Vilnius, Lithuania 10-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Vilnius

Arrive at Vilnius International Airport (VNO), clear customs, and take a taxi or public transport to your accommodation in the city center.

Given it's New Year's Day, expect a more relaxed atmosphere.

Pre-book a taxi if you prefer convenience on New Year's Day, or use ride-sharing apps like Bolt.

Check into Hotel

Check into your hotel in Vilnius and settle in.

Take some time to freshen up before heading out.

Choose accommodation near the Old Town for easy access to main attractions.

Vilnius Old Town Stroll

Take a gentle walk through the UNESCO-listed Vilnius Old Town.

Admire the architecture of Vilnius Cathedral Square and the Presidential Palace. Many shops and cafes might be closed or have limited hours on New Year's Day, but the city's beauty remains.

New Year's Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Lithuanian dinner at a local restaurant.

Many restaurants will be open for dinner, but it's advisable to check in advance or make a reservation due to the holiday.

Try local dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings) or šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup) for a true Lithuanian experience.

Vilnius Cathedral & Bell Tower

Visit the neoclassical Vilnius Cathedral Basilica, a symbol of Lithuanian Catholicism.

Optionally, climb the Bell Tower for panoramic views of the city.

Gediminas' Tower & Castle Hill

Ascend Castle Hill (by funicular or walk) to Gediminas' Tower, the remaining part of the Upper Castle, offering superb views over Vilnius.

Lunch in Old Town

Enjoy a casual lunch at a cafe or restaurant near Gediminas' Tower or Cathedral Square.

National Museum of Lithuania

Explore the National Museum of Lithuania, which houses extensive collections detailing Lithuanian history, ethnography, and archaeology.

Explore Užupis Republic

Cross the bridge into Užupis, a bohemian and independent 'republic' within Vilnius known for its artistic vibe, quirky constitution, and charming streets.

Explore the galleries and unique shops.

Dinner in Užupis

Dine at one of the cozy restaurants in Užupis, known for their unique atmosphere and often offering creative cuisine.

Gates of Dawn

Visit the Gates of Dawn, the only remaining city gate, housing a revered icon of the Virgin Mary.

It's a significant pilgrimage site.

St. Anne's Church & Bernardine Church

Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of St.

Anne's Church and the adjacent Bernardine Church, a magnificent complex of brick Gothic churches.

Quick Vilnius Lunch

Grab a quick and easy lunch before heading to the bus station for your journey to Riga.

Bus to Riga, Latvia

Take a comfortable intercity bus from Vilnius to Riga.

This journey typically takes around 4-4.5 hours.

Check into Neiburgs Hotel

Arrive at Riga International Bus Terminal, take a short taxi or tram ride to your hotel in Riga Old Town, and check in.

You'll be staying at the highly-rated Neiburgs Hotel.

The bus terminal is a short walk or taxi ride from Riga Old Town.

Dinner in Riga Old Town

Enjoy your first dinner in Riga at a restaurant in the charming Old Town, close to your hotel.

Riga Old Town Walking Tour

Embark on a walking tour to discover Riga's medieval Old Town.

See landmarks like the House of the Blackheads, St. Peter's Church (climb for views!), and the Three Brothers houses.

Consider joining a free walking tour (tip-based) or a guided tour from a company like 'Discover Latvia Tours' for historical insights.

Riga Cathedral Visit

Visit the majestic Riga Cathedral, one of the oldest sacred buildings in the Baltics, known for its impressive organ and beautiful interiors.

Lunch in Riga

Enjoy lunch in a charming restaurant within Riga Old Town.

Art Nouveau District Walk

Stroll through Riga's stunning Art Nouveau district, home to over 800 Art Nouveau buildings.

Albert Street is particularly famous for its ornate facades.

Consider visiting the Riga Art Nouveau Centre for more in-depth information and interior examples (small fee applies).

National Library of Latvia

Visit the modern and architecturally striking National Library of Latvia, also known as the Castle of Light, offering impressive city views from its upper floors.

Dinner with a View

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with views of the Daugava River or back towards Riga Old Town, reflecting on your day.

Riga Central Market

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Riga Central Market, one of Europe's largest markets.

Housed in former Zeppelin hangars, it's a great place to try local produce, cheese, and smoked fish.

Taste local delicacies and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. January might be colder, but the indoor sections are warm.

Free Time / Last Minute Shopping

Enjoy some free time to revisit a favorite spot, explore a museum you missed, or do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Riga Old Town.

Lunch near Market

Have lunch near the Central Market or back in the Old Town, preparing for the next leg of your journey.

