VILNIUS - In Your Pocket

Hotels Restaurants Cafés Nightlife Sightseeing Events Maps 

N°85 - 5Lt 

www.inyourpocket.com 

VILNIUS 

December 2007 - January 2008 

Seasonal shindigs 

Celebrate! We’ve got the 

what, where, how and when 

Bacon busters 

The best breakfasts in town

Get In Your Pocket before you go 

The full In Your Pocket range is available to purchase online at: 

www.inyourpocket.com/clickandbuy 


N°4 - 400 lek 


TIRANA 

2006 - 2007 

Shopping fever 

Tirana’s first malls 

Facade art 

Painting the city pink 


N°41 - 5zł (w tym 7% VAT) 


ISSN 1508-2334 

N°23 - €1.75 


KRAKÓW 

August - September 2006 


BERLIN 


Tarnów 

Explore the Pearl of the 

Renaissance 

Leisure 

Getting active in Kraków 

Museum night 

100 museums in one 

night 

Floating the 

boat 

Spree river tours 


N°1 - Complimentary copy 


SKOPJE 

2006 - 2007 

Skopje 

snapshots 

The Marubi photo 

collection 

Around town 

Daytrips to the lake, 

beach and mountains 


BUCHAREST 

N°40 - 8.00 lei 



N°47 - 35kr 


TALLINN 

April - May 2006 


A New Look 

We‘ve never looked 

better: In Your Pocket 

gets a makeover 

Blogging 

Bucharest 

Our guide to the best 

politically incorrect 

comment online 

Touring Narva 

Cool sights at the EU‘s 

eastern border 

IYP gets a new 

look 

The inside scoop on the 

new look inside 


N°20 - 5zł (w tym 7% VAT) 


ISSN 1640-3592 

N°23 - €1.75 


GDAŃSK 

August - November 2006 


FRANKFURT 


Including 

SOPOT & GDYNIA 

Kashubia 

Exploring the Polish Alps 

Hot spots 

The Baltic’s Beaches 

Beach bars 

Cocktail in hand, toes 

in sand 

Dram tram 

Sipping ebbelwei on the 

cider express 


N°34 - 5zł (w tym 7% VAT) 


ISSN 1641-5264 


N°7 - Free copy 



N°60 - 1.20Ls 


WARSAW 


BELFAST 


RIGA 


Wilanów 

Explore the Polish 

Versailles 

Out of town 

Poland‘s top spa town: 

Nałęczów 

The Great 

Outdoors 

Cycling, skydiving and 

country pursuits 

Gastro Tourism 

Seafood, whiskey and 

St. George’s Market 

Hockey Fever 

Everything you need to 

know about IIHF World 

Championship in Riga 

Explore Latvia 

Take a day trip to 

the seaside towns of 

Jūrmala and Liepāja 


N°1 - Complimentary copy 


SHKODRA 

2006 - 2007 

Shkodra 

snapshots 

The Marubi photo 

collection 

Around town 

Daytrips to the lake, 

beach and mountains 


ST. PETERSBURG 

April 2006 N°24 


NEW 

LOOK! 

April 2006 

Easter Greetings 

Egg breaking & church 

walking… 

Russian in Russia 

The best ways to discover 

the language 

Culture & Events 

Simple Minds, t.A.T.u. & 

Cosmonaut’s Day 


COLOGNE 

Football events 

Win or lose, this is 

where to party 

River tours 

Wine and dine on the 

Rhine 

N°1 

Complimentary copy 


June - July 2006 


HAMBURG 

N°1 




Harbour tours 

Down in the docks 





N°1 - €3 


PRISTINA 

2006 - 2007 




Feature 2 - max 

2 lines 

Short description of the 

feature. Should be max. 

3 lines. 


N°34 - 100 Kč 


PRAGUE 


Going to the 

chapel 

Karlštejn’s renovated 

jewel 

Let’s rock 

Visiting the Bohemian 

Paradise 


N°2 - 5zł (w tym 7% VAT) 


ISSN 1896-1169 

N°1 



ŁÓDŹ 

September - December 2006 

Hollyłódź 

Poland‘s cinema city 

Stars in your 

eyes 

From Polanski to Max 

Factor, read about the 

famous natives. 


KAISERSLAUTERN 





Going Palatine 

Strolling in the forest

E S S E N T I A L C I T Y G U I D E S 

Contents 

Arriving in Vilnius 5 

How to go to town once you turn up 

The Basics 6 

Essential information, from tipping to toilets 

History 8 

Never a dull decade 

Culture & Events 10 

Concerts, Christmas, New Year 

Where to stay 14 

A bed for every budget 

Dining & Nightlife 

Where to eat 24 

From posh nosh to pub grub 

Breakfast 36 

We spill the beans on the best eggs 

Cafés 37 

It’s cold out there, but warm in here ... 

Nightlife 38 

Bars, clubs and... erm, naughty bits 

Sightseeing 44 

From essential to wacky attractions 

Jewish Vilnius 53 

History, culture and more 

Getting around 54 

How to get here, there and everywhere 

Seasonal high lights 

Contents 

You’ll find this statue tucked-away in the yard behind the 

Bernadine Church (D-3). We love the way it looks like it’s 

been hacked out of a log with an axe by a crazy person 

whose eyes point in different directions and whose hair is 

always having a party. It’s rough-hewn, but also very sweet. 

It’s also not the only charming wood carving you can find 

in Vilnius. Wander into the courtyard behind Vokiečių 20, 

have a good look around, and you may find another. Unless 

someone’s nicked it. That’s one of the many appealing 

aspects of Vilnius. There are secrets, cute corners, and 

plenty of tucked-away treasures. Exploring is a pleasure. 

Although, at this time of year, we suggest you rug-up warm 

to do it. Good shoes, lots of layers and decent hat, gloves 

and scarf are all recommended. Have fun! 

Mail & phones 

Keeping in touch, getting online 

Directory 

60 

Shopping 62 

Lifestyle 66 

Activities & Sports 69 

Health 70 

Business 72 

Druskininkai 

A new look at the old salt of Lithuania 

75 

Trakai 

More then just a pretty place 

Maps 

79 

Street index 81 

City centre map 82 

City map 83 

Country map 87 

December 2007 - January 2008

Foreword 

If you’re reading this, chances are that you are a 

strapping young chap taking your strumpet tackle 

for a titillating and adventure-packed holiday. And 

that’s fine, and we’ll happily tell you where to go 

(see the nightlife section starting on page 38). 

However, we hasten to point out that the charms 

of Vilnius extend beyond the pretty girls on the 

dancefloor. Vilnius is a city riddled with history, 

intrigue and a delightful array of inviting little nooks 

and grannies. 

Tuck yourself into a warm and cosy hidey hole, 

watch snowflakes flirting in the wind outside, and 

wonder how the ladies negotiate those slippery icecrusted 

cobblestones on needle-point high heels. 

Sip a tipple – hot wine would be nice, but vodka is 

also popular. 

Whatever you get up to, don’t hesitate to get in 

touch and let us know your opinions. Write to 

vilnius@inyourpocket.com or add comments to the 

reviews on our website: www.inyourpocket.com. 

One advertiser in this issue has challenged our 

reviews and asked on what basis we choose 

venues for inclusion. Simple. We spin a bottle and 

wander off in the direction in which it points in 

search of sustenance and adventure. Then we write 

about what we think will be interesting and helpful 

to foreigners in Vilnius. Then we empty another 

bottle and do it all again. 

Cover story 

E S S E N T I A L C I T Y G U I D E S 

Vilnius In Your Pocket 

Vokiečių 10-15 

Vilnius, Lithuania, LT-01130 

tel. (+370-5) 212 29 76 

fax (+370-5) 212 29 82 

vilnius@inyourpocket.com 


ISSN 1392-0057 

©UAB “VIYP” 

Printed by A.Jakšto spaustuvė 

Published six times per year 

20,000 copies per issue. That’s 

one copy for every time the average 

person will blink in one day. 


Vilnius Cathedral is 

beautifully lit at night, as 

shown in this stunning photo 

taken by Ivanas Jariga. It will 

also be the scene of many 

celebrations for Christmas 

and New Year. See page 11 

for information. 

Editorial 

Editor Andrew Quested 

Research Urtė ‘spoamy’ Jankauskaitė 

Layout & Design Vaida Gudynaitė 

Cover Photo Ivanas Jariga 

Sales & Circulation 

Publisher Vilnius In Your Pocket 

General Manager Gabija Thomson 

Accounting Virginija Dobrovolskienė 

Sales Manager Rasa Jankauskaitė 

Distribution Manager 

Darius Pralgauskas 

tel. +370 624 838 34 

Available for 5Lt from bookshops, 

kiosks, hotels and Tourist Information 

Centres. We are proud to be the moststolen 

item from hotel foyers, cafés, 

flyLAL flights and the back pocket of 

anyone walking slowly. 

Europe In Your Pocket 

We get hundreds of emails a week asking when 

we intend to Pocket this or that city. Hanoi pops 

up regularly, as do Havana and Oslo. But the most 

requested? Dublin, by a mile. 

And on this front we have good news. Whisper 

it, but a crack team of writers and researchers 

is currently in the city of Joyce developing the 

Pocket idea with a view to launching a first edition 

of Dublin In Your Pocket next year. Mostar 

(Bosnia) is another new guide due out in 2008. 

We would also like to modestly mention that last 

month The Times named www.inyourpocket.com 

as one of the top 10 travel websites on the web. 

Copyright notice 

Text and photos copyright UAB VIYP 

1992-2008; some photos, LATGA-A; 

maps, cartographer. All rights reserved. 

No part of this publication may be 

reproduced in any form, except brief 

extracts for the purpose of review, 

without written permission from the 

publisher and copyright owner. The brand 

name In Your Pocket is used under license 

from UAB In Your Pocket (Vokiečių 10-15, 

Vilnius, Lithuania tel. +370-5 212 29 76). 

Editor’s note 

Kaliningrad 

The editorial content of In Your Pocket 

guides is independent from paid-for 

advertising. Sponsored listings are 

clearly marked as such. We welcome all 

readers‘ comments and suggestions. 

We have made every effort to ensure 

the accuracy of the information at the 

time of going to press and assume no 

responsibility for changes and errors.

Arriving by plane 

Vilnius Airport 

Vilnius airport is just five km from the centre of the city, so 

getting to town is quick and inexpensive. Getting through 

immigration and customs is also very quick. Once you’ve 

been released into the arrivals hall, turn hard-right to find 

an ATM against the wall which will happily issue Lithuanian 

litas in inconveniently large denominations. 

The nearby Lietuvos Spauda kiosk (open 06:00 - 23:00, 

Sat 07:00 - 20:00, Sun 07:00 - 23:00) is a little further along 

and is great not just for picking up phone cards, sweeties, 

and the latest copy of Vilnius In Your Pocket, but also for 

giving you enough change to make getting into town a bit 

easier. (Try handing a 200Lt note to a bus or taxi driver and 

see what happens.) 

Left luggage (open 24hrs) is at the opposite (left) end of the 

arrivals hall, as is lost luggage (open 10:00 - 15:30). A twominute 

exploration will also reveal a Vilnius Bank currency 

exchange (open 24hrs), public telephones (see page 61 for 

instructions) and car rental kiosks. 

Getting to town from Vilnius Airport 

A taxi to Old Town will cost about 40Lt, depending on the 

time of day and mood of the driver. Only one taxi company, 

Martonas, has been granted a licence to allow its drivers 

to squabble over newly arriving passengers at the airport. 

While they are by no means the cheapest taxi company, they 

are supposed to have reliable drivers who are supposed to 

be able to speak English. To save a little money, you could call 

another taxi company (see page 54), but for most foreigners 

the amount saved will not be worth the bother. 

If you’re on a budget, get on a bus. The bus stop is just to the left 

as you exit the arrivals hall. Bus 1 goes to the train station (H-5) 

as late as 22:47 and bus 2 to Lukiškių Square (G-3, north-east 

corner) as late as 23:44 on weekdays and 23:16 on weekends. 

Buy tickets from the driver on the bus for 1.40Lt. 

Kaunas Airport 

There is a private minibus company that will pick you up from 

Kaunas airport and whisk you to Vilnius for 45Lt (35 if you book 

in advance online: www.airport-bus.lt). The schedule is timed to 

meet incoming flights. Check the website for details. 

Kaunas Airport chaos 

We’ve had the misfortune of using Kaunas Airport recently 

and found it to be such a shambles that we simply must 

issue a warning: Avoid Kaunas Airport at all costs, and if 

you must use it, we would suggest bringing a bodyguard 

and arriving several hours before your flight. 

The problem is a combination of bad organisation and 

locals who don’t know how to queue. There is one security 

check area that you must pass through before you 

check-in, and people simply clump around the entrance 

in a rowdy scrum. Occasionally a queue breaks out, but 

it quickly spills out the door and as soon as people get 

sick of standing in the cold (where they are unable to 

hear airport announcements) any semblance of civility 

is understandably lost and people start shoving past one 

another and pushing-in. When we visited, airport staff 

made no effort to control or organize the situation. 

We hope things will improve, but for the time being it 

seems that Kaunas Airport is so overstretched and 

poorly managed that we simply must suggest that you 

avoid it altogether. It makes Heathrow look like heaven, 

and that is quite an achievement. Paying a little extra to 

fly into and out of Vilnius is highly recommended. 

Arriving in vilnius 

Tourist information 

Vilnius Tourist Information B-2, Vilniaus 22, 

tel. 262 96 60, fax 262 81 69, tic@ 

vilnius.lt, www.vilnius-tourism.lt. Brochures, 

entertainment schedules, English, 

German, Polish and Russian-speaking 

staff. Car rental and accommodation also 

available. Now you can also take part in 

their sightseeing excursions: The Legends of Vilnius: 

a Ghostly Excursion, Discover the Old Town of Vilnius, 

Noblemen Feast in Tiškevičiai Palace, Trip to Medieval 

Town and National Night. Be sure to ask, however, in what 

language the excursion is presented. Also at Didžioji 31 

(Town Hall), tel. 262 64 70, fax 262 07 62, turizm.info@ 

vilnius.lt . Open 09:00-18:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 16:00. 

Geležinkelio 16 (Train station), tel./fax 269 20 91, tic3@ 

vilnius.lt. Open 09:00 - 18:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 16:00. 

Konstitucijos 3 (Municipality), tel. 211 20 31, turizmas@ 

vilnius.lt. Open 09:00 - 17:00, Fri 09:00 - 15:45. Closed 

Sat, Sun. Q Open 09:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 16:00, 

closed Sun. J 

Unless you’re arriving late in the evening, you can also make 

way directly to the Kaunas bus or train station and then carry 

on to Vilnius from there. Bus 29 leaves from outside the front 

of the airport and goes to both the bus and train stations. If 

you need to stay in Kaunas, grab a copy of Kaunas In Your 

Pocket or check our website for accommodation listings. 

Arriving by train 

The renovated train station is a bit less abysmal than the 

bus station located across the street. On the first floor is a 

Hansa Bank currency exchange and Information office (open 

24hrs). There is also a Parex Bank currency exchange office 

right next door, and it is open 24-hours. 

The 24-hour left luggage and Lietuvos Spauda kiosk (open 

06:00 - 21:00) is located downstairs in the basement. 

Public telephones can be found scattered throughout the 

station. Train timetables can be viewed at www.litrail.lt, 

but that website is only accurate in Lithuanian. Be aware 

that when arriving on a train in transit through Lithuania, 

you’ll go through customs checks after disembarking from 

the train. 

Getting to town from the train station 

You’re more or less in it. Walk to the Old Town in seven 

minutes by sauntering to your right as you exit the station 

and either taking a left down Pylimo street, or hopping on 

bus 26 or trolleybus 1, 2, 5 or 7, all of which head off to 

different destinations via the city centre. Buy a ticket from 

the driver for 1.40Lt. Minibuses 1, 2, 4, 5, 7 or 62 go via the 

city centre, tickets cost 3Lt. 

Arriving by bus 

When the bus station was renovated the vagrant riff-raff 

who hang around it were left alone, ensuring a trip here 

will increase your vocabulary of Russian swear words. The 

Lietuvos Spauda kiosk (open 06:00 - 22:00), left luggage 

(open 05:30 - 21:45) and public telephones are located 

in the main building. A few ATMs and kiosks can also be 

found, where you can purchase, among other things, snacks 

and maps. 

Getting to town from the bus station 

The same as from the train station - see above. 


BAsiCs 

Alcohol 

We don’t want to sound like your mum, but it has to be said: 

Go easy. Lithuanian beer is all light and bright in terms of taste 

and texture, but packs a punch. It seduces you like Lolita in 

a summer dress and then takes you down like a body slam 

from Jabba the Hut. It can even lead gentlemen to go to bed 

with one and wake up with the other. 

All this is because, despite their wispy appearance, local 

beers tend to have an alcohol content of around five percent, 

cost comparatively little, are sometimes served in hilariously 

large vessels (such as a tall bubbling tube that looks like 

something out of ‘Charlie and the Beer Factory’) and are 

generally consumed in environments where being sensible 

or going home are not the most attractive options. 

The common local brands are Horn, Kalnapilis, Švyturys, 

Utenos, Ragutis and Tauras, all of which come in a confusing 

variety of varieties. In most places, however, you can just say 

‘beer’ and get whatever is going without being disappointed 

or ripped off. In Old Town areas, expect to pay somewhere 

in the region of 5 - 12Lt for half a litre. 

Watch out for Žalgiris, named after the greatest battle of 

medievil Europe. With 75 per cent alcohol content, it has 

the potential to make you feel that the battle is taking place 

inside your eyeballs. 

Lithuanian vodka (degtinė) is worth trying as it stacks 

up to, if not topples over, many of its Russian and Polish 

counterparts. Numerous herb and fruit-based liquors will 

often line the inside of a drinks menu; most work as a 

pleasant accompaniment to tea. The local variation of 

champagne, Alita, is a bit more like alcoholic 7-Up than 

grown-up sparkling white wine. 

Customs 

Criminal masterminds take note: Lithuanian customs officers 

have recently demonstrated that one cannot expect to arrive 

on a plane with a crocodile, skate across a frozen river 

wearing a snowy white camouflage kimono and hauling a 

sledge full of cigarettes, hide a late model Mercedes under 

a pile of onions on the back of a truck, or carry cocaine in 

your handbag. All such cunning schemes have been foiled 

at the border. 

Other than such obvious considerations, those arriving from 

EU countries have no import restrictions placed upon them 

– although you will need to make it known if you are arriving 

with 10,000Lt or more in cold, hard cash. 

When arriving from non-EU countries, you are entitled to 

bring in one litre of spirits or two litres of wine or beer and 

200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco. 

You can bring 50g of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette 

(that’s just diluted perfume, for those men among you who 

don’t speak poof). You can’t bring plants, meat, milk or 

dairy products from outside the EU except under certain 

circumstances. You can’t arrive with live birds. Dogs require 

vaccinations and passports (or other proof of vaccination). 

You can take home as much art as you wish tax free unless 

it’s over 50 years old, in which case expect to pay 10-20 per 

cent duty. Take two photos of the art piece and your passport 

to the Committee of Cultural Heritage, Šnipiškių 3, tel. 273 42 

56. Many of the better antique shops in Vilnius (see page 62) 

can take care of all the paperwork for you. For more detailed 

information check www.cust.lt, and for information on animal 

related arrivals, check www.vet.lt. 


Disabled travellers 

Despite the Miss Disability contest held in Kaunas recently, 

Lithuania does have an attitude toward disability that is a 

bit more mature than ‘just because you’re in a wheelchair 

doesn’t mean your not sexy.’ In terms of bad taste, Miss 

Disability was up there with Miss Captivity, the beauty 

pageant for female prison inmates held in 2002. 

While things have greatly improved for the disabled over the 

past few years, Lithuania is still a tough place to get around 

on anything other than two well functioning legs. Even places 

that claim to be wheelchair friendly are often flanked by deep 

kerbs or stairs, or are located on cobbled streets. Outside the 

capital, you’ll be lucky to find any thought given to wheelchair 

accessibility at all. 

It is becoming common for good international-standard 

hotels to be wheelchair friendly, offer hearing loops in 

conference facilities, and even to offer rooms fitted out for 

the disabled. See the key in our Where to stay listings (page 

14), and call ahead to discuss your specific needs before 

making any bookings. 

The newer trolleybuses in Vilnius have low entries, spaces 

for wheelchairs, and hearing loops (so you, along with all the 

other passengers, can be misinformed about which stop is 

next when the windows are all fogged up). 

There are some pedestrian crossings that go beep-beepbeep 

– tikka-tikka-tikka and so on so that blind people know 

when to cross the road, but in our experience blindness 

seems to affect drivers more than anyone else, so we would 

advise extreme caution anyway. 

Electricity 

Lithuania has a nuclear power plant of the same questionable 

design as the one that popped its rivets in Chernobyl. It’s still 

gently humming away about 80km north-east of Vilnius, but 

will be down as a condition of Lithuania’s EU membership. 

The first of two reactors was shut down as promised at the 

end of December 2004, and the second must go offline by 

the end of 2009. Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia have agreed 

to join forces and build a new nuclear power plant in Lithuania 

which should go online by 2015. 

Regardless of where the electricity is produced, it pours 

out of European style two-pin sockets at 220V, 50Hz AC. 

Travellers from outside Europe, or from that strange little 

island in Europe that still uses big three-prong monster plugs, 

should bring an adaptor. The best place to look for adaptors 

would be the Akropolis shopping centre, where Elektromarkt 

and a nearby geek bits store may be able to help you. 

Floors 

In Lithuania the ground floor is referred to as the first floor. 

Genealogy 

Three state-run organisations offer assistance to those 

tracking down Lithuanian relatives. With records of all births, 

deaths and marriages from 1940 to the present day the 

Lithuanian Central Registry Agency (Gyventojų registro 

tarnyba) Lvovo 7/6, tel. 271 77 88 is helpful for those who 

know the location and approximate dates of who they are 

trying to find. From 1941-1942 the Nazis compiled records 

of all Lithuanian citizens which are housed at the Lithuanian 

Central State Archive (Lietuvos centrinis valstybės

archyvas) O.Milašiaus 21, tel. 247 78 11, fax 276 53 18. 

Archives ending in 1940 available from the church registry at 

the Lithuanian State Historical Archives (Lietuvos valstybės 

istorijos archyvai) Gerosios Vilties 10, tel. 213 74 82, fax 

213 76 12. 

Émigrés planning their return to the motherland should know 

that it is the duty of the Lithuanian Repatriation Information 

Centre (Lietuvių grįžimo į Tėvynę informacijos centras) 

Gedimino 64, tel. 231 36 23, fax 231 36 24, www.lgitic.lt. 

to uphold the law, whereby all Lithuanian citizens who were 

involuntarily displaced by the Soviets are given the essential 

rights, including housing, taken away from them during the 

post-war occupation of Lithuania. The centre can also help 

locate relatives. 

Money 

The unit of currency in Lithuanian is the litas (Lt), which comes 

in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500Lt notes. 

The coins can be divided into two categories: the significant 

1, 2, and 5Lt coins; and the nearly weightless and worthless 

centas/centai/centų coins of which there are 50, 20, 10, 

5, 2 and 1. 

The value of the litas is locked to that of the euro (€) at 

3.4528Lt to €1. Lithuania was keen to adopt the euro at the 

start of 2007 but their application was knocked back by the 

EU because they missed an inflation target by 0.1 per cent. 

With inflation increasing, it it is not clear when Lithuania will 

be able to adopt the euro. Keep your litas handy. 

Most places of any note in cities now happily accept credit 

cards, and ATMs dot the streets ensuring cash for everyone 

with money in their account and a card attached to the Cirrus 

or Visa network. Travellers’ cheques can be redeemed for 

cash in hotels and banks. If you’re heading out of town, 

cash-up before you go – it can be as hard to find an ATM 

in Kapčiamiestis or Skaistgirys as it can be to pronounce 

the name. 

Safety 

Exercise common sense. Don’t flaunt your wealth and flash 

your cash. Don’t walk home from a nightclub along dark alleys 

while draped in bling-bling jewellery or blinking technology. 

Stay cautious, look like you know where you are going 

(zigzagging won’t help) and you will be fine. Truly heinous 

crimes are rare here, but theft is becoming increasingly more 

common. Do not leave mobile phones, wallets, purses, or 

fashion-accessory pooches unattended or out of your direct 

reach. Especially at street side cafés or in bars. Greenuniformed 

police are supposed to be keeping the peace 

in Old Town, although finding one when you need on is like 

looking for a cucumber in a haystack. 

Smoking 

Since the start of 2007, smoking has been banned in pretty 

much all venues. That includes cafés, bars, restaurants, clubs 

and any establishment that serves anything alleged to be 

food. There are exceptions for ‘specially equipped’ cigar and 

pipe clubs, none of which actually exist yet (as at the end of 

November, 2007). 

Many venues have set up ashtrays by their doors, so if you 

want to have a puff, or get some not-so-fresh air, all you have 

to do is step outside. The unfortunate downside of this is that 

non-smokers will have to hold their breath as they enter and 

leave some places. 

Climate 

Temperature, °C 

30 

20 

10 

0 

-10 

-20 

J 

BAsiCs 

Rainfall, mm 

100 

F M A M J J A S O N D 

Most popular international cigarettes are readily available, 

and cigars, pipes, rolling tobacco and cigarette papers 

are also reasonably well-represented. Cigarettes can be 

purchased at kiosks and supermarkets as well as most 

bars and restaurants, and are very cheap by western 

standards. 

Speed limits 

In town, keep your speed around 50 km/h unless indicated 

otherwise; on country roads, no higher than 90km/h. On the 

Vilnius-Kaunas motorway no faster than 100km/h is legal 

and all other motorways are 110km/h from Nov 1 - Apr 1 

and 130km/h for the rest of the year. 

Tipping 

Only required to reward good service, or to round-up the bill 

and save yourself the nuisance of carrying around shrapnel 

in the form of small useless coins. Ten per cent is fair. 

Visas 

For perhaps the first time in history Lithuania has no apparent 

adversaries, which means there are plenty of countries with 

visa-free travel agreements. To date these include Australia, 

Canada, New Zealand, Switzerland and the US, plus Nordic 

countries, although you should note that the periods for which 

citizens are allowed to stay in Lithuania before requiring a visa 

are different for each country. EU citizens can live and work 

in Lithuania for as long as they like but must get a resident 

permit. For more information, take a look at www.urm.lt. 

Toilets 

‘Kur tualetas?’ (Where’s the toilet?) Well we can certainly 

tell you where it is not. The toilet is one hundred per cent 

without a doubt, no need to read between these lines, 

NOT located on the wall adjacent to the President’s Palace 

on Universiteto Street. A visiting policeman, believe it 

or not, was once arrested for assuming that it is. 

Otherwise the toilet situation in Vilnius is well developed. 

Toilets are no longer stinky holes in the floor. There are 

a few public toilets in town that should be avoided for 

sit-down affairs that certainly offer a nice retrospective 

for a pittance. Otherwise, most bars and restaurants 

offer an agreeable refuge for discharging. 

or M = ladies or V = gentlemen 

75 

50 

25 


0

history 

Surrounded and often attacked by its neighbours, 

Lithuania’s history is one, more often than not, of a bitter 

struggle for independence. With one of the oldest spoken 

languages and as one of the final European countries to 

convert to Christianity, Lithuania has historically been able 

to maintain its own unique identity even with the struggles 

for power and sovereignty. 

7th - 2nd centuries BC The first Baltic tribes establish 

themselves on what is now known as Lithuanian territory. 

11th century The word Lithuania is first used in written 

texts 1009AD. At the same time, a wooden castle was 

built on Gediminas Hill in Vilnius, which led to a diminutive 

settlement below it. 

13th century Samogitians defeat the Livonian knights at 

the battle of Saulė in 1236. After uniting local chieftains, on 

July 6, 1253 Mindaugas is crowned Lithuania’s one and only 

king. During his reign as the first Christian sovereign of the 

state, the Vilnius Cathedral is built. However, the majority of 

the population remains pagan. 

14th century In 1323 Grand Duke Gediminas sends 

letters to various German towns, inviting their craftsmen and 

merchants to settle in Vilnius with the promise of religious 

freedom. Trying to insure peace, in 1325 Gediminas forms 

a union with Poland by marrying his daughter Aldona to the 

Polish king’s son. The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth 

comes into being by the 1387 Krėva Union, whereby 

Gediminas’s grandson Jogaila becomes a Polish king 

by marrying the Polish Princess Jadwiga. Even with the 

increased security, the Teutonic knights, however, still 

manage to invade, resulting in the 1390 burning of the 

wood-constructed Vilnius. 

15th century The bothersome Teutonic knights are 

eventually defeated on July 15, 1410 by Lithuanian armies 

led by Jogaila and Grand Duke Vytautas at traditionally what 

is considered the most important battle in Lithuanian history, 

the battle of Tannenberg / Grünwald / Žalgiris. The country 

flourishes and by 1430 the borders extend from the Baltic 

to the Black Sea. Karaims settle in the Trakai area and the 

Jewish population in Vilnius prospers. 

16th century The Renaissance sees marked cultural 

advances, notably the printing of the first Lithuanian book 

in 1547, and the founding of Vilnius University in 1579. The 

end of the Jogaila dynasty in 1572 results in the political 

and cultural marginalisation of Lithuania. Polish becomes the 

state language. The Livonian wars with Russia and Sweden 

drain the Commonwealth’s resources. 

18th century In the beginning of the 1700s both Swedish 

and Russian forces try to seize control of Vilnius. By 1795 

the Russian’s attempt is successful as they seize control over 

Lithuania in its entirety. The 120-year Russian occupation 

is only interrupted by a short liberation by Napoleon’s army 

in 1812 on his failed campaign to Moscow. During the 

Napoleonic army’s return through Vilnius nearly 40,000 men 

died due to starvation and extreme cold. 

19th century Vilnius University acts as a hotbed of 

dissent against the tsarist government, culminating in an 

1831 uprising, which leads to the closing of the institution. 

Russification ensues with non-Orthodox churches forcibly 

closed, the Lithuanian language being banned and the 

country now titled as the Northwest Region. The ban on Latin 

script forces the smuggling in of books from neighbouring 

Königsberg (now known as Kaliningrad, and ironically part of 


Russia). Another uprising takes place in 1863 and General 

Muravyov (‘The Hangman’) is sent to restore order, resulting 

in deaths by hanging for most of the leading activists. The 

repression is countered and defied by a revival of Lithuanian 

culture and tradition, and in 1883 Jonas Basanavičius 

publishes the first Lithuanian-language newspaper. 

Independence & Beyond 

1988 June 3 The Lithuanian Reform Movement Sąjūdis 

is founded by some five hundred representatives of the 

intelligentsia, advocating ‘openness, democracy and 

sovereignty’. Aug 23 A quarter of a million people gather 

in Vilnius to mark the 49th anniversary of the Molotov- 

Ribbentrop Pact. Oct 7 The Lithuanian flag is raised on 

Gediminas Castle. 

1989 Feb 16 Lithuanian Independence Day is officially 

commemorated. Aug 23 An estimated two million 

Lithuanians, Latvians and Estonians join hands in a human 

chain stretching the 650km between Vilnius to Tallinn to 

protest the 50th anniversary of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact. 

1990 Jan 11-13 Mikhail Gorbachev’s visit to Vilnius is 

far from pleasant as some 300,000 pro-independence 

demonstrators turn out to “welcome” him. March 4 Proindependence 

Sąjūdis candidates receive an overall majority 

in the first free elections in Lithuania since 1940. March 11 

The Supreme Council (later morphed into the Parliament or 

Seimas) declares the restoration of Lithuanian independence 

and demands the withdrawal of Soviet forces. Dr Vytautas 

20th Century 

During the World War I German occupation 1915 - 1918, 

the Lithuanian Council proclaim the Republic of Lithuania 

to be independent on February 

16, 1918 (Independence Day). 

As the Germans retreat, the 

Lithuanian state comes under 

attack by the Polish General 

Józef Piłsudski who seizes control 

of Vilnius and areas south 

of it from 1920 - 1939. Poland 

maintains control of these areas by claiming they were a 

portion of the pre-war Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. 

Kaunas becomes the interim capital of Lithuania until 

1940. During the inter-war period independent Lithuania 

prospers under the thirteen-year leadership of strongman 

Antanas Smetona (1926 - 1940). Lithuanian independence 

ends with the clandestine signing on August 

23, 1939 of the Molotov - Ribbentropp Pact between 

Hitler and Stalin, who carve up Europe into portions to 

be controlled either by Germany or the USSR. Lithuania 

is subject to both Soviet and Nazi occupation. Between 

1941 - 1944 Gestapo and SS units organise the mass 

murder of over two-hundred thousand Jews - 94% of 

the entire Lithuanian Jewish population. The return of 

the Red Army and the re-incorporation of Lithuania into 

the USSR on July 7, 1944 results in the deportation of 

a quarter of a million Lithuanians to the Siberian gulags, 

a task they’d already begun in 1941 before the Nazis 

arrived. Polish - Lithuanians are extradited to Poland. 

Lithuanian partisans, dubbed the ‘Forest Brothers’, 

wage guerrilla warfare until 1953. On May 14, 1972, 

a 19 year-old student, Romas Kalanta, commits self-immolation 

in the city gardens of Kaunas in protest of the 

Soviet government.

National holidays 

Lithuanians would celebrate the opening of an envelope. 

Any excuse for a bit less work and a bit more cake will 

be welcomed, including birthdays and ‘name days’. The 

following are the official public holidays. 

January 1 New Year’s Day & National Flag Day 

February 16 Independence Day 

March 11 Restoration of Independence 

March 23 Easter Sunday (2008) 

March 24 Easter Monday (2008) 

May 1 A day off for the workers! 

May 4 Mothers’s Day (2008) 

June 24 Joninės, or Midsummer 

July 6 Crowning of King Mindaugas (the first) 

August 15 Žolinė (Feast of the Assumption) 

November 1 All Saints’ Day 

December 25, 26 Christmas 

Landsbergis is elected parliamentary chairman. April 17 

Moscow imposes an economic blockade. 

1991 Jan 13 Soviet forces try unsuccessfully to storm the 

parliamentary building in Vilnius. A large crowd insured the 

delegates were safe inside the walls. However, during the 

Soviets bid to reclaim the media by storming the Television 

Tower 14 people are killed. Feb 12 Iceland becomes the 

first country to recognise an independent Lithuania. July 

31 Seven border guards and policemen are killed at the 

Medininkai border checkpoint by Soviet special forces. Aug 

21 The Moscow putsch collapses. Soviet troops leave the 

buildings they’ve occupied since January. Lenin’s statue is 

removed from Lukiškių Square. Aug 29 Sweden becomes 

the first Western country to open an embassy in Vilnius. 

Sept 2 The United States recognise Lithuania, Latvia and 

Estonia. Sept 17 All three Baltic countries are re-admitted 

into the UN. 

1992 Feb 8 Lithuanians participate under their own flag at 

the Winter Olympics for the first time since 1928. 

1993 June 25 Lithuania’s pre-war currency, the litas, is 

re-introduced. Aug 31 The last Russian soldier leaves 

Lithuania. Sep 4-8 Pope John Paul II visits. 

1994 Dec Vilnius Old Town joins the list of UNESCO World 

Heritage Sites. 

1997 July 1 The Lithuanian parliament (Seimas) passes a 

property restitution law, allowing pre-war property owners 

or their descendants to reclaim property nationalised under 

the Soviet regime. 

1998 Jan 4 Valdas Adamkus is elected president. Adamkus, 

who fled Lithuania in 1944, was a senior official at the 

Environmental Protection Agency in Chicago before returning 

to Lithuania to run for president. Dec 21 Seimas abolishes 

the death penalty in response to international pressure from 

the European Union. 

1999 Dec 13 Accession talks begin between Lithuania 

and the European Union with a projected date of 2004; a 

major stumbling block is the decommissioning of the Ignalina 

nuclear power plant. 

2000 At the Sydney Olympics Lithuania wins two gold and 

three bronze medals. The basketball team win its third 

history 

Olympic bronze coming within a few points of beating the 

American dream team for gold. 

2001 June 23-27 The Dalai Lama visits Lithuania, visiting 

various sites in Vilnius and Kaunas. 

2002 The litas switches pegging from the US dollar to the 

euro on Feb 2, in readiness for EU accession, into which the 

country was invited to join on Oct 9. On Nov 22 Lithuania is 

also allowed to become a member of the happy family that 

is NATO. George Bush visits Vilnius the following day (the first 

ever US president to visit the city). 

2003 In the Jan 5 run-off election, Valdas Adamkus 

(Lithuanian president from 1998 - 2003) is voted out 

of office by 46-year-old right wing underdog Rolandas 

Paksas. May 10-11 A staggering 91% of the 64% of the 

population who turned out to vote, give a resounding ‘yes’ 

to EU membership. 

2004 Jan-Apr Impeachment hearings take place as 

President Rolandas Paksas is found guilty of violating the 

Lithuanian constitution and his oath as president in his 

dealings with unsavoury Russian business partners. On 

Apr 2 Lithuania became a full-fledged member of NATO and 

the EU on May 1. The 77-year-old Valdas Adamkus wins the 

presidential election on June 27. In July Virgilijus Alekna, 

whose day job is protecting the president, wins a gold medal 

at the Athens Olympics in discus throwing. Dec 31 Ignalina 

Nuclear Power Plant says good-bye to one of the two unsafe, 

Chernobyl-type reactors. 

2005 Aug 2 Exhumation of 832 WWI German soldiers is 

completed from a burial site found beneath a Soviet built 

gymnasium in Panevėžys. A funeral is held in Klaipėda. Sep 

15 A Russian SU-27 fighter veers off course and crashes 

55km north of Kaunas. 

2006 May 16 Lithuania becomes the first EU member to 

have its application to adopt the euro currency rejected. 

Inflation is the culprit. May 31 Prime Minister Algirdas 

Brazauskas and his coalition government resign as two 

ministers face allegations of corruption. Lithuania is 

without an elected government. July 4 Parliament approves 

Gediminas Kirkilas as the new Prime Minister. Oct 17-18 

Elizabeth II, The Queen of England, and her husband, the 

Duke of Edinburgh, visit Vilnius. She wears a hat. 

Basic data 

Population 

Lithuania 3,392,500 Vilnius 542,809 

Ethnic composition (Lithuania) 

Lithuanians 83.45% Poles 6.74% Russians 6.31% 

Belarusians 1.23% Ukrainians 0.65% Others 1.62% 

Territory 

65,303km 2 Roughly twice the size of Belgium, and 

the largest of the three Baltic nations. Fertile lowland, 

peppered with many lakes. North to south, the greatest 

distance is 276km, east to west is 373km 

Borders 

Baltic Sea 99km Belarus 502km Latvia 453km 

Poland 91km Russia (Kaliningrad) 227km 

Longest river 

Nemunas 937km (475km in Lithuania) 

Largest lake 

Drūkščiai 4479ha 

Highest point 

Juozapinė 293.6m 


10 Culture & events 

Festivals & Major events 

Lithuanians couldn’t organize an escape from a soggy 

brown paper bag, and many cultural events seem to be 

tossed together, in secret, ten minutes before they happen. 

Getting information and schedules, therefore, is difficult. 

We’ve listed a few choice events that we could get details 

about, but our list is by no means exhaustive. Keep your eye 

on the www.bilietai.lt and www.tiketa.lt websites for more 

events, or make some tinfoil antennae to tune into the 

thoughts of the local culture chaos organizers to see what’s 

going on. 

