gawking at the gorgeous buildings, you can shop at designers like Burberry, along with local designers and products, in the old city on Stiklas street.
RIMI and Maxima XX are supermarket chains you'll find in multiple locations throughout the city. A quart of milk costs EUR0.80 and a dozen eggs about EUR1.60.
You'll enjoy the unusual Irish-Lithuanian menu at Bistro 18, where main dishes start at about EUR5.50. For a classic Lithuanian cafe experience, choose Pinavija, where pastries start at only EUR2.