Pack and Prepare for Departure

Return to your hotel to collect luggage, pack, and prepare for your onward journey to Tallinn, Estonia, which will be covered in the next part of your itinerary.

Ensure you have all necessary travel documents and your onward travel arrangements confirmed.

Evening Free in Riga

Enjoy a final evening in Riga.

Perhaps visit a cozy pub, a jazz club, or a quieter restaurant, preparing for another day of travel tomorrow.

Art Nouveau Walking Tour

Explore Riga's famous Art Nouveau district, particularly around Alberta Iela, which boasts some of the finest examples of this architectural style in Europe.

Consider a guided walking tour to learn more about the history and architects behind these magnificent buildings.

Lunch at Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs

Enjoy traditional Latvian cuisine and local beers in a lively, underground setting.

Known for its authentic atmosphere and hearty portions.

It can get busy, especially around lunch. Reservations might be useful for larger groups.

National Library of Latvia Visit

Explore the modern architectural marvel known as the Castle of Light, the National Library of Latvia.

Enjoy the views from the upper floors and learn about its vast collections.

Check for guided tours or exhibitions. The building itself is a significant landmark.

Evening Stroll in Old Town

Take a leisurely walk through Riga's charming Old Town, admiring the illuminated buildings and soaking in the evening atmosphere.

Dinner at a Riga Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful dinner at one of Riga's highly-rated restaurants.

Consider 'Domini Canes' for a cozy atmosphere near Dome Square or 'Petergailis' for traditional Latvian fare.

Riga Central Market

Explore the vast Riga Central Market, housed in former German Zeppelin hangars.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, it's a vibrant hub for local produce, crafts, and food.

Great place to try local delicacies and observe daily life.

Quick Lunch in Riga

Grab a quick and easy lunch before heading to the bus station for your journey to Tallinn.

Travel to Tallinn by Bus

Journey from Riga, Latvia, to Tallinn, Estonia, by comfortable coach.

Enjoy the scenic views of the Baltic countryside during the approximate 4.5-hour ride.

Hotel Check-in & Dinner

Check into your hotel in Tallinn and then head out for dinner to experience your first taste of Estonian cuisine.

Tallinn Old Town Walking Tour

Embark on a comprehensive walking tour of Tallinn's UNESCO-listed Old Town.

Visit landmarks like Raekoja Plats (Town Hall Square), St. Olaf's Church (exterior views), and delve into the lower and upper towns.

Consider joining a free walking tour (tip-based) or a paid private tour for deeper insights into the city's medieval history. Discover Estonia also offers private tours of Tallinn.

Lunch in Old Town

Enjoy lunch at a traditional Estonian restaurant within the Old Town, such as 'Olde Hansa' for a medieval experience or 'Rataskaevu 16' for modern Estonian dishes.

Kadriorg Palace and Park

Visit the beautiful Kadriorg Palace, a baroque masterpiece built for Catherine I by Peter the Great.

Explore its art museum and stroll through the surrounding park.

Take a tram or bus from the city center to Kadriorg. The palace houses the Estonian Art Museum's foreign art collection.

Dinner & Evening Walk

Dine at a restaurant in or near Old Town, perhaps trying modern Estonian or international cuisine.

Afterwards, take an evening walk to see Tallinn's illuminated walls and towers.

Explore Telliskivi Creative City

Discover Tallinn's bohemian side at Telliskivi Creative City, a former industrial complex transformed into a hub for designers, artists, cafes, and shops.

Perfect for browsing unique Estonian designs, enjoying street art, and soaking in a relaxed, artistic atmosphere.

Lunch in Telliskivi

Choose from one of the many trendy eateries and cafes in Telliskivi Creative City for a delicious lunch.

Kumu Art Museum

Visit the Kumu Art Museum, one of the largest art museums in Northern Europe, showcasing Estonian art from the 18th century to the present day.

Located near Kadriorg Park, it offers a great overview of Estonian artistic development.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in Tallinn, perhaps at a restaurant offering panoramic views or a unique culinary experience to celebrate the end of your Baltic journey.

Last-Minute Shopping

Use your last morning to pick up any souvenirs or gifts you might have missed.

Tallinn's Old Town has many unique craft shops.

Lunch Before Departure

Enjoy a final Estonian meal or a quick bite before heading to the airport.

Travel to Tallinn Airport

Take a tram, bus, or taxi to Tallinn Airport (TLL) for your departure.

Depart Tallinn

Depart from Tallinn Airport (TLL) for your onward journey to London or Bristol.