Bryan Adams World Tour 2007 

December 3 20:00 Utenos Pramogų Arena 

http://tinyurl.com/32bc9x 

Run To You, The Summer of ’69, I Do It For You ... there’s no 

doubt that the Adams family of songs will be familiar to you, 

but just in case you can come along and reacquaint yourself 

at this one-night-only concert. Fluff your hair up, shake the 

dust off the leather jacket (unless you’re a Lithuanian, in which 

case just leave your leather jacket on but leave your man bag 

at home) and rock along. Tickets range from 180-300Lt, 

which seems terribly expensive but ... all that hair gel costs 

something, you know. 

Chinese Circus 


http://tinyurl.com/33teaa 

They’re baaaaaack. If you want to see a dozen Chinese people 

riding one bicycle, you can either go to China or come along 

for this family-friendly Sunday afternoon spectacular. You 

can also see things involving plates balancing and spinning 

on sticks, people balancing and spinning on each other and 

further miscellaneous and acrobatic circus antics. 

Vanessa Mae 


http://tinyurl.com/2otqlv 

The startling young performer who single-handedly made 

the violin sexy. And made a lot of money doing it is coming 

to Vilnius for the third time. She will be here to slink about 

and stroke her strings and leave all those Soviet-educated 

classic violinists scratching their furry hats and tsk-tsking 

incomprehensibly. And good on her, too. 

Classic Pop Show: Ace of Base, Sandra & Alphaville 

December 14 20:00 Siemens Arena 

http://tinyurl.com/3c4gdl 

You know when you see a group of ‘remember-them?’ names 

on the one billing that you’re talking about a bunch of hasbeens 

that shone brightly and briefly and then went ‘plink’ 

into obscurity like a cheap light bulb. This, however, may be 

an exception, as Ace of Base, clearly the headliners here, 

are claiming that this is a warm-up for a world tour and a 

new album in 2008. Marketing hype? Or a chance to get in 

first and see what could be 2008’s hottest come back. You 

decide. As for Sandra & Alphaville (is that one act, or two?), 

erm... whe haven’t got a clue who they are. 

Harlem Gospel Choir 

December 25 20:00 Vilnius Congress Concert Hall 

http://tinyurl.com/2q23em 

Christmas can be a depressing time in Vilnius for expats. 

It’s dark, you’re cold, the family is far away and there’re no 

decent after-Christmas sales to look forward to. But get 

along to see the legendary Harlem Gospel Choir and their 

hand-flapping, foot-stompin’, unproven-entity-praisin’ brand 

of high-spirited hysterics is bound to infect you and carry you 

along for a soul-liftin’ ride. 


Romantic Winter Fests 

December 28 19:00 Vilnius Congress Concert Hall 

http://tinyurl.com/337lzh 

The publicity claims that “resplendent pearls of symphonic 

music and romantic holiday feelings are presented to You 

[sic], our dear listeners”. If that didn’t make you throw-up you 

might like to get along and see (and hear) Asmik Grigorian 

and Marian Talaba, whoever they are, performing ‘most 

beautiful’ love songs and opera arias and ... oh, excuse me, 

I’m going to be sick. 

Flaming Christmas Ice 


http://tinyurl.com/39l6eg 

This one comes around every year and involves people 

going round and round on ice. Actually, for those of us who 

don’t often get the chance to see top-notch ice-dancing, it 

is a sight not to be missed. The things these people can do 

without falling over are mind-boggling. To get a sneak-peek, 

YouTube ‘flaming ice champions’ – someone handy-cammed 

them last year. 

Moscow Stars on Ice 

December 31 15:00, 19:00 Siemens Arena 

http://tinyurl.com/2n2knv 

They started out doing an icy rendition of a silent movie, like 

a very chilled Charlie Chaplin kind of affair. Their repertoire 

has now grown to include all manner of slippery spectaculars 

such as Cinderella, Rasputin, Sounds of [the] Jungle, Mary 

Poppins, Mowgli and more. We hope they’ve sorted out the 

intellectual property issues for all of those, although it would 

be fun to see the Ms. Poppins vs. Someone in Tights legal battle. 

As for exactly which performance to expect here in Vilnius, 

as usual, the Lithuanians have failed to provide specifics. 

Art galleries 

Amatų gildija B-4, Pranciškonų 6, tel./fax 212 05 20, tel. 

+370 618 001 42, gildija@centras.lt, www.amatugildija. 

puslapiai.lt. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J 

Arka C-5, Aušros Vartų 7, tel./fax 212 13 19, arka@ 

artistsassociation.lt. A large space, and one of the best 

galleries in the Baltics. Many international exhibitions as well 

as some gifted locals on display. QOpen 12:00 - 19:00, Sat 

12:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J 

Art Academy Gallery C-3, Pilies 44/2, tel./fax 261 

20 94, www.vda.lt. Photography and some inspired graphic 

art. QOpen 12:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. J 

Artists’ Palace C-4, Didžioji 31 (Town Hall), tel./fax 

261 75 72. Modern painting (the stuff clever people pretend 

to understand), and the occasional piece of sculpture. QOpen 

09:00 - 18:00, Fri 09:00 - 17:45. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

Arza Jewelery D-4, Stiklių 6, tel. +370 606 105 51, 

info@artele.lt, www.artele.lt. Meet Rolandas and Algina, 

a young couple who have bonded together in art, as well as 

romance. The duo design and sell their handmade jewellery 

when they are not in cahoots with several of Lithuania’s most 

famous designers. Stop by their crafty studio shop to see 

how they turn amber, linen, leather and stones into magical 

custom designs. QOpen 10:00 - 19:00. J 

Baltijos Gintaro Meno Centras (Amber centre) 

C-3, Šv. Mykolo 12, tel./fax 212 04 99, info@ambergallery.lt, 

www.ambergallery.lt. Next to Amber Gallery-Museum 

here one can find workshops held on request. QOpen 

09:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon. J 

Contemporary Art Centre C-4, Vokiečių 2, tel. 212 

19 45, fax 262 39 54, info@cac.lt, www.cac.lt. A 

funky space, featuring a whole host of very modern stuff. 

Discounts apply on Wednesdays. QOpen 12:00 - 19:30. 

Closed Mon. J

Christmas events 

Lighting of the Christmas tree 

December 8 19:00 Town Hall Square 

The smaller (and, in our opinion, more pretty) Christmas 

tree in the Town Hall (Rotušės) Square will be lit onDecember 

8, one week after the Dalek-robot-fake-o-rific Christmas 

cone thingy in the Cathedral square. 

Concert for the deaf 

December 21 19:00 Sts. Johns’ Church 

Simultaneous signing and singing. A lovely idea that 

sounds/looks like it will be interesting for everyone, not just 

those with hearing difficulties. Ask Mr. Google to help you 

learn a few signs before you go so you can sign along. 

Christmas concerts 

December 16 – January 6 

While we can’t offer any specifics (are you noticing a theme 

there?) we can advise you to keep your ears alert for 

sounds of music spilling out of Vilnius’s many churches. 

Free concerts are commonplace at Christmas. 

Lighting of the TV Tower Christmas tree 

December 25 16:00 

Each year, strings of lights are draped from the disc bit of 

the TV Tower to form a sort of a Christmas tree shape. 

At 16:00 on Christmas day, the lights will be lit, probably 

with accompanying fireworks and hullabaloo. This is one 

of the tallest (and most short-lived) Christmas trees you 

will ever see. 

Festive Christmas concert 

December 26 19:00 Town Hall Square 

Everyone turns up to this one, including some of Lithuania’s 

favourite ‘stars’. No one knows exactly who will perform, but 

it may well involve the bloke with short, white, spiky hair who 

looks like he’s been starved and electrocuted; someone 

from a reality show involving lots of arguments and singing; 

and, if we’ve been very good this year, Mamontovas, the 

singing corpse. In any case, it’s a family-and-friends kind of 

Culture & events 

event that puts everyone in a good mood. Except the small 

swarm of Vilnius Wombles, who have to scurry about with 

wicker brooms cleaning everything up afterwards. 

New Year non-concert 

December 31 23:59-ish Cathedral Square 

Normally, an explosion of festivities and a cracking concert 

take place in the Cathedral Square to welcome the new 

year. This year, the Mayor has decided to cancel this event, 

presumably because people have a habit of getting drunk 

and trying to blow each others’ heads off with fireworks. 

Still, people will probably show up this year anyway. Attend 

at your own risk. 

Procession of the Three Kings 

January 6 16:30 Cathedral Square 

Three tall and wonky Kings will meander from the Gates 

of Dawn down to the nativity scene in the Cathedral 

Square, where they will say hello to the baby Jesus with 

the oversized head, and then do something involving gifts 

and donkeys and so forth. 

Tree inferno 

January 6 17:00 Teachers’ House 

Drag your old tree along to the courtyard at the Teachers’ 

House (A/B-3) and chuck it on the big fire. (Unless it’s 

plastic, in which case you should keep it for next year.) You 

will be rewarded with hot tea and jolly festivities. 


11

12 


Delmonas H-3, J.Basanavičiaus 16/5 (entrance on 

Mindaugo), tel. 279 12 82/+370 653 826 47, reginosdelmonas@gmail.com. 

Regina was the first artist to open 

the doors. She specializes in painting on silk and making 

batik. Every silk scarf and painting in the store is handmade, 

and unique. Workshops are held on request. QOpen 11:00 

- 17:00, Sat 11:00 - 14:00. Closed Mon, Sun. 

Exhibition Hall C-4, Vokiečių 2, tel. 261 95 16, info@ 

galerija-lds.lt, www.galerija-lds.lt. Paintings, plus a fascinating 

little souvenir, art and bookshop. QOpen 10:00 

- 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. JA 

Jonas Bugailiškis Art Studio C-5, Aušros Vartų 17-10, 

tel. 261 76 66/+370 652 366 13, jonas.bugailiskis@ 

gmail.com. A local mini-celebrity knocking out all manner of 

fabulous wooden eccentricities based on a combination of 

traditional Lithuanian folk art and the contents of a very unique 

mind. Knock on the door to see if he’s in. J 

Kairė-Dešinė C-3, Latako 3, tel./fax 261 19 95, grafcentras@gmail.com. 

Young, contemporary. QOpen 12:00 

- 19:00, Sat 12:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J 

Kalvystės Amatų Galerija (Smithery) I-4, Užupio 

26, tel. 215 37 57, galerija@vilniauskalviai.lt, www. 

vilniauskalviai.lt. Workshops on special request. QOpen 

10:30 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Sun. 

Lietuvos Aidas’ Gallery B-4, Žemaitijos 11, tel./fax 

212 47 27, info@lagalerija.lt, www.lagalerija.lt. More 

contemporary art. QOpen 12:00 - 18:00, Sat 12:00 - 16:00. 

Closed Mon, Sun. J 

Manufaktūra Jūratė C-4, Didžioji 20/1, tel. 231 40 

05, manufaktura@jurate.eu, www.jurate.eu. For different 

types of textile workshops call in advance. QOpen 10:00 

- 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

Medals Gallery C-3, Šv. Jono 11, tel./fax 212 41 54, 

jonogalerija@yahoo.com. A whole host of changing exhibitions 

to suit all tastes. QOpen 12:00 - 19:00, Sat 12:00 

- 16:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J 

Meno Niša A-3, J.Basanavičiaus 1/13, tel. 231 38 11, 

menonisa@freemail.lt ; menonisa@gmail.com. This niche 

shop is deceptively advertised as a goldsmith’s guild gallery. 

Find several rooms displaying enamel jewellery, styles ranging 

from traditional to questionably wearable, and various original 

art works. Many artists’ pieces are on display, and all can be 

purchased. Workshop Tue 13:00 - 17:00. For workshops at 

other time call in advance. QOpen 12:00 - 18:00, Sat 12:00 


Molio Laumė (Black Ceramics Workshop Gallery) 

A-4/5, Naugarduko 20, tel. +370 699 424 56, eugenijp@ 

takas.lt, www.ceramics.w3.lt. Relocated and reinvigorated 

with new (recently graduated) talent, and plenty of hauntingly 

beautiful and alluring black ceramics. Workshops are held on 

special request.QOpen 12:00 - 16:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

National Library G-3, Gedimino 51, tel. 239 85 22, 

fax 249 61 29, www.lnb.lt. A great location for some truly 

inspiring work. Closed every last day of the month. QOpen 

09:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. 

Photograph Gallery C-4, Didžioji 19, tel. 261 17 

02, fax 232 80 81, info@remeliudizainas.lt, www. 

remeliudizainas.lt. A small, two-floor gallery of mostly local 

photography, old and new. QOpen 10:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 

- 17:00. Closed Sun. J 

Prospekto Galerija G-3, Gedimino 43, tel. 261 83 38, 

fax 261 16 65, info@photography.lt, www.photography. 

lt. A small space, covering the whole range of photographic 

possibilities. If you like what you see, a lot of the work on 

display is for sale. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Sat 11:00 - 16:00. 

Closed Mon, Sun. 

Russian Art C-3, Bokšto 4/2, tel. 212 32 36. Nesting 

dolls (matrioshkas), gzhel porcelain, shawls from Pavlovo- 

Posad, lacquer boxes. Russian and Soviet art. QOpen 12:00 

- 19:00, Sun 12:00 - 16:00. J 


Sauluva C-3, Literatų 3, tel. 212 12 27, info@sauluva. 

lt, www.sauluva.lt. A place to learn to make traditional 

Verbas and Easter egss. Workshops are held on Mondays and 

Thursdays 11:00 - 18:00 (verbas) and Wednesdays 11:00 

- 15:00 (Easter egg). Better to call in advance. QOpen 10:00 


Tadas H-2, A.Juozapavičiaus 3 -79, tel. +370 685 555 

25/275 44 51, fax 215 44 51, guttadas@takas.lt, 

www.tadasgutauskas.lt. A truly artistic usage of gallery 

space, featuring the sculptures and paintings of this talented 

Lithuanian visionary. From interior design to fashion, the full 

spectrum of his artwork is on hand inside. Call them before 

going there. 

Tautodailininko Dirbtuvė (Folk Artist’s Workshop- 

Showroom) G-4, J.Basanavičiaus 29 (basement), tel. 

+370 614 431 87/+370 686 108 04, tautodailes.dirbtuve@gmail.com. 

Klaidas was a fine lawyer until he found 

a pair of scissors in the street and became a paper cutter. 

Klaidas’s cuttings are now sold framed, and prices start at 

20Lt. Paper cutting workshop are held on Fridays from 17:00. 

QOpen 15:00 - 19:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Užupio Galerija D-3, Užupio 3, tel. 231 23 18/+370 

682 399 46, uzupiogalerija@mail.lt, www.uzupiogalerija. 

lt. A tiny gallery, dealing in exclusive and rather beautiful 

metal and enamel works from a range of Lithuanian artists. 

The best thing about this place is that it’s a working gallery. 

In the main space itself there’s all the kit necessary for the 

goldsmith, and you’ll often find somebody there working away 

at creating something new and lovely. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, 

Sat 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J 

Užupio meno inkubatorius D-3, Užupio 2, tel. 262 00 

83/+370 611 226 75, umigalera@gmail.com, www.umi. 

lt. A tumbledown house on the riverbank, brightly painted and 

with a few works in the garden. Being pretty much 100 per 

cent wacky, there’s usually nobody there, there are no official 

working hours. QOpen 16:00 - 20:00. J 

Vartai B-3, Vilniaus 39 (Teacher’s House), tel./fax 212 

29 49, galerija@galerijavartai.lt, www.galerijavartai.lt. 

The most prestigious art gallery in Vilnius. Check the website 

for upcoming exhibitions. QOpen 12:00 - 18:00, Sat 12:00 


Verpstė C-3, Žydų 2, tel. 262 58 87, www.tautodaile. 

vardai.net. Amber, linen, wooden souvenirs, some art naive 

paintings. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 16:00. Closed 

Mon, Sun. J 

Znad Wilii C-3, Išganytojo 2/4, tel./fax 212 30 20, 

galeriaznadwilii@gmail.com, www.galeriaznadwilii. 

com. A Polish art gallery displaying and selling paintings, 

books and the newspaper Znad Wilii. QOpen 12:00 - 19:30. 

Closed Mon, Sun. J 

Cinemas 

Coca-Cola Plaza G-4, Savanorių 7, tel. 1567, www. 

forumcinemas.lt. Ultra swanky multiplex, featuring 12 

screens, 1,823 seats (50 for disabled viewers), VIP salon and 

Presidential Lounge and Čili Pizza. QOpen 10:30 - 22:00. 

Forum Cinemas Akropolis G-1, Ozo 25, tel. 1567, 

www.forumcinemas.lt. Mostly popular Hollywood films, 

as one would expect in a shopping centre. QOpen 10:00 

- 22:00. 

Skalvija H-3, Goštauto 2/15, tel. 261 05 05, fax 268 58 

32, info@skalvija.lt, www.skalvija.lt. Recently renovated, 

but still the right place to look for more artistic films. Avoid row 

eight if you’ve got legs.QOpen 15:00 - 21:00. 

For cinema schedules see 

www.cinema.lt

Concert halls 

Music Academy G-3, Gedimino 42, tel. 261 01 44, 

www.lmta.lt. Remember Fame? Well this is the Lithuanian 

version. There are often some great concerts held here. 

Information is posted by the entrance. 

National Philharmonic C-5, Aušros Vartų 5, tel. 266 

52 16/266 52 59, fax 266 52 66, info@filharmonija.lt, 

www.nationalphilharmonic.eu. Q Box office open 10:00 

- 19:00, Sun 10:00 - 12:00. Closed Mon. J 

Siemens Arena Ozo 14, tel. 247 75 50. The biggest and 

most modern concert and sport events’ arena. Box office 

open 10:00 - 19:00. Closed Sun. 

Utenos Pramogų Arena E-1, Ąžuolyno 9, tel. 195 55. 

Box office open 12:00-20:00. 

Vilnius Congress Concert Hall B-1, Vilniaus 6/14, 

tel. 261 88 28, kasa@lvso.lt, www.lvso.lt. Deceptively 

bland on the outside, this is actually a rather fine concert 

hall, featuring some of the best acoustics in the city. Box 

office open 12:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. 

J 

Opera 

Opera & Ballet Theatre H-3, A.Vienuolio 1, tel. 262 

07 27, fax 262 35 03, info@opera.lt, www.opera.lt. A 

stunning construction opened in 1974 and offering the whole 

range of works. Worth a look inside even if you don’t plan on 

attending anything. Phone number for booking tickets: +370 

615 510 00. Box office open 10:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 18:00, 

Sun 10:00 - 15:00. 

Theatres 

Arts Printing House (Menų spaustuvė) D-2, 

Šiltadaržio 6, tel./fax 261 08 05, info@menuspaustuve. 

lt, www.menuspaustuve.lt. This off-beat performing arts 

center which found shelter in the former Soviet printing house 

has set on the ambition of becoming a leading arts and creative 

industries center. While the complex of old buildings is 

going through reconstruction, the Arts Printing House hosts 

provocative drama, dance and interdisciplinary projects 

as well as various performing arts festivals in its grungy 

premises. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

Domino Theatre G-4, Savanorių 7 (“Coca Cola Plaza” 

cinema), tel. 263 95 70, fax 278 87 82, info@dominoteatras.lt, 

www.dominoteatras.lt. QOpen 08:30 - 17:30. 

Closed Sat, Sun. 

Lėlė Puppet Theatre C-4, Arklių 5, tel. 262 86 78, 

info@teatraslele.lt, www.teatraslele.lt. This inspired 

puppet theatre for children of all ages has been charming 

audiences in Vilnius since the company was founded way back 

in 1958. QOpen 10:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon. J 

Meno fortas D-2, Bernardinų 8/8, tel. 268 58 16, fax 

268 58 17, info@menofortas.lt, www.menofortas.lt. 

QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

National Drama Theatre B-2, Gedimino 4, tel. 262 

97 71, info@teatras.lt, www.teatras.lt. Look for the three 

muses guarding the entrance. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Sat, 

Sun 11:00 - 18:00. J 

Russian Drama Theatre H-4, J.Basanavičiaus 13, 

tel. 262 05 52. QOpen 12:00 - 18:30, Sun 11:00 - 18:30. 

Closed Mon. 

The State Small Theatre of Vilnius (Valstybinis 

Vilniaus Mažasis Teatras) A-1, Gedimino 22, tel. 249 

98 69, fax 261 31 95, info@vmt.lt, www.vmt.lt. QOpen 

11:00 - 18:30, Sun 13:00 - 18:30. Closed Mon. J 

Youth Theatre C-4, Arklių 5, tel. 261 61 26, fax 262 

55 58, info@jaunimoteatras.lt, www.jaunimoteatras.lt. 

QOpen 11:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon. J 


Opera 

National Drama Theatre pretending to be a brothel 

December 

1 18:30 Ch. W. Gluck opera Orfeo et Euridice 

2 15:00 L. Vilkončius ballet Peter Pan 

5 18:30 P. Tchaikovsky ballet The Nutcracker 

6 18:30 J. F. Halevy opera La Juive 

7 18:30 L. A. Minkus ballet Don Quixote 

8 18:30 S. Prokofiev ballet Romeo and Juliet 


12 18:30 J. Strauss operetta Wiener Blut 

13 18:30 P. Tchaikovsky ballet The Sleeping Beauty 

14 

to the music by Tchaikovsky, Bizet, Adam, 

18:30 

Schnittke ballet Red Giselle 

15 18:30 G. Verdi opera Un Ballo In Maschera 



19 18:30 A. Adam ballet Giselle 

20 18:30 J. Strauss operetta Wiener Blut 

26 15:00 Christmas concert 

27 18:00 Christmas concert 

31 18:30 L. A. Minkus ballet La Bayadere 

January 


4 18:30 G. Verdi opera Aida 


6 12:00 J. Gaižauskas opera Burattino 

9 18:30 F. Lehar operetta Die Lustige Witwe 

10 18:30 P. Tchaikovsky ballet Swan Lake 

11 18:30 Ch. W. Gluck opera Orfeo et Euridice 

12 

to the music by Tchaikovsky, Bizet, Adam, 

18:30 

Schnittke ballet Red Giselle 


17 18:30 R. Strauss opera Salome 


19 18:30 J. F. Halevy opera La Juive 

20 

B. Pawlowski ballet Snow White and The 

12:00 

Seven Dwarfs 

23 18:30 G. Verdi opera Rigoletto 

24 18:30 P. Tchaikovsky ballet The Sleeping Beauty 

25 18:30 G. Verdi opera Un Ballo In Maschera 

26 18:00 R. Wagner opera Die Walkure 

27 17:00 R. Wagner opera Die Walkure 

30 18:30 R. Shchedrin ballet Anna Karenina 

31 18:30 

F. Mendelssohn-Bartholdy / G. Bizet – R. 

Shchedrin ballet A Midsummer Night’s 

Dream/ Carmen 

Performances take place at National Opera and Ballet 

Theatre. More info at www.opera.lt 


1

1 where to stAy 

Finding a place to stay in the capital of Lithuania is like 

finding a nincompoop in its parliament. Easy. Options 

range from international standard hotels, through the 

homely comforts of various bed-and-breakfast type 

options, and on to Japanese style bed pods. Visiting rock 

stars can throw televisions out of the windows of at least 

a couple of hi-rise high standard hotels (if they manage to 

work out how to open the windows, which is unlikely) and 

scrimp-and-save backpackers can smell each others feet 

in a half-dozen or so fun hostels. The only things missing 

are the lunatic luxury options and five-star grass huts 

standing on sticks above tropical lagoons. 

We’ve not listed everything here, but we have tried to list 

everything good. If you are tempted by apartments and 

flats that turn up on the internet (but not in our listings) be 

aware that you can arrive to a mobile phone number that 

doesn’t work. Unregistered apartments may be great, and 

they’re certainly cheap, but because they are just private 

flats being used as a means of earning undeclared income 

they’re often impossible to find. We’re not saying that all 

accommodation providers that we’ve not listed are scams 

– some of them are just crap – but do take care. 

Upmarket 

AAA Mano Liza B-4, Ligoninės 5, tel. 212 22 25/212 

25 45, fax 212 26 08, hotel@aaa.lt, www.hotelinvilnius. 

lt. Pretty, twee and tucked away in a central but private 

location. So it’s just like Mona Lisa’s knickers. Expect family-run 

fastidiousness, little flowers on the wallpaper, and 

silk embroidered bed clothes. They’ve got cosiness and 

homeliness down to a fine art. The exquisite other-worldly 

decor and atmosphere extends beyond the rooms to the 

common areas such as the lovely bar making the whole 

establishment a delightful retreat. Q8 rooms (1 single 

220 - 280Lt, 2 doubles 240 - 300Lt, 5 suites 320 - 420Lt). 

JA6GKXW hhhh 

Artis Centrum Hotels B-2, Liejyklos 11/23, tel. 266 

03 66/266 03 63, fax 266 03 77, artis@centrumhotels. 

com, www.centrumhotels.com. What looks like a cutesy 

fairy-tale conservatory hides a vast range of pleasant and 

well appointed rooms - all with air conditioning, satellite and 

pay TV, safes, minibars, heated floors in the bathrooms 

and, in one case, a 2.4m wide bed big enough for Snow 

White and the seventeen dwarves. Also tucked away in here 

is an exquisite swimming pool, cosy conference facilities 

where even nasty negotiations will be calmed, and a small 

gym. Some rooms overlook the grounds of the Presidential 

Palace, so do let us know if you see anything interesting next 

door. Q65 rooms (11 singles 480Lt, 50 doubles 550Lt, 4 

suites 760Lt). PJHARUFLGKDXCW 

hhhh 

Atrium C-3, Pilies 10, tel. 210 77 77, fax 210 77 70, 

hotel@atrium.lt, www.atrium.lt. Your mum would say: ‘Oh, 

I can tell it was decorated by a man.’ The emphasis is on 

simplicity and space. Instead of wasting money on flowers, 

cushions and decorative twigs, they’ve just bought a huge 

bed, a swanky leather couch and a big telly. Brilliant. Minibars 

and bathrooms are well stocked, and there’re wireless 

phones and internet. The single and standard double rooms 

are nice, if a little pokey, but the suites and apartments are 

awesome, and worth paying that bit extra for. Alll this in an 

unbeatable location. Bloke heaven. Q29 rooms (3 singles 

251 - 335Lt, 17 doubles 309 - 480Lt, 4 suites 435 - 650Lt, 

5 apartments 555 - 1053Lt). PJHAULGKDW 

hhhh 


Symbol key 

P Air conditioning A Credit cards accepted 

O Casino H Conference facilities 

T Child friendly U Facilities for the disabled 

F Fitness centre L Guarded parking 

R LAN connection G Non-smoking rooms 

K Restaurant J Old town location 

D Sauna C Swimming pool 

I Fireplace W Wireless Internet access 

X Smoking section 

Barbacan Palace D-4, Bokšto 19/ Šv. Kazimiero 12, 

tel. 266 08 40, fax 266 08 41, barbacan@centrokubas. 

lt, www.barbacan.lt. Bright and airy rooms sprinkled 

with some nice little touches that give them just a hint of a 

rustic touch. Ask for a room with a view so that after you’ve 

finished mucking about with the satellite television, enjoying 

free internet access and trying to work out if the antique 

furniture is really old or was just whipped with a rusty chain 

to make it look old, you can enjoy the lovely aspect offered 

by the unique hillside location.Q33 rooms (23 singles €105, 

23 doubles €120, 6 suites €125 - 140, 3 apartments €150). 

PJHARUFLGKDXW hhhh 

Best Western Vilnius H-2, Konstitucijos 14, tel. 273 

95 95, fax 273 95 00, office@vilniushotel.eu, www. 

vilniushotel.eu. Recent renovation has hidden the fact that 

this is a dowdy old box modelled on Brezhnev’s forehead. It’s 

steady, reliable, pleasant, but not outstanding at anything. 

Rooms are beige-and-olive bland, but have all the necessary 

comforts and amenities. Excellent conference facilities and 

free WiFi throughout. Q114 rooms (12 singles €116, 97 

doubles €130, 4 suites €175 - 195, 1 apartment €210 - 230). 

PHA6FGKDXCW hhhh 

City Park B-2, L.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus 3, tel. 210 74 

61/212 35 15, fax 210 74 60, citypark@citypark.lt, 

www.citypark.lt. The professionalism with which City Park 

cater to every need is somehow matched with the homely 

comforts of the rooms. All have free internet, kettles, satellite 

and pay television, and heated bathroom floors (fully 

adjustable, in case you like cold feet). The best bit, however, 

is the view - a wonderful vista of the Cathedral square.Q77 

rooms (20 singles 370Lt, 51 doubles 400Lt, 6 suites 500Lt). 

JHARULGKDXCW hhhh 

Congress H-3, Vilniaus 2/15, tel. 269 19 19, fax 251 

42 80, info@congress.lt, www.congress.lt. If this hotel 

was a person, it would proudly strut about and puff its chest 

out. And rightly so. Everything has a neat, tidy confidence 

about it, and even if you’re in a standard room, the place 

has an elegant yet business-class feel about it. We also 

like the free WiFi. After a good night’s rest you’ll be ready to 

take on the town, and will find yourself conveniently located 

mid-way between Old Town and the new business district 

north of the river. Q80 rooms (21 singles 180 - 300Lt, 55 

doubles 260 - 400Lt, 3 suites 560Lt, 1 apartment 1000Lt). 

PJHAFLGKDXW hhhh 

1Lt = €0.29; GBP0.20; US$0.43 

(23 Nov 2007)

Conti B-5, Raugyklos 7/2, tel. 251 41 11, fax 251 41 

00, reservation@contihotel.lt, www.contihotel.lt. Lots 

of old-school charm from coffee-and-cream décor and creakyleather 

couches. Oh, hang on, that’s just in the expensive suite. 

If you stay in normal rooms you’ll have to put up with a more 

subdued version of the same, but you’ll still be very comfortable. 

While not right in the centre of Old Town, the location 

is still quite good.Q88 rooms (17 singles 230 - 330Lt, 68 

doubles 460 - 520Lt, 1 suite 695Lt, 2 apartments 950Lt). 

PJHARUFLGKDX hhhh 

Crowne Plaza Vilnius F-4, M.K.Čiurlionio 84, tel. 274 

34 00, fax 274 34 20, reservation@cpvilnius.com, www. 

cpvilnius.com. Someone thought it would be a fine idea to 

stick a big glass tower right on the edge of a vast forest-like 

park. And, if you get a room overlooking all that greenery, it 

is indeed a very fine idea. While it’s not centrally located, this 

business hotel is ideally suited to those with a limousine at 

their beck and call, a healthy taxi budget or a busy schedule 

that will require them to stay in the conference hall all day. The 

restaurant on the 16th floor offers superb views, especially 

when you look out of the windows. WiFi on some floors, so 

request it when booking if it’s important to you. Q108 rooms 

(50 singles €79 - 159, 50 doubles €94 - 174, 3 apartments 

€348, 55 business class singles/doubles €109 - 204). 

PHARUFLGKDXC hhhhh 

Dvaras B-1, Tilto 3-1, tel. 210 73 70, fax 261 87 83, 

hotel@dvaras.lt, www.dvaras.lt. Not really a manor 

house, but only due to the lack of tweedy toffs chasing foxes 

and smoking pipes and shooting clay pigeons. It is like a 

manor house inside because it’s all jammed and jumbled, 

with floral carpet, arched doorways, tapestries hanging 

from the walls and all manner of knick-knacks rounding out 

a sort of cluttered comfort. While all the services are there 

(internet, filtered water, heated bathroom floors) the best 

aspect is the tucked-away location just a short walk from 

the Cathedral. A nice little discovery.Q8 rooms (3 singles 

€75 - 120, 3 doubles €110 - 130, 2 suites €160 - 180). 

PJHARLGKX hhhh 

Embassy Hotel Balatonas F-2, Latvių 38, tel. 272 

22 50, fax 272 21 34, info@embassyhotel.lt, www. 

embassyhotel.lt. Close to perfect, other than the fact 

that it’s a bit far-flung and not very close to the centre of 

town. This recently renovated hotel is clean, crisp and fresh 

- ideal for anyone who wants to relax in a quiet location or 

make television commercials about homewares. Rooms are 

modestly but comfortably decorated with a tidy style and 

the in-house café-bar-restaurant is glass-roof open and airy. 

Free internet throughout. An excellent choice for anyone who 

has business that requires attendance at any of the nearby 

embassies, or … ahem … staying in your room all day. Q28 


PHARULGKDXW hhhh 

Europa Royale Vilnius C-5, Aušros Vartų 6, tel. 266 

07 70, fax 261 20 00, vilnius@europaroyale.com, 

www.europaroyale.com. Lithuania has its own version of 

Elvis. Or is it Garry Glitter? In any case, they have a sparkly, 

grinning pop star called Cicinas (sit-sin-us) who has more 

money than taste, makes little girls swoon and has been 

known to stay in this hotel. The suite offers a confusion 

of silliness and luxury (a round bed, billowing curtains, 

vast bathroom, sculptured ceiling and mysterious sequins 

behind the dresser) but the standard rooms are spot-on 

for sensible sumptuousness without the pop star prices. 

Excellent location. Q39 rooms (2 singles €90 - 110, 24 

doubles €90 - 110, 9 suites €110 - 135, 4 apartments €250). 

PJHAR6ULGKXW hhhh 

where to stAy 

Star spangled banter 

This guide uses the star system as defined by 

the Lithuanian Department of Tourism, in which 

stars are awarded for amenities offered, and don’t 

necessarily reflect the quality of those amenities 

or the standard of service provided. 

Grotthuss B-4, Ligoninės 7, tel. 266 03 22, fax 266 03 

23, info@grotthusshotel.com, www.grotthusshotel.com. 

There are Spanish tiles, heated floors and emergency buttons in 

the bathrooms, goose feathers in the beds, plush carpets on the 

floors and an arty attention to detail everywhere that somehow 

evokes the romance of travel. Keeping things practical, there 

are also sensible facilities like internet connection, minibars, tea 

and coffee making kit (in some rooms), climate control and nice, 

friendly and efficient service. A beautiful boutique hotel indeed. 

Q20 rooms (5 singles €128, 3 suites €220 - 250, 12 superior 

double €180). JHARLGKXW hhhh 

Grybas House C-5, Aušros Vartų 3a, tel. 261 96 

95/264 74 74, fax 212 24 16, info@grybashouse.com, 

www.grybashouse.com. A small and rather charming hotel 

tucked away in a quiet courtyard including many perks for the 

discerning traveller, such as a homelike atmosphere, filtered 

water and secure parking. The family who run the place take it 

upon themselves to ensure that guests have a pleasant stay, 

and can arrange tours of Vilnius and other Baltic destinations 

on request. They’ll even pick you up from the airport for no 

extra charge. Extra person €15. Q10 rooms (2 singles €81, 3 

suites €96 - 110, 1 apartment €116 - 130, 4 singles/doubles 

€81 - 96). PJAULGW hhh 

Holiday Inn I-2, Šeimyniškių 1, tel. 210 30 00, fax 210 30 

01, holiday-inn@ibc.lt, www.holidayinnvilnius.lt. They’ve 

got pillow menus. While that might sound suspicious, it actually 

means you can select from a range of different pillows. It’s 

a good example of the attention to detail that makes staying 

here a real pleasure. There are also sound-proof windows with 

blackout curtains, heated bathroom floors and internet in every 

room (40Lt for 24-hours). Décor is minty fresh, and all standard 

rooms are exactly the same size to prevent fights breaking out 

among tour groups. Conference facilities are very good, accommodating 

up to 250 suits. A very trim, tidy, professionally run 

and well thought-out hotel. Q134 rooms (23 singles €140, 96 

doubles €170, 1 apartment €280, 14 executive suites €190 

- 220). PHARUFLGKDXW hhhh 

IdaBasar C-5, Subačiaus 1, tel. 262 29 09, fax 262 78 

34, hotel@idabasar.lt, www.idabasar.lt. While the rooms 

are a bit old fashioned, bland and basic, the location of this 

hotel is superb. In fact, the only way to leave this hotel without 

seeing something interesting would be to dig a tunnel. Having 

breakfast in the glass box cafe is also lovely. A good option for 

anyone not planning to spend all day in their room. Q7 rooms 

(3 doubles 342 - 380Lt, 2 suites 405 - 450Lt, 2 apartments 

486 - 540Lt). JALGKX hhhh 

Le Méridien Villon Resort & Convention Centre 

19km north of Vilnius on the Vilnius-Riga A2 highway, 

Ežeraičio village, Vilnius district, tel. 273 97 00, fax 273 

97 30, reservation@lemeridien.lt, www.lemeridien.lt. 

Out of town and, in terms of spaciousness, views and 

facilities, in a class of its own. Many rooms have been 

recently renovated and offer aromatic furniture and stillbouncy 

carpet. All rooms sport marbled bathrooms, climate 

control, minibar, writing desk, satellite television and views 

over vast and lovely grounds. Conference facilities dazzle 


1

1 

where to stAy 

up to 3,000 delegates. The spa, pool and sports centre 

is also superb. Check the photos on the website to really 

appreciate what you’ll be getting here. Q 189 rooms 

(167 doubles from €100, 12 business class rooms from 

€120, 9 apartments from €175, royal apartments from 

€430). PTHAR6UIFLGKDXCW 

hhhhh 

Mabre Residence D-3, Maironio 13, tel. 212 20 

87/212 21 95, fax 212 22 40, mabre@mabre.lt, www. 

mabre.lt. This hotel is a secreted sanctuary tucked between 

Old Town and the funky Užupis area, and is crowded 

only by churches. It’s hard to imagine a better spot, and 

the former Monastery courtyard is gorgeous. Rooms 

are chocolate box tidy and have a homely charm that is 

enhanced by the fact that everything is right there - free 

internet, a kettle, well stocked minibar, satellite television 

and vertical striped wallpaper that makes you feel tall and 

dignified even while flopped on the bed scratching your 

belly. Q41 rooms (10 singles 388 - 408Lt, 25 doubles 458 

- 576Lt, 4 suites 608 - 696Lt, 2 apartments 808 - 992Lt). 

JHAR6UFLGKDXCW hhhh 

Narutis C-3, Pilies 24, tel. 212 28 94, fax 262 28 82, 

info@narutis.com, www.narutis.com. The charming arched 

entrance hides a myriad of very pleasant rooms, all touched 

with the sort of floral formality that can also be found in the 

glossy pages Country Life magazine and in the dreams of Hyacinth 

Bucket. All five-star standard appointments and facilities 

are present and accounted for and have their socks pulled up. 

We especially like the thermometers in every room 

- it makes you feel that you’re in the care of someone 

who is properly fussy, pays attention to every little detail and 

wishes for nothing more than your comfort. The apartment 

is jaw-droppingly glorious, and the conference-cum-party hall 

and pool, sauna and spa room are superb. Dogs are allowed, 

but we suspect that cream Labradors and corgis would be 

especially welcome. Q50 rooms (8 singles €160 - 170, 25 

doubles €200 - 210, 2 apartments €435 - 640, 7 junior suites 

€290 - 310, 11 deluxe suites €260). PTJHAR6U� 

FLGKDXCW hhhhh 

Nesė Pramogų Bankas Guest House A-2, 

Pamėnkalnio 7/8, tel. +370 700 555 55, fax 262 19 

93, pramogubankas@nese.lt, www.nesepb.lt. A secret 

coup (or is it ‘coop’?) of tidy rooms tucked away at the top 

of this glistening great casino and entertainment complex. 

The rooms lack minibars and a few other amenities—they’re 

just simple-yet-comfortable sleeping boxes, really—but 

food, drink, slot machines and a couple of nightclubs are 

all only a phone call or a short elevator ride away. Basically 

this is a classy little crash pad smack-dab in the throbbing 

heart of the city’s greatest amusement monolith. Q (7 

rooms: singles/doubles 320 - 340Lt, 2 triples 370Lt). 

