The Baltic Series: Vilnius Lithuania

Suddenly finding myself torn from an established life in the largest city in Europe and dropped in Vilnius-the quaint capital of Lithuania was a bit of a shock. The first day was a lot of walking and figuring out what exactly I was supposed to be doing with myself. My mind needed to let go of my life, as I had known it for a year and turn on exploration mode. Once it did everything got a little more sublime.

Vilnius is a small city that can be explored on foot or by bicycle with ease. The city is a mix of old medieval architecture, some Soviet bricks, and new European style with lots of glass and modern lines. Although there are some Soviet remnants here Lithuania is not like the rest of Eastern Europe and the people will sternly remind you as such.

I would suggest touring this city by meandering slowly between some of the major attractions in the old town and then move into the new development once you have exhausted the charms of the cobbled streets near the river.

Day one I got up early, loitered in one of the many coffee shops near the central square. Browsed the churches speckling the city, most memorably a small chapel built atop a portico of the old city walls with a shiny pipe organ. Then settled in for lunch.

After an easy morning I laced up my flip-flops and hiked up the hill to the city’s old castle. This panoramic view of the city is second to none- the highlight of the Vilnius. Around the base of the hill are Vilnius’ museums and most famous cathedral- definitely worth a look.

Next head down Gedimino Prospektas on the way to the new city where you will find some shopping and great patios. Although I would not suggest coming to Vilnius for a fashion getaway there are several trendy malls and some non-impressive boutiques you can sniff out in this area. If you feel like history you can find the highly acclaimed KGB Museum not far from the old city down this street. This is also the area you want to have dinner if you are looking for something trendier. If not, old town will serve up all the Lithuanian specialties you like and there is live music all around the main square in the evenings.

Lithuanian food is not identical but similar to Russian cuisine with cold beet soup and other fairly heavy meat and potato dishes. But if it’s a hot summer day you can find ice cream to chase it down.

The nightlife in Vilnius is really good for the size of the city with a variety of different musical genres and vibes to be enjoyed. All summer this city like the other Baltic capitals takes advantage of the heat and stays up late.

Day 2 I filled in some empty patches on my map but spent a good amount of time by the river. There is grass to recline on and catch some rays. A skate park, public beach volleyball courts where locals flock in the evenings and plenty of food and drink are a short walk away.

Overall Vilnius was a relaxing and charming introduction to the Baltic region. The city rejoices more in Lithuania’s Medieval roots from when they were fighting German crusaders than their dark days behind the iron curtain. They are doing an excellent job of developing their own unique identity in Europe. The prices are cheaper than the rest of Western Europe and would make a great getaway for those looking for something new.