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Photo by Angus
There's nothing quite like discovering a destination's lesser-known spots through the eyes of locals. The GlobeTrott Travel team, proud residents of Vilnius, shares their recommendations for hidden gems to explore in the city. Let's dive in and discover the secrets of Vilnius!
Bastion of the Vilnius Defensive Wall | Barbakanas
The Bastion of the Vilnius Defensive Wall offers breathtaking views of the city and is surrounded by lush greenery. You'll be right in the heart of Vilnius with panoramic views of the entire city. History buffs can visit the museum to learn about the role the defensive wall played in Vilnius's evolution over time. During warm days, locals love to relax and soak up the ambience of the city here.
A pro tip from a local: The Bastion of the Vilnius Defensive Wall is a great spot to treat yourself to a little outdoor picnic. Simply get your lunch or dinner as a takeaway and enjoy it on one of the many benches. If you happen to be here on Thursday, visit Tymo Turgus (location, open between 10am - 2pm), it's a weekly market and you are guaranteed to find some local delicacies to indulge in during your lunch break.
Belmontas and Puckoriai Quarry
Living in Vilnius offers the best of both worlds, as you can easily escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find yourself in the middle of nature in just under a 10-minute drive. A visit to Belmontas and the Puckoriai Quarry is the perfect way to explore the natural side of Vilnius.
Getting there from the city centre may take some effort, as it's a bit of a walk. We recommend taking a taxi or renting an electric scooter through the BOLT app. Once you arrive (location), start your adventure with a hike along the trail. Look out for the signs or add the location of Puckoriai Quarry to your Google Maps for guidance. The hike back and forth will take approximately one hour. As you make your way back to Belmontas, take a break at the restaurant and enjoy a delicious snack of Kepta Duona or indulge in Lithuanian national dishes for a full-blown feast.
Bekesas Hill | Bekeso Kalnas
The Republic of Uzupis is a must-visit destination during your trip to Vilnius. While exploring Uzupis, we highly recommend taking a hike up to Bekesas Hill. This serene location offers visitors a chance to experience the peacefulness of nature and enjoy stunning views of the
city without the hustle and bustle of the crowds. The Hill of Three Crosses is another popular spot in the city, if you're limited on time, we suggest choosing one of the two locations. However, if you're in Vilnius for an extended period, make sure to visit both.
We hope this guide to Vilnius' hidden gems has inspired you to explore the city's lesser-known treasures. Download the GlobeTrott Travel mobile application to discover the city with self-guided tours and to find more attractions that will make your trip to Vilnius unforgettable!