POJARLGKXhhhh 

Novotel B-1, Gedimino 16, tel. 266 62 00, fax 266 

62 01, h5209@accor.com, www.novotel.com. While 

a bit visually overbearing on the outside, the Novotel 

recipe ensures comfort and excellence within. There’s a 

tidy style that appears to be minimalist, but actually offers 

everything you could want and some things you don’t (like 

a television speaker in the bathroom). The kettles in the 

rooms are worth a mention simply because they are rare 

in Vilnius, as is having a separate bath and shower. Views 

from the top floor rooms are outstanding. The location 

can’t be beaten, but the architect should be. Q159 rooms 

(112 singles €60 - 145, 159 doubles €70 - 155, 3 apartments 

€200). PTJHA6UFLGKDXW 

hhhh 


Slept in? Missed the breakfast buffet? 

Turn to page 36 for the best breakfast 

in town. 

Radisson SAS Astorija C-4, Didžioji 35/2, tel. 212 

01 10, fax 212 17 62, sales.vilnius@radissonsas.com, 

www.vilnius.radissonsas.com. One could list amenities 

and facilities endlessly. Every room has a safe, tea and 

coffee kit, iron and trouser press, heated floors and a selection 

of irresistibly pinchable little lotions and potions in the 

bathrooms, free internet access and more. Business class 

rooms and suites have espresso machines, complimentary 

pay TV (although we forgot to check about the availability 

of naughty channels) and international newspapers. 

The real magic of the place, however, is the classic stately 

feel and air of quiet confidence and refinement that touches 

everything from the front door to the furnishings in every 

last room. Basically, this is a fine hotel in a superb location. 

Q119 rooms (19 singles €169 - 189, 72 doubles €169 

- 189, 25 suites €209 - 219, 4 apartments €400 - 750). 

PJHARUFLGKDXCW hhhhh 

Ramada Vilnius C-5, Subačiaus 2, tel. 255 33 55, fax 

255 33 11, hotel@ramadavilnius.lt, www.ramadavilnius. 

lt. Rooms seem to be scattered with things made from 

bleached wood, plump cushions and integrated circuits. 

You get all the usual comforts as well as techy bits like a 

flat-screen satellite television, DVD player and hi-speed 

internet. As two of the key planks of the Ramada brand 

promise are a good night’s sleep and an invigorating shower, 

you also get a nice bed and a good hot spray to wake you up 

after sleeping in it. The location is very good - right among 

many of Vilnius’s most interesting touristy bits. Q55 

rooms (9 singles €90 - 99, 29 doubles €107 - 122, 3 apartments 

€170 - 250, 14 business class rooms €125 - 139). 

PTJHARUIFGKDXW hhhh 

Ratonda Centrum Hotels G-3, Gedimino 52/1, tel. 

212 06 70, fax 212 06 69, ratonda@centrumhotels. 

com, www.centrumhotels.com. Another fine businessorientated 

hotel from the Centrum people, this one being 

conveniently located to the main commercial district along 

Gedimino and the Lithuanian parliament building just around 

the corner. All rooms come with telephone, pay-television 

and free internet, with the superior rooms also boasting air 

conditioning. Little extras include all the usual provisions such 

as room service and laundry, as well as 24-hour currency 

exchange and, if one has time on one’s hands, the option 

of tours around Vilnius and Lithuania. Q48 rooms (21 singles 

243 - 320Lt, 23 doubles 360 - 420Lt, 4 suites 520Lt). 

PHAR6FLGKDXW hhhh 

Relais & Chateaux Stikliai C-3, Gaono 7, tel. 264 

95 95, fax 212 38 70, sales@stikliaihotel.lt, www. 

stikliaihotel.lt. Not everyone can afford it, but we’ll tell you 

about it anyway. This is the most sumptuous and luxorific 

hotel in town. They do good old-fashioned over-the-top rather 

splendidly, but deftly also maintain a homely and cosy feeling. 

They quietly and magically scurry about attending to 

your every (reasonable and not-illegal) request. And, when 

they do finally and delicately remove huge sums of money 

from your bank account, you are left more with the feeling 

of having spoiled oneself rather than of having been ripped 

off. That’s a sure sign of quality. Also they have apartments, 

2,000 - 4,000 €/month. Q43 rooms (14 singles 

€152 - 190, 17 doubles €184 - 250, 5 suites €376 - 470, 

6 junior suite €280 - 350, 1 president suite €880 - 1,100). 

PTJHAR6UIFLGKDXC hhhhh

Reval Hotel Lietuva H-2, Konstitucijos 20, tel. 272 

62 72, fax 272 62 70, lietuva.sales@revalhotels. 

com, www.revalhotels.com. It’s a 22-storey concrete 

cheese grater standing starkly amid gleaming glass jewels 

of development - but it hogs prime location, offers the best 

views, and seriously shines on the inside. Foyer, reception, 

restaurant and bar areas are modern, vast and radiant, 

while rooms have a tidy business-like elegance and all the 

standard facilities. Opt for executive class rooms or elevate 

yourself to a suite so you can play starfish on the enormous 

bed and enjoy great views of the Old Town. The Presidential 

Suite even has a private sauna, the wooden benches of which 

may just have soaked up some royal sweat in recent times. 

Beat that! There are also rooms for allergy sufferers, conference 

facilities for up to 1,200 (as used by NATO) and many 

thoughtful touches throughout. Q (291 rooms, from €69). 

POTHARUFGKDXW hhhh 

Scandic Neringa A-1, Gedimino 23, tel. 268 19 10, 

fax 261 41 60, neringa@scandic-hotels.com, www. 

scandic-hotels.com. Simple, bright, crisp and refreshing. 

It’s the cornflake of hotels. Get a room facing the street for 

the most sunny aspect, but enjoy a good night’s rest amid 

simple Scandinavian style furnishings in any room. All the 

standard facilities are tucked away somewhere in your room 

but we were also impressed by the abundance of thoughtful 

little touches throughout such as the provision of international 

newspapers, glass bowls full of sweets on the landings, water 

coolers in the corridors, free WiFi almost everywhere and a 

business centre with free printing. Kööl! Q60 rooms (22 

singles €81 - 137, 34 doubles €91 - 157, 4 suites €121 - 162). 

PJHAR6ULGKDXW hhhh 

Shakespeare Boutique Hotel D-2, Bernardinų 8/8, 

tel. 266 58 85, fax 266 58 86, info@shakespeare.lt, 

www.shakespeare.lt. Here’s something to write home 

about - an amiable little literary-themed hotel with rooms 

named after famous writers and characters. So you can stay 

in with Jane Austin or come home to Hemingway, if it takes 

your fancy. Each room is themed with knick-knacks as well as 

appropriate books - oh - and hotely stuff like heated bathroom 

floors, well stocked minibars, and (almost inappropriately 

for a readers’ haven) satellite television. Many rooms have 

nice views of St. Anne’s Church or Gedimino Castle, and the 

hotel is in a quiet but convenient location. Q31 rooms (8 

singles €104, 21 doubles €162 - 197, 2 suites €209 - 220). 

PJHAR6LGKXW hhhh 

“The staff are the only ones from any of many establishments 

we visited who have been to smiling academy.” 

– Barry Winkleman, via email 

Šarūnas I-2, Raitininkų 4, tel. 272 38 88, fax 272 43 55, 

info@hotelsarunas.lt, www.hotelsarunas.lt. A good value 

business class hotel close to the centre of things and just 

north of the city’s emerging business district, complete with 

all of the necessary add-ons for today’s demanding traveller 

such as satellite television, minibar and air conditioning. Everything 

is spotlessly clean, and the numerous perks include 

good conference facilities, sauna, fitness centre and a super 

restaurant-bar good for personal dining or group hire. For the 

price, this is by far one of the best hotels in its category. WiFi 

is free. Q55 rooms (20 singles 350 - 390Lt, 27 doubles 410 

- 450Lt, 5 suites 490 - 550Lt, 3 apartments 570 - 750Lt). 

PHAR6UFLGKDXW hhhh 

Browse and book online 


where to stAy 

Not a hotel 

Mid-range 

Aistis Guest House Šalnos 28, tel. +370 670 084 15, 

welcomevilnius@gmail.com, www.welcomevilnius.com. 

Fresh, bright and tidy rooms in a pleasant building, and an 

emphasis on making you feel at home. It has the homeliness 

of private accommodation with hotel standard service. Think 

home-made cakes and a nice cup of tea or coffee whenever 

you want one. Rooms for allergy sufferers are also not to be 

sneezed at. It’s in a secluded and green area about 8km 

from the centre. Transfers to town are offered. The owners 

also run a tour and adventure business, and you’ll be ideally 

placed for trips to Trakai and other out-of-town action. 

Q (4 rooms, 3 single/double €38 - 48, 1 apartment €75). 

6ILGXW 

Ambassador B-1, Gedimino 12, tel. 261 54 50/261 54 

60, fax 212 17 16, info@ambassador.lt, www.ambassador.lt. 

The location is superb, right on the main drag, and the 

prices are suspisciously low. So, what’s the catch? Well, it’s 

just a bit dowdy and basic, with rooms full of furniture from a 

low-budget 80s soap opera. Ideal for those who don’t intend 

to spend lots of time in their hotel room. Q 18 rooms (singles 

150-240Lt, doubles 240-280Lt, triples 300-340Lt, quads 

360-400Lt, suites 360Lt). JA6LGKX hh 

Amicus Hotel Kaminkelio 15, tel. 237 58 80, fax 238 

39 80, info@amicushotel.lt, www.amicushotel.lt. This 

new hotel is a few kilometres from the centre of the Old Town, 

but easy to get to with the many busses that run to and from 

the airport. It’s ideal for visitors with a car who don’t want the 

brain-bending hassle of dealing with Vilnius’s bizarre network 

of one-way streets and crazy drivers. Q20 rooms (15 singles 

140 - 200Lt, 15 doubles 170 - 240Lt, 2 triples 260Lt, 3 suites 

250 - 290Lt). ARULGKD hhh 

Apia B-3, Šv. Ignoto 12-1, tel. 212 34 26, fax 212 36 18, 

apia@apia.lt, www.apia.lt. Rooms decorated in bandage 

beige and dental nurse blue have a safe, calm feeling. The reception 

and entrance, in blue sprinkled with gold fittings, give 

the impression of an enchanting Mediterranean evening. But 

the best thing is the location, bang in the centre of it all with 

a church visible from almost every window. While there are no 

minibars or safes in the rooms, there is satellite television and 

free internet. All up it’s a unique and homely little hotel. Q12 

rooms (4 singles €61 - 91, 3 doubles €67 - 99, 2 triples €61 

- 93, 3 suites €79 - 111). JARLGXW hhh 


1

1 

where to stAy 

A.V.Goda Kalvarijų 265, tel. 277 77 73/+370 682 189 

01, fax 237 56 08, info@hotelgoda.lt, www.hotelgoda.lt. 

Some four km from the centre, this smart hotel will be off the 

map for most holiday visitors. Being in a pleasant leafy district, 

however, it’s ideal for longer-term stays, business and family 

visits. It’s also over the road from a film production company 

and a nice park, so maybe you’ll meet movie stars walking 

their dogs. Rooms are simple, but honey-dipped sweet, and 

offer cable television and free LAN internet. There’s also a 

modest conference facility. Q19 rooms (3 singles 130Lt, 

8 doubles 150Lt, 7 triples 200 - 220Lt, 1 quad 240Lt). 

HARLGX hhh 

Centro Kubas C-3, Stiklių 3, tel. 266 08 60, fax 266 

08 63, hotel@centrokubas.lt, www.hotel.centrokubas. 

lt. It’s outside-in, with a big windmill in the atrium, and terraces 

so you can sit there watching it not moving. Despite the rustic, 

village theme rooms are modern and comfortable with proper 

beds and sparkly bathrooms. So they’re as suitable for a good 

night’s sleep as they are for a proverbial roll in the hay. The 

location is superb, and you’d be hard pushed to find better 

value in this historic part of town. Q 14 rooms ( 14 singles/ 

doubles 320-360Lt). JHARUGXW hhh 

Centrum Uniquestay Hotel G-4, Vytenio 9/25, tel. 

268 33 00, fax 213 27 60, hotel@centrum.lt, www. 

uniquestay.com. A large, modern hotel (now a part of 

Uniquestay Hotels Group) tucked away in a quiet district of 

the city, geared toward business travellers but equally fit 

for tourists. The surprisingly elegant rooms all come with 

telephone, television, minibar and now feature computers and 

free in-room internet access. Uniquestay also has a host of 

extras including sauna, massage, laundry and a small shop 

selling a range of international newspapers and magazines. 

Business facilities stretch beyond the usual provision of fax 

and photocopying facilities, with the addition of five conference 

halls to suit all types of meetings. Q100 rooms (38 

singles 200 - 260Lt, 57 doubles 290Lt, 5 suites 380Lt). 

ARULGKDXCW hhh 

City Gate C-5, Bazilijonų 3, tel. 210 73 06, fax 210 73 

07, citygate@mail.lt, www.citygate.lt. A charming little 

hotel with a distinctive Spanish feel just across the street 

from the Gates of Dawn and featuring telephone, wireless 

internet, minibar and bathroom in all of the bright and comfortable 

rooms. Add-ons include two small but well-equipped 

conference rooms, and a fabulous little restaurant. The staff 

all speak English and are exceptionally polite and helpful. All 

in all, a very good value hotel indeed. Q29 rooms (2 singles 

200Lt, 17 doubles 300Lt, 5 triples 390Lt, 5 business class 

rooms 260 - 360Lt). JHAUILGXW hhh 

Comfort Vilnius B-5, Gėlių 5, tel. 264 88 33, fax 

264 88 32, reservation@comfort.lt, www.comfort.lt. 

Simplicity and style get together and have a bit of a big, 

friendly cuddle in this rather-basic but nonetheless comfortable 

little hide-away. Basically it’s a cheap-stay option with 

nice little touches (such as light-proof curtains and free 

parking) that other budget accommodation options tend 

to come without. A quality bargain.Q57 rooms (8 singles 

235Lt, 44 doubles 269Lt, 5 suites 339Lt, 35 twins 269Lt). 

JHA6GW hhh 

Ecotel Vilnius H-2, Slucko 8, tel. 210 27 00, fax 210 

27 07, hotel@ecotel.lt, www.ecotel.lt. Tucked away in a 

pleasant, quiet part of town just east of the city’s emerging 

business district, Ecotel offers a choice of sleek and comfortable 

rooms, all coming with telephone and television, and 

including a range for non-smokers and those with allergy 

problems. With conference facilities and a whole host of 


other services (including ‘rooms for tall guests’) this might 

be the lofty option you were looking for. Q168 rooms 

(20 singles 179Lt, 142 doubles 199Lt, 6 triples 255Lt). 

HARULGX hh 

Europa City G-3, J.Jasinskio 14, tel. 251 44 77, fax 

251 44 76, vilnius@europacity.lt, www.europacity. 

lt. The perfect business class hotel, featuring comfortable 

rooms with all the conveniences from satellite television and 

minibar to top security card keys and internet connections. 

Add-ons include a fitness centre to keep in trim whilst you’re 

working abroad, conference facilities and a white tablecloth 

restaurant. Also offers four studios (€521/month.) Q128 

rooms (88 singles €49, 88 doubles €59, 32 suites €79 - 89, 

4 apartments €119). PHAR6UFLGKDXW 

hhh 

Karolina Sausio 13-osios 2, tel. 245 39 39/216 89 34, 

fax 216 93 41, info@karolina.lt, www.karolina.lt. With all 

the rooms having now finally been renovated and brought up 

to 21st century standards, Karolina remains a good choice 

for groups. You’ll also find three excellent conference facilities 

as well as an elegant dining room with views of the grounds. 

There are a lot of repeat customers among business travellers 

due to the personable nature of the staff, and the bar and 

bowling alley are added bonuses. Find it located out towards 

the Television Tower. Q95 rooms (81 singles €50 - 64, 81 

doubles €52 - 70, 11 suites €81 - 102, 3 apartments €110 

- 131). HA6LGKDXC hhh 

Martialis K-1, Bistryčios 13, tel. 210 48 00, fax 234 02 

93, info@martialis.lt, www.martialis.lt. Although not right 

in the centre of town, this simple yet modern hotel provides 

clean, comfortable rooms with satellite television, phones 

and, in case you need a little help relaxing, a qualified masseur 

on call. Ideal for business groups. Note that they offer 

every 2nd night for half-price during winter – although the 

dastardly taxi drivers who charge more ‘because it’s cold’ will 

probably negate any benefit. Q114 rooms (2 singles 140 

- 190Lt, 106 doubles 230 - 260Lt, 6 suites 320 - 340Lt). 

HA6ULGKW hhh 

Mikotel C-6, Pylimo 63, tel. 260 96 26, fax 260 96 27, 

reservation@mikotel.lt, www.mikotel.lt. The receptionists 

are cheerful and outgoing at this modern hotel near the 

train station. Fortunately, unlike its dismal surroundings the 

hotel’s interior is clean and bright with the added touch of local 

artwork for sale on the walls. The rooms are compact with 

showers only and comfortable beds. Guests have access to 

the kitchen in the breakfast nook if they wish to cook meals 

for themselves. Q25 rooms (5 singles 160Lt, 14 doubles 

200Lt, 6 triples 240 - 280Lt). JA6G hh 

Panorama B-6, Sodų 14, tel. 233 88 22, fax 233 88 32, 

reservation@hotelpanorama.lt, www.hotelpanorama. 

lt. This surprising hotel rises above its location and offers 

wonderful views of Old Town and plenty of comfort and luxury 

without steep prices. While it is very convenient to be across 

the square from the bus and train stations, it is a convenience 

that is also enjoyed by all manner of scumbags, vagrants and 

weary commuters. Being in the freshly renovated hotel is 

lovely. Hanging around outside it is not. Still, it’s just a short 

stroll and a quick run of the gauntlet to Old Town, and the combinations 

of views, basics comforts and reasonable prices is 

unmatched. Q222 rooms (11 singles 189Lt, 206 doubles 

229Lt, 5 suites 272Lt). JHA6LGKW hhh 

1Lt = €0.29; GBP0.20; US$0.43 

(23 Nov 2007)

Rūdninkų Vartai B-5, Rūdninkų 15/46, tel. 261 39 16, 

fax 212 05 07, rudninkai@cityhotels.lt, www.cityhotels. 

lt ; wwww.rudninkuvartai.lt. Basic. Cheap. Not much else 

to say. This hotel meets minimum requirements with worn wooden 

desks and tables, chintzy soft furnishings, and not much else. No 

fridges, no safe, but clean and tidy offerings including comfortable 

beds, decent showers and a handy location. A good economy 

option for those who don’t want to sleep among backpacks, 

smelly socks and a hairy bloke called Mungo who insists on telling 

you about his travel adventures and asking to borrow your soap. 

Q17 rooms (5 singles 180 - 200Lt, 10 doubles 200 - 250Lt, 2 

suites 260 - 400Lt). JAR6LGKXW hhh 

Reval Inn Vilnius Ukmergės 363, tel. 238 80 00, fax 

238 85 55, vilnius@revalinn.com, www.revalinn.com. It’s 

about 10km away from the centre of town, but with a full list of 

facilities, a nice price and comfortable rooms, it is one of the 

best options for business on a budget or families with a car. 

There’s free WiFi and good conference facilities for the former, 

and great value for the latter due to the fact that two people 

can stay in a room for the price of one, and kids under 12 stay 

free. Rooms are tidy and fresh and benefit from swish modern 

bathrooms. If you don’t mind the far-flung location, it’s a superb 

option. Q83 rooms (1 triple €101, 3 suites €101, 79 singles/ 

doubles €38 - 66). HAR6ULGKW hhh 

Rinno A-4, Vingrių 25, tel. 262 28 28, fax 262 59 29, 

info@rinno.lt, www.rinno.lt. This hotel has a lot going for it 

with classy and comfortable rooms. Some have great views 

of Old Town. The bathrooms are so huge and comfortable 

that you may decide to spend half the day grooming yourself. 

Popular with business travellers, there are also confrerence 

facilities for 35 people. The service and breakfast pancakes, 

according to a reliable source, are both twice as good as each 

other. Q17 rooms (14 singles €59 - 69, 14 doubles €69 - 79, 

3 suites €79 - 89). JHAR6LGXW hhh 

Vingriai A/B-4, Vingrių 25, tel. 212 28 59, fax 261 89 

18, info@hotelvingriai.lt, www.hotelvingriai.lt. If we had 

to recommend a hotel for the Dalai Lama (we’re good mates, 

you see) we’d probably put this near the top of the list. The 

lovely honey and burgundy colour scheme would make his 

holiness feel right at home. He wouldn’t have to worry about 

forgetting his toothbrush, because they provide those for 

you, along with other brushes for shoes, and robes. There 

are two standards of rooms - the larger ones with embarrassingly 

large bathrooms - all delicately decorated and 

replete with all you could need. 24 hour security, the quiet 

fuss of attentive staff and a cosy little restaurant add to the 

sense of serenity and calm in what really is an exquisite little 

exile. Free LAN internet. Q6 rooms (6 singles 238 - 290Lt, 

6 doubles 273 - 311Lt, 3 triples 324 - 400Lt, 2 suites 307 

- 415Lt). PJAR6LGKX hhhh 

Žemaitės G-5, Žemaitės 15, tel. 213 31 93, fax 213 33 

37, info@hotelzemaites.lt, www.hotelzemaites.lt. Now 

fully modernised, this excellent value hotel not too far from the 

centre of the city comes with a selection of rooms to please 

all budgets, and each one coming with its own telephone 

and television. What this hotel lacks in location, it more than 

makes up for in service. The staff are friendly, helpful and will 

do their utmost to aid travellers. The rooms, decorated in ice 

green tones accented by lightwood, give off an air of cheerfulness, 

cleanliness and comfort. Some of the suites even have 

swishy white leather chairs and couches. Moreover the price 

for all this coziness is more than reasonable. To get there, take 

trolleybus N°16 from outside the bus station. A taxi from Old 

Town shouldn’t cost more than 10Lt. Q70 rooms (10 singles 

200 - 240Lt, 48 doubles 220 - 240Lt, 4 triples 280Lt, 6 suites 

280Lt). PHARLGKDXC hhh 

where to stAy 

Have Your Say 

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downright sad, let the two million regular unique visitors 

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1

20 

where to stAy 

Budget 

A5 Hotel Fabijoniškių 6-5, tel. 270 24 09, fax 270 24 18, 

reservation@a5hotel.lt, www.a5hotel.lt. In a converted 

home in the Fabijoniškės district not too far from the middle 

of civilisation, the hosts of this family-run hotel are eager to 

please their guests. The set-up is reminiscent of a traditional 

British B&B since there is a living room and a dining room 

where breakfast is served, and the nice owners will pick up 

guests at the aiport which is a real bonus. Q10 rooms (4 

singles 90 - 120Lt, 2 doubles 140 - 150Lt, 2 triples 160Lt, 2 

suites 190Lt). AR6LGW hhh 

Genovaitės Dedelienės B&B J-4, Polocko 53a, tel./ 

fax 210 58 61. If you don’t mind a 20-minute walk to Old 

Town through the charming Užupis district, this could be just 

the spot. The rooms are like mini apartments, with a kitchen 

and modern bathroom, cable television, and in the bigger 

rooms, a couch and eating area. There are trendy touches 

like glass placemats and the sort of leather furniture that 

you have to peel yourself out of in summer, but basically the 

formula here is airy cleanliness, simplicity, and good value. 

Worth considering if you want to be out of the way - but not 

too far away. Free internet. Q (9 rooms, starting 130Lt). 

AR6LGW 

Jeruzalė Kalvarijų 247, tel. 271 40 40, fax 276 26 27, 

jeruzale@takas.lt, www.jeruzalehotel.com. For the modest 

price, who could complain? Especially with add-ons like 

sauna, swimming pool, in-room internet access and a safe 

place to park your car. This hotel, 10 minutes north of the 

river, maintains a standard of rooms that should make your 

stay comfortable enough while not denting the wallet. Q27 

rooms (3 singles 60 - 100Lt, 20 doubles 80 - 100Lt, 2 triples 

150Lt, 2 suites 150Lt). A6LGDXCW hh 

Paupio Namai I-4, Paupio 31a, tel. 264 31 13, fax 264 

31 12, hotel@paupio.lt, hotel.paupio.lt. A big friendly manor 

house full of big friendly staff tucked away just off the street. 

Here you can get just about any combination you require, from 

a shared dormitory with external bathroom to self-contained 

apartments with en-suite facilities. The rooms are basic, clean, 

and fairly good value, and if you want you can take advantage 

of the fully equipped downstairs kitchen to keep costs down 

even further. Prices include a large breakfast. Q24 rooms (2 

singles 60 - 70Lt, 14 doubles 90 - 110Lt, 8 triples 90 - 130Lt, 

dormitory rooms 40 - 50Lt). ARLGW 

Velga E-5, Geležinio Vilko 3, tel./fax 231 14 35, velhotel@sekme.lt, 

www.hotelvelga.lt. Out of the way and of little 

use unless you’ve got business at the nearby Litexpo centre, or 

a deep respect for Soviet style 70s kitsch and floral wallpaper. 

Good transport connections nearby, pleasant service, and cheap 

prices. Q 44 rooms (2 singles from 60Lt, 26 doubles from 90Lt, 

15 triples from 120Lt, 1 suite from 120Lt). 6G hh 

Victoria G-2, Saltoniškių 56, tel. 272 40 13, fax 272 

43 20, hotel@victoria.lt, www.victoria.lt. The price and 

quality definitely make up for its location, just a ten-minute 

walk from the edge of Old Town. Scandinavian owned and 

operated, its contemporary rooms are a bargain at such affordable 

prices.Q42 rooms (6 singles €17 - 32, 30 doubles 

€40, 2 triples €52, 1 quad €69, 1 suite €52 - 64, 2 mini suites 

€69). HA6G h 

Vilniaus Europolis G-4, Švitrigailos 11d, tel. 215 04 

10, fax 215 04 11, hotel@europolis.lt, www.europolis. 

lt. Here’s a place that aspires to mediocrity, but doesn’t quite 

make it. While there’s nothing wrong with the idea of an office 

block being converted into a hotel, with cubicles... erm... 


rooms filled with simple furniture and compact bathrooms 

(without baths), this place just feels tired. The threadbare 

carpets and tatty furniture in reception at least give an appropriate 

welcome. There are no minibars in the rooms, but 

you can buy a refrigerator from the shop next door - it’s in 

that part of town. Best only for business on a budget. Q26 

rooms (1 single 100 - 150Lt, 10 doubles 150 - 190Lt, 15 

triples 210 - 250Lt, 2 quads 280 - 320Lt, 2 apartments 210 

- 250Lt). A6LGK hh 

Very cheap 

Vilnius Youth Tourist Centre (Vilniaus Jaunųjų 

Turistų centras) J-4, Polocko 7, tel. 261 35 76, fax 

262 77 42, vjtc@delfi.lt, www.vjtc.lt. Set in a pastoral 

courtyard of the Užupis district, the building is in a state of 

dilapidated charm characteristic of this part of town. The 

bathrooms and quarters are very clean. The receptionists 

don’t all speak English but hand-gestures should suffice. 

Breakfast can be arranged for a pittance. Q 16 rooms, 

30Lt/night for one person. RG 

Bed & Breakfast 

Bernardinų B&B House D-2, Bernardinų 5-11, tel. 

261 51 34/+370 672 032 77, fax 260 84 10, guesthouse@avevita.lt 

; info@avevita.lt, www.avevita. 

lt/guesthouse. An excellent value little guesthouse, smack 

bang in the middle of Old Town. Q 8 rooms (€21-87). 

JA6LG 

Litinterp B&B D-2, Bernardinų 7-2, tel. 212 38 

50/+370 689 985 17, fax 212 35 59, vilnius@litinterp. 

lt, www.litinterp.lt. Rooms in a charming building in Old 

Town for a very reasonable price. They also offer bed and 

breakfast (with a host or without) available in Vilnius and 

Kaunas, Klaipėda, Nida and Palanga. All central or Old Town 

locations. Apartments for rent too. Q17 rooms (4 singles 

70 - 96Lt, 9 doubles 120 - 146Lt, 2 triples 160 - 190Lt, 2 

suites 210Lt). JALG hh 

Guesthouses 

Ameda F-2, Latvių 27, tel. +370 601 704 40, info@ 

hotelameda.lt, www.hotelameda.lt. A nice combination 

of a homey atmosphere with some creative decorations 

(nothing too wacky). It’s also in a very pleasant residential 

area, and yet still stollable from town. It’s certainly well 

fitted-out, with kitchenettes, washing machines, internet 

access and satellite televisions. It looks like a good choice 

for quiet weekends or longer-term stays. Q6 rooms (2 singles 

€25 - 40, 2 doubles €30 - 50, 2 apartments €55 - 65). 

6LGXW 

Auksinė Avis (The Golden Sheep) Pupinės 5, tel. 

+370 611 588 05, fax 230 64 24, info@auksineavis. 

lt, www.auksineavis.lt. The ‘golden sheep’ is miles away 

from anything interesting (or about 10km from the centre of 

the city, to be more exact) but does offer a high standard of 

accommodation in modern rooms for a bargain price, and free 

WiFi. They also offer free transport to anyone staying more 

than five nights, so it’s a good option for a long-term stay, or 

if you just want to avoid all the other sheep. Q5 rooms (4 

singles 80Lt, 1 double 120Lt). A6ULGW 

Domus Maria C-5, Aušros Vartų 12, tel. 264 48 80, fax 

264 48 78, domusmaria@vilnensis.lt, www.domusmaria. 

lt. A spectacular former monastery on one of the most pleasant 

streets in town. All of the lovely rooms come complete 

with the basics plus telephone and television, with the more


N°4 - 400 lek 


TIRANA 

2006 - 2007 

upmarket ones featuring minibars and baths. Big windows 

make the rooms exceptionally bright, and if you have a choice, 

try to get one overlooking the Gates of Dawn. Lovely. Q39 

rooms (8 singles 179Lt, 21 doubles 249Lt, 5 triples 279Lt, 

2 quads 299Lt, 3 suites 250 - 280Lt). JHRUGK 

hhh 

E-Guest House G-4, T.Ševčenkos 16, tel. 266 07 30, 

fax 233 57 10, info@e-guesthouse.lt, www.e-guesthouse.lt. 

Quite the oddest little guesthouse that there ever 

was, featuring compact modern rooms, all coming with both 

network and dial-up free internet connections (you can even 

rent a laptop if you don’t have one), art on the walls that 

can be bought, and a takeaway pizza service. Children up 

to 12 years old stay here free of charge. Q34 rooms (4 

singles €43 - 64, 13 doubles €52 - 70, 7 suites €64 - 78, 

10 apartments €78 - 130). PHA6ULGKDW 

hhh 

Jaunimo Slėnis G-2, Konstitucijos 25, tel. 272 22 70, 

fax 272 56 51, jnn@lvjc.lt, www.jnn.lt. The location may 

be slightly off the beaten track but the price and quality are 

worth it. If you’re travelling in groups of three or four, the 

shared rooms are a great deal. Quarters are simple, bright, 

immaculate and have their own toilet and shower. Breakfast 

is included in the price of stay at the adjoining café. Q10 

rooms (2 singles 60Lt, 4 doubles 100Lt, 4 triples 120Lt, 2 

quads 160Lt). HAR6FLGKDCW h 

Latako Guest House C-3, Latako 1/Bokšto 2-30, tel. 

261 63 64/+370 687 296 82, latako@delfi.lt, www. 

latako.ten.lt. This guesthouse has an excellent Old Town 

location. You will really appreciate these handy and welldesigned 

apartments. Q5 rooms (1 single 140 - 160Lt, 3 

doubles 180 - 200Lt, 1 triple 240Lt). JGX 

where to stAy 






Facade art 



BUCHAREST 

N°40 - 8.00 lei 



A New Look 




Blogging 

Bucharest 





N°34 - 5zł (w tym 7% VAT) 


ISSN 1641-5264 




WARSAW 


BELFAST 


Wilanów 


Versailles 

Out of town 


Nałęczów 

The Great 

Outdoors 







N°34 - 100 Kč 



N°60 - 1.20Ls 


PRAGUE 


RIGA 


Going to the 

chapel 


jewel 

Let’s rock 


Paradise 

Hockey Fever 









COLOGNE 




River tours 


Rhine 

N°1 





N°23 - €1.75 


BERLIN 


Museum night 


night 

Floating the 

boat 



HAMBURG 

N°1 




Harbour tours 






N°47 - 35kr 


TALLINN 

Touring Narva 




look 



Litinterp Guest House D-2, Bernardinų 7-2, tel. 212 38 

50/+370 689 985 17, fax 212 35 59, vilnius@litinterp. 

lt, www.litinterp.lt. Little. Yellow. Litinterp... Soothe all of 

your travel pains with a stay at the perfectly-popular Litinterp 

Guest House. This friendly and hospitable place has been 

in the lodging business for as long as we’ve been around 

to write about it. Simplicity is the norm, with a standard of 

service that is unequaled about town in places of the like. 

Ask here, and you shall receive. Q17 rooms (4 singles 70 

- 96Lt, 9 doubles 120 - 146Lt, 2 triples 160 - 190Lt, 2 suites 

210Lt). JALG hh 

Senatoriai C-2, Tilto 2a, tel. 212 64 91, fax 212 63 

72, info@senatoriai.lt, www.senatoriai.lt. There’s a 

Scandinavian ski cabin feeling in some rooms, and cottage 

charm in the others, but while all the rooms look and feel 

very homely the facilities and services are nothing short 

of professional. There’s a satellite television and minibar in 

every room, and even free wireless internet access. Drag 

yourself away from those comforts, however, and you’ll find 

the best thing is the location - right across the road from the 

Cathedral. Just like living in a postcard. Q11 rooms (4 singles 

150 - 250Lt, 6 doubles 300 - 350Lt, 1 triple 320 - 370Lt). 

JA6LGKXW hhhh 

Telecom Guest House G-4, A.Vivulskio 13a, tel. 264 

48 61, fax 264 48 60, reservation@telecomguesthouse. 

lt, www.telecomguesthouse.lt. Only a 15 minute walk away 

from Old Town, this hotel seems like a well-kept secret as the 

entrance is not obvious from the street. A stay at this quaint 

courtyard hotel is worth every litas. The double rooms are 

well-equipped with baths and real double beds. Old building 

rooms are, well, older, but the price is much nicer. Q10 


PAR6LGKXW hhh 



N°41 - 5zł (w tym 7% VAT) 


ISSN 1508-2334 

KRAKÓW 


Tarnów 


Renaissance 

Leisure 



21

22 

where to stAy 

Veronica B&B B-3, Trakų 15-5, tel. +370 686 046 07, 

vghouse@yahoo.com, www.guestshouses.info. If you’re 

comfortable with the idea of sharing living space with the 

owners of a guesthouse keep this place in mind. Really a 

perfect location in Old Town and interested hosts. Q2 rooms 

(1 double 200Lt, 1 triple 240Lt). JRLD 

Hostels 

A Hostel B-6, Sodų 17, tel. 213 99 94, info@ahostel. 

lt. Party pods! The Japanese capsule hotel concept has 

landed in Lithuania, but you don’t have to be an overworked 

highly-strung office zombie to use it. While their imagination 

hasn’t extended to finding a decent name for themselves, 

the A Hostel deserve top marks for their creative hostel 

concept, where the two prime purposes of sleeping and 

mingling (but not necessarily at the same time) are expertly 

offered among sparkly new, clean and complete facilities. A 

truly outstanding offering. Also at Šv.Stepono 15, tel. 233 53 

96; and Sodų 8, tel. 215 02 70. Q Open 24hrs. (52 beds, 

€9.90 - 35/person). JG 

Arts Academy Hostel C-3, Latako 2, tel. 212 01 

76. If your travelling mantra is ‘I just need a bed,’ then this 

shabby building right in the Old Town could be your place to 

stay. Sheets cost a few litas and residents aren’t allowed 

to snooze past 10:00. However, parking is available. Q 21 

rooms ( 45-100 Lt). JL 

Airport hotels 

Acappella Dariaus ir Girėno 61, tel. 216 78 98, 

fax 216 72 41, info@hotelacappella.lt, www. 

hotelacappella.lt. It’s a ten-minute Gypsy-dodging 

walk from the airport to reach this homely oasis in 

what is otherwise Crapville. Rooms are smart, bright 

and clean. There is somewhere to sleep, somewhere 

to write a letter to mum, and somewhere to take care 

of bodily functions. And that’s it. You’ll have to opt for a 

lofty suite if you want to watch television while doing any 

of those things. The hotel has a decent restaurant and 

a lovely yard for outdoor dining, or just relaxing, in summer. 

Pleasant English speaking staff make this the best 

option for flighty foreigners. Q10 rooms (7 singles 159 

- 179Lt, 6 doubles 199 - 219Lt, 3 suites 239 - 259Lt). 

ARLGKX hhh 

Adelita Rodūnios kelias 8, tel. 232 93 04, fax 213 

64 63, info@adelita.lt, www.adelita.lt. If you like the 

time warp feeling of jet-lag, or just have to recover from 

it, you might like the 60s glass-and-concrete style of this 

place. It could be the setting for a Carry On Flying movie. 

Or, if the reception staff are anything to go by, Carry 

On Monolingual Monster. Still, rooms are comfortable, 

there’s a small sauna and fitness room, and you’re close 

to the airport for a quick getaway. Q31 rooms (7 singles 

€47 - 58, 17 doubles €35 - 76, 4 triples €49, 3 suites 

€82 - 99). ALGKDW hhh 

Skrydis Rodūnios kelias 8, tel. 232 90 99/273 

93 62, fax 230 64 98, hotel@vno.lt, www.vno.lt. 

Very cheap ‘n’ chipboard. Recently (2006) renovated to 

offer sparkly bathrooms and flat-pack, self-assembly 

furniture. The beds are still nice and firm and everything 

else is basic but clean. Make sure you get a renovated 

room. Q50 rooms (11 singles 60 - 180Lt, 22 doubles 80 

- 240Lt, 17 triples 105Lt). HALGK hh 


Filaretai J-3, Filaretų 17, tel. 215 46 27, fax 212 01 

49, info@filaretaihostel.lt, www.filaretaihostel.lt. This 

IYH hostel is not the closest to the train station but is well 

worth the bus ride to the funky Užupis district just outside Old 

Town. Comforts include a kitchen with microwave, breakfast 

room, lockers, washing machine, satellite television and video 

player in a cosy common room. Q20 rooms (5 singles 69Lt, 

5 doubles 44Lt, 5 triples 35Lt, 10 dormitory rooms 30Lt). 

HARLGW 

Old Town Hostel C-5, Aušros Vartų 20-15, tel. 262 53 

57, fax 268 59 67, oldtownhostels@lithuanianhostels. 

org, www.lithuanianhostels.org. This is the one everyone 

talks about. But no matter what you hear about antics such 

as running naked into Belarus with a plastic Kalashnikov and 

a dead rabbit on your head singing ‘back in the USSR’ (we 

embellished that story a bit, but so does everyone), you’re 

actually more likely to find comfort, competence, professionalism 

and a homely friendly atmosphere here. Free tea, coffee 

and internet, but no lockers. 24hr reception. Q (23 beds, 

34Lt/person). JARGW 

Long term rental 

Barbacan Palace Apartments D-4, Bokšto 19/Šv. 

