Go on a visit to Vilnius Lithuania, a capital city at the confluence of the Neris and Vilnele rivers, since 1323. A truly inland city, Vilnius has no direct access to the sea, a trait it shares with the capital of its giant eastern neighbour, Russia. More than half a million people live today in Vilnius and love their very green city, more occupied with parks than anything else. Get cheap travel package with airBalticTravel to Vilnius, a pleasant Baltic capital with down-to-earth people, making it a perfect and tranquil getaway from fast-paced life elsewhere.
Languages
Lithuanian is an ancient language, with roots as old as Sanskrit. It’s only true relative is Latvian, the Baltic language spoken just to the north, and there are notable similarities between the two. Expect to hear plenty of Russian and a smattering of English, especially in the tourist spots. Once you’ve booked cheap tickets to Vilnius, learn a few phrases, if you like, and look to the younger generations for assistance if or when you need.
See and Do
Take advantage of a cheap hotel in Vilnius from airBalticTravel and head out to explore this attractive little city. Vilnius has an impressive old town, with a good amount of eye-catching buildings, paramount among them being St Anne’s Church, a Gothic masterpiece – it was even coveted by Napoleon, and you’ll immediately see why. Explore the chilling catacombs beneath the oft rebuilt Arch-cathedral Basilica, another of Vilnius’s prized architectural achievements. Outside the church lies a famous stone, important to Lithuanian folklore and history, known as the miracle tile. It’s not uncommon to see a spinning tourist atop this block, making a wish which comes true after the third round – or so the custom says. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Lithuanian magical moments, for the city and its culture are woven within a rich and complex tapestry of legend, myth and miracle. And any medieval city is not complete without its castle, and Vilnius does not disappoint in this column either. Gediminas Castle, built from red brick in the 1300’s is impressive and inspiring – plus, it affords a beautiful panorama of the city below. Then, make sure to visit the Lithuanian Art Museum, for the country’s selection of local and international artwork. Rent a car in Vilnius to get out beyond the Old Town and explore the pristine countryside beyond the city gates. And you’ll want to hop into a local restaurant, bar or café and sample some excellent Lithuanian cuisine, finished off with a toast of Lithuanian honey liquor, called Krupnika.
