Winter in Vilnius
Christmas in Vilnius
Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania and it is a beautiful city to visit during the Christmas season. The main square is filled with holiday markets selling traditional Lithuanian foods and crafts. There is also a large Christmas tree in the square and it is always decorated with lights and garland. The streets leading up to the main square are lined with shops and restaurants, making it a great place to do some Christmas shopping or grab a bite to eat. And of course, no visit to Vilnius at Christmas time would be complete without taking in the amazing views of the city from one of its many bridges. Whether you're looking for a festive market, breathtaking views, or just a charming European city to explore, Vilnius should definitely be on your list during the holidays.
Christmas markets
There are a few Christmas markets in Vilnius, the main one is located in the breath taking Cathedral square located in the heart of the old town underneath one of the most stunning christmes trees in the world. You will also find one at Vinco Kudirkos Square and Odminiu square
Need to rest your feet after stocking up on all those Christmas gifts for loved ones (and maybe one or two for your self) take a trip on the Christmas Train that travels through the old town taking in the festive atmosphere as you go.
City Christmas Tree
Experience the enchantment of Vilnius during the festive season with its spectacular Christmas tree in Cathedral Square. Celebrated as one of the world's most beautiful Christmas trees, this stunning centrepiece draws both locals and travellers, becoming the city's focal point throughout the Christmas months.
Each year, the tree sets trends with its original themes and unique decorations crafted by talented designers. Recent themes have included the frosty white tree adorned with giant snowflake patterns in 2021, a Baroque-inspired design resembling a three-tiered cake with 700 candles in 2022, and an impressive spruce embellished with 200,000 LED lights in 2023.
Visiting Vilnius during this magical time is a must for any traveler, offering an unforgettable experience that showcases the cultural richness and creativity of this enchanting city.
Christmas Food
Christmas food plays a large part in the festive season and every country, city has their own traditions. When visiting a new city you want to make sure you visit all the best food places and to make this as easy as possible for visitors, the city tourist board has pulled together a gastronomic route containing 29 restaurants, offering all the different festive dishes of the Christmas season. The list includes such delicacies as rabbit liver pate with creamy, buckwheat pudding, ginger-infused sea buckthorn sauce, Lithuanian Christmas Eve beetroot soup with mushroom dumplings, and many more seasonal desserts, warm drinks, and savoury dishes.
What to do in Vilnius
Vilnius is the perfect destination for a city break with so much to see and do in all seasons its hard knowing where to start. You can read our Vilnius travel guide for more inspiration but here are just a few of the activities you can do whilst visiting
Combine your sightseeing with some samples of the local hand crafted beer on this 3.5 hour Beer trail tour
Want to explore the top sites but get a locals take on the city then book a private walking tour with a local host, the tour is just as much about the people you meet as the places you see Staying for bit longer and want to explore further afield then take a trip to the famous Trakai Castle.