Kazimiero 12, tel. 266 08 40, fax 266 08 41, barbacan@ 

centrokubas.lt, www.barbacan.lt. This hotel close to the 

ancient walls of Old Town has been sensitively designed in 

an Old Town style and has neat, well-furnished rooms. One 

and two bedroom apartments have fully-equipped kitchens 

and balconies. Q (From €31/day if you stay more than a 

year, from €37/day if you stay more than a month and from 

€150/day if you stay 1-3 days). PJAUL 

Ober-Haus Apartments H-3, Kaštonų 8, tel. 231 41 

67, fax 231 41 68, lithuania@ober-haus.lt, www.oberhaus.lt. 

Fully renovated, modern, furnished, well-equipped 

apartments. All centrally located. Offices also at Geležinio 

Vilko 18a, tel. 210 97 00, fax. 210 97 01. Pilies 10, tel. 266 65 

55, fax. 263 95 31. Q (1,200 - 10,000Lt/month). JL 

Pro Kapital Apartments C-4, Didžioji 39/1, tel. 266 

08 00, fax 261 03 30, pk@prokapital.lt, www.prokapital. 

lt. Luxury apartments for longer stays with appropriate price 

tags to match. The apartments are classy and bright with 

the most modern of kitchens, all coming with cable television 

and stereo. Some have balconies and all are tastefully 

decorated. Cleaning, laundry, babysitting and secreterial 

services are available, as are drivers and personal mailboxes. 

Q 5 apartments (two-room 5,310Lt/month, three-room 

5,780Lt/month). JRL 

Sektor Real Estate C-4, Savičiaus 11-57, tel. 266 

03 10, fax 266 03 11, post@sektor.lt, www.sektor.lt. 

Situated in a charming Old Town location, and featuring a 

choice of furnished and unfurnished apartments all coming 

complete with the latest in hi-tech domestic appliances. 

Guarded parking and ISDN are also included, plus they have 

a large, Viking-style cellar complete with sauna and small 

pool for parties. Q 10 apartments, 2 - 3 bedroom, (3,100 

- 6,500Lt/month). JRLD 

Stikliai Apartments C-3, Gaono 7, tel. 264 95 95, fax 

212 38 70, apartments@stikliaihotel.lt, www.stikliaiapartments.lt. 

Luxuriously-furnished apartments available 

for both short and long-term rent. Tastefully decorated and 

located at the Stikliai hotel, apartments come fully equipped 

with kitchen, satellite TV and Internet access. All hotel 

services are available. Q (two-room apartments 2,000 

- 4,000€/month). PTJHARFLKDXCW

Short term rental 

AG Lux Apartments C-4, Didžioji 39, tel. +370 682 453 

41/+316 286 950 09, karolisbutk@yahoo.com. Upscale 

living in the very heart of Old Town. Just steps from fine dining, 

shopping and clubbing. Fully furnished apartments for night or 

long term in elegant, renovated historical building. Q 2-room 

apartments, from 240Lt/night or 2,500Lt/month. JR 

Algis House C-3, Stiklių 4-4, tel. 212 11 12/+370 686 

606 26, algis_rent@yahoo.com, www.geocities.com/algishouse. 

Three big, beautiful loft apartments ideally located 

on a quiet Old Town street, housed in a 19th century mansion 

with a lovely courtyard. Q 160 - 220Lt/night. JALW 

Anre Guest House B-4, Šv. Mikalojaus 7-15, tel. +370 

698 720 02, apartments@anre.lt, www.anre.lt. There 

are actually three apartments available (see below for addresses), 

all with oodles of charm, comfort and mod-cons 

such as fully equipped kitchens, washing machine, cable 

television and so on. All are in convenient Old Town locations. 

Also at Šv. Mikalojaus 7-12 and Šiltadaržio 4-8. Q 

160 - 220Lt/night. J 

Apartments B-4, Vokiečių 16, tel. 241 38 54/+370 

685 093 02, euge_eugen@yahoo.com, www.gelminta. 

lt. Offering newly-renovated and fully-furnished apartments 

in the heart of Old Town and the surrounding downtown area. 

The warm and tastefully decorated apartments are available 

for short and long-term rentals and come with cable television 

and optional cleaning services. Q 150 - 250Lt/night. J 

Avenue Apartments G-3, Gedimino 44-3, tel. +370 

670 196 27/+370 687 494 21, avenue@mail.lt, www. 

vilnius-apartment.com. A beautiful and spacious apartment 

with two separate bedrooms, office, cosy living area with 

luxurious furniture to watch satellite television on, kitchen 

and shower room. Q €45 - 100/night. 

Eldorado Apartments Tel. +370 699 173 91, info@ 

apartamentai.lt, www.apartamentai.lt. Newly-renovated 

apartments in Old Town, complete with well-equipped bathrooms, 

spa, saunas, kitchens and furniture. Parking available. 

Q 20 apartments (one-room €38, two-room €40 - 70, threeroom 

€55 - 70, €650/month). JL 

Eugenijus Apartments H-4, Vilniaus 25-1, tel. +370 

699 424 56, eugenijp@takas.lt, www.vilniusapartments.lt. 

Great value for such a great location - right between 

the old and new parts of town and within walking distance of 

most attractions. The apartments have private bathrooms 

with showers; kitchenettes (kettle, fridge and microwave); 

and simple, comfortable furnishings throughout. Q (2 apartments 

€30 - 50/night). JL 

Imbiana Apartment Rental , tel./fax 273 51 11, tel. 

+370 699 057 50, info@imbiana.lt, www.imbiana.lt. The 

company manages a number of one, two, three and four-room 

modern apartments for both long-term and short-term rental 

in the Old Town and central area of Vilnius. These people 

can also pick you up at the airport and arrange tours around 

Lithuania on request. Q From 120-250Lt/night. J 

Natalex B-5, Pylimo 44-19, tel. +370 614 450 08, 

info@natalex.info, www.natalex.info. A great web based 

service for finding and renting an apartment either for short 

or long term. There’s clear pricing, plenty of pictures of the 

apartment interiors and maps to show where each is located. 

Note that they only accept cash payment on arrival. Q 60 

appartments from €40- 160/night. JW 

where to stAy 

Natali Apartments Tel. +370 610 197 04, web@ 

nakvyne.com, www.nakvyne.com. Offering apartments 

for rent in the Old Town of the city with simple and pleasant 

furnishings. Check out their website for rate specials and 

availability. Q (One-room apartment €30 - 35, two-room 

apartment €50-60/night). JL 

Regina House B-4, Šv Mikalojaus 13-8, tel. +370 685 

318 93, reginarenthouse@yahoo.com, www.reginahouse.lt. 

A range of flats in excellent Old Town locations, one 

with a huge balcony overlooking a church which, according to 

their website, is nice in ‘worm season’, and another with a 

lovely fireplace. All flats are simply but tastefully decorated. 

Check the website for photos and details. Q (6 apartments 

140 - 250Lt/night). JLW 

Ričardas House C-2, Pilies 12-8, tel. 261 09 03/+370 

684 936 96, rl_rent@yahoo.com, ricardasguesthouse. 

tripod.com. A series of multi-functional apartments on two 

floors that can be rented either separately or together, in 

the heart of Old Town, and offering as well as some wellappointed 

bedrooms a series of add-ons such as living 

room, dining room and balcony. Q (5 apartments 180 

- 350Lt/night). J 

Stasys Apartments Tel. +370 699 326 72, stasys@ 

apartment-vilnius.com, www.apartment-vilnius.com. 

A choice of four one or two-bedroom apartments to suit 

every taste and budget, centrally located, and featuring 

everything necessary for a pleasant, self-catering stay. 

Satellite television in every apartment. Q (8 apartments 

120 - 200Lt/night). RW 

Vilnius Travel C-4, Didžioji 19/2, info@vilniustravel. 

com, www.vilniustravel.com. Your ‘Home Away From Home’ 

is the tagline for these Old Town apartments, so you can be 

sure you won’t get any creative surprises when you open the 

door but you will get exactly what you’d expect. Each apartment 

can sleep up to four people. Q 5 apartments (240 

- 495Lt/week). JG 

Camping 

Vilnius City Camping Laisvės 5, tel. +370 680 324 

52, vilnius@camping.lt, www.camping.lt. A decent 

supervised site with good facilities including facilities for 

washing both yourself and your manky clothes. There’s also 

a barbeque and common room. Open June 1 to September 

10. GPS N 54o 40’ 40.1’’ E 25o 13’ 33.1’’. Q 14Lt/person 

plus tent (14Lt) or camper (35Lt). 


2

2 restAurAnts 

If you can’t find decent quality food at fair prices in Vilnius 

you’re not looking. Or not hungry. The city is peppered 

with restaurants that can cater to all tastes and budgets. 

Some are grotty little hovels (we haven’t listed them) while 

others can be hidden gems. If there’s one rule of tongue in 

Vilnius, it’s that you can’t judge culinary appeal by appearance. 

Wonderful restaurants are melting palates behind 

humble doors, while miserable slop is being served up 

behind gleaming facades. Luckily (for you, but not always 

for us) we’ve done the tasting for you. 

The biggest problem when it comes to eating out in 

Vilnius, however, is the lack of service. Most restaurant 

staff wouldn’t know good service if it stood up in their 

soup. You will be ignored, served by miserable malcontents, 

expected to drink out of unclean glasses, made to 

wait until tomorrow, given something you didn’t order, not 

asked how you would like your steak done, have your wine 

glass overfilled or allowed to run dry, and so on and so on. 

All we can say about this is try to grin and bear it, and do 

provide feedback. Tip well for good service, and not at all 

for anything less. One day, maybe, they’ll get the message. 

Argentinean 

El Gaucho Sano C-3, Pilies 10, tel. 210 77 73, www. 

atrium.lt. This place normally offers sizzling excellence amid 

a ramshackle rawhide atmosphere, and it’s long been one of 

our favourites for outstanding campfire quality grilled things. 

Last time we went, however, our steak was utterly awful 

- overdone and all kind of carpety. So, that’s it! We just can’t 

trust them anymore and hope they all get saddle sores and 

scorpions in their boots and rattlers in their bedrolls. At least 

until they learn to cook. We’ll be lettin’ ya know if things improve. 

QOpen 12:00 - 01:00. 50Lt. PJAUIEW 

Beer hall 

Avilys B-2, Gedimino 5, tel. 212 19 00, www.avilys. 

lt. While it doesn’t look like much from street level, head 

downstairs to find yourself in a micro-brewery-restaurant. 

There are vats and tubes and brick-vault dining rooms, so 

it’s hardly surprising that it’s a popular spot for locals as 

well as tourists. The food is fine, but the star of the show is 

easily the in-house brewed honey beer, which will give you a... 

erm... buzz. QOpen 12:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 01:00, 

Sun 12:00 - 23:00. 20Lt. JASW 


Be icicle-aware in winter 

Symbol key 

P Air conditioning A Credit cards accepted 

E Live music S Take away 

T Child friendly U Facilities for the disabled 

G Non-smoking W Wireless Internet access 

X Smoking place B Outside seating 

I Fireplace J Old town location 

Bravaria G-1, Ozo 25 (Akropolis), tel. +370 652 211 21, 

www.bravaria.lt. Oh, the fun of seeing freaked-out waiters 

scurrying about in lederhosen, and buxom, frilly-bloused girls 

carrying trays of beers that weigh more than they do. Yes, 

it’s a German beer-themed kind of place, but in addition to 

doing things with sausages and sauerkraut they dish-up local 

favourites such as fried bread and shashliks. Unfortunately 

the service is rubbish (except for the costumes, obviously) 

and it’s only really convenient if you happen to have found 

yourself wondering what you’re doing in the big out-of-town 

Akropolis shopping centre. QOpen 10:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 

10:00 - 02:00. PTAUS 

Belgian 

Paradis Belge +32 B-5, Rūdninkų 15/46, tel. 212 

66 03/+370 612 147 11, info@paradisbelge.lt. They 

recently ripped out the bar in here to make more room available 

for dining. And, we suggest you do whatever it takes to 

make more room available in your stomach prior do dining 

here. Meals are generous and very hearty. Some of them are 

served in vats. Rather than being boring stodge, however, the 

food is also quite interesting and tasty. Flavour and quantity 

… it’s a dangerous combination. Thankfully prices are such 

that only rich people will be able to eat themselves to death. 

All this in an environment that is … erm, we forget.QOpen 

07:00 - 23:00, Fri 07:00 - 24:00, Sat 08:00 - 24:00, Sun 

08:00 - 23:00. PJAGSW 

Caucasian 

Achtamar G-4, S.Konarskio 1-2, tel. 233 13 44/+370 

604 026 56, achtamar@zebra.lt, www.achtamar.lt. A 

dirt cheap Caucasian kitchen with a lovely gritty tang to the 

great-value food. Try the Khachapuri (Georgian cheesy bread), 

any of the grilled meats and the Georgian wines. While it’s 

a bit out of the way, and probably not worth a major detour, 

it’s a great option for something a bit different after you’ve 

seen a film at the nearby Forum Cinema. Service is slow, 

but it gives you plenty of time to fall in love with the waitress 

and nip to the flower market over the road. Then again, that 

could just lead to trouble. QOpen 11:00 - 23:00. 15Lt. 

PAEGSW 

Sorena A-2, Islandijos 4, tel. 262 75 60. Food here is a 

tasty change from the sludge and spuds that are so common 

in Lithuania, but it’s also a bit maladroit if you’re looking 

for the sort of zesty Caucasian creation that makes sweat 

squirt out of your ears. In other words, it’s safe - anodyne 

Azerbaijan. The only ‘gimmicks’ are those related to eating 

and drinking, which is a good sign. ‘Shashliks’ are served on 

skewers so long that you could sword-fight with them, and 

Georgian wine is presented in a tusk. Actually, come to think 

of it, things could get very interesting here. QOpen 11:00 

- 22:00, Fri 11:00 - 24:00, Sat 12:00 - 24:00. Closed Sun. 

15Lt. JAEGSW

Central Asian 

Čingischanas A-3, J.Basanavičiaus 8/1, tel. +370 

619 128 16, info@cingischanas.lt. At the suggestion of 

a reader we went along to try the mashed potato in chicken 

skins. Quite a tasty beer snack if you like blubber-wrapped 

pus. After salivating over the menu and the prospect of further 

delights, however, we found that our dish of choice, marked 

as ‘recommended’, was not available. We asked for another 

recommendation and ended up with some kind of kebaby 

thing that amounted to meat balls-up - tasty, but a bit dry and 

crumbly. Service also lacked tenderness. No wonder there 

are no camels tied up out front. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Sat, 

Sun 12:00 - 24:00. 25Lt. TJEGS 

Chinese 

Čili Kinija I-2, Žirmūnų 68a, tel. 277 41 11, www.cili. 

lt. This place is in an out-of-town and somewhat shabby 

sleeping district, but they do offer delivery and are therefore 

worth a mention. The good thing about this place is that, 

unlike some other Chinese restaurants, you can get small 

portions that can be combined to make a meal suitable for 

one. For delivery, call 1822. You can also order online, but 

the website is only in Lithuanian. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. 

15Lt. PAGSW 

Didžioji Kinija H-2, Konstitucijos 12, tel. 263 63 

63, info@kinuvirtuve.lt, www.kinuvirtuve.lt. The food 

here is so extreme in both quantity and flavour that when 

your stomach says ‘Stop!’ your mouth won’t listen, leaving 

your legs with the unenviable task of waddling you 

home sometime later. Portions are big enough to share, 

and given that they cost a bomb, that’s probably what is 

intended. It would be better if they could offer dishes of half the 

size at half the price. The interior is all very oriental and lush, 

with red and gold splashed about the place, a chatty budgie, 

and big comfy seats that you will have difficulty extricating 

yourself from. QOpen 11:30 - 23:00, Sat 12:00 - 23:00, Sun 

12:00 - 23:00. 25Lt. PTAGS 

Du Drakonai B-2, Labdarių 8, tel. 212 77 07, 2drakonai@gmail.com. 

The ‘two dragons’ that the name refers 

to are the brothers and owners, and what a jolly fine job 

they’ve done fitting out this place. There’s fountains, Chinese 

carvings in wood and stone, comfortable furniture, fine place 

settings and a very swanky VIP hall and separate conference 

area. Even the walls are great, if you’ll excuse the pun, with 

exposed rocks or frescoes and artwork. The menu is similarly 

impressive with over 200 dishes, most with small and large 

portions available, all created with the authentic flair of a 

Chinese chef. QOpen 11:00 - 23:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 23:00. 

25Lt. JALGSW 

restAurAnts 

Kinų Restoranas A-4, Trakų 4, tel. 231 45 77/+370 

616 332 46. A grungy little box with grubby pastel walls 

and manky carpet, but worth a mention for the hilariously 

friendly staff, good value food with full-on flavours, and the 

presence of ‘chicken dicky with nuts’ in the menu. The soft 

of place that you’ll only want to go to once, but will remember 

forever. QOpen 11:00 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. 

PTJGSW 

Kinų Rožė G-4, Savanorių 1 (Helios City centre, 

2nd floor), tel. 265 26 53, kinuroze@meniu.lt, www. 

kinupatiekalai.lt. Notable only for being one of only 

two restaurants where you can place your order on a 

table-side computer. QOpen 11:00 - 23:00, Thu, Fri 

11:00 - 24:00, Sat 12:00 - 24:00, Sun 12:00 - 23:00. 

PAGS 

Pekinas H-4, Algirdo 28, tel. 215 16 20, info@kinuvirtuve.lt, 

www.kinuvirtuve.lt. A huge choice of dishes, 

featuring a million and one things to do with a chickens, cows, 

sheep, rabbits, ducks, snails and frogs. Indeed, everything 

except the standard Chinese staples of snake and dog are 

dished up here. QOpen 11:00 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 

- 22:00. 25Lt. PAGS 

Pekino Antis G-4, Algirdo 2, tel. 233 99 99, info@ 

kinuvirtuve.lt, www.kinuvirtuve.lt. Although they serve 

their classic namesake dish, Peking duck, one must call in 

advance to arrange for its preparation. If you do not, there 

are still ample options on the menu. Pricier than even the 

most memorable restaurants in town, you do get some 

bang for your buck. Heaping, sometimes excessive, portions 

that somehow all taste the same can be washed down with 

some equally large Chinese beers. For all its elegance, we 

were somewhat surprised at the absence of linen napkins. 

QOpen 11:00 - 23:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 23:00. 30Lt. 

PTASW 

Sičuan B-1, Gedimino 9 (inside the shopping centre), 

tel. 265 58 88, www.sicuan.lt. Sichuan is a Chinese 

province commonly believed to be the origin of gong bao 

jiding, a popular chicken dish. It actually originated in the 

neighbouring province of Guiyang, but the Sichuans nicked it 

and added peanuts. Not surprisingly, you can get the dish here 

and, equally not-surprisingly, it’s not very good. It lacks the 

hallmark aroma and spicy-sweetness. And it’s so glutinous 

that it should only be approached by Ghostbusters and if you 

don’t eat it all it will follow you home. The restaurant does, 

however, have a wonderful and bright dining area overlooking 

the back of a church - one of the best dining rooms in 

town. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00, Sun 11:00 - 20:00. 20Lt. 

PJAS 


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restAurAnts 

Trys Klevai C-3, Pilies 16/2, tel. 261 62 96, trys.klevai@centras.lt. 

The ‘three maples’ sounds a bit Canadian 

and has a waiter who seems a bit quirky in a French kind of way 

and might even be called Dominique. And there’s a fish tank. 

Once you get over all that strangeness you can enjoy a huge 

range of meals that will leave your taste buds zinging merrily. 

As is the case with most Chinese restaurants in Vilnius, portions 

are big enough to share, and hence pricey if you’re eating 

alone. QOpen 11:00 - 23:00. 25Lt. PJASW 

Czech 

Pas Rudolfą II G-3, Gedimino 46, tel. 249 66 68, 

info@alausklubas.lt, www.alausklubas.lt. Iron gloves 

punch through walls, hold up lamps and set the scene. Assorted 

weapons and a bookcase full of helmets complete 

the medieval theme. The main attractions, however, are 

the Czech food and beer. The former is hearty and tasty in 

a lump of meat and gravy-soaked bread kind of way. And 

the beer has a reputation that speaks for itself and says 

‘Oh, alright then, one more round… hic.’ A nice alternative 

to Lithuanian restaurants. There’s every chance you’ll 

end up leaving wearing a suit of armour. Or at least a very 

big grin. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 01:00. 

PASW 

Fine Dining 

Apvalaus Stalo Klubas Karaimų 53a, tel. +370 528 

555 95, fax +370 528 517 60, info@asklubas.lt, www. 

asklubas.lt. The two-in-one venue should please everybody, 

which is good because everybody comes to Trakai at 

some time. There’s both a pizerria and a posh restaurant, 

and both have a lovely lake-side location with stunning 

castle views. The food in the pizzerria is casually decent 

and the posh tucker is worth forking out for - it ranges from 

rather good to divine and can be accompanied with superb 

wines, sommelier ceromony and all. Wonderful location, 

wonderful food and, if you appreciate finer things, worth 

the admittedly high prices. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. 50Lt. 

PAUISW 

Brunello (Pramogų bankas) A-2, Pamėnkalnio 7/8, 

tel. +370 700 555 55, pramogubankas@nese.lt, www. 

pramogubankas.lt. Swish past the garish bling downstairs, 

head straight to the second floor, nestle into this stylish and 

refined restaurant and enjoy delicate and delicious meals presented 

by robotic penguins. The food here really is quite good, 

with seafood coming up above-par. The selection of wines 

is broad and covers the range from good basics to stupidly 

expensive impress-the-bimbo angel tears. The only complaint 

we could make about this place (for we can’t let them get away 

with thinking they’re perfect, now, can we?) is that service is too 

stiffly formal. Take a whoopee cushion and see if you can make 

the waiter laugh. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Fri 11:00 - 02:00, Sat 

14:00 - 02:00, Sun 14:00 - 24:00. JE 

La Provence B-4, Vokiečių 22, tel. 262 02 57, www. 

laprovence.lt. Despite the name, the focus of this fine restaurant 

is not just French. The menu now features an array 

of tempting creations with many and varied Mediterranean 

influences, such as Spanish and Italian. There has, however, 

been no variation of the stubborn dedication to gourmet 

quality and exquisite presentation. Appetizers are still delicate 

and delightful, like having angels canoodling gently on 

your tongue, and mains now offers more melodies of texture 

and taste that will make your taste buds swoon. Service is 

exemplary, and comes with a hint of theatre, completing the 

experience. Expensive? Of course. And rightly so. QOpen 

11:00 - 24:00. 60 Lt. PJAS 


NEw 

Marino G-3, A.Tumėno 4, tel. 240 96 77, marino.restaurant@gmail.com, 

www.marino-restaurant.lt. Quite 

out of this world in terms of ambience, quality and service. 

This is, quite simply, the best restaurant in Vilnius. The food 

is simple but superb, service is competent and doting without 

being overwhelming, and the atmosphere is all at once 

crisp, futuristic and cosy. You sit in classic-styled furniture 

in a glass tube hovering over a highway, and as lights zoom 

past beneath you, command them to catch a crayfish from 

the little pool and, well… just settle in for a superb dining 

experience. They really are setting new standards here, and 

our only complaint is that they didn’t do it sooner. Bravo! But 

it's a shame they refuse to offer tap water.QOpen 11:00 

- 23:00. 60Lt. PAUS 

Stikliai C-3, Gaono 7 (Stikliai Hotel), tel. 264 95 80, fax 

212 38 70, www.stikliaihotel.lt. A somewhat old fashioned 

recipe of formality, fusty faff and excellent food and service 

ensures this place retains a spot close to the top of the list 

of restaurants for the sorts of people who get other people to 

polish their shoes and clean their toilets. It’s also an excellent 

choice for normal people (that’s you, probably) who wish to 

spoil themselves and enjoy an occassional treat. Excellent 

food in an excellent location.Q Open 12:00 - 15:00, 18:00 

- 24:00. Sat, Sun 12:00 - 24:00. 70Lt. PJASW 

Vilniaus Bastėja C-5, Subačiaus 15/2, tel. 212 74 

51/212 74 52, info@vilniausbasteja.lt, www.vilniausbasteja.lt. 

What were they thinking? Actually, we know 

exactly what they were thinking because the local papers 

were full of stories about how this place aims to be one of the 

top 100 restaurants in the world. HAHA!!! (Cough ... splutter 

...)While there’s no chance of that, the food here is actually 

quite good if you can stop laughing long enough to eat any 

of it. The hilarity stems from over the top Russian style 

kitsch. There are fish tanks, fountains, fairy lights, flat screen 

televisions and lots of other nonsense that results from lots 

of money and no taste. Good for a laugh. Could be worth 

considering in winter if they get the fireplace going.QOpen 

11:00 - 24:00, Sun 11:00 - 23:00. PJAIESW 

French 

Garden Brasserie B-1, Gedimino 16, tel. 266 62 00. It’s 

not in a garden, but it is a brasserie – an inexpensive French 

style restaurant – in the true sense of the word. It’s also a 

hotel restaurant which means it has to be inoffensive to everyone 

and lacks any quirky character or homely charm. Given 

the quality of the nicely crafted meals, the equally inoffensive 

prices, and a nice view of what is often called the Champs- 

Elysées of Vilnius, however, who cares if it’s a bit dull? This is 

a hidden treat that is often undeservedly overlooked. Keep it 

in mind for a classy lunch. They offer some good value meals 

by day, but watch the prices of the drinks.QOpen 06:00 

- 23:00, Sat, Sun 06:30 - 23:00. PTJASW 

Les Amis C-4, Savičiaus 7, tel. 212 37 38, fax 233 78 

57. Quite simply one of the best restaurants in Vilnius in 

terms of value, quality and a lovely homely atmosphere. If 

you’re more interested in having a decent meal and a nice 

glass of wine than you are in swanking around town like a 

new-money moron, then pop in here and enjoy the simple 

and honest casual quality. Consistently good and always 

thoroughly enjoyable. QOpen 11:00 - 23:00. Closed Sun. 

25Lt. JAGS 

www.inyourpocket.com

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Japanese 

Hanabi C-3, Didžioji 28 (2nd floor), tel. 260 90 20, 

hanabi@helios.lt, www.hanabi.lt. Whether it be teppanyaki, 

sushi, or just clumsily using chopsticks to stick 

food up your nose, you can do it in elegant bamboo-clad 

style here. There’s something about Japanese that manages 

to find a confluence, or possibly confusion, of formality 

and fun, and when combined with delicious food it is 

the perfect recipe for a pleasant evening. Small parties 

can even shuffle their socks into cute little private rooms 

with karaoke machines, where you can singing badly while 

all your friends mime chopstick hara-kiri. QOpen 12:00 

- 24:00. 50Lt. PJASW 

Osaka A-2, Vilniaus 19, tel. 261 71 76, www.osaka. 

lt. A few soups, some mediocre noodles, bored-looking 

staff waiting for something engaging to do, a clever smart 

‘n’ sparse Japanese-style interior and some rather good 

sushi. If you want taste and texture to frolic on our tongue 

like an orgy of Hello Kitties, pop in and indulge. Oh - but 

you’ll have to open your wallet wider than your mouth - 

the sushi are tiny and the prices are a bit high. QOpen 

11:00 - 23:00. PJAS 

NEw 

Sinto C-3, Pilies 30, tel. +370 652 844 21, vilnius@ 

sinto.lt. Even if you’re not a great fan of Japanese food, 

the glossy, pictorial menu here is likely to have something 

that will appeal. The sushi, however, are sublime - easily 

the highlight. It’s a clean, white and crisp space with 

that cosy simplicity that the Japanese do so well. Little 

pictures of geishas faffing about with fans and umbrellas 

adorn the walls, and little bonsai shrubs decorate the 

tables. (They’re real, not plastic. We know because we 

set one on fire.) Most pleasing for a decent restaurant 

in this central location is that the prices are surprisingly 

slim. QOpen 10:00 - 23:00, Thu - Sat 11:00 - 24:00. 

25Lt. PJAS 

Tokyo A-1, A.Vienuolio 4, tel. +370 700 555 99, 

www.grandcasino.lt. There are a few rocks and sticks 

and shiny black tables and loads of minimalist style. 

Which is nice. But there’s also an emphasis on simple 

quality. Which is even nicer. The meals here benefit from 

high quality ingredients, skilful preperation and overall 

authenticity. Overpriced underspiced Thai food is also 

availalbe from the neighbouring Thai Gourmet restaurant. 

Call 1822 for home delivery. QOpen 12:00 - 24:00. 

50Lt. PJAS 


Saint Germain D-3, Literatų 9, tel. 262 12 10, vynine@ 

vynine.lt, www.vynine.lt. A whitewashed and pleasantly 

provincial bistro that somehow manages to be as appropriate 

for puppy-sweet, doe-eyed dating as it is for gracious 

or gourmand little gatherings. The food - the range of which 

makes repeat visits irresistible - is superbly succulent and 

jostles for main attraction status with the impressive range 

of wines. Prices are reasonable, and the only let-downs are 

the service (a bit slipshod for a place like this) and the fact 

that if you haven’t booked you probably won’t get a table. 

QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. 35Lt. JAGSW 

Greek 

S. Metaxa C-2, Pilies 5, tel. +370 652 003 30, info@ 

liutuvartai.lt, www.liutuvartai.lt. We like the way the 

salads are forged with big, fat, Greek shredding, and you 

get the interesting addition of apples with your souvlaki, the 

hit-and-miss service is a bit of a let-down here. Sometimes 

it’s fine, sometimes you have to wait until you’re dead before 

they bring the wrong meal to your grandchildren. Prices are 

reasonable, so if you’ve got time up your sleeve, it’s a good 

option. WiFi is free here. QOpen 10:00 - 23:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 

10:00 - 01:00. 20Lt. JAGSW 

Hungarian 

Csarda C-3, Šv.Mykolo 4-1, tel. +370 659 555 52, 

csarda@csarda.lt, www.csarda.lt. Feels like a forest cottage 

hideaway made of mud, gypsy tears and wood. Rammed 

with furniture stolen from someone with a splendid pointed 

moustache. A nice atmosphere in which to try Hungarian fare 

which tends to be good honest grub with a griddle-seared tang. 

We would prefer to see more dead animals and fewer dead 

plants on the plate, but meals are still satisfying. The selection 

of wines is also worth burrowing into this charming little side 

street for and will probably ensure you bounce off the walls on 

your way out.QOpen 12:00 - 23:00, Sat 12:00 - 24:00, Sun 

12:00 - 22:00. 25Lt. JAGS 

Indian 

Briusly (Bruce Lee) B-3, Šv. Ignoto 14, tel. 212 12 

15/+370 655 971 11, briusli.baras@gmail.com. A modest 

menu that claims to be pan-Asian offers great-value, tasty 

meals for a pittance. While this is more a bar with meals than 

a proper restaurant, it’s a top spot for a quick, cheap lunch. It’s 

more casual than culinary and there’s normally more quaffing 

than scoffing going on, but it’s one of the few places where 

you can get a hot curry and hang around with a cool crowd. 

QOpen 12:00 - 02:00. JASW 

Sue’s Indian Raja B-2, Odminių 3, tel. 266 18 88, 

suesrestaurants@gmail.com, www.suesindianrestaurants.com. 

Come on, Raj. Dish up a dodgy meal so we can 

write a spicy review. We’ve been coming here for ages and 

haven’t had a bad meal yet. Always cooked to perfection, 

always delicious, always tempting to gobble until you explode. 

Really, whether it be authentic Indian cuisine or more popular 

Brit-curries, the food here is consistently top-notch. The 

atmosphere, while a little gilded for t-shirt-and-jeans types, 

is also always pleasant and welcoming. Far from a flash in 

the pan, this restaurant has achieved consistency and quality 

that demands respect. And second helpings. Don’t miss it. 

QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. 30Lt. JASW 


International 

Artis B-2, Liejyklos 11/23, tel. 266 03 66, artis@ 

centrumhotels.com, www.centrumhotels.com. Ideal for 

airy-fairies who wish to dine in a pretty conservatory, as well 

as those who wish to slip something radioactive into the soup 

of big wigs and NATO types who pop in from the Defence 

Ministry next door. The reasonably priced hotel-restaurant 

menu offers pleasing and fair-value meals, but lacks highlights. 

So, if your meal starts glowing, run. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. 

25Lt. PJAULSW 

Bistro 18 C-3, Stiklių 18, tel. +370 677 720 91/+370 

683 036 73, bistro18@gmail.com. A bright, clean, simple 

and modern place that is somehow also very cosy and welcoming. 

Probably something to do with the fact that the staff 

smile and say hello and seem to be genuinely pleased to see 

you. The menu is poetry: there’s not a lot in it, but each entry 

is well chosen and something is bound to charm you. Food is 

of a high standard and very reasonably priced, and there’s 

a good range of wine to keep cellar snobs sipping. This is a 

wonderful new addition to the Vilnius dining scene. QOpen 

12:00 - 24:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. 25Lt. PTJAS 

Brasserie Astorija C-4, Didžioji 35/2 (inside the 

Radisson Hotel), tel. 212 01 10, reservations.vilnius@ 

radissonsas.com, www.radissonsas.com. A genteel gastronomic 

gallimaufry bestowed by staff who have a magic ability 

to emerge from nowhere in a gracefully zooming arabesque 

to tend to your willy-nilly whim - usually quite soon after you 

whimmed it. You get to sit in a terrarium and get gawped at 

by passers-by. It is claimed that this is the height of dining in 

Vilnius. If they ascended any further they would be inside out. 

QOpen 12:00 - 24:00. 50Lt. PTJAUSW 

Cozy C-3, Dominikonų 10, tel. 261 11 37, fax 278 42 

60, info@cozy.lt, www.cozy.lt. Cozy offers a cool place 

to kick back that is as fresh and clean as it is smooth and 

groovy. They could easily lie back and enjoy such a loungey 

lifestyle. But no! That’s not enough here, and so they also 

maintain high standards in the kitchen and offer some pleasing 

meals, including some of Vilnius’ best lunchtime value. A true 

cornerstone of the local café scene, and not to be missed. 

QOpen 09:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri 09:00 - 04:00, Sat 10:00 

- 04:00, Sun 10:00 - 02:00. 25Lt. JASW 

Degantis Rūsys C-5, Subačiaus 1, tel. 262 29 09, 

www.idabasar.lt. This glass box contains lots of old 

fashioned coffee grinders, some cakes and a tree. It offers a 

lovely view of Lithuanians trying to park their cars - always 

highly amusing - and the National Philharmonic building. They 

do serve bog-standard food, but this place is best suited for 

the coffee-and-cake tourist break. QOpen 08:00 - 20:00, 

Sat, Sun 08:00 - 21:00. 20Lt. JAS 

Dvaras B-1, Tilto 3, tel. 210 73 70, www.dvaras.lt. An 

elegant restaurant situated in a quiant cellar inside an equally 

charming hotel, serving a good range of high quality international 

dishes alongside a well-chosen wine menu. The meat 

dishes are particularly exceptional, but do remember to leave 

some room for one of the legendary desserts. Great service 

too. QOpen 07:00 - 22:00, Sat 08:00 - 22:00. Closed Sun. 

20Lt. PJAL 

Esse A-3, J.Basanavičiaus 13, tel. 210 25 11, fax 210 

25 25, info@esse.lt, www.esse.lt. Hardly modern or 

welcoming, but worthwhile for the murky period charm, pretty 

good food and decent service. They’ve tickled-up an upstairs 

room in the Russian Drama Theatre, so there’s nice tables with 

nice silverware rattling away on a clacketty old parquetry floor. 

restAurAnts 

A word on water 

Vilnius has a high quality water supply, and the stuff that 

comes out of the tap is perfectly drinkable. It can be a 

good idea to filter it if you’re fussy about taste, but it’s 

not going to do you any harm. 

While iced tap water is a standard and complimentary 

offering in western restaurants, many restaurants in 

Vilnius refuse to serve it at all. Many also refuse to stock 

local bottled water so, unless you want to drink alcohol 

or something fizzy, you end up paying a fortune for a 

small quantity of imported bottled water. Restaurants 

think this is a matter of prestige. They imagine they’re 

being sophisticated and trendy serving only imported 

water and charging 7Lt for 250ml of it. We think they’re 

being stupid and mean. 

Both the manufacture of all these plastic water bottles 

and the process of transporting them to Lithuania, a 

country arguably named after rain, is environmentally 

damaging. And will the restaurant recycle your plastic 

bottle? Ask them. 

Due to such environmental and economic considerations, 

some restaurants in America and the UK now 

refuse to serve bottled water at all, and it has been 

banned in some government departments. The trend 

is clear: imported bottled water is bad. 

We suggest you buy a bottle of locally produced water 

from a supermarket and keep it in your bag. When you 

go to a restaurant, ask for tap water. If they refuse to 

offer it, just drink your own water. There’s certainly no 

reason why you should be paying a fortune to drink 

imported bottled water in Vilnius. 

There’s wallpaper on the ceiling, heavy drapes, fake-candle 

chandeliers and miscellaneous upper-class glum. Prices are 

high and servings are slight, but the friendly and competent 

service makes lingering through a business lunch or a few 

courses of dinner a pleasure.QOpen 11:00 - 23:00, Sun 

10:00 - 22:00. JAS 

Fortas H-4, Algirdo 17, tel. 212 20 00, algirdo@fortas. 

eu, www.fortas.eu. Designed by someone who dreams of 

home shows and department stores, the interior here is a 

clever cluster of zones offering different dining styles. There’s 

a lounge area, diner style seating along the window, what 

feels like a country manor living room, and a massive bar. The 

glossy menu also has something for everyone, with a bit of 

an emphasis on Italian dishes. Good enough and affordable 

enough to be a frequent treat - it’s not fancy, but it’s pretty 

much faultless. QOpen 08:00 - 24:00, Sat 11:00 - 24:00, 

Sun 12:00 - 24:00. 15Lt. PTAUSW 

Grand Pub A-1, A.Vienuolio 4, tel. +370 700 555 99, 

info@grandcasino.lt, www.grandcasino.lt. For a swish 

looking bar they turn out great meals, and decent value at 

lunchtime. There’s fish, steaks, snags, pasta and something 

resembling a hamburger. With comfy couches, decent food, 

101 flat screens (43, actually, but who’s counting?) and 

waitresses in frilly, girly maid outfits, it’s a pleasant retreat for 

blokes. Girls can just nibble a salad. QOpen 12:00 - 24:00, 

Thu, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 06:00. PJAS 

Gras’as C-4, Vokiečių 2, tel. +370 699 300 52, info@ 

grasas.lt, www.grasas.lt. Slip into your lumberjack kit, tuck 

a gnome under your arm and step inside for some wacky 

grass-inspired nonsense. Tables are mock logs, there’s a tree 

stopping the roof from caving in and of course there’s green 


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restAurAnts 

fuzz everywhere. Clearly a lot of grass was involved during 

the design phase. While it’s more a bar than a restaurant, the 

meals are good value and the overall nuttiness of the place 

makes a visit well worthwhile at anytime. Note that the five 

per cent service charge that is added to your bill goes to 

the greedy management, not to the waitstaff. If you want to 

reward your waiter or waitress, you’ll have to tip more. QOpen 

12:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 01:00. Closed Sun. 20Lt. 

