Television Tower ( tvbokstas . lt ), the location of the violent confrontation between Lithuanian independence supporters and the Soviet military , and Gediminas ’ Tower ( lnm . lt ), where you can discover the Baltic Way , a human chain connecting the capitals of Vilnius , Riga and Tallinn – one of the key moments in Lithuania ’ s journey to self-determination .
4 . You ’ ll be safe Though reservations about visiting Eastern Europe are natural given the current geopolitical climate , Lithuania remains a safe place to visit . The city moves at a more relaxing pace than some of its counterparts , is very clean and there are no areas you need to avoid .
5 . Get a different perspective Vilnius TV Tower and Gediminas ’ Tower aren ’ t just for learning about the march to freedom – they ’ re also two of the best vantage points from which to admire the cityscape . If you ’ re up for the challenge , take a hike up the Hill of Three Crosses – a monument to monks who died during the 14th century . Though there is the small matter of a steep ascent before you can reap the rewards of its spectacular panorama .
6 . Experiencing one of the world ’ s smallest republics Separated from the Old Town on the other bank of the Vilnia River is Užupis . What started off as a tongue-in-cheek April Fool ’ s joke has evolved into one of the smallest republics in the world with its own constitution , president , anthem and currency . On 1 April 1997 , a group of local artists declared their neighbourhood of Užupis independent from the rest of Lithuania . Although it isn ’ t recognised by governments as an official nation , it has become a source of pride in Vilnius and throughout Lithuania . Awash with boutique shops , trendy bars and hip restaurants , this postcode is one of the best ways to enjoy an afternoon in Vilnius ( well , sort of ). And if you want to get a cool souvenir , head to the Republic of Užupis ’ Information Centre , where you can get your passport stamped .
7 . Be close to nature Almost half of Vilnius is designated green space , filled with parks , squares and forests , so you ’ re always within touching distance of nature no matter where you are in the city . The Bernardine Garden and Vingis Park are perfect for relaxing afternoon strolls , and if you venture a little further you ’ ll find Trakai Castle ( trakaimuziejus . lt ), located on an island in the middle of the picturesque Lake Galvė .
8 . Year-round appeal There are many cities in Europe that are great to visit at any time of year , and Vilnius fits into that category . Summer is popular with tourists as the weather is reliably warm , and the streets go al fresco . I ’ d recommend sitting in Town Hall square on a clear evening , watching the hot air balloons pass overhead . The Christmas markets - one of the most beautiful in the world - emerge in winter , whilst the shoulder months of spring and autumn provide an opportunity to spend pleasant days and cosy nights without the crowds .
9 . Blossoming Baltic flavours A blend of modern cuisine and traditional flavours make Vilnius a great destination for foodies . I swear by GABI ( restoransgabi . lt ) for Lithuanian cuisine including beetroot soup , boiled dumplings and potato zeppelins . But you can also try Lokys ( lokys . lt ) and Būsi trečias ( busitrecias . lt ). If you ’ d prefer flavours of the continent , Saint German ( saingermain . lt ) is a spot frequented by celebrities and heralded for its fine French cuisine and impressive wine list , whilst Amandus ( amandus . lt ) will take you on a culinary journey through Scandinavia , focusing on zero waste and ecologically-balanced meals .
10 . Little-known nightlife From quaint jazz bars to lively nightclubs , Vilnius ’ post-sunset offerings are varied . However , it ’ s not somewhere awash with stag and hen dos , or rowdy parties of visiting revellers because it isn ’ t held in as high regard for its nightlife as neighbours such as Prague , Krakow and even Riga . If you like some evening entertainment , you ’ re in for a good time in Lithuania ’ s capital .
11 . Try somewhere different One of the greatest things about travel is discovery , and if you ’ ve not been to Vilnius before then it ’ s an opportunity to explore more of Europe . It may not be as recognisable as Paris , Rome or Barcelona , but sometimes the road less travelled can be the most exciting .
You can fly direct to Vilnius with Ryanair , who operate two weekly flights from Liverpool John Lennon Airport . Book your flights at Ryanair . com . wirrallife . com 65