JAES 

Ibish Lounge C-5, Aušros Vartų 11, tel. 260 90 65, 

info@ibishlounge.com, www.ibishlounge.com. A bright, 

colourful and lively little lounge where you can join street 

fashion guys and gazelles for a nice-price lunch or pleasant 

evening meal. The food is stylish, simple, and very tasty. A bit 

like the people who eat it, really. While this place has found its 

niche as a cocktail bar, the kitchen, furniture, lighting and fish 

tank are all worthy of respect. In that order. QOpen Mon, Thu 

12:00 - 03:00, Tue, Wed, Sun 12:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 

- 05:00. 30Lt. JASW 

IdaBasar C-5, Subačiaus 3 (IdaBasar Hotel), tel. 262 

84 84, office@idabasar.lt. Dabbling in both the gourmet 

and the flambé, the two options at Ida are never bizarre. The 

ground floor atrium café is ideal for lunch and the Tart Flambé 

is still believed to be some of the best pizza in town. The food 

served at the kitchen downstairs is focused on awards and 

accolades and is justifiably refined. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, 

Sun 12:00 - 21:00. 20Lt. JAS 

La Mamà C-4, Didžioji 28, tel. 260 90 09, restoranas@ 

lamama.lt, www.lamama.lt. A heavenly location to sample 

expertly prepared seafood, poultry and grilled meats. The 

steaks are succulent, velvety bliss. We’ve also enjoyed a quail 

stuffed with foie gras, but it has since been replaced with a 

pheasant and the concoction has gone on to win culinary 

awards. Dishes are pricey and puny but quality and location 

make up for it. Unfortunately, service bumbles between naïve 

arrogance and incompetence, and they flat-out refuse to 

serve local water – foibles that ruin an otherwise excellent 

restaurant. QOpen 12:00 - 24:00. 50Lt. PJAESW 

Liv Lounge G-3, Gynėjų 14 (inside the glass bowl), tel. 

242 10 55, lounge@rangagroup.com, www.vilniausvartai.lt. 

A big, bright and trendy space scattered with brown and 

beige sofas in which posers will slump about. The people on the 

floor are the ones who have just seen the prices and died. The 

only people who are both rich and stupid enough to pay such 

prices are politicians, and they’re not cool enough to come here. 

There is a cheap lunch menu but the food it offers is rubbish. If 

you’ve got the cash, this is a great place for smooth talking and 

slick drinking, but what it offers more than anything else is lost 

potential. QOpen 12:00 - 01:00, Thu, Fri 12:00 - 03:00, Sat 

15:00 - 03:00, Sun 15:00 - 01:00. PAUS 

Mano Guru B-2, Vilniaus 22, tel. 212 01 26. If you’re sick 

of the ‘one potato, two potato, three potato … more’ style 

dishes in Vilnius, head in here for some rabbit food. It’s all 

very potting-shed and the dishes—salads, all of them—look 

like Laura Ashley gardening get-up. It’s not going to leave 

anyone satiated, but it’s a nice place for girly, blousey types 

who want a minimalist décor and supermodel portions. No 

alcohol.QOpen 07:00 - 21:00, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 20:00. 

TJASW 



Markus ir Ko C-3, M.Antokolskio 11, tel. 262 31 85, 

markusirko@takas.lt. It’s Litho-American, with black-andwhite 

pictures of Marilyn Monroe on the walls and herring 

in the menu. The main attraction to this waiters-in-jeans 

casual-kinda place, however, is the quality of the steak. For 

a big lump of juicy beef, it’s hard to beat. It’s certainly not 

cheap, but carnivores won’t come away feeling ripped-off. 

QOpen 12:00 - 24:00. 45Lt. JAESW 

Medininkai C-5, Aušros Vartų 6, tel. 266 07 71/+370 

650 006 00, medininkai@europaroyale.lt, www.medininkai.lt. 

Dining rooms are fairy-tale gorgeous and food is 

almost orgasmically good, but not quite. (Thank heavens for 

that! You don’t want to peak too early in the evening.) The 

menu is problematic in that it offers such a range of interesting 

temptations that choosing is difficult. Service is a bit 

bumbling, but if you tell them what to do (‘I’d like fresh bread, 

served with butter’) they will happily and enthusiastically 

oblige. While meals are not large, the whole experience oozes 

storybook charm and character, making for an exquisite dining 

experience. QOpen 12:00 - 24:00. 45Lt. JASW 

Neringa H-3, Gedimino 23, tel. 261 40 58, fax 260 93 

19, info@restoranasneringa.lt, www.restoranasneringa. 

lt. A delightful little rupture in the fabric of the space-time 

continuum. This place used to be a hive of hobnobbing Soviet 

snobskis and the occasional proles who had saved up enough 

to bribe the doorman. Now it’s just a weird remnant with a dashing 

Soviet mural and wacky interior design. Unfortunately the 

food – breaded bits of meat served with a few greens, mostly 

– is no longer authentic (Soviets didn’t do crinkle-cut chips) but 

is at least vaguely themed on traditions and fairly good value. 

QOpen 07:00 - 23:00, Thu, Fri 07:00 - 24:00, Sat 08:00 

- 24:00, Sun 08:00 - 22:00. 25Lt. TJAESW 

Pegasus C-3, Didžioji 11, tel. 260 94 30, info@restaurantpegasus.lt, 

www.restaurantpegasus.lt. This really is 

a wonderful place for a weekday lunch. The minimalist style, 

comfy chairs, English reading matter and friendly service are all 

perfectly enjoyable. But the real pleasure is knowing that the local 

trendy troopers will turn up in the evening to pay twice what 

you paid for much the same thing, effectively subsidising your 

lunch. The food is middling fusion-confusion - pleasant but not 

quite what one would expect of such a fancy-looking restaurant. 

Tap water is available if you ask for it, and we suggest you do 

so because the drink prices are a bit cheeky. QOpen 11:30 

- 24:00, Fri, Sat 11:30 - 02:00. 30Lt. PJASW 

Penktadienis D-4, Bokšto 19/12, tel. 266 08 42/+370 

652 114 07, visada.penktadienis@gmail.com. They’ve 

dropped their previously outrageous prices. Now they’re just a 

bit expensive. Those not on a budget can enjoy a unique and 

chipper interior - muddled, modern and comfortably arty - and 

meals that will be acceptable to all but the most pernickety 

gastromoans. The cheesecake is worth popping in for - it’s 

the best we’ve found in Vilnius. Overall, this is an ideal place to 

impress footballers’ wives, a twittering harem or high school 

art teachers who normally have to rummage in bins for a 

decent meal. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. PJAUW 

Rūsio Restoranas (Cellar Restaurant) C-3, Pilies 

24 (Narutis Hotel), tel. 261 77 22, fax 262 28 82, info@ 

narutis.com, www.narutis.com. We’re not sure which was 

worse: the service or the food. We were tempted to chew an 

arm off while waiting for the food, and after it arrived, wished 

that we had. It would have tasted good in comparison to the 

ropey meal we had here. The setting is quaint and snugtucked 

into arched-ceiling cellars, the menu is brief but well 

rounded, but ultimately this is an overdone underindulgence. 

QOpen 11:00 - 23:00. 40Lt. PJALSW

Riverside Restaurant H-2, Konstitucijos 20 (inside 

the Reval Hotel), tel. 231 48 21, riverside@revalhotels.com. 

What has always been a restaurant that does 

everything well - food, service, coping with queens and 

crowds alike - has recently been renovated. There’s a new 

Asian-ish touch to the place, a swanky big wine cabinet 

and a smartly efficient buffet facility that can cope with a 

hotel full of hunger. The menu has also been renovated with 

some warming dishes for winter and options that include a 

bit of table-side serving theatre (although, sadly, nothing 

gets set on fire). Other thoughtful touches include a crèche 

corner to keep kids amused. QOpen 07:00 - 23:00. 35Lt. 

PTAULESW 

Sonnets D-2, Bernardinų 8/8 (Shakespeare Hotel), tel. 

266 58 85, www.shakespeare.lt. Feed your mind as well 

as your face. Books line the walls of the various gorgeously 

decorated dining rooms and one lounge-bar, ensuring an air 

of sophistication and elegance, and something to read if 

you come alone (or with very boring company). Indeed, this 

delightfully unique venue offers a wonderful opportunity for 

a night of fine cuisine for romantic couples, suave business 

types, bookish loners and, dare we suggest, the cook, the 

thief, his wife and her lover. QOpen 06:30 - 24:00, Sat, Sun 

07:00 - 24:00. 30Lt. PJAESW 

Steak House Hazienda D-3, Maironio 13 (Mabre 

Hotel), tel. 212 13 89, www.mabre.lt. While it has all 

the makings of a good steakhouse - a frumpy lack of style, 

a good wine list and half-decent service - the steaks aren’t 

actually very good. Or not reliably very good. Don’t get us 

wrong - they’re not bad - they’re just not melt-in-your-mouth 

good. And they’re not cheap, either. Fine if you’re staying 

nearby, or someone else is paying. QOpen 12:00 - 24:00. 

50Lt. PTJAESW 

Tores I-4, Užupio 40, tel. 262 93 09/+370 603 905 24, 

restoranas@tores.lt, www.tores.lt. The elevated hillside 

location is only really appealing in summer, but the stuff-you 

attitude and crappy service elevates hackles all-year-round. 

There are some nice dining rooms inside, but they’re not 

worth going out of the way for, and the prices are too high 

for the average quality of the food. We also don’t like being 

told how we would like our steak done or being charged extra 

for butter to go on our bread. Grumble... grumble... grumble... 

QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. 40Lt. ASW 

Vandens Malūnas Verkių 100, tel. 271 16 66, info@ 

vandensmalunas.lt, www.vandensmalunas.lt. A classic 

19th century watermill restored into a first class 21st 

century restaurant, with European appeal. Located near 

the historic Verkiai castle, the mill overlooks the Neris river. 

It is an ideal setting anytime of year, but especially during 

the summer months when you can sit amongst the water 

rolling over the rock foundation. During winter, the rocky 

fireplaces and cellar setting make it a cosy place for a 

hearty respite. The menu is classically European and a mixture 

of many kinds of foods. QOpen 12:00 - 24:00. 15Lt. 

TAES 

Veranda F-2, Kęstučio 39, tel. 272 18 11. Here’s a classy 

and cosy little cabin you can escape to when you do want to 

dine somewhere moderately nice, thank you very much, but 

don’t want to share the experience with tourists. There are no 

menus in English, and the staff don’t speak English, so unless 

you enjoy imitating a chicken to indicate what you want to eat, 

it might be best enjoyed with a local friend. Food is simple and 

satisfying, but elegantly presented, making this an unpretentious 

pleasure. QOpen 10:00 - 23:00. 15Lt. PAS 

restAurAnts 

Verkiai Žaliųjų ežerų 49, tel. 210 23 33, info@verkiai.lt, 

www.verkiai.lt. This really is something special. A 

charming renovated manor hosts a range of dining including 

a pleasant café, a cosy fireplace room for small groups 

(ideal for close family functions) and a large, gleaming main 

dining hall. The atmosphere is fresh and refined - not 

fusty or off-puttingly pompous. The quality and range of 

food is very good although, strangely, the English version 

of the menu offers more options than the Lithuanian 

version. Overall, they’ve done a grand job of offering a 

delightful and dignified dining experience while still being 

approachable to all but the most dedicated riff-faff. 20Lt 

taxi ride to get there from Old town. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. 

AUIS 

Vila Gloria Belmonto 17, tel. +370 615 202 20, info@ 

belmontas.lt. “I’ll have a fillet of skate, Dom Perignon, 

and an inflatable pony.” This would have to be the only 

restaurant in Vilnius that has a swimming pool in the middle 

of the dining room. It’s nice to know it’s there even if 

it is covered up in winter. Even if you don’t fancy a dip you’ll 

appreciate the mansion like atmosphere, fine white-linen 

dining, the small but well chosen range of meals, an open 

fireplace, and a star studded wine list. Keep in mind the 

outdoor dining and dancing for summer. Ideal for a special 

treat. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 23:00. 40Lt. 

AIEW 

Zoe’s Bar & Grill B-2, Odminių 3, tel. 212 33 31. Service 

is as happy and bouncy as a puppy at tea time. Food, ranging 

from burgers to beavers, is refreshingly good. Meats are 

tender, curries are properly spicy, soups swim with flavour - if 

there is disappointment in the menu we didn’t find it. Also, 

the atmosphere is zip-dippedy-doo-dah bright and dazzling. 

We give it twelve thumbs up. (Fourteen on Thursdays when 

the cleaning lady comes.) Really, for a fresh, fun and friendly 

place that meets international standards, Zoe’s can’t be 

beaten. QOpen 11:30 - 01:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 01:00. 

25Lt. JASW 

Irish 

Dubliner B-3, Dominikonų 6, tel. 262 02 39/243 08 

07, info@dubliner.lt, www.dubliner.lt. Forget about the 

fact that it’s called an Irish pub. It’s really just a restaurant 

with a mixed-bag of meals including Irish (of course) as well 

as international faves like spag bol, chicken tikka and some 

scrummy pies. The good old-fashioned chips are superb, 

and a decent brunch will nurture numb noggins - although 

it’s well overpriced. Run by a couple of decent chaps who 

obviously look after their staff, resulting in pleasant, friendly 

and smiley service. The second home for expats in Vilnius. 

Regulars even keep their own stash of mad hot mustard in the 

kitchen. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 02:00. 25Lt. 

TJAUSW 

Italian 

Casa Nova G-4, Švitrigailos 11b, tel. 239 41 99, 

picerija@nvc.lt, www.casanova.lt. A lively and stylish 

trattoria popular for business lunches. Mix it with people 

wearing office fashion and accessory swipe cards, and enjoy 

meals that are both better and cheaper than those in the 

more central Italian restaurants. There’s pasta (of course) 

as well as a good range of pizza, soups, fish and meat 

dishes. Considering the portions, prices and quality, this 

place offers value that is well worth wandering a little way out 

of town for. QOpen 09:00 - 21:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 20Lt. 

PTALSW 


1

2 

restAurAnts 

Da Antonio I B-2, Vilniaus 23, tel. 262 01 09, office@ 

antonio.lt, www.antonio.lt. Peering through the window you 

get the impression that this could be an intimate little dining haven 

where you’ll be able to enjoy attentive service and the Armani 

of foods. But it’s all a bit more Levis. The wood-fired pizza oven 

is a treat and the home-made pasta, meat and seafood dishes 

tend to be filling and pleasing. But it’s not a cheap place and even 

if you really enjoy your meal the high prices and paper napkins 

may wipe the smile off your face. QOpen 11:00 - 23:00, Sat, 

Sun 12:00 - 23:00. 35Lt. PJASW 

Da Antonio Trattoria C-3, Pilies 20, tel. 261 83 41, 

office@antonio.lt, www.antonio.lt. This really is nice. It 

treads the line between classy and casual with the sort of 

schmoozing style that only an Italian could manage. And 

then steals your wallet. The food is moderately good, the 

atmosphere is certainly pleasant and the staff are friendly and 

refreshingly competent - but it’s just not worth the extortionate 

prices they charge.QOpen 11:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat, Sun 

11:00 - 24:00. 25Lt. PJAS 

Pomodoro Lounge G-3, A.Goštauto 40C, tel. 249 69 

28, fax 27 41 164, info@pomodoro.lt. Located in Vilnius’s 

shiny business appendage (‘mini Wall St.’ to some of the 

locals), and a great place to watch people ‘do lunch’ and 

dangle their ties in their soup. The interior is slick and warm: 

smeared with style but also very open an airy. A bit out of town 

but a good option if you happen to find yourself in a suit and 

in the bizstrict. QOpen 08:00 - 24:00, Mon 08:00 - 23:00, 

Sat 10:00 - 24:00, Sun 10:00 - 23:00. PAS 

San Marco C-4/5, Subačiaus 2, tel. 264 64 18, sanmarko@ramadavilnius.lt. 

This was once a great spot to get 

a simple dish prepared to perfection. Now, however, they’ve 

removed the more standard fare from the menu and all that 

remains is overpriced nonsense that they struggle to prepare well. 

We tried the lamb and found it to be overcooked, undersized, and 

just not worth the rip-off price (56Lt) they charged for it. They also 

seem to have forgotten about basic decency, didn’t bother to ask 

us how our meal was, and thought nothing of traipsing through the 

dining room with a bag full of dirty laundry. Deeply disappointing. 

QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. 40Lt. PJAISW 

NEw 

Sofi L B-2, L.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus 3, tel. 210 74 66. It 

has that slick-austere style that its namesake, Sophia Loren, 

exuded. It has prices that she would struggle to afford. It has 

confusing spelling errors in the menu. (‘Rise with artichokes.’ 

But I don’t sleep with them. ‘Speak ham.’ Okay: “breaker 

breaker, 10-4, over-and-out.”) But what really matters is 

that the food is a breakthrough – inventive, creative and 

unexpected. We had a chicken pie floating in boletus soup 

and a sea bass in nettle sauce, and both gently exploded in 

a triumph of texture and taste. We’re saving up so we can 

go back and try some more dishes. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, 

Fri-Sun 12:00 - 24:00. 30Lt. PJASW 

Sorrento A-4, Pylimo 21, tel. 264 47 37, fax 264 47 

35, sorrento@sorenta.lt, www.sorrentorestoranas.lt. We’ve 

noted in the past that food here is generally pretty good. But 

recently, things have been going a bit random. Of late we’ve had 

both wonderful and generously sized appetizers and mean-spirited, 

mediocre main dishes. Pizza from the wood-fired oven are 

probably pretty safe, but otherwise it can be a bit of a gamble. 

QOpen 11:00 - 23:00. 30Lt.PJAESW 

St. Valentino B-3, Vilniaus 47/18, tel. 231 41 98, info@ 

pomodoro.lt. A treat for your eyes and your bottom as the 

place is gracefully decorated with faux fresoes and has some 

of the plushest chairs in town. The food is fair, the service 


is acceptable, but neither are on par with the prices. They 

also have that cheeky habit of charging extra for things like 

vegetables that should be included in the price of the main. A 

great place if someone else is paying, but you’ll leave feeling 

like you’ve just been had by a sly fox in a nice frock. QOpen 

07:30 - 23:00, Thu, Fri 07:30 - 24:00, Sat 09:00 - 24:00, Sun 

10:00 - 23:00. 25Lt. TJASW 

Lithuanian 

Čili Kaimas B-4, Vokiečių 8, tel. 231 25 36, www. 

cili.lt. A big barn like place decorated with a fish pond, live 

chickens, a snake and incomprehensible farming impliments. 

Food is a churn-it-out cookie-cutter interpretation of traditional 

Lithuanian. Both the quality of meals and standards of service 

here have dropped recently, while prices have been creeping 

up. But it still can be hard to get a seat at tea time. Note 

that the Gedimino location has a flock of Little Red Riding 

Skirts to frollic around and chat to the lads who choose to 

dine there on weekend evenings. Also at Gedimino 14, tel. 

212 14 22, and Savanorių 1, tel. 231 04 12, open 10:00- 

24:00. QOpen 10:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 02:00. 18Lt. 

PTJAESW 

Forto Dvaras C-2, Pilies 16, tel. 261 10 70, pilies@ 

fortodvaras.lt, www.fortas.eu. Pop into this cutesy cottagethemed 

place for the best rendition of traditional Lithuanian 

dishes. There’s a wide variety of cepelinai - huge potato dumplings 

that are claimed to be traditional Lithuanian food but are 

actually about as Lithuanian as lederhosen - as well as some 

more authentic treats from the many culinary corners of the 

country. There are also fast-foodish dishes like fried chicken 

strips and chips for children and Americans.QOpen 11:00 

- 24:00. 15Lt. PTJASW 

Gabi C-3, Šv. Mykolo 6, tel. 212 36 43, gabi@zebra.lt. 

The menu has little symbols forbidding dogs, karate and luggage. 

There’s also a note saying that they prohibit photography 

but will happily sell you a crappy Polaroid for 10Lt. Clearly they’re 

more worried about separating you from your money, random 

outbursts of unarmed oriental combat and dogs turning their 

nose up at the food than they are about providing good food 

or service. But we can’t work out why luggage is forbidden. 

(Terrorists attacks?) Basically this is a bizarre but consistently 

mediocre restaurant that serves inexcusable swill to gullible 

tourists. QOpen 11:00 - 23:00. 15Lt. JAISW 

Joanos Carinovos Smuklė (Belmontas) Belmonto 

17, tel. +370 686 146 56, info@belmontas.lt. Yet another 

pleasantly primitive local affair that will be appealing to lovers 

of Lithuanian food, taxidermy, and sexual stereotypes. The 

hall-like barn for blokes and unfussy fillies has animal skins 

on the benches and stuffed beasts scattered about peering 

at you. On weekends, ladies can dine in the company of 

spinning wheels in the upstairs girly bit. Regardless of your 

gender it’s worth the 20Lt taxi ride for numerous reasons 

including a large open flame grill; the overall quality, value 

and authenticity of the food; and the pleasant Belmontas 

surroundings. QOpen 12:00 - 23:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 24:00. 

15Lt. TAISW 

Superstition: 

Whistle in restaurants only if 

you want to dine with devils.

Lokys C-4, Stiklių 8, tel. 262 90 46, fax 262 52 67, 

info@lokys.lt, www.lokys.lt. Tuck your elbows in, duck 

your head and crouch down the narrowest staircase in town 

for the most atmospheric dining experience in town. There 

are plenty of traditional dishes, including plenty of gamey 

meats, and some interesting notes in the menu about local 

dining traditions. For all that noble authenticity, however, the 

meals are tough going. Expect folksy players to pluck up the 

atmosphere and blow a bit of spirit into the place on weekend 

evenings. QOpen 12:00 - 24:00. 40Lt. JAE 

Marceliukės Klėtis I-1, Tuskulėnų 35, tel. 272 50 

87/272 87 94. The surroundings have been hacked from 

trees, the food has been hacked from barn animals and it’s 

all a bit coarse in a very appealing kind of way. We highly 

recommend this place to anyone who must dine with children, 

as there are plenty of distractions to keep the little blighters 

happy, amused and, if you wish, in a distant room. There 

are also plenty of dishes that will keep them overfull, sleepy 

and manageable for a good while after you get home. Fun for 

everyone. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Mon, Sun 11:00 - 23:00. 

15Lt. TAIESW 

Žemaičiai B-4, Vokiečių 24, tel. 261 65 73, zemaiciusmukle@takas.lt, 

www.zemaiciai.lt. This is where 

hungry Hobbits come to partake in Lithuanian food. It’s an 

underground network of curved-roofed tunnels and little 

rooms, all neatly decorated and very homely. The menu 

boasts traditional potato dishes snuggled between tasty 

starters and soups, and hearty meaty dead things. On 

weekend evenings, players wander around entertaining (or 

annoying) you. It’s not the best value in town, but is still a 

good venue for visitors, dwarfs, elves, wizards, etc. You might 

even meet Gollum in the yucky toilets.QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. 

30Lt. JAES 

Mexican 

Meksika G-4, Algirdo 2, tel. 265 01 47. A bright and zesty 

box where you can fill up with mildly tasty and (if you’re used 

to fast-food style tacos) mildly baffling renditions of Mexican 

dishes. The food isn’t as spicy or adventurous as we would 

like, probably having been toned down for Litho-gringos, but 

it is pleasing, filling and fair value. Service is prompt and 

friendly. English is hidden in the back pages of the menu. All 

up, a nice spot for something a bit different. QOpen 11:00 

- 23:00. 18Lt. PTASW 

Middle Eastern 

Deniz Kebabai Kavinė A-4, Trakų 5, tel. 260 88 66. A 

bog-standard shopfront kebab joint best suited to drunken 

ogres in crumpled suits who stumble out of nearby nightclubs 

at 04:00 in search of something drippy, meaty and edible. As 

classy as a gas station, but serving top-notch tummy fuel. 

The chips are superb. QOpen 11:00 - 21:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 

- 05:00. PJAS 

Pan Asian 

Sushibar G9 B-1, Gedimino 9 (downstairs in the shopping 

centre), tel. 212 66 93. It’s a sushi cave, with little dishes 

of delectable bibs and bobs sliding around the counter waiting to 

be grabbed and gobbled. But there’s also a menu with various 

lunch-box options, and a good variety of Chinese style meals. 

The atmosphere and service are both lovely - we especially like 

the English language magazines scattered about. The food isn’t 

great, but it’s still a great discovery, tucked-away as it is in the 

lower back side of the shopping centre. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00, 

Sun 11:00 - 20:00. PJAUSW 

restAurAnts 

Reindeer’s-eye view 

Woo B-2, Vilniaus 22, tel. 212 77 40, wooclub@yahoo. 

com. Bunker down here to chow down on all manner of Asian 

dishes, and a few other ‘exotic’ culinary adventures. There’s 

a Filipino soup, Korean stir-fry and somewhat bizarrely, a 

Caribbean squid. While the menu certainly looks exciting we’re 

sorry to have to say that everything we’ve tried here recently 

has been simply insipid, and it’s all a bit of a flavourless flop. 

QOpen 12:00 - 02:00, Fri 12:00 - 05:00, Sat 17:00 - 05:00. 

Closed Sun. 20Lt. PJAW 

Pizza 

Čili Pica A-1, Gedimino 23, tel. 261 90 71, www.cili.lt. 

Bright and zippy, fresh and smiley and largely responsible for 

meeting Lithuanians’ seemingly insatiable appetite for pizza. 

Also at ... well, just about everywhere: Žirmūnų 64, tel. 278 

86 28, open 08:00 - 24:00. Mindaugo 11, tel. 213 33 88, 

open 08:00 - 24:00. Didžioji 5, tel. 231 24 62, open 08:00 

- 03:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 08:00 - 06:00. Fabijoniškių 2a, tel. 230 

29 99, open 08:00 - 03:00. Ozo 25 (Akropolis), tel. 238 79 

27, open 08:00 - 24:00. Konstitucijos 7a (Europa), tel. 275 28 

05, open 08:00 - 24:00. J.Jasinskio 16, tel. 249 60 88, open 

08:00 - 24:00. Ateities 91, tel. 279 42 18, open 08:00 - 24:00. 

QOpen 07:30 - 06:00. 15Lt. PTJASW 

Pizza Jazz A-1, Gedimino 20, tel. 212 08 39, www.pizzajazz.lt. 

Skin-deep stylish and one of the few places where 

you can get pizza without having to dive into a cheesy hole. 

Also there are a few pasta and meat based dishes which are 

moderately pleasant but overpriced. Also at Vokiečių 24, tel. 

212 36 46. Open 10:00-23:00, Thu 10:00-24:00, Fri 10:00- 

02:00, Sat 12:00-02:00, Sun 12:00-23:00. QOpen 10:00 

- 23:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 24:00. 20Lt. PJAS 

Pomodoro A-2, Jogailos 4, tel. 269 00 22, info@pomodoro.lt, 

www.pomodoro.lt. Ideal for people who are in 

suits and in a hurry. Whether you’re in the restaurant itself 

or the atrium, the place has an air of brisk bustle about it. 

Pizza and pasta dishes look and taste like they have been 

whipped up with hasty competence. Also located at P.Lukšio 

32, tel. 274 11 20, open 08:00-23:00, Fri 08:00-24:00, Sat 

09:00-24:00, Sun 10:00-24:00. QOpen 08:00 - 24:00, Mon 

08:00 - 23:00, Sat 09:00 - 24:00, Sun 10:00 - 23:00. 15Lt. 

PTJAUSW 


estAurAnts 

Polynesian 

Aloha Ozo 14c, tel. 211 11 16, info@vandensparkas. 

lt, www.vandensparkas.lt. Sit among fake plants, fake 

flowers, fake sand, fake surfboards and fake bamboo, and try 

real Polynesian dishes. Or so they claim. We’re not sure how 

authentic the food is here, but what we can say is that a menu 

with spicy fish, tiger prawns and chicken in coconut milk is at 

least a very refreshing treat here in Vilnius. Fake? Maybe. Fun? 

Definitely. Tasty? For sure. A shame that it’s a bit out of town, 

but worth it to give your tastebuds a holiday. QOpen 11:00 

- 22:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 22:00. PTAUS 

Pub Grub 

Pilies Menė C-2, Pilies 8, tel. 261 25 52. Industrial-cosy 

in the design department and someone’s-mum in the kitchen. 

Throngs of students come here, as does the occasional 

cake-nibbling granny. The range of food covers all bases, 

including some Lithuanian dishes. Tends to be a pretty happening 

place so it could be a good spot to say hello to some 

new friends while you say goodbye to hunger. Keep it in mind 

for early evening drinks, and don’t overlook the room out the 

back which can become quite ‘happening’. QOpen 10:00 

- 23:30. PJASW 

Savas Kampas C-4, Vokiečių 4, tel. 212 32 03, www. 

savaskampas.lt. A stalwart that has recovered from a 

reputation of being a bit stale and now offers a not unpleasant 

environment in which to poke suspiciously at not entirely 

inedible food. There’s cheap pizza, pasta and miscellaneous 

local slop presented by incompetent kiddies. It’s really very 

cheap, very basic and a no-brainer when the ‘where shall we 

meet’ question pops up. Service is atrocious. Don’t expect 

much, and you won’t be disappointed. QOpen 08:30 - 24:00, 

Thu 08:30 - 02:00, Fri 08:30 - 03:00, Sat 10:00 - 03:00, Sun 

10:00 - 24:00. 20Lt. JASW 

Senoji Pasaga C-1, Tilto 1 (enter from T.Vrublevskio), 

tel. 261 77 79. Decent food at reasonable prices in a 

central location. It’s a bit hidden, but that probably exactly 

what has saved it from becoming an overpriced tourist trap. 

Nothing special, but sometimes that’s just what you want. 

QOpen 11:00 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. 20Lt. 

PJAUISW 

Šauni Vietelė B-4, Pranciškonų 3/6, tel. 212 41 10, 

saunivietele@takas.lt. We have a vague memory of having 

ordered a meal here during issue 12, or thereabouts.We’re still 

waiting for it.QOpen 10:00 - 24:00, Fri 10:00 - 01:00, Sat 

12:00 - 01:00, Sun 12:00 - 21:00. 15Lt. JAS 


The PUB (Prie Universiteto) B-3, Dominikonų 9, 

tel./fax 261 83 93, info@pub.lt, www.pub.lt. You can 

get two kinds of meals here: cheap and simple canteenstyle 

food - the sort of thing you could make for yourself 

at home when you’re feeling lazy; and ghastly gastronomic 

abortions. Working out which is which is the tough bit, 

but if you stick to things like sandwiches and burgers 

you should be safe. Sit around and settle in on weekend 

evenings when the place stumbles into nightbarn mode. 

QOpen 11:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 04:00. 15Lt. 

JASW 

Žaltvykslė C-2, Pilies 11, tel. 268 71 73/+370 612 

918 17. Looks like it was decorated by a mediorce medieval 

court jester who, after having his way with the furniture and 

stripey wallpaper, escaped into the kitchen to create some 

comedy of the culinary kind. So, if your food tastes funny, 

you’ll know why. Best just for nibbles and drinking. QOpen 

11:00 - 24:00. 30Lt. JASW 

Quick & Easy 

Gusto blyninė C-5, Aušros Vartų 6, tel. 262 00 56, 

gusto@gusto.lt, www.gusto.lt. Crêpes, pancakes, 

blyninės, flapjacks, flour frisbees … whatever you choose to 

call them you can get your fill here. All manner of international 

and Lithuanian style pancakes are available here, as are a 

good range of soups and other simple meals. The food is 

decent, the service is fast, prices are miniscule and the 

place is always stuffed with people stuffing their faces. It’s 

exactly as the name promises - pancakes with gusto. Highly 

recommended for those on a backpacker budget. Also at 

Laisvės 77b, tel. 273 61 40. QOpen 09:00 - 22:00. 5Lt. 

JAS 

Ponių Laimė C-3, Stiklių 14/1, tel. 264 95 81. Full of 

tarts and fruitcakes. It’s a twee little spot for microwaved 

lunches, and an eye-popping array of cakes. A bit old fashioned, 

but it’s fast, the food is edible and it’s conveniently 

located on one of the loveliest intersections in old town. 

A quaintly pleasing experience. A good place to stash any 

old ladies that you may happen to have hobbling around. 

QOpen 09:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 20:00, Sun 11:00 

- 18:00. PJS 

Quirky Cool 

Blusynė C-4, Savičiaus 5, tel. 212 20 12, www.blusyne. 

lt. It’s the size of a biscuit and named after the owner’s 

dog, Flea. And it’s wonderful. Decoration is delightful, with 

sculptured swirls and glowing blobs on the walls, mirrors to 

make it look bigger than it is and iron cages to prevent you 

from nicking the wine. The small selection of food is not bad 

(although pricey), the wine list is comprehensive and it’s 

so cramped that someone’s going to end up humping your 

leg at the bar. The tucked-in bustle is aided by chatty and 

friendly staff, and overall, it’s just very, very cool. A good place 

for after-work drinks or a snack at anytime.QOpen 12:00 

- 24:00. PJASW 

Romanian 

Transylvania B-2, Totorių 22, tel./fax 262 23 01, pub@ 

transylvania.lt, www.transylvania.lt. Subtly rustic, very 

cosy, scattered with bits of wood and iron and, thankfully, 

completely devoid of vampire clichés. This is an authentic 

Romanian pub-cum-restaurant with things like stuffed aubergines 

and sour soups mixed into the menu alongside more 

basic favourites such as stewed or grilled meats. There are 

no Bloody Marys in the menu, but we’re sure they’ll bring you


N°4 - 400 lek 


TIRANA 

2006 - 2007 

restAurAnts 






Facade art 



BUCHAREST 

N°40 - 8.00 lei 



A New Look 




Blogging 

Bucharest 





N°34 - 5zł (w tym 7% VAT) 


ISSN 1641-5264 




WARSAW 


BELFAST 


Wilanów 


Versailles 

Out of town 


Nałęczów 

The Great 

Outdoors 







N°34 - 100 Kč 



N°60 - 1.20Ls 


PRAGUE 


RIGA 


Going to the 

chapel 


jewel 

Let’s rock 


Paradise 

Hockey Fever 








one if you ask nicely. The combination of good food, fair value 

and a jovial atmosphere has ensured success, but they’ve 

just added a second floor to accommodate the after-work 

crowds. QOpen 11:00 - 02:00, Thu 11:00 - 04:00, Fri, Sat 

11:00 - 05:00. JASW 

Spanish 

Barcelona G-2, Linkmenų 5/66-88, tel./fax 233 33 

37, tel. +370 639 333 33, restoranas@restoranasbarcelona.lt. 

A bit out of the way, but worth it if you have a 

hankering for tapas, sangria and - easily the highlight - paella. 

While there’s a bit of red and yellow splashed about, there isn’t 

a whole lot of Catalan or even Spanish atmosphere. There 

are no melting clocks and twisted chimneys and, alas, you’ll 

have to rely on your local taxi driver for high-speed gibberish 

and a Dali-style moustache. A cab to Barcelona will cost 

around 15Lt. QOpen 10:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 24:00. 

25Lt. PTAGSW 

Thai 

Thai Gourmet A-1, A.Vienuolio 4, tel. +370 700 555 

99, info@grandcasino.lt, www.grandcasino.lt. Sneak 

into this dark forest of shining tables, leaf-backed chairs and 

serene little Buddhas to enjoy some fine Thai cuisine. By 

Thai standards, the presentation and tastes here are very 

tame - not terribly colourful or spicy - but it still has a bit of 

zing and is probably spot on for local palates. Food from the 

neighbouring Japanese restaurant is also available. Prices are 

high and servings are small. Sadly, and is so often the case 

in Lithuania, this place is dragged down by a hilarious lack 

of decorum and professionalism. When we visited we dined 

to the sounds of someone tenderizing a filing cabinet in the 

kitchen. QOpen 12:00 - 24:00. 50Lt. PJAS 


COLOGNE 




River tours 


Rhine 

N°1 





N°23 - €1.75 


BERLIN 


Talking herring 

Museum night 


night 

Floating the 

boat 



HAMBURG 

N°1 




Harbour tours 






N°47 - 35kr 


TALLINN 

Touring Narva 




look 



Herring have a habit of turning up on many Lithuanian 

menus. They’re called silkė in the local lingo. But before 

you tuck in you should be aware of a couple of things: 

Baltic herring are both smaller and more polluted than 

Atlantic herring. Eat them no more than once a week. 

And, herring are the only creatures known to communicate 

by farting. 



N°41 - 5zł (w tym 7% VAT) 


ISSN 1508-2334 

KRAKÓW 


Tarnów 


Renaissance 

Leisure 


Vegetarian 

Balti Drambliai B-3, Vilniaus 41, tel. 262 08 75, www. 

baltidrambliai.lt. They’ve got a lovely courtyard, occasional 

live music, and a different concept of space and time. This may 

have something to do with the smell of burning weed wafting 

up from the allegedly non-smoking basement, and results in 

service being a bit wafty and etherial. But don’t stress - it’s, 

like, cool, you know. Meals are competent vegetarian, style 

is hippy-dippy, tie-dyed, dreadlocked and probably pierced 

somewhere unmentionable. Very laid back and languid, and 

therefore perfect for long lazy afternoons. QOpen 11:00 

- 24:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 24:00. 15Lt. JAESW 

Sulčius (Juice Bar) B-2, Totorių 15, tel. +370 603 

531 02, info@sulcius.lt, www.sulcius.lt. Taller than it is 

wide, and therefore suitable for skinny juice-sipping healthy 

people. It’s a tad hippyish and alternative, but not so much 

that normal people will feel out of place. Not only can you 

have juice, tea or coffee, but you can buy hessian capped 

jars of honey or jam, scribble your ode in the guest book, or 

buy ‘happiness’ vouchers for your friends. Actually, it is a bit 

hippy - but still very nice. QOpen 07:30 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 

- 18:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00. PJS 


BreAkFAst 

On such cold winter days, it’s important to get going in the 

morning (or early afternoon) with a good, hearty breakfast. If 

you’re staying in a fancy hotel, you can just head downstairs 

to the delights of the breakfast buffet. 

But hotels have a habit of taking breakfast away before you’re 

ready to eat it. They also have a habit of serving scrambled 

eggs that look like liposuction leftovers. And, besides, not 

everyone who visits Vilnius wants to stay in a hotel. So 

what do the rest of us do for a decent breakfast? Here’s 

our run-down of the places where you can get a half-decent 

breakfast in Vilnius. 

Dubliner 

Served from 11:00 till 18:00 daily. 

The ‘Irish’ breakfast is probably the closest thing you’ll get 

to a proper English breakfast here in Vilnius, but it’s rather 

expensive compared to other options and may not be large 

enough to satisfy a hangover-fuelled breakfast appetite. Or 

an American. The price of 21Lt includes toast, real bacon, a 

couple of eggs, beans, mushrooms, most of a tomato and 

two little sausages. And it’s all jolly tasty. However, in a crime 

against the cuppa, tea or coffee are not included in the price. 

We like Dubliner for its friendly service, but their prices are 

just not fair. If you don’t mind being ripped-off like a gormless 

tourist, this is the best breakfast in Vilnius. 

Cozy 

We only remembered to take a photo of this one after we had 

eaten it, so you don’t want to see that photo. Served from 

09:00 until 12:00 on weekdays, from 10:00 on weekends. 

The so-called English breakfast here isn’t much of an English 

breakfast at all. The snags are too thin and suspiciously continental 

– like a Frenchman’s moustache. The bacon just sort 

of isn’t – it’s something sooty and insipid, but it’s not bacon. 

There are no beans, the bread is lumpen and there are two 

mushroomy things that look like grandpa’s kneecaps. 

Basically, it’s all just a bit wrong. But, it is quite tasty, is 

great value at 12Lt including tea or coffee, and comes in 

an atmosphere that is stylish, comfortable, and tends to fill 

up with nice looking business types at midday. There’s also 

a French breakfast (boiled egg, cheese, olives, toast, rude 

service) for the same price, and both include tea or coffee. 

You can also fill up with pancakes, omelettes, various kinds 

of porridge or a nice, healthy fruit salad. The range and prices 

make Cozy our choice for a fair-value breakfast. Oh – and 

there’s even free WiFi and they have postcards that you can 

scribble on and send for free and ... and ... well, it’s just a 

lovely way to start the day. 


ŠMC 

Served from 11:00 on weekdays, from 12:00 on weekends. 

They do an enormous ‘English Breakfast’ until 12:30 for 15Lt 

(including tea or coffee), so it’s a bit of a brekkie bargain. 

Unfortunately, however, they just haven’t got much of a clue 

about what an English breakfast is supposed to be. What 

they make and what you want are not even on the same page. 

We’re talking different book. Different language. Scrambled 

understanding. You get toast without butter, weird thin squirty 

sausages (when you poke them with a fork they spit in your 

eye), some pieces of smoked cowboy boot leather pretending 

to be bacon and a gloopy pile of mushy beans. Oh – and just 

in case you happen to have brought a rabbit along, there’s 

lettuce. It’s hilariously muddled, but it is certainly generous 

and, if you’re prepared to sacrifice quality for the sake of 

quantity, unbeatable big value. A+ for effort. 

Skonis ir Kvapas 

We really like this cosy little café, but can’t really recommend 

it for breakfast. Their 10Lt ‘full breakfast’ is a fried egg, two 

skinless sausages that look like something deposited by a 

dog, and dry toast. (The menu claims that you get butter, 

but we didn’t.) There’s also fresh tomato and lettuce. The 

atmosphere here is lovely, the range of teas is awesome and 

we’d love to pop by for breakfast frequently, but the meal just 

isn’t appealing. Such a shame. 

Kalvarijų 1 

Served weekends only from 12:00 

It’s a bit of a hike, but once you get there you can design your 

own breakfast. Choose from bits and pieces such as toast, 

eggs (this way or that), bacon, beans and so on. There’s also 

more standard local offerings such as porridge (barley mush) 

and omelettes. Wrap-up warm, however, as the heating in 

this place is hopeless.

Café de Paris C-3, Didžioji 1, tel. 261 10 21, info@ 

cefedeparis.lt, www.cafedeparis.lt. Dogs like to bring their 

owners here. It was once only attractive in the same way that 

the inside of your nose is attractive to a fly, but now they’ve 

spruced it up a bit and you no longer need six legs to fit in. 

Most of the furniture is still vile and grubby - a naïve nod to 

‘authentique’ Paris, maybe - but it is still a cosy, cruizy and 

comfortable place for a sip or a nibble. Grilled sandwiches are 

good but crêpes are sometimes crinkly, cold and questionable. 

Keep this place in mind for laid-back, lazy and bad-hair 

days. Tip generously and, one day, they might be able to afford 

a cleaner. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Wed, Thu 11:00 - 02:00, 

Fri, Sat 11:00 - 04:00. JAESW 

Čili Kava C-3, Pilies 16, tel. 260 90 28, www.cili.lt. 

Get served at the counter and then rattle about with your 

cup of coffee on a plastic tray while you look for somewhere 

to sit. Quick, cheap and ... well, that’s it, really. Also at Ozo 

25 (Akropolis), tel. 238 79 27. Open 10:00-22:00. QOpen 

07:30 - 22:00, Fri 07:30 - 23:00, Sat 09:00 - 23:00, Sun 

09:00 - 21:00. PJASW 

Coffee Inn A-2, Vilniaus 17, tel. +370 655 777 62, 

hello@coffee-inn.lt. Coffee, cakes, sandwiches, wraps, cookies, 

muffins and juices - grab ‘em and go. The ideal place to 

stock up for an impromptu picnic in the park, at the desk or 

on the back seat of the trolleybus. Or, eat-in. It’s clean, comfortable 

and charmless. Also at Trakų 7-8, tel.+370 655 777 

63. Open 07:00-21:00, Sat 09:00-21:00, Sun 09:00-19:00. 

Pilies 10, tel. +370 655 777 64. Gedimino 9. QOpen 07:00 

- 21:00, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 21:00. PJSW 

Double Coffee A-1, Gedimino 26, tel. +370 656 771 

65, info@doublecoffee.lt, www.doublecoffee.lt. Double 

Coffee is to the Baltic States what Starbucks is to everywhere 

else. But without paper cups and with better coffee, tea, 

good (albeit overpriced) meals and all manner of alcoholic 

beverages. It’s hardly a cultural highlight, but it’s clean, smart 

and, in the case of the Pilies and Gedimino 26 locations, 

open all the time. Can be delightfully strange at 03:00 in the 

morning. Also at Pilies 34, tel. +370 652 376 34; Gedimino 5, 

tel. +370 656 778 61, open 07:00-24:00, Sat 09:00-24:00, 

Sun 09:00-22:00; Gedimino 50, tel. +370 655 478 73, open 

07:00 - 24:00, Sat 09:00-24:00, Sun 09:00-22:00. Q 24 

hrs. PJASW 

Kalvarijų 1 H-3, Kalvarijų 1, tel. +370 671 786 76/+370 

671 787 62, info@kalvariju1.lt. Looks like Liza Minnelli has 

bought a weird old castle in Lithuania and turned it into a café. 

There’s a black-and-red suave and sexy style to the place, a 

piano, a record player that plays real records made out of vinyl 

(remember those?) and a bookcase full of old Russian books 

left on the premises by the former owner. There’s lovely tea 

and coffee, and treats to eat. There’s one of those fridges with 

a glass door, but instead of being filled with fizzy drinks, it’s full 

of wine. It’s all a bit loopy, rather groovy, and well worth the trip 

over the bridge. QOpen 10:00 - 23:00. ASW 

Kavinė Be Pavadinimo B-2, Totorių 14/Odminių 15, 

tel. 262 11 55. We only list this place because it has a cool 

name. It’s the ‘Cafe Without a Name’. It’s also the cafe without 

fancy decor, high prices, English speaking staff or any other 

fancy nonsense. It’s cheap and a great place to stuff yourself 

silly with nameless... erm... stuff. QOpen 11:00 - 22:00, Sat, 

Sun 12:00 - 22:00. PJAUS 

Kristupo Kavinė C-3, Pilies 24, tel. 212 28 94, www. 

narutis.com. Walking in here is like being teleported to some 

quintessential English tea house in some charming little town 

like Tit-Bobble-Wobblington-On-Sea. Except they don’t serve 

CAFÉs 

scones. There are pink tablecloths, gasping flowers all over 

the place and sturdy nondescript wooden furniture. One 

imagines a hidden, sturdy matronly woman running the show 

- and doing a rather splendid job, thank you very much - while 

the staff that serve you are efficient and chipper. The menu 

ranges from safe and staid to mildly international. The food 

is fair but more filling than fine and, given the generous portions, 

not too outrageously priced. QOpen 08:00 - 23:00, 

Sat, Sun 09:00 - 23:00. 35Lt. PJASW 

Pilies Kepyklėlė C-3, Pilies 19, tel. 260 89 92. It’s all 

doilies and Royal Dalton in here, making it the ideal place to 

take your Mum, or other tea-sipping cake-scoffing old people. 

(Sorry, Mum.) Despite the antique atmosphere, and clientele, 

they’ve made it a bit more hip recently by chucking the Carpenters 

CDs in favour of some smooth lounge music, which 

seems to attract a mixture of families, tourists, romantic couples, 

and a stray white cat. Overall: a delightful and discreet 

discovery. QOpen 09:00 - 23:00. JAS 

Post Skriptum B-1, Gedimino 7, tel. 212 52 71. Despite 

having a cleavage-width street frontage, this comfy corner 

is quite big and often bustling. It’s hard to find a place at 

lunchtime when locals swarm in to gobble up cheap yet tasty 

meals. The food is a pinch above par for a quick-lunch café 

and is pretty good value. PS: It’s sort of tacked on to the end 

of the post office, which may explain the silly name. QOpen 

09:00 - 24:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 24:00. JAS 

Prie Angelo D-3, Užupio 9, tel. 215 37 90, angelosalia@ 

one.lt. It’s like a movie star who only looks good with stubble, 

a map stained with coffee to make it look ye olde, or 

something pretending to have been dug up from Pompeii. 

We suspect the place was decorated with not enough paint 

applied using a dead badger with a stick up its bottom. And 

it’s lovely. Really. Complimented with floral wrought iron fittings, 

comfy furniture, lovely homely food (including the ever 

popular pizza) and a location from which you can look up an 

angel’s skirt, it’s pretty much perfect. QOpen 09:00 - 23:00, 

Fri, Sat 09:00 - 24:00. PTJASW 

Skonis ir Kvapas B-3, Trakų 8, tel. 212 28 03. A 

captivating cul-de-sac retreat with stylishly scruffy arches, 

antique-looking furniture, Arabian-looking rugs and I-don’thave-to-try-to-be-trendy 

types trying to figure out how the tea 

pots work. Tea, coffee, cake and a chat are the highlights here. 

The food is also good, although offered in minuscule portions. 

QOpen 09:30 - 23:00. 15Lt. JAIS 

ŠMC (Contemporary Art Centre) C-4, Vokiečių 2, 

tel. 261 70 97. The tables are chipped and bashed, the 

people are shabby-cool and the service varies depending on 

which teenager is working today, what side of the bed they 

fell out of, whether their hair is cooperating, biorhythms and 

phases of the moon. Food is dirt-cheap but highly random, 

ranging from the best value in town to erratic and fizzing 

kitchen fallout. One of your personalities will like it.QOpen 

11:00 - 24:00, Fri 11:00 - 03:00, Sat 12:00 - 01:00, Sun 

12:00 - 24:00. JAW 

Šviežia Kava B-1, Gedimino 9 (inside the shopping centre), 

tel. 260 96 53. A few tabled tucked away at the back of 

the Vaga bookshop offer a great view of some rooftops, bits 

of the cathedral and the castle on the hill. They have a good 

range of tea, fresh juices, milk shakes and various coffees. 

They even have civet-dung coffee, made from beans that have 

passed through the digestive tract of a small cat-like mammal. 

It’ll cost you 12Lt for a cup of this poo brew, but normal 

coffee is more reasonably priced.QOpen 10:00 - 20:00, Sun 

11:00 - 18:00. PJA 


nightliFe 

Here are two amazing facts: budgies and gerbils can live 

without drinking; and, in Lithuania, beer is cheaper than 

water. As, presumably, you are not a budgie or a gerbil, and 

as you are in Lithuania, this means you’re probably going to 

be doing a bit of drinking. And we’re happy to recommend 

the places to do it. Our list of bars includes atmospheric 

drinking dens where you can sample the superb local beer, 

as well as schlick cocktail and wine bars. All of these places 

stay open until at least midnight. If you want to dance or just 

keep mingling all night long, see the list of Clubs, which tend 

to stay open until 05:00 or 06:00. 

Nightlife in Vilnius has always been reasonably safe, but 

things seem to be changing. We’ve seen a few fights and 

ugly incidents lately, all of them involving groups of drunk 

Lithuanian men. Of course, standard warnings also apply: 

don’t leave your valuables (handbag, mobile phone, partner) 

lying around, don’t bumble around in dark alleys and courtyards 

and please, don’t pee on the President’s palace. He’s 

a nice chap and he’s getting sick of it. 

Bars 

Absento Fėjos (Absinthe Fairies) C-5, Aušros Vartų 

11, tel./fax 261 92 61, tel. +370 699 787 77, info@ 

absentofejos.lt, www.absentofejos.lt. A despicable ‘face 

control’ door policy ensures that you probably won’t get in, so 

we suggest you don’t bother going at all. If you’re not a part 

of the pretty little clique you will be confronted with a ‘private 

party’ lie. Apparently, being human is not good enough for the 

vile, loathsome slime who run this place. If you are unlucky 

enough to get in, you’ll find some lovely and lively decoration 

and, we have to assume, more contemptible, dim-witted arrogance. 

Don’t waste your time. QOpen 18:00 - 03:00, Fri 18:00 

- 05:00, Sat 19:00 - 05:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JGBX 

All Stars Sports Bar G-2, Konstitucijos 26, tel. 263 66 

66/210 31 12, info@forumpalace.lt, www.forumpalace. 

lt. With more flat screen televisions than the average episode 

of CSI, sports fans are guaranteed great views of nearly every 

European sport from every possible angle. It is a real shame 

that they can not get the food right though. It does not take 

a rocket scientist to manage making great burgers, nachos 

and hot wings. Come for the beer and sports but leave the 

cooking to the professionals. QOpen Fri, Sat 21:00 - 05:00. 

Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun. PAL 

Artistai PUB C-4, Šv. Kazimiero 3, tel. 212 12 68, 

info@artistai.lt, www.artistai.lt. It’s snucked-away in a 

picturesque little side street swooned-over by arches. It hides 

a gorgeous courtyard and boasts artsy chairs decorated with 

the portrait of a moustached gentlemen who would like you to 

sit on his face. But, if it all sounds a bit frilly-cuffed and lar-didar, 

don’t worry. It’s not at all a place for art snobs. It attracts 

a fun-loving rabble who simply enjoy cheap beer and decent 

pub grub meals. QOpen 11:00 - 01:00, Wed 11:00 - 02:00, 

Thu 11:00 - 04:00, Fri 11:00 - 05:00, Sat 12:00 - 05:00, Sun 

12:00 - 24:00. 10-15Lt. JASW 

NEw 

Bar BOBO B-3, Trakų 15, tel. +370 677 773 35, bobo@ 

ring.lt A winebar called BOBO. What are we to make of 

that? Bourgeois bohemian? Seems to suit the customers. A 

double-dose of BO? We’ll sniff it in summer. Or maybe ‘bobo’ 

is just the most intelligent thing you can say after working 

your way through the wine selection? In any case this is a 

shoebox-sized beatnik hangout with slippery jazz swirling 

among shadows and tall, small tables. Ideal for scuse-me 

and squeeze-past mingling. It’s certainly unique in Vilnius and 

will probably attract a niche crowdlet. There isn’t room for 

anything more. QOpen 11:00 - 03:00. JASW 


Expat 

Dubliner B-3, Dominikonų 6, tel. 262 02 39/243 

08 07, info@dubliner.lt, www.dubliner.lt. As easy-going 

and comfy as your favourite jeans. More a restaurant 

than a pub, but still very suitable for a few drinks with 

friends. Forget the clichés of sticky carpet and belligerent 

barflies that populate your shadowy memories of typical 

Irish pubs. This place is much more bright and refined 

and also benefits from enthusiastic and smiley service. 

Attracts a good mix of expats and locals, with the expat 

appeal coming in the form of tasty meals and locals (both 

of which tend to be costly). QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Fri, 

Sat 11:00 - 02:00. JAUKW 

Būsi Trečias B-2, Totorių 18, tel. 231 26 98. The beer 

goggles come in lots of different flavours here, which is good 

because it attracts a somewhat assorted crowd. Once 

you’ve worked your way through the caramel, cherry, coconut, 

almond, strawberry and blackcurrant beers (there are more, 

but for some reason our notes got sloppy toward the end of 

that list) the place, and the people in it, will look fine. Until 

then it’s a bit plain, with a barn-like atmosphere, uncomfortable 

furniture and horrible toilets. Food is acceptable, and 

for easy-going and unfussy types (Australians, for example) 

this is a pleasant place to kick-off an evening of more wide 

ranging mayhem.QOpen 11:00 - 23:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 11:00 

- 02:00. PJAW 

Briusly (Bruce Lee) B-3, Šv. Ignoto 14, tel. 212 12 

15/+370 655 971 11, briusli.baras@gmail.com. Just like 

Bruce Lee, this bar exploded onto the scene out of nowhere, 

kicked ass and then stood around posing and making a lot of 

incomprehensible noise. Then it seemed to get a headache, 

have a nap and quietly die. The swishy move-like-water, 

talk-like-geyser crowd seem to have evaporated, leaving 

this place a bit more cool and quiet. It’s now ideal for normal 

people who just want to have a drink or ten, listen and be 

heard, and then move like warm Plasticine toward the door. 

Unlike its namesake, however, we wouldn’t be surprised if 

this one makes a come-back. Could be worth keeping an eye 

on.QOpen 12:00 - 02:00. JAW 

Café de Paris C-3, Didžioji 1, tel. 261 10 21, info@ 

cafedeparis.lt, www.cafedeparis.lt. This can be one of 

the most happening spilling-into-the-street parties in town. 

We just can’t work out why. The music achieves occasional 

heights of mediocrity, but the trying Lithuanian rap is clearly 

designed to send sane people running. The furniture is 

shabby-cool, the service isn’t and you’ll spend most of 

your time bumping into people whose clothes don’t seem 

to fit properly. If you don’t think about it too much you can 

have fun, but your evening will probably end with a ‘what the 

hell am I doing here?’ moment and a panicked departure. 

QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Wed, Thu 11:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 

11:00 - 04:00. JAW 

Cozy C-3, Dominikonų 10, tel. 261 11 37, fax 278 42 60, 

info@cozy.lt, www.cozy.lt. It certainly lives up to its name 

because it really is cozy and it really does have that sort of 

cool-casual style that makes you spell everything with a ‘z’. 

The brick-vault cellar has three rooms for eazy-going lounging 

about, and with a great bar and a DJ keeping the vibez 

gently kicking along, you can eazily slip into a pleasant and 

sort of relax-zing evening. As sexy as designer lingerie and 

as comfortable as Y-fronts. Slip in and have a look.QOpen 

Thu, Fri, Sat 21:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun. Free 

entrance. PJAW

Funky Munky Cocktail Bar A-2, Islandijos 4, tel. 

261 45 04, info@funkymunky.lt. This monkey bar opened 

recently and seemed to get off to a great start, attracting a 

funky kind of 20-something crowd. But, if things don’t go well, 

they could always run a hairdressing salon or sell cosmetics 

here during the day – the decoration would be spot on. It’s 

bright, fresh and stylish, but maybe a bit clinical. If the ‘Drinks 

to get drunk’ section of the menu doesn’t work for you, just 

whiz around on your swivel chair really really quickly. QOpen 

18:00 - 03:00, Fri, Sat 18:00 - 09:00. JAW 

Grand Pub A-1, A.Vienuolio 4, tel. +370 700 555 99, 

info@grandcasino.lt, www.grandcasino.lt. Ideal for upperclass 

louts. A suave-dark interior with plenty of gold picture 

frames around flat-screen televisions showing sports. Sit 

back in comfy leather, order a pint and watch the game or 

the waitresses in little maid costumes with knee-high socks. 

Food is mediocre but fine for a quick lunch or beer snacks. 

Too classy to be a pub and too tacky to be classy. QOpen 

12:00 - 24:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 06:00. PJA 

Champagne Bar A-1, A.Vienuolio 4, tel. +370 700 555 

99, info@grandcasino.lt, www.grandcasino.lt. A beautifully 

designed bar and nightclub where elegance, style, aesthetics, 

comfortable furniture and a dash of common sense have all 

come together to create a space that will appeal to sensible 

sophisticates. Unfortunately, there are no such people in Vilnius, 

so it’s always empty. It’s a great shame, because it truly is a 

top-notch club.QOpen 20:00 - 05:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, 

Sun. 30-50Lt. PJAL 

Ibish Lounge C-5, Aušros Vartų 11, tel. 260 90 65, 

info@ibishlounge.com, www.ibishlounge.com. What 

started out as pretty much just a restaurant that you could 

sort of hang around in after your meal has now become a 

respectable nightlife option, even if most of its business is 

probably spill-over from next door. The lounge-music policy 

oozes tunes that are smooth, groovy and as relaxed as a 

Barry White yawn. The cool-kitsch furniture and lighting that 

lazily cycles through pastel glows is all a bit lost in space, but 

the atmosphere is a nice change from the inside of a barn. 

They’re competent with cocktails and happy to provide the 

sort of easy-going and friendly service that will make you want 

to return. QOpen Mon, Thu 12:00 - 03:00, Tue, Wed, Sun 

12:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 05:00. JAW 

In Vino C-5, Aušros Vartų 7, tel. 212 12 10, invino@ 

invino.lt, www.invino.lt. While it did tend to get a bit elbows-in 

crowded in the cooler months, this corker of a place 

should benefit from its courtyard and slip into a very fun and 

lively summer. With crowds of postcards jammed into door 

frames, piles of corks (each with a story to tell, no doubt) and 

those glowing cliches of candles dribbling onto wax encrusted 

bottles, it’s all rather charming. Expect the sort of pleasantly 

refined crowd that think that ‘posh’ is a Spice and are as warm 

and affable as the surroundings. QOpen 16:00 - 02:00, Fri, 

Sat 16:00 - 04:00. JAE 

Mano Kavinė C-3, Bokšto 7, tel. 215 30 00, www. 

manokavine.lt. It’s all very student-caf out the front, with 

easy-going anything going down among cheap angular 

furniture, but it’s out the back that it really gets interesting. 

Here, you can sit in a corridor so narrow that you get to wipe 

your nose on the waitress’s bottom every time she walks 

past without even trying. Table football attracts blokes who 

otherwise sit about wondering why no one has invented a 

motorbike with breasts, and the place has a laidback atmosphere 

that attracts everyone except the cleaner. A great and 

mildly gritty option that has its own unique gravity. QOpen 

11:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 04:00. JARW 

nightliFe 

Mojito Naktys C-4, Didžioji 33/2, tel. +370 610 041 

31, info@mojitonaktys.lt, www.mojitonaktys.lt. At first 

glance it’s just a tunnel with a bar down one side - quite groovy 

and ideal for mingling. If things go well here, burrow a little 

further and you’ll discover a cluster of little dens scattered 

with plush bits that could oh-so-easily seduce you into a long 

evening of lounging around sipping expensive (but well made) 

cocktails and getting to know someone. They also spin vinyl 

from time to time and tempt slinky things to writhe and squirm 

about a bit, which is nice. Somehow it feels a bit underground- 

Vegas: a happy collision of grit and glitz, a little bit secret, 

but well worth dipping into from time to time. QOpen 19:00 

- 02:00, Fri, Sat 19:00 - 05:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J 

Paparazzi B-2, Totorių 3, tel. 212 01 35, www.paparazzi.lt. 

A spacious and modern venue that is popular with 

young professionals, and always alive with the motion blur 

of comings and goings and fluttering social cliques. This is a 

cocktail bar, however, and while the cocktails are occasionally 

a bit out of focus they never muck things up enough to spoil 

the scene. A great place to zoom to after work, after dinner, 

pre-club or (given that they’re open ‘till 06:00 on weekends) 

for an all-night time-lapse. QOpen 16:00 - 03:00, Fri, Sat 

16:00 - 06:00. PJA 

Pegasus C-3, Didžioji 11, tel. 260 94 30, info@restaurantpegasus.lt, 

www.restaurantpegasus.lt. Fancy-pants 

restaurant by day, and early-evening, this place slips into 

cocktail-bar mode as the desserts are being devoured. It’s 

as smooth, slick and... erm, tempting... as Anna Kournikova 

in a bath of Kahlua and cream. Expect a small but exclusive 

crowd - at least until word gets out. QOpen 11:30 - 24:00, 

Fri, Sat 11:30 - 02:00. PJAEW 


0 

nightliFe 

SkyBar H-2, Konstitucijos 20 (inside the Reval Hotel), 

tel. 231 48 23, www.sky-bar.lt. Ever wanted to pilot a flying 

eggcup and down a Kamikaze? Well, now you can do exactly 

that while also enjoying a wonderful view of Old Town and mixing 

with spiffing cabin crew types. The SkyBar offers elevated 

standards, stunning views and a nice range of cocktails and 

snacks. While it’s not cheap, the prices are not as high as one 

might imagine for such a sky high venue. A special smoking 

booth is provided so that you don’t have to run up and down 

the stairs to end up out of breath. QOpen 16:00 - 01:00, 

Fri, Sat 16:00 - 02:30. PAULEXW 

Sole Luna C-3, Universiteto 4, tel. 212 09 25, solelunabaras@yahoo.com. 

The transformation from a mixed-up bar, 

restaurant and café is pretty much complete. Now this place 

is totally focused on being a very cool little bar offering drinks 

with nuts, popping and fizzing with fun types and decorated 

with the sorts of bright colours that you normally have to poke 

yourself in the eye to see. Cheap, cheery and just over the 

road from the university, so it is not surprisingly rather popular 

with students. Actually, Erasmus students come here often 

for parties, and you’re welcome to join in. Erasmum offered 

advice to students such as: “Do not be afraid of vomiting if 

you must”. We we think that's kind of fitting.QOpen 17:00 

- 04:00. Closed Sun. JA 

The PUB B-3, Dominikonų 9, tel./fax 261 83 93, info@ 

pub.lt, www.pub.lt. For as long as they can manage to keep 

the canvas roof peeled back this will be the only indoor(ish) 

venue where you can smoke. This fact, combined with half 

decent pub grub food, seems to have afforded the place a 

resurgence in popularity. They do their best to scare foreigners 

away with bad local ‘singers’ lip-synching to a recording of 

cats being attacked with a dentists’ drill (we think that’s what 

it is) but it doesn’t help. It all ends up with jolly jostling and 

dancing and good times for all. Free entry is compensated 

for by overpriced beer. QOpen 11:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 

- 04:00. JAEW 

Transylvania B-2, Totorių 22, tel./fax 262 23 01, pub@ 

transylvania.lt, www.transylvania.lt. No – it’s not a den full 

of blood sucking vamps and fey-faced goths in ripped fishnets, 

spiked leather and black eyeliner. Even if they do come, they 

won’t stick around because this place is devoid of Dracula 

decoration and doom and gloom altogether. It’s too nice for 

goths. It’s actually a pleasant Romanian style pub, with a bit 

of a rustic feel (timber and iron), a lively bustling atmosphere, 

and pleasant food - including some Romanian themed dishes. 

Ideal for a drink or a snack, but the staff can get a bit flustered 

when dealing with meals and service suffers at busy times. 

Don’t plan a flying visit. QOpen 11:00 - 02:00, Thu 11:00 

- 04:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 05:00. JAW 


Casinos 

Casino Tornado H-3, Pamėnkalnio 38, tel. 264 46 16, 

fax 260 92 25, info@casinotornado.lt, www.casinotornado.lt. 

This place blew in to town out of nowhere. Our last 

visit found several empty poker tables and one crowded 

Blackjack table on offer. Q Open 24 hrs. PX 

City Casino C-4, Didžioji 28, tel. 261 04 11, www. 

citycasino.lt. A great location means you will be wagering the 

highest minimum bets in town but thankfully in litas and not 

euros. But then again with the crowds that frequent the sushi 

bar, steak house and Armani shop that share this building, 

it is almost a certainty that minimums are not a worry. They 

do have some of the best dealers in town and a good range 

of slots. Also at Sodų 14 (Panorama hotel), tel. 233 38 70. 

Q Open 24 hrs. PJXW 

Grand Casino World A-1, A.Vienuolio 4, tel. +370 700 

555 99, info@grandcasino.lt, www.grandcasino.lt. A 

gleaming complex of entertainment with roulette, blackjack, 

poker and various beeping and blinking buttoned bandits. The 

second floor boasts a swanky VIP hall with it’s own roulette and 

card tables. The entire complex has an ambiance of sophistication 

and luxury, and there are plenty of options (two restaurants, 

one pub and a wacky cocktail bar) for those who want to take 

a break from gambling. Q Open 24hrs. PJX 

Nautilus Casino A/B-1, Gedimino 16/10, tel. 249 99 

91/+370 699 913 56, fax 249 99 92, info@nautiluscasino.lt. 

Liquor in the front, poker in the back, and open all 

hours. Or something like that. It’s certainly a great location, 

and features card games, roulette and coin gobblers. could 

also be handy for anyone who needs to exchange money at 

03:00.Q Open 24 hrs. PJX 

Nesė B-1, Vilniaus 9, tel. +370 700 555 55, vilnius@ 

nese.lt, www.pramogubankas.lt. A murky gambling hall 

with two rooms of slot machines helping you to part with your 

coins. There is nothing truly exceptional happening here. Q 

Open 24hrs. PJXW 

Olympic Casino H-2, Konstitucijos 20 (Reval Hotel 

Lietuva), tel. 211 11 10, www.olympic-casino.com. In 

the basement of the Reval Hotel, the Olympic Casino would 

make a regular visitor to Vegas feel right at home. The décor 

is authentic gambler-art, shimmering with dreams of gold 

and wealth. The split-lever casino floor has a bar on the 

top overlooking the gambling areas. Loads of slot machines 

and tables to play at, plus currency exchange. The smaller 

Olympic casino on Gedimino, situated right next to the Grand 

Casino World, is typically packed with hardcore players. It is 

sometimes tough to find a spot to play here. Vokiečių location 

is purely slotty! Drop your coins into the automated wishing 

well, and well... wish for more coins. A fun, albeit, misplaced 

stop in Old Town. Also at Gedimino 21/2, tel. 260 82 58. 

Vokiečių 12, tel. 262 49 31. Konstitucijos 12, tel. 263 86 51. 

Ozo 25 (Akropolis), tel. 249 17 42. Ukmergės 222, tel. 245 

33 22. Q Open 24hrs. 

Pramogų Bankas A-2, Pamėnkalnio 7/8, tel. +370 

700 555 55, vilnius@nese.lt, www.pramogubankas. 

lt. A grand and glowing building from the outside and cunning 

conglomeration of bling-bling on the inside. There’s six 

roulette tables, 11 card tables, a wheel of fortune and all 

manner of electronic penny powered pandemonium and other 

fiscal fortune fun. It might have the subtlety of an explosion 

in a bauble factory, but it’s big, comfortable, professional 

and a comprehensive offering for both dabblers and serious 

gamblers alike. Q Open 24hrs. PJ

Pacha 

As we were going to press, the hot news in town was that 

Pacha was about to open in the ‘Gates of Vilnius’ complex 

(Gynėjų 14, G-3). The Pacha brand is hotter than Satan’s 

daughter’s naughty bits in many parts of the world, and 

we welcome them and wish them sizzling success in 

Vilnius. Check the Vilnius nightlife section on our website 

for a review and details after the opening. 

Clubs 

Brodvėjus B-4, Mėsinių 4, tel. 210 72 08, fax 278 

40 39, pub@brodvejus.lt, www.brodvejus.lt. This place 

has long been legendary for always being packed despite 

trying drive people away with the worst music in the world. 

To really drive the point home, they used to play Hit The 

Road, Jack about ten times every night. But it didn’t 

work. People stayed anyway. Now they’ve given up trying 

to inflict musical brain damage and have found a DJ with a 

pre-mixed CD that is bearable and occasionally enjoyable, 

ensuring this rip-roaring, butt-wiggling, arm-waving, beerswilling, 

meat-market, good-times joint has experienced a 

resurgence of unpretentious popularity. Unmissable. By the 

way, it’s located on ‘meat street’. Kinda fits.QOpen 12:00 

- 05:00, Mon, Sun 12:00 - 03:00, Tue 12:00 - 04:00. 5-20Lt. 

PJAEW 

Gravity G-3, J.Jasinskio 16, tel. 269 18 80, fax 269 18 

79, info@clubgravity.lt, www.clubgravity.lt. Grab your 

lollipops, boys and girls! It’s an old bomb shelter that’s been 

clubbed-out and is now full of thrills and pills. It’s one of the 

oldest clubs in Vilnius, and looks it. It’s like a 60’s kitchen 

with plenty of white bench space and a solidly tricked-up 

lighting and sound system. The DJs are among the best in 

Lithuania, and big-name international guest DJs also often 

feature. The crowd of young, fun-loving doof-doof devotees 

is often chemically enhanced, and we’re not just talking abot 

Botox. QOpen 22:00 - 05:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, 

Sun. 30Lt. AX 

Helios C-4, Didžioji 28, tel./fax 261 50 40, info@heliosclub.lt, 

www.heliosclub.lt. Orange people who spend 

more on haircuts than food seem to come here quite often. 

They look a bit scary under ultraviolet light - all you get to see 

is teeth and bra straps - but normal people also come here 

so you’re not going to feel too overrun by anorexic Ooompa 

Loompas. The design is game-show good (glowing floor, 

razzle-dazzle lighting, lots of electronic bling) and the music 

policy is tight, ensuring an interesting and entertaining night 

out. QOpen 22:00 - 05:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun. 

25Lt. PJAE 

L’amour C-4, Vokiečių 2, tel. +370 699 260 46, info@ 

lamourbar.lt, www.lamourbar.lt. Soaked in purple and pink 

light, slick with shiny black surfaces and peppered with gently 

glowing floral decorations. So it’s like the set for top-shelf seal 

porn. This polished pit of suave socialising certainly has one 

of the most stylish and chic interiors in town. There’s a good 

sized dance floor, a thumping sound system and plenty of 

areas for sitting, schmoozing, yelling and lip-reading. There’s 

often decent acts on offer, with appropriate entry fees, but 

entrance is free when the stage is empty. QOpen Wed 20:00 

- 02:00, Thu 19:00 - 03:00, Fri, Sat 19:00 - 05:00. Closed 

Mon, Tue, Sun. 25 Lt. PJE 

nightliFe 

Lithuanian Wild Club A-1, Gedimino 24, tel. 262 44 

73, info@wild.lt, www.wild.lt. Always improving and still 

full of boobs. It’s normally good fun and unpretentious, and 

even if you come on a night when it isn’t going off, you can 

watch dancing girls taking almost everything off. In case you 

want to dance yourself, the music is solid pop and there’s 

a decent sized dance floor. If all that’s not enough, sneak 

into the naughty room out the back, listed separately under 

Adult Entertainment. QOpen 21:00 - 06:00. 10-15Lt. 

PJA 

Milk Bar A-4, Pylimo 21b, milkbaras@gmail.com, www. 

myspace.com/milkbaras. It’s a bit Clockwork Orange, but 

not at all sinister. This madcap place is groovy in an alternative 

kind of way and should be a big hit with arty types who like 

lamps made from milk bottles, the rough-white interior, decent 

music and a good range of milky cocktails. We’re waiting for 

them to install a cow that dispenses drinks from it’s udder, 

but it’s early days yet. QOpen 22:30 - 06:00. Closed Mon, 

Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun. 10-30Lt. J 

Muilo Fabrikas (Soap Factory) I-4, Užupio 40, tel. 

+370 600 266 60, info@muilofabrikas.lt, www.muilofabrikas.lt. 

A kooky little cluster of boulder-walled caves with a 

bit of a theatre tucked away at the back. We got invited along 

to see a season opening at 20:00 on a Friday, but the show 

didn’t start till 22:00 and the place was empty, so we got 

bored and left. Not sure what we missed out on but it looks 

like a cabaret style place that would be suitable for mature 

crowd who are over pub crawling and club hopping and just 

want to settle in for dinner, show and dancing. QOpen 20:00 

- 04:00, Thu 20:00 - 24:00, Sun 16:00 - 24:00. Closed Mon, 

Tue, Wed. 15-100Lt. PAE 

Neringa Club H-3, Gedimino 23, tel. 261 40 58, info@ 

restoranasneringa.lt, www.restoranasneringa.lt. Here’s 

what would have happened if the British had colonised Russia. 

It’s a dim basement full of dark wood, faded refinement and 

timber shades. It’s popular with shady heavies and former 

floozies of a moderately mature vintage who think they’re well 

to do - a nice alternative to a sea of writhing giggly teens. 

QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Fri 11:00 - 03:00, Sat 13:00 - 03:00. 

Closed Sun. 10Lt. JA 

Pabo Latino A-4, Trakų 3/2, tel. 262 10 45, info@ 

pabolatino.lt, www.pabolatino.lt. Is it worth queueing 

up in the snow to get in? Is it worth the expensive entrance 

and drinks prices? Is it worth coming at all? Yes, yes and 

absaloutely. This is an outstanding nightclub with a carefully 

crafted atmosphere in which pretty much everyone 

will be seduced (or corrupted, depending on your point of 

view) into comfort. It’s like visiting a Colombian drug lord’s 

manor but without the guns or moustaches. Latino music 

dominates, obviously.QOpen 20:00 - 05:00, Wed 20:00 

- 01:00, Thu 20:00 - 03:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. 15-30Lt. 

PJAE 

PB Club A-2, Pamėnkalnio 7/8, tel. +370 700 555 55, 

www.pramogubankas.lt. A huge, dark space flashing and 

pulsing with lasers, lights, big screens and girls undressed to 

the nines. Such basic bling also attracts Baltic berks dressed 

to the fives in supermarket fashion, but that’s okay as they 

just make visiting foreign gentlemen in suits look better. It’s 

probably Vilnius’s most technically advanced club, with an 

excellent lighting and sound system, and also has a good 

layout with plenty of spaces for sitting, standing, dancing 

and secret snogging. QOpen Fri, Sat 21:00 - 06:00. Closed 

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun. 20Lt. PJE 


1

2 

nightliFe 

Prospekto PUB B-2, Gedimino 2, tel. 212 08 32, 

kukabara@bnk.lt, www.prospektopub.com. Looks like 

octopus juggling. A sea of swirling, sweaty naked limbs writhes 

to the rhythm of modern pop and the tide of moral-melting mayhem 

doesn’t even abate on Sundays. This is one of two prime 

spots in town for full-on action and unpretentious fun every night 

of the week. Watch out for cheeky bartender bottle tossers 

who are even better at slipping your change into their pockets 

than they are at juggling glassware. Despite the mean-spirited 

staff, the crowd is great and a great night here is pretty much 

guaranteed. Come along to meet a good time that’s been had 

by all. QOpen 11:00 - 05:00. 15-25Lt. PJAW 

Relax A-2, Pamėnkalnio 7/8, tel. +370 700 555 55, 

www.pramogubankas.lt. Modern and curvy orange furniture 

- and people - make you think you’re in an advertisement 

for Vitamin C supplements. It’s all fizzy and smiley and, quite 

frankly, a nice change in this timber town. Unfortunately the 

staff can’t hear or count and seem to have a habit of ‘misunderstanding’ 

drinks orders, usually only to their benefit, 

which adds a bitter aftertaste to an otherwise sweet place. 

QOpen 20:00 - 06:00. Closed Sun. 25Lt. PJ 

Trasa G-3, Gedimino 39, tel. 249 82 58, info@trasa. 

lt, www.trasa.lt. Some kind of a teenage party in a basement-garage 

kind of space that, quite frankly, we can’t get 

into because we’re, like, so old, you know. Besides, we don’t 

want to go there because, since smoking has been banned, it 

stinks too much of teenage BO. If you’re young and don’t mind 

the overpowering scent of unwashed skate rats and bouncing, 

ripe teenage girls, descend the stairs and breathe through 

your mouth. QOpen 19:00 - 03:00, Thu 19:00 - 04:00, Fri, 

Sat 19:00 - 05:00. 10Lt. PAEG 

Villa Latina C-4, Didžioji 28, tel. 261 19 96, info@villalatina.lt, 

www.villalatina.lt. A top spot for more mature 

cocktail sippers who may be over the nightclub scene, but 

would enjoy a classy atmosphere, bottle jugglers who whip 

up all sorts of fruity concoctions, and a bit of dancing. There’s 

even the adjacent (but, thankfully, quite discrete) Eden Club 

option for those who want a bit on the side - see our Adult 

Entertainment listing for more on that one. QOpen 21:00 

- 06:00. 10-20Lt. PJADW 

Woo B-2, Vilniaus 22, tel. 212 77 40, wooclub@yahoo. 

com. Woo-hoo! It’s the in-spot for the relaxed-fashion, cruizy 

crowd - you know, those who are following the trend of pretending 

to not follow any trends. DJ Adept (or someone) spins 

out pulsing house or garage or kennel music (or something - 

whatever it is, it’s not pop). The brushed-up-brick-bunker with 

edgy graphics is cool, but even with all those fans the air isn’t. 

It can get so hot and stinky in here that it would make Satan’s 

armpit look comfortable. Also, the service can be sloppy and 

we’ve found that they often run out of beer and basic cocktail 

ingredients, so you can’t get a drink at 02:30 in the morning. 

Still, it’s one of the most popular spots in town for the young 

and groovy crowd.QOpen 12:00 - 02:00, Fri 12:00 - 05:00, 

Sat 17:00 - 05:00. Closed Sun. 10-30Lt. PJKW 


Gay & Lesbian 

Men’s Factory G-4, Ševčenkos 16, tel. +370 699 850 

09, info@gayclub.lt, www.gayclub.lt. We’ll do things assabout 

in this review and start with the conclusion: It’s great, 

and you don’t have to be gay to go. There are phallic symbols 

popping up everywhere and busboys in sailor costumes prancing 

around, but essentially it’s edgy harmless fun going down in 

all directions. Music is more thumping techno than pop, suitable 

for rhythmic stomping/dancing. The interior is outstanding with 

a kind of dark industrial arachnoid theme that defies description 

and plenty of small rooms for… oh, look… we’re out of space. 

QOpen , Thu 22:00 - 04:00, Fri, Sat 22:00 - 07:00. Closed 

Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun. 20-40Lt. P 

Adult entertainment 

Cleopatra G-3, Gedimino 37, tel. 243 04 84/+370 686 

421 66, office@cleopatraclub.lt, www.cleopatraclub. 

lt. You know how Egyptians in pictures are always thin and 

svelte, somehow glistening, bathed in golden light, and wearing 

little skirts? Well, here they don’t bother too much with 

the skirts. Fortunately the only dogs you’ll find in here are 

the little statues on the side of the stage, and there’s plenty 

of Nefertiti on display . So, if you’re feeling a bit bored, or 

Bedouin, Cleopatra could offer the diversion you are looking 

for. QOpen 20:00 - 06:00. 80Lt. PA 

Dolls H-2, Konstitucijos 18, tel. 272 84 82. Simply 

Doll-icious! This is an absolute fantastic place to indulge in 

the truly titillating. Outstanding dancers, some of the best in 

town, are willing to wiggle and jiggle their scantily clad flesh 

before you, above you and possibly even beneath you for a 

price. Catch a free limousine ride to the club from the Old Town 

to visit the Barbie of your dreams. QOpen 21:00 - 06:00. 

Closed Sun. 80Lt. PA 

Eden Club H-2, Konstitucijos 12, tel. 275 14 20, edenclub@edenclub.lt, 

www.edenclub.lt. Wickedly fun lap 

dances and erotic enticement dominate this scene. Men find 

some of the friendlier, most conversational girls in town who lay 

it all out on the line, after a spin around the not-so-proverbial 

pole. Even though they promise the hottest ladies in the city, 

these folks will gladly cart you around town to their two other 

clubs if you are not completely aroused and you can enter on 

the same ticket. With nudity at these prices, they are practically 

giving it away. QOpen 20:00 - 06:00. 80Lt. PAW 

Eden Club Gold G-4, Vytenio 20a, tel. 233 53 84, edenclub@edenclub.lt, 

www.edenclub.lt. This virtual garden of 

go-go girls is still one of the most enticing and seductive in 

town. They have forgone the apple window dressing because, 

as we all well know, sex sells a heck of a lot better. Still more 

than a few of their eager patrons have longed to take a bite 

out what these ladies have to offer. Check out their website 

to get a better look at the goods. QOpen 21:00 - 06:00. 

Closed Sun. 80Lt. PADC 

Erotic Café C-4, Rūdninkų 14, tel. 212 13 49, oldtaun@ 

aiva.lt, www.eroticcafe.lt. If you hunger for something a 

little bit daring, your palate will be doused with excitement 

at this enticing little venue. Upstairs from the Old Town strip 

club, it offers topless waitresses, nude dances and sexually 

enhanced plates of food. It just might be the perfect place 

to head after clubbing. QOpen 17:00 - 24:00. Closed Sun. 

25Lt. PJAEW 


Exclusive A-4, Vingrių 25, tel. 261 76 73/+370 686 

756 45, viesulas@is.lt, www.exclusiveclub.lt. The expense-account 

strip club, featuring women doing their thing in 

a snug living room atmosphere and giving you enough contact 

to go home broke, frustrated, or most likely both. In case you 

never manage to glance above the girls’ waists, it’s critical 

that you know this classy joint is nestled away in a vaulted 

cellar. They have an intriguing menu offering a wide array of 

risky business. QOpen 21:00 - 06:00. 80Lt. PJA 

Lu Lu Show Girls G-2, Goštauto 12, tel. 262 00 29, 

lulu@ultragroup.lt, www.lu-lu.lt. After a brief stint in the 

Russian club Metelica, one can wander into Lu Lu’s lair for a 

pittance (20Lt). It is a devilish romp into a wicked world where 

the fulfilment of all your fantasies is just a few Litas away. 

Fairly easy to get comfortable here, as you sit on pillows with 

all the dangling overhead. Girls here are aggressive about 

drink buying and will wander off at the first sign of a bigger 

spender, so do not hesitate to buy if you are longing for some 

attention. QOpen 21:00 - 06:00, Thu 21:00 - 03:00. Closed 

Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun. 40Lt. A 

Medusa G-4, A.Vivulskio 3, tel. 243 02 01/+370 655 

221 50, fax 243 02 02, info@medusaclub.lt, www. 

medusaclub.lt. Being in here is like being inside a giant 

heart, and the constantly swirling flesh will certainly do pleasantly 

playful things to your pulse. It’s all very warm, red, and 

intimate. The dancers are skilful, enthusiastic and seem to 

be as interested as they are interesting. They apply only the 

gentlest of pressure to encourage you to open your wallet, 

possibly because they don’t have to - the soapy shower show 

will work well enough to whet your appetite for the range of 

‘extras’ on the menu and the benefits of tipping generously. 

QOpen 21:00 - 06:00. Closed Sun. 100Lt. PA 

Mirage H-2, Konstitucijos 12, tel. 273 94 66/+370 

620 105 38, fax 261 93 66, office@mirageclub.lt, www. 

mirageclub.lt. You have to see it to believe it. A spectacle of 

flesh beyond compare, and just out of reach, is promised each 

night the doors open. Expect to witness the most beautiful 

women in the Baltics leaving you to wonder whether they were 

real, or just a mirage. QOpen 21:00 - 06:00. 80Lt. PA 

Old Town Strip Club C-4, Rūdninkų 14, tel. 212 13 

49, www.oldtown.lt. Expect a thumbing, throbbing, erotically 

charged escapade. These ladies do not mess around when it’s 

show time. Well actually they mess around with a lot of toys. 

The hardcore Eros on display here is unparalleled in this city, 

but the very best part might just be the deliciously innocent 

waitresses who somehow manage to keep all their clothes on. 

QOpen 21:00 - 06:00. Closed Sun. 80Lt. PJAE 

Waterworld C-4, Didžioji 21, tel. 261 82 26, info@ 

waterworld.lt. Beware the tempestuous siren song that 

beckons from the watery world below. Ideally situated in the 

centre of Old Town, you would be hard-pressed to find sexier 

mermaids elsewhere. The tank show overflows with innuendo, 

splashing sexual energy to all that are man enough to answer 

the call. QOpen 21:00 - 05:00. 80Lt. PJA 

Wild Girls Show Club A-1, Gedimino 24, tel. 262 44 73, 

info@wild.lt, www.wild.lt. Tucked away at the back of the 

Lithuanian Wild Club is a modestly sized room with immodest 

girls doing immoral things around a spinning pole. There are 

plush carpet and plump cushions so you can lounge around 

enjoying the show and a hookah (and, yes, we did spell that 

correctly). Entrance cost and drink prices are reasonable, at 

least in comparison to other adult venues. An ideal entry into 

the adult scene for those who may not be frequent visitors. 

QOpen 21:00 - 06:00. Closed Mon. 30Lt. PJA 

Bowling & Billiards 

nightliFe 

Žirmūnų Boulingas J-2, Žirmūnų 68a, tel. 277 07 

60, info@boulingas.lt, www.boulingas.lt. Relatively 

cheap (thus the predominance of a local crowd), and a 

great night out for all. QOpen 12:00 - 02:00, Mon 14:00 

- 01:00, Sun 12:00 - 24:00. PA 

Apollo Bowling G -1 , Ozo 25 (Akropolis), 

tel. 238 77 77, www.apollo.lt. Shopping centre 

bowling. QOpen 10:00 - 02:00, Fri 10:00 - 

03:00, Sat 09:00 - 03:00, Sun 09:00 - 02:00. 

PA 

Barbacan Bowling D-4, Bokšto 19/ Šv. Kazimiero 

12, tel. 266 08 40, boulingas@centrokubas.lt, 

www.boulingas.barbacan.lt. Tiny, central and pricey. 

There’s also a pool table. QOpen 12:00 - 01:00. J 

Cosmic Bowling G-4, Vytenio 6/23, tel. 233 

99 09, info@bowling.lt, www.bowling.lt. Wonky 

lanes and pins on strings - like bowling at tampons. 

But cheap. Better lanes and equipment upstairs, where 

prices are also higher. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 

11:00 - 02:00. PA 

Free Ball (at VCUP) H-2, Konstitucijos 16, tel. 

273 05 91, freeball@biliardas.lt. Shopping centre 

bowling - strike 2. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Sun 12:00 

- 24:00. PA 

Karolinos Boulingas Sausio 13-osios 2 (Karolina 

Hotel), tel. 278 57 17, ramune@kegliai.lt, www. 

kegliai.lt. More bowling adventures a little way out 

of the centre but popular all the same. QOpen 14:00 

- 02:00, Mon, Tue 14:00 - 24:00, Sat 12:00 - 02:00, Sun 

12:00 - 24:00. A 

MV Boulingo Klubas G-3, J.Jasinskio 16, tel. 

249 66 00, www.boulingoklubas.lt. Complete with 

lithuanian dishes and beer, the six lanes squeezed 

next to each other allow for much drunken-bowling. 

QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 02:00. 

PA 

Po Ogmia I-1, Verkių 29, tel. 272 14 31, www.kegliai.lt. 

Bowling, billiards, bar and sauna. QOpen 12:00 

- 02:00, Mon, Tue, Sun 12:00 - 24:00. PALD 

Cosmic Bowling 


whAt to see 

Vilnius can and quite rightly does claim to contain the 

finest examples of baroque architecture north of Rome, 

and this alone is reason enough to visit. But if that isn’t 

enough, there are parks and there are rivers and there are 

museums that the best cities in Western Europe would 

sell their grandmothers for. Other surprises to be found 

and counted up its sleeves are a few remaining Soviet 

curiosities, a miracle or two, occasional naked monks and 

an angel on skates. 

Essential Vilnius 

Cathedral (Arkikatedra Bazilika) C-2, Katedros 1, 

tel. 261 11 27. Once the 

site of a pagan monument, 

the first Christian church was 

thought to have been built 

here in 1251 by Grand Duke 

Mindaugas. The current construction 

dates back as far 

as 1419, but has suffered 

several fires and has gone 

through major reconstructions 

and renovations. It was 

given a good spruce-up last 

year and hence still looks like 

a freshly scrubbed alter boy. 

Much of the current structure was erected between 1769 

and 1820 by the architect L.Gucevičius in the French-classicist 

style. The Cathedral was closed by the pesky Soviets 

in 1950 and used as a picture gallery. It was returned to 

the Catholic church in 1990. Highlights include its eleven 

chapels, in particular the High Baroque Chapel of St. Casimir, 

the patron saint of Lithuania. Built in 1636 to house the 


N°4 - 400 lek 


TIRANA 

2006 - 2007 


sarcophagus of the saint it is one of the national treasures 

of the country. The freestanding bell tower was donated six 

new bells in 2002, ‘baptised’ by cardinal Audrys Juozas Bačkis 

in a special ceremony before they were hung. Q Mass daily 

08:00, 18:00, 19:00, Sun 08:00, 09:00, 10:00, 11:15, 12:30, 

18:00, 19:00. J 

Gates of Dawn (Aušros Vartai) C-5, Aušros Vartų 

12, tel. 212 35 13. The 

16th century Gates of Dawn 

once formed par t of the 

town fortifications, being 

built into the original city 

wall. In 1671 Carmelites from 

neighbouring St. Theresa’s 

built a chapel in the gates 

to house a holy image of 

the Virgin Mary, reputed for 

miracle-working powers. The 

chapel’s interior was refurbished 

in the neo-classical 

style in 1829 and should 

not be missed. If you’re walking from Old Town, look for a 

door on the left and go up the stairs. Q Services 07:30 

(Latin), 09:00(Lithuanian), 10:00 (Polish), 17:30 (Polish), 18:30 

(Lithuanian), Sun 09 (Polish), 09:30 (Lithuanian), 17:30 (Polish), 

18:30 (Lithuanian). J 

Higher Castle Museum (Aukštutinės Pilies Muziejus) 

C-1, Castle Hill, Arsenalo 5, tel. 261 74 53. You no 

longer have to climb the cobbled, ankle-twisting hill to reach 

the iconic little castle tower - you can defy gravity with the 

funicular and save your energy for the 78 steps inside the 

tower itself. Dating from the 13th century the castle was 






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ISSN 1508-2334 

KRAKÓW 


Tarnów 


Renaissance 

Leisure 

Getting active in Kraków

ebuilt in 1419 by Grand Duke Vytautas following the great 

fire of Vilnius. In 1610 it 

was used as a prison for 

the ruling classes, and 

during the 1655-1661 

Russian occupation the 

towers and defensive 

walls were almost completely 

destroyed, with 

serious restoration work 

only beginning in 1930. 

Inside the tower itself 

find models of the castle 

as it was in the 14th 

and 18th centuries, plus 

other miscellaneous bits 

and pieces concerned with the building’s history and knights 

in dented armour. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. J 

KGB Museum (Genocido Aukų Muziejus) G-3, Aukų 

2a, tel. 249 62 64, muziejus@genocid.lt, www.genocid. 

lt/muziejus. There’s more cold, hard reality than some 

people can handle in this place. The former prison has been 

kept pretty much intact, and simple written explanations 

or audio guides allow the grim reality to speak for itself. 

In the vacuum of quiet left by whispering or silent visitors, 

imagination fills the atmosphere. You can explore cells in 

which prisoners were packed, a horrific “padded cell”, and 

chilling “water torture” cells. Aside from the prison itself, a 

glass floored former execution room reveals dug up remains 

of victims - truly sobering. Upstairs, in a more traditional and 

creative display area, exhibitions cover Soviet occupation, 

deportations, and the Partisans who fled to the forests and 

fought for Lithuanian independence. There’s even the sanity-baffling 

‘eavesdropping room’. Innovative presentations 

and explanations tell stories that make you shake your head 

slowly in disbelief. Outside the building, the names of victims 

have been carved into the stone walls. It’s not fun. It’s not 

supposed to be. It’s about understanding and respect, and 

will certainly leave an impact. Don’t underestimate it, and 

don’t miss it. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 - 15:00. 

Closed Mon. (Adults 4Lt, student 2Lt, children 1Lt. Guided 

tours 30-40Lt. Photo/video permit 4/10Lt.). 

Lower Castle Museum (Žemutinės Pilies Muziejus) 

C-2, Katedros 3a. The lower castle is the most 

active archaeological site in Lithuania and is what’s left of 

the elegant 16th century Royal Palace which was the main 

residence of Lithuania’s grand dukes for about 300 years, 

before it was destroyed in the 19th century. The talk of the 

town at the moment is the recent discovery of 62 silver 

coins, found buried two metres deep and dating back to 

1387-1400. Some have a picture of Jogaila’s head on them, 

the oldest Lithuanian coins discovered to bear the likeness 

of a ruler. (Tours only by appointment, tel. 261 40 63). 

J 

St. Anne’s Church (Šv Onos Bažnyčia) D-3, Maironio 

8. A much loved Vilnius landmark, and well deserving of the 

plethora of postcards and tourist guides (including this one, 

sometimes) that it fronts. While the first mention of a church 

in this location dates back to 1394, the current structure 

was designed by Benedikt Rejt from 1495-1500 (who also 

scribbled the plans for Vladislav Hall in the Prague Castle 

complex) and has survived pretty much intact. The beauty 

of the church speaks for itself, but one thing worth noting is 

that, unlike most churches, it is made with external bricks - 33 

different kinds, in fact - and therefore has an almost handmade 

intricate charm. Legend has it that upon seeing the delightful 

and dainty church, Napoleon wanted to take it back to Paris 

whAt to to see 

in the palm of his hand. But it didn’t fit and he couldn’t lift it 

anyway. The bell tower next to the church was built in 1873. 

Q Services: 17:30, Sun 09:00, 11:00. J 

Churches 

Bernardine Church (Bernardinų Bažnyčia) D-3, 

Maironio 8, tel. 260 92 92. Built at the end of 15th century 

in the Gothic style, and 

rebuilt after the devastating 

fires of 1560 and 1564, the 

monastery was closed after 

the Lithuanian-Polish uprising 

of 1863 upon suspicion of 

anti-tsarist sentiments. From 

1919 Polish officers occupied 

it, and during the Soviet era it 

housed the Vilnius Art Academy. 

The applied arts faculty 

allegedly used the organ pipes 

in their compositions during 

this time. Restoration work 

continues, but shouldn’t put visitors off coming to look. Find 

it tucked away directly behind St. Anne’s Church. Q Services 

Sun 09:00 (English), 10:30, 17:00 (Lithuanian); Mon, Tue, 

Thu 07:30 (Lithuanian); Fri 07:30 (Latin); Wed, Sat 18:00 

(Lithuanian). J 

Evangelical Lutheran Church (Evangelikų 

Liuteronų Bažnyčia) B-4, 

Vokiečių 20, tel. 212 37 

92. A Lutheran community is 

said to have existed in Vilnius 

since 1553. This little church, 

built in 1555 and set in a 

courtyard, combines Gothic 

and Baroque elements. The 

gorgeous rococo altar, built in 

1741 by Glaubitz, has at last 

been restored to its former 

beauty and simply shouldn’t 

be missed. Q Services Sun 

09:30 (English, Ecumenical Protestant), 11:00 (Lithuanian). 

J 

Franciscan Church (Pranciškonų) B-4, Trakų 9-1, 

tel. 261 42 42. It’s all a bit crumbly but this is one of the 

oldest buildings in Vilnius, 

dating from the mid 14th 

century. A wooden church 

and cemetery are believed 

to have existed even before 

that. The church you see now 

is primarily Gothic but picked 

up a few baroque elements in 

the late 18th century. In the 

19th century it was knocked 

about a bit as it was used 

as a granary and an archive. 

Now it is mid-restoration and 

quite a sight with its wooded 

benches, tatty old rugs, patched-up floor and piles of bricks 

waitng for something to happen. Oh yes, and a miracle-working 

statue of the Virgin Mary overlooking it all. The little yellow 

building in what used to be the graveyard at the corner of 

Trakų and Pranciškonų (it looks like a nice place for dogs or 

midgets to get married) was a mini mausoleum and chapel 

erected by, and for the family of, Mykolas Suzinas in 1708. 

Q Services: 17:30 (Lithuanian), 19:00 (Polish). Sun 10:00 

(Lithuanian), 11:30, 13:00 (Polish). J 


whAt to see 

Holy Trinity Church & Basilian Gate (Šv Trejybės 

Cerkvė ir Bazilijonų Vartai) C-5, Aušros Vartų 7, tel. 

212 25 78. A real treat, consisting of a church, monastery, 

belfry and beautiful rococo gate. The 17.9m-high, 10.8mwide 

gate was built in 1761 and designed by the architect 

Glaubitz. The church, which needs more than just a coat of 

fresh paint, was built in 1514 by order of Duke Ostrogiškis. The 

Gothic-style church and monastery belonged to the Uniate 

Basilian monks from the 17th to early 19th centuries. Today 

the ensemble houses the working monastery and functioning 

church of the Uniate Basilian monks. Q Mass Mon - Sat 

17:30, Sun 10:00, 13:00 (Ukrainian). J 

Church of St. George the Martyr B-1, K.Sirvydo 4. 

Build in 1506 for the Carmelite 

monks. Originally Gothic but 

it got a late Baroque and rococo 

spruce-up in 1750-1755. 

It faces the building occupied 

by the Lithuanian Writers’ Union 

and, perhaps ironically, isn’t 

used as a church at all, but 

rather as a book depositry. 

Maybe they’ll have a copy of The 

God Delusion on the shelves 

somewhere? J 

Church of St. Michael and St. Konstantine (Romanov 

Church) H-4, J.Basanavičiaus 27. You simply 

can’t miss this church. Its huge onion domes are painted a 

terrible shade of green, and no one can explain why. Was the 

paint a donation? The church was built in 1913 to celebrate 

the 300th anniversary of the Romanov Dynasty. 

Church of the Apparition of the Holy Mother of 

God (Znamenskaya) G-3, Vytauto 21/A.Mickevičiaus 

1, next to Žvėrynas bridge, tel. 275 13 75. Built in 1903 

with beautiful Byzantine cupolas, this is one of the cosiest 

Russian Orthodox churches in Vilnius. Among the numerous 

icons hanging on walls and pillars are potted plants making 

the place feel alive. Next to the icons are special prayers 

for each saint, but as everything in the church is written in 

Russian you will need a translator to fathom them out. Note: 

Mickevičiaus is an extention of Gedimino Prospektas. If you 

stand in the center of the Prospektas, you can see Vilnius 

Cathedral to the east and the Russian Orthodox church to 

the west. Coincidence? Q Services Sun 09:00. 

Church of the Holy Mother of God (Skaisčiausios 

Dievo Motinos Cerkvė) D-3, Maironio 14, tel. 215 37 

47. This Gothic-style church 

has gone through many incarnations 

since construction in 

the mid-14th century. Three 

major fires in 1610, 1716, and 

1748 were responsible for 

changes to its appearance. 

In 1808 the religious building 

became academic when Vilnius 

University took it over. The 

architect M. Schultz divided 

the building into two floors 

in 1810 and constructed a 

library, classrooms and dissection 

rooms for anatomy 

classes. In 1842 soldiers moved in as the church acted as a 

barracks. Over the years it has also been used as an archive, 

warehouse and even a smithery. Only in the 1860s did the 

building become a church again. Q Services: Sat 09:00, 

17:00, Sun 09:00. J 


Church of the Holy Spirit (Šventosios Dvasios 

Bažnyčia) B-3, Dominikonų 8, tel. 262 95 95. Built 

towards the end of the 14th 

century on the site of the first 

Gothic church in Vilnius, and 

reconstructed several times 

during the city’s turbulent 

history. In 1501 it was given 

to Dominican monks who 

built a monastery nearby. Its 

present appearance dates to 

the 18th century, when the 

interior was rebuilt after serious fire damage. The church, 

which remained open throughout the Soviet period, is the 

centre of the Catholic, Polish-speaking community in Vilnius. 

Q Services 07:00, 07:30, 15:00, 18:00, Sun 08:00, 09:00, 

10:30, 12:00, 13:30, 18:00 (Polish). J 

Kenessa G-3, Liubarto 6. The Karaite are the smallest religious 

community in Vilnius, 

with just 150 or so remaining 

members of a people who 

settled in Lithuania in the 

14th century after emigrating 

from the Ukraine. Their 

roots can be traced back 

to Mesopotamia (modern 

day Iraq), and they adhere to 

the Old Testament and the 

Decalogue, but don’t accept 

the Talmud. During the Soviet 

occupation this charming building (Kenessa translates loosely 

as temple), built in 1922 in a Moorish style, was closed and 

made into a warehouse. 

Orthodox Church of St. Paraskeva (Pyatnickaya) 

C-3, Didžioji 2. Originally constructed in 1345 the church 

was renovated in 1865. Peter the Great visited it in 1705 

and Alexander Pushkin’s great grandfather, Hannibal, was 

supposedly baptised here. The church was reportedly built 

on the site of a pagan sanctuary constructed in honour of 

Ragutis, the god of beer. J 

Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit (Stačiatikių 

Šv. Dvasios Cerkvė) C-5, Aušros Vartų 10, tel. 212 77 

65. Built in the 17th century on the site of converging trade 

routes and recently renovated, the icons and decorations 

are now brilliant. See the well-preserved bodies of the martyred 

Saints Anthony, Ivan and Eustachius, who are clothed 

in white during the Christmas period, black during Lent and 

red on all other occasions bar each June 26, when they are 

displayed naked. It is reported that on this day at this place 

a huge healing presence is felt. Q Services 08:00, 17:00, 

Sun 06:45, 10:00, 17:00. J 

Reformed Evangelical Church (Evangelikų 

Reformatų Bažnyčia) A-3, Pylimo 20, tel. 279 10 

52. This Reformist church, built 

between 1830 and 1835 on the 

site of an earlier wooden building, 

is one of the best examples of late 

Classical architecture in the country. 

The church was closed by the 

Soviets in 1953 and transformed 

into an exhibition hall. It later 

served as a cinema, and if you take 

a look inside you’ll see that the 

original cinema seats have been 

rather charmingly transformed 

into pews. Q Services in Lithuanian Sun 11:00. J

St. Casimir’s Church (Šv. Kazimiero Bažnyčia) C-4, 

Didžioji 34, tel. 212 17 15. Named after the patron saint of 

Lithuania, Prince Casimir Jagiellon, 

and founded in 1604 

by the Jesuits, St. Casimir’s 

is the oldest Baroque church 

in Vilnius. It’s long been a 

favourite subject of persecution 

and abuse, featuring 

among its many outrages 

Napoleon’s troops use of 

the building as a grain store 

in 1812, its conversion into 

the Orthodox Church of St. 

Nicholas by the Russians 

some 20 years later (the 

Russians then turned it into a cathedral in 1864, the same 

year they banned the Lithuanian language in the Latin script) 

to its temporary use as a Protestant temple by the occupying 

German army (1915-1917). Perhaps most shocking was 

the Soviet’s innovative application of the building, turning it 

as they did into a museum of atheism. Fear not however, for 

it’s once again in the safe hands of its rightful owners, and 

exquisitely beautiful both inside and out. Q Services 17:30, 

Sun 10:30, 12:00. J 

St. Catherine’s Church (Šv. Kotrynos Bažnyčia) 

B-3, Vilniaus 30. Art history types reckon this is one of 

the finest examples of Vilnius 

baroque architecture - and with 

its slim twin towers managing 

to jostle into so many views of 

Old Town like an overzealous 

auntie in a holiday snap, it’s 

certainly one of the most outstanding. 

The church started 

as a small brick affair in 1618, 

but took on something more 

like its present appearance after 

reconstruction from 1741- 

73 (architect Jan Krzysztof 

Glaubitz). It also had to be 

renovated after being damaged 

in World War II. The interior is breathtaking and intricate 

but, like grandpa’s freshly polished war medals, lacks the 

time-forged character that a few cracks and dents might offer. 

Inside and out, it’s like a freshly decorated cake. Recently it 

has become a popular venue for various concerts, performances 

and even a fashion parade. Heavens above! J 

St. Michael’s Church (Šv. Mykolo Bažnyčia) D-3, 

A.Volano 13/Šv. Mykolo 9, tel. 261 64 09. Built between 

1594 and 1627 in the style of 

the Lublin Renaissance, St. 

Michael’s was commissioned 

as a family mausoleum by Leonas 

Sapiega, Chancellor and 

Grand Hetman of Lithuania. 

The church currently houses 

the small Museum of Architecture. 

To the right of the altar 

is the funerary monument of 

Sapiega and his two wives. 

Note the extraordinary rosette 

ceiling, the finest example of its 

kind in the country. Currently 

being renovated, and may not 

always be open during the 

hours shown here. QOpen 

11:00 - 18:00, Mon 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Tue. J 

whAt to see 

Sightseeing tours 

Astrida G-3, J.Tumo Vaižganto 5, tel. 212 27 

90/261 44 59, fax 212 35 06, incoming@astrida. 

lt, www.astrida.lt. QOpen 08:30 - 18:00, Fri 08:30 

- 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Baltic Travel Service Lufthansa City Center 

C-4, Subačiaus 2, tel. 1593/212 02 20, fax 212 21 

96, lcc@bts.lt, www.bts.lt. Exciting sigthseeing tours 

in Lithuania with professional guides. QOpen 08:00 

- 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. J 

BTI West Express Lietuva A-1, A.Stulginskio 

5, tel. 1312/212 25 00, fax 212 53 21, office@ 

westexpress.lt, www.westexpress.lt. QOpen 

08:00 - 19:00, Sat 09:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. 

J 

In Via G-4, M.K.Čiurlionio 7/1-1, tel. 231 00 49, fax 

231 09 37, tours@invia.lt, www.invia.lt. Sightseeing 

tours in Vilnius Old Town Trakai, around Lithuania and 

the Baltics(English, German, Russian). QOpen 09:00 


Lithuanian Holidays H-1, Šeimyniškių 1a, tel. 263 

60 64, fax 272 68 64, travel@lithuanianholidays.lt, 

www.lithuanianholidays.lt. Jewish and other Vilnius 

tours. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Vilnius City Tour C-5, Aušros Vartų 7, tel./fax 261 

55 58, tel. +370 699 540 64, info@vilniuscitytour. 

com, www.vilniuscitytour.com. Two and half hour 

English-language guided tours start at Arkikatedros 

aikštė daily at 10:00, 13:00 and 15:00 and cost 65Lt. 

Also bus tours to Trakai daily at 11:00 (89Lt). QOpen 

09:30 - 17:30, Sat, Sun 09:30 - 15:00. J 


whAt to see 

St. Nicolas’ Church (Šv. Mikalojaus Cerkvė) C-4, 

Didžioji 12, tel. 261 85 59. This small church is currently 

being restored, with scaffolding covering one of its walls, but 

remains operational. Originally a Gothic construction it passed 

into the hands of Uniates (Greek Catholics), before being rebuilt 

after a fire in 1814 in Baroque style. In 1865 it was rebuilt, 

again, to coply with a Russification program being carried out 

at the time. Q Services Thu, Sat 17:00, Sun 09:00. J 

St. Nicholas’ Church (Šv. Mikalojaus Bažnyčia) 

B-4, Šv.Mikalojaus 4, tel. 262 30 69. The oldest church 

in Lithuania, and the oldest still standing Gothic building in 

the city, St. Nicholas’ Church was built in 1320 by German 

merchants before Lithuania’s conversion to Christianity. 

During the Polish occupation of Vilnius (1920-1939) this was 

the only church in the city where Lithuanians were allowed 

to attend Mass. Q Services 07:30, 18:00, Sat 09:00, Sun 

08:00, 10:00, 14:00. J 

Sts. Johns’ Church (Šv. Jonų Bažnyčia) C-3, Šv. 

Jono 12, tel. 268 71 55. Construction of this Gothic church 

began in 1387 soon after 

Lithuania’s conversion to 

Christianity. Zygmunt August 

gave it to the Jesuits in 

1571 but it was transferred 

to the University following 

the abolition of the Jesuit 

Order in 1773, at which time 

it boasted no fewer than 

22 separate altars. The 

present church dates from 

the various restoration works carried out after the great 

fires of 1737, 1741 and 1748. Q Services Mon-Thu 17:30, 

Sun 11:00, 13:00. J 

Sts. Peter & Paul’s Church (Šv. Apaštalų Petro ir 

Povilo Bažnyčia) J-2, Antakalnio 1, tel. 234 02 29. Sts. 

Peter and Paul’s was commissioned in 1668 by Michael Casimir 

Pac, Grand Hetman of the Lithuanian armies. His tombstone, 

inscribed hic iacet peccator 

(here lies the sinner) is embedded 

in the wall to the right 

of the entrance (Pac died in 

1682, before the church was 

fully completed). Despite 

a rather plain facade, the 

Baroque interior is breathtakingly 

beautiful. Over 2,000 

stuccoed figures crowd the 

vaults, representing miscellaneous 

mythological, 

biblical and battle scenes. 

Of particular note is the extraordinary, 

huge chandelier made from brass and glass beads 

and fashioned in the shape of a ship, made in Latvia in 1905. 

Q Services 07:00, 07:30, 18:00, Sun 10:00, 11:30,18:00 

(Lithuanian); 17:00, Sun 09:00, 13:00, 17:00 (Polish). 

Museums 

Amber Museum-Gallery (Gintaro Muziejus- 

Galerija) C-3, Šv.Mykolo 8, tel./fax 262 30 92, info@ 

ambergallery.lt, www.ambergallery.lt. Although not 

officially a museum this two-storey ode to amber offers 

explanations in English, German and Lithuanian about the 

formation, colour, harvesting and processing of Baltic Gold. 

Follow amber’s history through a series of ancient rooms in 

the cellar. Amber polishing demos available upon request. 

QOpen 10:00 - 19:00. J 


Applied Art Museum (Taikomosios Dailės Muziejus) 

D-1, Arsenalo 3a, tel. 262 80 80/212 18 13, 

http://ldmuziejus.mch.mii.lt. Once upon a time there was 

a Royal Palace in Vilnius. Like many a palace it was eventually 

leveled and looted throughout several wars. Unlike most 

castles, this one is being reconstructed to once again appear 

as it old self (see a huge construction site next to Cathedral). 

Remnants of the original, however, can be found here in old 

arsenal building in this exhibit titled “Artifacts from the Royal 

Palace of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.” The most notable 

remaining pieces are tile frames from the ancient palace 

stoves and a chess set dating back to the 16th century. 

The upper floor religious display is fairly stoic, but has an 

impressive collection of stations of the cross. Do not even 

think about bringing photo apparatus into this museum. 

QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Sun 11:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon. 

J 

Artillery Bastion (Bastėja) D-4, Bokšto 20/18, tel. 

261 21 49, www.lnm.lt. Built in the 17th century for defence 

against the Swedes and Russians, the bastion is an Italianate 

defence system. It decayed dramatically during the 18th century, 

and in the 19th century was used as an orphanage, and 

later as a rubbish dump, which forced the ceiling to collapse 

in 1828. It was also the alleged home of one Vilnius Basilisk, 

a creature who would from time to time step outside and turn 

people to stone with his gaze, and when the Soviets were 

in town they favoured it as a place to store vegetables. The 

long, stonewalled stairway leads down to the fortifications, 

where you’ll find medieval armour and cannons. The Artillery 

Bastion also generates the best echoes in the city. QOpen 


Kazys Varnelis Museum C-4, Didžioji 26, tel. 279 

16 44, k.varnelio.muziejus@lnm.lt, www.lnm.lt. Kazys 

Varnelis escaped Lithuania in 1949 and earned moderate 

fame and fortune in America by creating the sorts of dizzyingpattern 

paintings that inspired wallpaper that people are still 

trying to remove from 70s style flats. He is not only an artist, 

but an avid art collector, and when he returned to Lithuania in 

1998, he brought his immense collection with him, which can 

now be seen in this mind boggling museum. It’s impossible 

to even suggest the vast range of stuff tucked away in this 

nondescript looking building. You have to see it to believe 

it. Appointments necessary, and well worthwhile. QOpen 


Lithuanian Energy Museum H-3, Rinktinės 2, tel. 278 

20 85, www.muziejai.lt. Illuminating facts about the power 

of energy are found here. Get 

a closer look at some tools 

that drove Lithuania’s energy 

needs since the early 1900s. 

The old Vilnius Central Power 

plant turned museum houses 

turbo generators, steam boilers 

and control room designs 

that came from places from 

St. Petersburg to Switzerland. 

Here you can witness the 

historical chronology of the 

Eastern European energy 

evolution all the way up to the scale model of the Ignalina 

Nuclear power plant. Far from a shocking experience, most 

will get a charge out of it. Call in advance. QOpen 10:00 


Lithuanian Railway Museum (Lietuvos Geležinkelių 

muziejus) A-6, Mindaugo 15, tel. 269 37 41, muziejus@ 

litrail.lt, www.litrail.lt. Well tap my wheels and call me

Thomas, this dinky little museum even has a train set. All 

aboard for a brief history of the Lithuanian railway system, 

complete with photos, diagrams, uniforms, signal lights, old 

tickets, stamps, pins, etc. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed 

Mon, Sun. J 

Mickevičius’ Memorial Apartment-Museum 

(Mickevičiaus Memorialinis Butas-Muziejus) D-3, 

Bernardinų 11, tel. 279 18 

79, www.mb.vu.lt. Located 

in the house in which the 

romantic poet Mickevičius 

lived in 1822, the exhibits in 

this museum, which dates 

from the 19th century, trace 

his life and creative development. 

Although writing only in 

Polish, Mickevičius authored 

Poland’s greatest national 

epic, Pan Thaddeus, which 

opens, ‘Lithuania! My Fatherland! You are health, only he who 

has lost you can know how much you are cherished.’ Such is 

the complicated history of this part of the world. To arrange 

a visit call +370 680 949 82. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, 

Sun 10:00 - 14:00. Closed Mon. J 

M. K. Čiurlionis’ House (M. K. Čiurlionio Namai) 

C-4, Savičiaus 11, tel. 262 24 51. Although more famous 

for his art (some even claim that Polish-speaking Čiurlionis 

was the originator of abstract art), Mikalojus Konstantinas 

Čiurlionis (1875-1911) also has quite a reputation as a 

composer. This is the house in which the great man lived 

for a short time, and the grand piano on which he allegedly 

wrote some of his most famous pieces can be found inside. 

The occasional concert is also held here from time to time. 

Entrance is through the side door. QOpen 10:00 - 16:00. 

Closed Sat, Sun. J 

National Museum (Lietuvos Nacionalinis Muziejus) 

C-1, Arsenalo 1, tel. 262 94 26, www.lnm.lt. The 

museum houses an extensive ethnographic collection with 

exhibits illustrating the history of the people of Lithuania 

from the 13th century to the present. Sure, the sleigh which 

looks like a big elfin slipper will instantly impress, as will the 

18th century toilet and the recreated rooms of Lithuanian 

village life; but it’s when you pay attention to the details of 

the recent additions that this place really impresses. Small 

flecks of silver, for instance, are some of the earliest Lithuanian 

coins, found in 2002 at the site of the Lower Castle. 

Then there are those scraps of fabric, found among remains 

of Napoleon’s soldiers recovered in the same year. Vilnius 

is still unearthing history, and this is the place to see it. 

QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 - 15:00. Closed Mon, Tue. 

J 

Planetarium (Planetariumas) H-2, Konstitucijos 12a, 

tel. 272 41 48, fax 272 41 77, www.astro.lt. A grand 

museum for stargazers of every persuasion. Excursions (in 

Lithuanian) take place at 14:00. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Fri 

09:00 - 15:45, Sat 12:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. 

Pushkin Memorial Museum (Puškino Memorialinis 

Muziejus) K-4, Subačiaus 124, tel. 260 00 80. Alexander 

Pushkin’s son, Grigorij, and his wife, Varvara, lived in this wooden 

house on their Markučiai estate from 1899 until their deaths in 

1905 and 1935. The museum, founded in 1940 and opened in 

1948, displays their furniture as well as a literary exhibit of the 

great Russian poet’s works in Lithuania. The extensive grounds 

are a popular destination for family picnics during the summer. 

QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue. 

whAt to see 

Radvilos Palace (Radvilos Rūmai) B-2, Vilniaus 22, 

tel. 262 09 81, www.ldm.lt. Housed in the former palace of 

the noble Radvila family, whose 165 portraits are on display 

in one of the halls. Other exhibits include foreign fine art from 

the 16th century to the present day. QOpen 12:00 - 18:00, 

Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. J 

Signatory’s House (Signatarų Namai) C-3, Pilies 26, 

tel. 231 44 42, www.muziejai.lt. Here the Lietuvos Taryba 

(Lithuanian Council) declared Lithuania’s independence in 

1918. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J 

Television Tower (Televizijos Bokštas) Sausio 13osios 

10, tel. 252 53 33, www.lrtc.net. On January 13, 

1991 Soviet tanks surrounded the Television Tower in an 

assault that killed 13 unarmed civilians. Around the tower are 

some beautiful and moving monuments, including eerie black 

and white photographs of those killed. You will also find a small 

photographic exhibition on the ground floor. On a clear day, 

the tower, which is the tallest building in Lithuania (326m) and 

taller than the Eiffel Tower (324m), offers a panoramic view of 

Vilnius. Entrance to the top is a cheeky 21Lt for adults, 9Lt for 

children. Take trolleybus No. 1 from the Trakų stop on Pylimo 

(A-4) and get off at Kometa, the 11th stop and walk toward 

the big pointy thing. QOpen 10:00 - 21:00. 

Theatre, Music & Film Museum (Lietuvos Teatro, 

Muzikos, Kino Muziejus) B-3, Vilniaus 41, tel./fax 

262 24 06, ltmkm@takas.lt, http://teatras.mch.mii.lt. 

Two floors of changing exhibits taken from a vast archive of 

over 250,000 pieces (they also have a library of some 30,000 

books), the biggest news is the recent acquisition of a genuine 

Čiurlionis in the form of a freshly restored theatrical backdrop. 

Charting the history of the three arts in question, find a 

fascinating collection of theatrical detritus from costumes to 

programmes to some rather startling set design models. The 

music section includes some great old harmoniums, Pianolas 

and working 19th century musical boxes. QOpen 12:00 

- 18:00, Sat 11:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J 

Vilna Gaon Jewish State Museum of Lithuania A- 

2, Pylimo 4 (2nd floor), tel. 262 96 66, fax 261 19 46, 

jewishmuseum@jmuseum.w3.lt, www.jmuseum.lt. A 

permanent exhibition also housing a Jewish library. Tel. 261 

31 28. QOpen 10:00 - 14:00. Closed Fri, Sat. J 

Vilnius Picture Gallery (Vilniaus Paveikslų 

Galerija) C-3, Didžioji 4, tel./fax 212 08 41, tel. 212 

42 58, galerija@ldm.lt, www.ldm.lt. The Chodkevičiai 

family’s palace, built from the early 17th to the mid-19th 

century, was transformed into a museum in 1994. It houses 

a collection of Lithuanian paintings, drawings and sculptures 

from the 16th-19th century. QOpen 12:00 - 18:00, Sun 

12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. J 

Vilnius University Science Museum (Vilniaus 

Universiteto Mokslo Muziejus) C-3, Šv. Jono 12 

(Sts. Johns’ Church), tel. 

268 71 54. During the period 

of Lithuania’s Soviet occupation 

this church, dedicated to 

two St. Johns, was converted 

into a Museum of Scientific 

Thought. Although the church 

is now primarily a place of worship, 

it still houses a collection 

of about 50 old books, some of 

which date back as far as the 

14th century. QOpen 10:00 



0 

whAt to see 

Out of town 

Dennis Oppenheim 

Drinking Structure with Exposed Kidney Pool 

Europos Parkas (Open Air Museum near the 

Centre of Europe) Off the Verkiai road, 10 km 

north of Vilnius, tel./fax 237 70 77, hq@europosparkas.lt, 

www.europosparkas.lt. A diverse group 

of international artists have come to this 55ha sculpture 

park to express their own unique visions of the centre 

of Europe, which, according to the French National Geographic 

Institute, lays some 14km to the north of the 

place. Home to over 90 permanent sculptures by such 

global celebrities as Magdalena Abakanowicz, Dennis 

Oppenheim and Sol Le-Witt, everything is exhibited 

amidst a charming, some would say idyllic area of woodland. 

The year 2002 saw the park making it into the Guinness 

Book of Records as containing the largest sculpture 

in the world made from television sets (about 3,000, and 

including as its centrepiece a rapidly decaying concrete 

Lenin), the maze-like ‘Info Tree’ by Lithuanian visionary 

sculptor and founder of the park Gintaras Karosas. Here 

Karosas has found the perfect ‘place’ to construct his 

landscape artwork aptly labelled “The Place”. Picture a 

pond, some boulders and four giant rusted steel poles in 

the midst of a plush green forest and you, basically, get 

the picture. The park also recently unveiled the playful 

sculpture of Mindaugas Tendziagolskis titled “Mobile 

Games”. The piece incorporates art and ancient Lithuanian 

games and is meant not to just be viewed, but also 

played. See their excellent website for more information. 

Getting there by car Take Kalvarijų to the Santariškės 

roundabout, turn right towards the Green Lakes (Žalieji 

Ežerai) and follow the signs. By bus Follow Kalvarijų north 

on trolleybus N°10 to the Žalgirio stop and transfer to a 

bus marked Skirgiškės, which will take you to the park 

itself, or N°36 to the end of the line. It’s then a further 

3km walk to the park. Ask the bus driver which way to 

go. Q Open 09:00 to sunset. 


Places of interest 

Hill of Three Crosses I-3. Legend has it that long ago 

seven Franciscan monks were 

crucified here. Originally erected 

in the 17th century, Stalin had 

the crosses removed and buried, 

and only in 1989 were they rebuilt 

according to the original plans. 

The crosses are a great symbol 

of both Lithuanian mourning and 

hope. An excellent view of Old 

Town is also to be found at this spot. 

Presidential Palace C-2, S.Daukanto aikštė 3/8, tel. 

266 41 54. The first illustrious man to sleep here was the 

Bishop for whom the palace was built in the 14th century. On 

different occasions during the year 1812 two famous guests, 

Tsar Alexander I and Napoleon Bonaparte both laid their 

heads down to rest here. During its history it has housed 

the Artists’ Palace (during the Soviet occupation) and, for a 

while after 1991, the French embassy. Today after a massive 

renovation, the late Classical-style building houses the offices 

of the President of Lithuania. J 

The Centre of Europe Lithuania has the proud and 

noble distinction of being the smack-dab centre of Europe... 

somewhere. A sizeable monument 

(designed by G. Jokūbonis) 

topped with golden stars and a 

mini-amphitheatre was finalised 

in the Centre of Europe. The 

French National Geographic 

Institute places the centre of 

Europe at 54° 51(54)’ North 

latitude, 25° 19’ East longitude. 

In case you do not have a GPS satellite handy, head on your 

way to Molėtai and wait for the signs for Europos Centras. 

But now it seems that those diligent French geographers are 

waffling on their earlier precision and it might happen that the 

very centre is not under the column, and indeed not under the 

rock, but some 6-7 kilometres closer to Vilnius, on the other 

side of the road. So if you do have a GPS and are truly interested 

in this kind of stuff, why not be safe and try navigating 

to 54 degrees 50 minutes 45 seconds North latitude and 25 

degrees 18 minutes 23 seconds East longitude. 

Town Hall (Rotušė) C-4, Didžioji 31, tel. 261 80 07, fax 

261 06 17, vrotuse@centras.lt, www.vilniausrotuse.lt. 

First mentioned in 1503, the Town Hall most likely dates from 

the 15th century, while the present Classical structure was 

built at the end of the 18th century. In 1810 the governor general 

ordered that the Town Hall housed a theatre, which gave 

performances on and off until 1924. Since then its interior has 

been a museum. Until the reestablishment of independence 

in 1991, it served as the Lithuanian Art Museum. Today it’s 

the Artists’ Palace where you can see gallery art. QOpen 

08:00 - 18:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

Vilnius University (Vilniaus Universitetas) C-2/3, 

Universiteto 3, tel. 268 70 01, www.vu.lt. The oldest university 

in Eastern Europe encompasses every major architectural 

style from the last 400 years. The university buildings are among 

the best preserved in Vilnius owing to massive renovations completed 

in 1979 in honour of the university’s 400th anniversary. 

Founded by Jesuits in 1579, the university was run by the order 

for more than 200 years. In 1832 the Russians closed it and it 

wasn’t reopened again until 1919. There are 12 courtyards in the 

university complex. Check out the map at Universiteto 7 to orient 

yourself. QOpen 10:00 - 17:30. Closed Sun. J

Statues 

Barbora Radvilaitė C-4, Vokiečių, opp. Mėsinių. 

Barbora Radvilaitė (or Barbara Radziwiłł for our Polish readers) 

was briefly the Queen of Poland and Grand Duchess of 

Lithuania. According to jottings of the time, she was a bit of a 

hottie and didn’t look anything like the pile of extraterrestrial 

excrement deposited here by sculptor Vladas Vildžiūnas. She 

was tall (162cm - quite a height at that time), slim, blonde 

and had good teeth and an interest in cosmetics. She was 

crowned on December 7, 1550, but died on May 8 the following 

year. Some suspect poisoning by her mother-in-law who, 

perhaps incidentally, is considered the mother of modern 

Polish cuisine. Her body is now in the crypt beneath the 

Vilnius Cathedral. J 

Dr. Ouch B-4, Corner of Mėsinų and Dysnos. Doctor 

Tsemakh Shabad, revered for his acts of charity in the 

pre-Holocaust Jewish community, stands in the old ghetto, 

labelled in English, some Jewish-looking scrawl and Russian. 

He is conveniently located and his posture even 

allows for a quick cuddle and photo, so he’s worth visiting 

if you’re in the area or are particularly passionate about 

Kornei Chukovsky, the children’s author, who based his 

character ‘Dr. Ouch’ around Dr. Shabad. The girl on his arm 

is presumably representative of the Jewish Community 

also commemorated in the statue, but she may just be a 

chum. J 

Grand Duke Gediminas C-2, Arkikatedros aikštė. 

For centuries Vilnius had no monument to honour the city’s 

founder, but this was set right in September 1996. He 

stands more or less on the same spot where an iron wolf 

(strangely represented by V. Kašuba in the statue in stone) 

he saw in a dream induced him to found the city in the early 

14th century. J 

Laurynas Stuoka-Gucevičius B-2, Cnr. Liejyklos and 

L.Stuoka-Gucevičius. Laurynas Stuoka-Gucevičius was 

the pen behind Rutošes (the Town Hall) and the Presidential 

Palace. No architour would be complete without a squiz at his 

likeness here. Sculptor: Vladas Vildžiūnas, 1984. 

Mindaugas C-1, Arsenalo 1, in front of the National 

Museum. On July 6, 2003, the holiday of the Crowning of 

Mindaugas, a sculpture (by R.Midvikis) and a bridge were 

unveiled both bearing the name of Mindaugas. The sculpture 

sort of faces the bridge that spans the Neris river, a not 

very attractive piece of gridiron but necessary to stem the 

ever-growing tide of traffic. The sculpture made of granite is 

fairly stylised and is perched on sloping slabs of polished 

stone which have become a new playground slide for kids. 

So much for respecting the one and only king of Lithuania. 

J 

Romain Gary H-4, Corner of J.Basanavičiaus and Mindaugo. 

This representation of Romain Gary is more craptue 

than statue. The only person to ever win the Prix Goncourt 

literature prize twice, Gary was born in Vilnius not far from the 

out-of-the-way corner where the craptue now stands. If you 

are a fan of his literary, cinematographic or political works and 

are passing by, then you can find Gary on a windswept perch, 

looking rather forlorn as he stares up at the sky. 

Three Saints C-2, Vilnius Cathedral. The original statues 

were torn down and thrown away by the Soviets in 1950, but 

thanks to the excellent work of restorers, working only from 

photographs, the imposing figures of Sts. Stanislaus, Helen 

and Casimir were rebuilt, and have since resumed their vigil 

over the city. J 

Wacky Vilnius 

whAt to see 

Frank Zappa A-3, K.Kalinausko 1. Hot Rats! 

Deceased rock and roll pervert, part-time classical 

composer and father of Moon Unit, Dweezil and Diva 

Muffin has had his head immortalised in brass and stuck 

on a stainless steel pole in a lacklustre courtyard just 

west of Old Town. Commissioned by a student and created 

by septuagenarian realist sculptor Konstantinas 

Bogdanas who once churned-out Lenins and other noteworthy 

comrades for the bureaucrats in Moscow, Zappa 

is notable as being the the first of only two statues of the 

man in the world. (Although, he does have two asteroids, 

a gene, a jellyfish, a microbe that causes urinary tract 

infections and a spider named after him.) J 

Stebuklas C-2, Katedros aikštė. One of the ordinary 

paving stones, about halfway 

between the cathedral and the 

bell tower, has been replaced 

with a not-so-ordinary paving 

stone. It’s the ‘miracle stone’, 

and it’s tucked under a piece 

of glass that has recently been 

replaced so that you can actually 

see through it (a miracle 

in itself round here). Embedded into the miracle stone, in 

coloured letters, is the Lithuanian word for miracle – STE- 

BUKLAS. It’s written in a circle with a single S forming both 

the start and the end of the word. The stone marks the 

point where a couple of million hand-holding Balts joined 

together and formed a human chain that spanned the 

650km between Vilnius and Tallinn. The tile has become 

a symbol of freedom and hope and, supposedly, can make 

your dreams come true. Stand on the tile, make a wish, 

and turn full-circle clockwise. J 

Užupis Angel D-3, Užupio & Malūnų. After a long and 

singularly strange career as an oversized egg cup, the tall 

pillar in the heart of Vilnius’ breakaway republic Užupis 

(where ‘every dog has the right to be a dog’) finally gave birth 

to a long awaited angel (sculptor R.Vilčiauskas) on April 1, 

2002, the official independence day of the wacky district. 

After a long and sometimes tedious unveiling ceremony, 

the covers were finally lifted, and in a big burst of billowing 

balloons, the surprisingly beautiful figure of an angel was 

revealed, playing her trumpet and generally being rather 

awesome. On a visit to Vilnius in the summer of 2001, the 

Dalai Lama visited what was at the time just an egg, and 

wished only that the angel’s horn would sound throughout 

the world. It hasn’t yet, but it’s still early days. J 

Žaliasis Tiltas H-3. A bridge of one description 

or another has stood on the spot of the Žaliasis tiltas 

(green bridge) since 1536. The current 103m-long metal 

construction dates from 1952, and was originally named 

after a Red Army general. The four groups of extraordinary 

sculptures (this bridge by the way is the only one in 

Lithuania to boast sculptures) at each corner represent 

agriculture (3.2m, sculptors B.Bučas and P. Vaivada), 

industry and construction (3.2m, sculptors N.Petrulis and 

B.Vyšniauskas), peace (4m, sculptor B.Pundzius) and that 

old Soviet chestnut, youth (3.2m, sculptors J.Mikėnas and 

J. Kėdainis). And why are such blatantly communist constructions 

still intact one may be wondering? Well, there 

are a few who’d like to see them gone, but the majority of 

the local population seem to be rather fond of them, if only 

because, as one Vilnius resident put it, they’re funny. 


1

Centre for Tolerance A-4, Naugarduko 10/2, tel. 231 

23 57, jewishmuseum@jmuseum.lt, www.jmuseum.lt. 

The Tolerance Centre does a wide range of work: temporary 

exhibitions in the arts gallery, cultural events, political 

events for the society at large and specialists, including 

symposiums, conferences, discussions, seminars, meetings 

and lectures as well as an educational programme. 

QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Sun 10:00 - 16:00. Closed Fri, 

Sat. J 

Holocaust Museum (The Green House) H-3, 

Pamėnkalnio 12, tel. 262 07 30. Although tiny in comparison 

with the Holocaust museums in Jerusalem and 

Washington DC, it remains a must for anyone wanting to know 

what really happened in Lithuania during WWII. The museum 

also contains a good display focusing on the major figures in 

Lithuanian Jewish history.QOpen 09:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 

- 16:00. Closed Fri, Sat. 

Chabad Lubavitch Centre H-4, Šaltinių 12, tel. 215 03 

87, fax 215 03 89, krinsky@jewish.lt. This bustling centre, 

with synagogue, is engaged in numerous projects aimed at 

enlightening those who need enlightening and restoring the 

spirit and sensibilities of what was Lithuanian Jewish life and 

culture before WWII. They’re also a nice bunch of people. 

Not only is this the only place in Vilnius capable of organising 

kosher food (provided you call them well in advance) but they 

also offer free meals to those in serious need. QOpen 10:00 


Chiune Sugihara G-2 Chiune Sugihara was the Kaunasbased 

Japanese consul to Lithuania for the briefest of periods 

during 1939 and 1940. Between July 31 and September 1, 

1940, he and a Dutch colleague saved some 6,000 Polish 

Jews by issuing visas, against the orders of his superiors, 

to get them out of the country. Issuing stamps right up 

until the moment his train departed for Berlin, Sugihara even 

handed his stamp out from the train window to a Jew on 

the platform who continued stamping on his behalf. Many 

of those he saved later settled in Palestine, and have since 

championed his cause. The house where he lived in Kaunas 

is now a museum, and a monument has now been raised in 

Vilnius on a grassy slope just off Upės, directly southwest of 

the Lietuva hotel. 

Jewish Community of Lithuania A-2, Pylimo 4, tel. 

261 30 03, fax 212 79 15, office@litjews.org, www. 

litjews.org. Housed in the same building that housed a 

private Hebrew elementary and high school before WWII. 

Visitors interested in the latest Jewish activity in Lithuania 

can swing inside the community centre’s entrance and buy 

the city’s Jewish newspaper, “The Jerusalem of Lithuania” in 

Yiddish, English, Russian or Lithuanian. The centre itself provides 

a wide range of cultural, social and communal services 

and activities to Lithuanian Jewry. The building also houses 

youth club and summer camp, Jewish Student Union, Union 

of Former Ghetto and Concentration Camp Inmates, and the 

Union of WWII Jewish Veterans. J 

Jewish neighbourhood B-4, Žemaitijos street. Get 

a tiny glance at how the once great Jewish neighbourhood 

looked by walking the narrow, cobble-stoned Žemaitijos street. 

Two Yiddish signs remain today. One of them advertises 

“Avrom’s Colonial Business II”, a store that likely sold new 

spices imported from the colonies. J 

Jewish tours Professional guides lead tours in English and 

Hebrew: Yulik Gurvitch tel. +370 699 907 09, Ilya Lempertas 

tel. +370 687 132 85, Regina Kopelevitch tel. +370 699 054 

56, Lina Stašinskaitė tel. +370 682 228 99. 

jewish vilnius 

Synagogue 

Map of the Ghetto B-5, Rūdninkų 18 (on the wall of the 

AAA Real Estate building). On the site of the former gate to 

the larger of Vilnius’ two Ghettos find a map showing the size 

and positioning of the area where the city’s Jewish population 

were kept before liquidation commenced. J 

Paneriai (Ponar) Agrastų 17. The mass murder site is 

a traumatic but necessary part of any Jewish-related visit 

to Lithuania. Find a small museum at Agrastų 17 (tel. 260 

20 01. Open by prior arrangement during the winter), where 

some 100,000 civilians were butchered by the Nazis and their 

henchmen. Paneriai is about 8km southwest of Old Town, and 

the site is criminally difficult to find due to a serious lack of 

signs. Catch a Trakai-bound train and get off at Paneriai, drive 

out on Savanorių until you reach the E28 highway, or take a 

bus from Žemieji Paneriai at the end of Savanorių. 

Synagogue H-4, Pylimo 39, tel. 261 25 23. The synagogue 

bears the marks of the Jewish Enlightenment with the 

inclusion of a choir section, a feature considered a revolutionary 

form of modernisation and/or assimilation at the time it 

was built. Q Services 08:30, 19:30. 

The Vilna Shul-hoyf (Synagogue Square) B-3. The 

yard between Vokiečių and Žydų streets was once a world-famous 

courtyard bustling with Jewish life, a place that inspired 

countless tributes in writing and visual arts. Prior to WWII this 

space was filled with dozens of prayer houses as well as the 

Great Synagogue, built several stories underground so that it 

would not surpass the height of any churches. The Synagogue 

featured armoured doors which allowed the basement to 

serve as a hiding place during violent pogoroms and in the 

corner closest to Žydų, the home and prayer house of the 

legendery Vilna Goan. In front of the Goan’s house stands a 

rather half-hearted Soviet-era monument to him. J 

Vilnius Yiddish Institute C-2/3, Old Campus Vilnius 

University (Daukanto Courtyard), tel. 268 71 87, fax 268 

71 86, info@judaicvilnius.com, www.judaicvilnius.com. 

Provides courses and carries out research in East European 

Jewish studies. Recent publications include Lithuanian 

Jewish Culture by Dovid Katz, Baltos Lankos, Vilnius 2004. 

The VYI organises an intensive summer course in Yiddish 

language and literature. J 

News: 

Just before going to print, a new Jewish Cultural and 

Information Centre appeared at Mėsinių 3A/5 (B-4), tel. 

261 64 22. It won’t actually open till March or April 2008, 

but they may hold some events and will be happy to assist 

those interested in Jewish Vilnius until then. 


getting Around 

Public transport 

You haven’t really experienced Vilnius as a local until you’ve 

ridden public transportation, which is comprised of buses, 

minibuses and trolleybuses. Most routes run from 05:00 

until about 23:00 or 23:45, with a few going through the 

night. Tickets (the same type of ticket is valid for bus and trolleybus) 

for them can be purchased at any Lietuvos Spauda 

kiosk for 1.10Lt or from the driver for 1.40Lt. A single ticket 

is valid for any one journey no matter the distance. See www. 

vilniustransport.lt for schedules, routes, maps, etc. 

Bus 

Buses in Vilnius are an important lesson on the tricky nature 

of privatisation. Buses are mostly state-owned. Private buses 

tend to be a bit faster (and more dingy), but their 1.10Lt tickets 

can only be purchased on-board from the conductor as the 

driver will often be busy navigating the streets and searching 

out his favourite tune on the cranked-up radio. 

Minibus 

Like a favoured child younger than any siblings, the Vilnius 

minibus is a blessing upon the parents of public transportation 

in this city. Minibuses are privately owned but follow 

similar routes to those of buses and trolleybuses – look for 

destinations on the card in the window. Tickets cost 2Lt or 

3Lt depending on the route. They have no official stops so 

you must stand in traffic waving your arms in order to hail 

them and tell the driver, in any language that works, when 

you want to get out. When crowded, hand your payment via 

other passengers to the driver. 

Trolleybus 

For those of you who didn’t get a chance to visit Vilnius during 

the Soviet-era the city’s trolleybuses provide a sense 

of that historical period’s everyday life. The lumbering pace 

which is rarely hampered by weather coupled with the olfactory 

onslaught and announcements of stops by a stern but 

cheery voice insures a great relief is felt when one reaches 

one’s destination. 

Taxis 

Company # Tel. # Short # 

Martono Taksi +370 5 240 00 04 1422 

Vilniaus Taksi Plius +370 5 261 61 61 1415 

Ekipažas +370 5 239 55 39 1446 

Kabrioletas +370 5 213 23 32 1445 

Depending on such variables as time of day, type of car, 

how you ordered it and your horoscope sign, be prepared 

to pay 10Lt (1.5 - 2Lt/km) for a trip in Old Town limits. The 

cheapest method is to call in advance. 


Trains 

Train Station (Geležinkelio Stotis) B-6, 

Geležinkelio 16, tel. 233 00 88, fax 262 69 47, 

vilniaus.agentura@litrail.lt, www.litrail.lt. Reservation 

Bureau Tel. 269 24 66. Open 08:00 - 19:30. 

J 

Train schedule 

From Vilnius To Vilnius 

Dep. Arr. City Dep. Arr. 

02:03 2 11:44 GOMEL 14:02 1 00:49 

20:00 2 05:53 GOMEL 16:58 2 02:54 

05:11 06:56 IGNALINA 04:15 06:03 

08:22 10:15 IGNALINA 05:24 07:11 

12:10 14:03 IGNALINA 08:41 10:23 

14:52 16:46 IGNALINA 12:23 14:16 

16:48 3 18:39 IGNALINA 15:57 17:51 

18:38 20:40 IGNALINA 18:41 20:45 

20:35 22:15 IGNALINA 19:52 3 21:28 

01:09 2 08:22 KALININGRAD 09:49 1 15:29 

03:14 1 10:28 KALININGRAD 11:44 17:28 

04:38 12:06 KALININGRAD 14:04 2 19:40 

10:33 2 18:14 KALININGRAD 16:30 2 22:20 

13:02 1 20:26 KALININGRAD 20:06 1 01:43 

05:12 3 06:30 KAUNAS 04:14 3 06:09 

05:50 3 07:31 KAUNAS 05:55 3 07:14 

06:35 07:47 KAUNAS 06:00 07:42 

08:00 09:37 KAUNAS 06:50 3 08:07 

09:42 11:01 KAUNAS 08:00 09:44 

11:00 12:06 KAUNAS 10:45 12:25 

13:48 5 15:05 KAUNAS 12:20 13:56 

14:05 15:46 KAUNAS 13:50 14:57 

15:10 16:28 KAUNAS 14:55 16:21 

16:30 3 17:38 KAUNAS 16:42 18:28 

16:35 18:16 KAUNAS 17:40 3 18:50 

17:50 3 19:06 KAUNAS 18:40 20:26 

18:41 19:57 KAUNAS 19:45 21:17 

19:32 21:09 KAUNAS 20:30 3 21:43 

20:30 3 22:05 KAUNAS 20:50 5 22:07 

06:45 11:36 KLAIPĖDA 06:45 11:43 

17:00 21:51 KLAIPĖDA 17:00 21:58 

02:02 1 06:29 MINSK 03:18 07:46 

06:42 10:40 MINSK 05:12 1 10:13 

14:20 6 18:46 MINSK 06:30 6 11:00 

17:07 21:40 MINSK 18:16 22:00 

17:48 22:16 MINSK 19:45 1 00:49 

20:00 2 00:30 MINSK 22:26 2 02:54 

22:40 2 02:58 MINSK 23:49 04:18 

17:07 09:05 MOSCOW 14:06 04:18 

17:48 09:27 MOSCOW 18:20 07:46 

22:40 2 15:48 MOSCOW 18:55 1 10:13 

15:49 1 11:10 ST PETERSBURG 18:16 2 12:42 

18:10 2 08:20 ST PETERSBURG 20:02 1 08:52 

06:45 09:24 ŠIAULIAI 08:58 11:43 

13:48 5 17:38 ŠIAULIAI 18:15 5 22:05 

17:00 19:39 ŠIAULIAI 19:13 21:58 

04:31 3 05:08 TRAKAI 05:32 3 06:14 

05:35 3 06:12 TRAKAI 06:26 3 07:06 

06:17 06:54 TRAKAI 07:12 07:52 

07:52 08:29 TRAKAI 08:45 09:25 

12:18 12:55 TRAKAI 13:10 13:50 

15:32 16:09 TRAKAI 16:57 17:37 

17:38 18:15 TRAKAI 18:46 19:26 

11:47 20:30 WARSAW CENTR. 07:20 17:49 

1 Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun 2 Tue, Thu, Sat, 3 Mon-Fri, 4 Mon-Fri, 

Sun, 5 Fri, Sun, 6 Wed, Sat, Sun. 

Valid until February 1, 2008.

Buses 

Bus Station (Autobusų Stotis) B-6, Sodų 22, tel. 

1661, info@toks.lt, www.toks.lt. Booking tel. 1661, (8- 

900) 016 61. QOpen 06:00 - 21:00. J 

Eurolines B-6, Sodų 22 (Bus Station), tel. 215 13 

77/233 66 66, fax 215 13 76, info@eurolines.lt, www. 

eurolines.lt. Also at Mindaugo 16, tel. 269 00 00, fax 269 

06 90. QOpen 08:00 - 19:00. Closed Sun. J 

Ferries 

Krantas Travel A-1, A.Vienuolio 6, tel. 231 33 14, fax 

262 91 20, vilnius@vilnius.krantas.lt, www.krantas.lt. 

QOpen 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. J 

Riga Passenger Terminal Eksporta 3a, Riga, tel. 

+371 67 32 62 00. 

Tallink Laikmaa 5, Tallinn, Estonia, tel. +372 640 98 

08, fax +372 640 98 15, booking@tallink.ee, www. 

tallink.ee. Large carferries. Adult single tickets €20 - 45. 

QOpen 08:00 - 21:00. 

International bus schedule 


Dep. Arr. City Dep. Arr. 

17:00 18:45 5 AMSTERDAM 1 11:00 13:50 

15:00 07:40 1,3,4,6 BERLIN 1,3,4,6 20:00 14:40 

17:00 22:45 5 BRUSSELS 1 06:00 13:50 

15:00 13:15 6 BREMEN 6 14:00 14:40 

15:00 14:15 6 BREMENHAVEN 6 13:00 14:40 

15:00 19:05 1,3,4,6 COLOGNE 1,3,5,6 07:25 14:40 

06:40 09:55 1 COPENHAGEN 3 17:40 21:20 

22:50 09:20 GDANSK* 20:20 09:10 

15:00 11:30 6 HAMBURG 6 16:00 14:40 

22:00 10:10 KYIV 19:40 07:50 

17:00 06:05 3,6 KRAKOW 2,6 21:00 10:50 

17:00 06:30 5 LONDON 7 21:00 13:50 

06:30 11:20 6 LUXEMBOURG 1 14:15 20:30 

17:40 08:10 5 LVOV 7 18:10 10:40 

17:00 05:45 3 MILAN 5 21:00 10:50 

17:00 06:15 2 MILAN 4 20:30 11:00 

05:50 10:00 MINSK 12:30 16:40 

09:00 12:50 MINSK 16:00 19:55 

12:50 17:00 MINSK 18:10 22:45 

15:00 16:00 4,6 MUNICH 1,6 10:20 14:40 

06:50 16:15 6 PARIS 1 09:00 20:30 

21:00 14:30 4 PESCARA 7 12:00 08:30 

16:30 12:15 5 PRAGUE 7 13:30 09:50 

07:30 11:50 RIGA 15:00 19:30 

10:00 14:30 RIGA 17:00 21:20 

13:05 17:25 RIGA 08:00 12:15 

16:00 20:15 RIGA 18:45 23:30 

18:00 22:30 RIGA 13:15 17:50 

21:00 01:25 RIGA 02:00 06:20 

17:00 08:00 6 ROME 1 19:00 10:50 

15:00 20:00 1,4,6 STUTTGART 1,3,6 08:00 14:40 

10:00 19:35 TALLINN 10:00 19:30 

21:00 06:30 TALLINN 21:00 06:20 

06:40 01:25 4 VIENNA 7 00:10 21:00 

17:00 14:45 3,6 VIENNA 2,6 12:15 11:00 

21:00 16:30 5 VIENNA 2 10:30 08:30 

09:00 18:00 2,4,7 WARSAW 1,3,5 09:30 19:30 

21:30 06:05 WARSAW 20:30 07:20 

All services operated by TOKS, www.toks.lt. Valid until 

February 1, 2008. During Christmas time some changes 

are possible. 

*- until Dec 15 every two days, from Dec 16 - every day. 

Timetable key: Departs Vilnius. Arrives destination. Days of 

the week (1=Monday). Departs destination. Arrives Vilnius. 


Bicycles 

Baltic Cycle info@bicycle.lt, www.bicycle.lt. Bicycle 

rental through Baltic states and cycling-related events. 

Car rental 

AAA Autobanga Rent A Car And Limousine Durpių 

26, tel. +370 676 349 44/+370 676 666 24, fax 278 

41 32, info@autobanga.lt, www.autobanga.lt. New car, 

minivan and limousine rental. Drivers are available, airport 

pick-up. Prices from €20/day including free kms and full insurance. 

Mini-lease (1-36 months) available. Also at Rodūnios 

kelias 8-101 (Hotel Skrydis). Open 24 hrs. 

A&A Litinterp Rodūnios kelias 2, tel. +370 700 558 55, 

fax 216 54 62, rentacar@litinterp.lt, www.litinterp.lt. 

Car and minibus rental. Chauffeur-drivers from 210Lt/day (car), 

plus 0.70Lt/km. Self-drives from 160Lt/day, free mileage. 

QOpen 08:30 - 17:30, Sat 09:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. 

A Beautiful Land Of Nevermind D-3, Užupio 23-9, tel. 

+370 616 200 07/+370 616 200 02, info@nevermind.lt, 

www.nevermind.lt. Everything from little zip-about city cars 

to big vans for small crowds.QOpen 09:00 - 22:00. J 

Add Car Rental Rodūnios kelias 8-9 (Airport), tel./fax 

232 90 83, tel. +370 673 992 35, vilnius@addcarrental. 

com, www.addcarrental.com. €25, including free mileage 

and insurance. Reservations can be made free of charge at 

www.addcarrental.com, or at Air Baltic’s ticket office at Vilnius 

International Airport. 

Aunela G-4, Vytenio 6-110, tel. +370 686 634 44/233 

03 18, aunela@takas.lt, www.aunela.lt. Cars, vans, luxury 

cars for rent. Wide selection, reasonable prices. Chauffeur 

available. Q Open 24hrs. 

Autobaltic Oslo 5, tel. +370 606 123 45/+370 606 

123 44, fax 263 18 18, info@autobaltic.lt, www.autobaltic.lt. 

An impressive range of cars from limos to economy 

models. They also drive you from one city to another. Available 

on weekends. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Fri 09:00 - 17:00. 


Local bus schedule 

Alytus 

06.00, 07.50, 10.20, 10.40, 12.05(7), 15.10(5), 15:30, 

15.55. 

Kaunas 

05.40, 06.20, 06.35, 06.45, 07.00, 07.40, 07.55(6,7), 

08.10, 09.00, 09.30, 09.45, 09.55, 10.45, 13.20, 

13.45, 14.00, 15.40, 15.50, 17.10, 17.15, 19.20, 

22.45. 

Klaipėda 

06.00, 06.35, 07.20, 08.50, 11.35, 14.50, 22.45. 

Lazdijai 

06.00, 10.40, 12.05(7), 15.10(5). 

Palanga 

06.00, 08.50, 14.50, 22.45. 

Panevėžys 

05.50, 06.10, 06.30, 07.05, 08.25, 11.10, 12.50, 

16.30, 17.00. 

Šiauliai 

06.30, 07.50, 11.10. 

Departs Vilnius. Arrives destination. Days of the week 

(1=Monday). * until Feb 1, 2008. 



Autobest G-5, Vytenio 50-820, tel. +370 685 703 40, 

fax 216 33 63, info@autobest.lt, www.autobest.lt. Car 

rental service. Free car delivery anywhere in Vilnius such as 

hotel or airport. Best price for best quality! QOpen 08:00 

- 18:00. Closed Sun. 

Automobilių nuoma.lt , tel. +370 675 993 44/+370 

685 626 55, info@automobiliunuoma.lt, www.carrental. 

lt. Rental of new, modern and comfortable cars and minibuses. 

Prices from 99Lt (€29)/day. English-speaking drivers 

available. Online registration. Q 24hrs. 

Autorenta Rodūnios Kelias 8-102, tel. +370 687 772 

58, fax 233 16 12, info@carrent.lt, www.carrent.lt. 

Mid-range car and van rental. Self-drives from 70Lt/day. Free 

mileage. Full insurance and all local taxes included. Discounts 

for long-term rentals. English-speaking drivers available. Q 

Open 24 hrs. 

Avis Rodūnios kelias 2(Airport), tel./fax 232 93 16, 

apo@avis.lt, www.avis.lt. Klaipėda tel. +370 463 111 

11, Kaunas tel. +370 374 544 44. Rental of new cars and 

minibuses. With or without driver, full package of insurances. 

Full service car leasing and fleet management services. 

Also at Laisves 3, tel. 230 68 20/+370 698 448 31, fax 

230 68 21, avis@avis.lt. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 

09:00 - 16:00. 

Budget Rodūnios Kelias 2 (Airport), tel. 230 67 08 , 

fax 230 67 09, budget@budget.lt, www.budget.lt. High 

quality car rental service for competitive prices. One-way 

rentals, special weekend deals, chauffeur available. QOpen 

08:30 - 19:00, Sat, Sun 11:00 - 15:00. 

Carsrent J.Kubiliaus 23, tel. +370 600 236 99/274 78 

42, fax 274 78 40, info@carsrent.lt, www.carsrent.lt. 

Comfortable and safe new cars and minibuses at low prices. 

Discounts for long-term rentals. Free car delivery anywhere in 

Vilnius. Prices from 99Lt (€29)/day. Q 24 hrs. 

Easy Rental C-4, Didžioji 5, tel. 212 36 91/+370 

604 117 79, fax 212 36 94, info@easyrental.lt, www. 

easyrental.lt. Comfortable and safe cars, minibuses and 

limousines. Good service, attractive prices, convenient location. 

Leasing and chauffeur available, Kaunas airport pick-up 

at reasonable rates. Q Open 24hrs J 

Europcar B-2, L.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus 9-1, tel. +370 686 

329 71/212 02 07, info@europcar.lt, www.europcar.lt. 

Rents cars and minibuses. Chauffeur and one-way rentals 

available. Also at Rodūnios kelias 2 (Airport), tel. +370 687 

408 87/216 34 42. Open 09:00 - 18:00. QOpen 08:00 


Eurorenta Rodūnios Kelias 2 (Airport), tel. +370 

611 166 11/233 17 17, vilnius@eurorenta.lt, www. 

eurorenta.lt. Throughout Lithuania and Baltic States. Free 

mileage. Discounts for long term rentals, weekend rates. 

One-way rentals. English, Russian and Lithuanian-speaking 

drivers also available. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. 


Selfish idiot 

Hertz H-2, Kalvarijų 14, tel. 272 69 40, fax 272 69 70, 

reservations@hertz.lt, www.hertz.lt. Convenient one-way 

rentals in the Baltic States, with chauffeur or without. Also 

at Rodūnios 2 (Airport), tel./fax 232 93 01, airport@hertz. 

lt. Open 10:00-18:00, Sat 10:30 - 18:00, Sun 12:00-18:00. 


Ollex Rodūnios Kelias 2 (Airport), tel. 210 43 04, fax 

210 43 03, info@ollex.lt, www.ollex.eu. Car, minibus, bus 

rental, as well as full transport services and drivers who will 

take the hassle out of getting from here to there. QOpen 

08:00 - 23:00. 

Rimas , tel. +370 698 216 62, rimas.cars@is.lt. Rent a 

car with an English-speaking driver and enjoy good rates in the 

Baltic States. Rimas also rents the cheapest self-drive cars in 

town. The charming man who started this company can also 

arrange excellent tours of Vilnius. Q Open 24hrs. 

Royale Limousines I-4, Paupio 5-15, tel. +370 680 

185 57, info@royale.lt, www.royale.lt. Wedding, corporate 

schmoozing, or just impressing the pants of someone 

- why not roll up in a Roller? The navy blue Rolls Royce Silver 

Spurs are all class for any occasion. Q 24hrs, booking 

advisable. A 

Senamiesčio Gidas C-5, Aušros Vartų 7, tel./fax 261 

55 58, tel. +370 699 540 64 , info@vilniuscitytour. 

com, www.vilniuscitytour.com. Transfers to Minsk, Riga 

and Klaipėda. Countryside tours with English-speaking driver. 

QOpen 09:30 - 17:30, Sat, Sun 09:30 - 15:00. J 

Sixt Rodūnios kelias 2 (Airport), tel. 239 56 36/+370 

650 450 25, rent@sixt.lt, www.sixt.lt. Short-term rentals 

of new cars, minibuses and buses. Mini lease (1-12 months). 

Self-drives or chauffeur-drives, full package of insurance. 

Unlimited mileage, 24hrs technical support and replacement 

car services. Also at Geležinio Vilko 18a, tel. 210 96 30. Open 

08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00. 

Transporent G-5, Smolensko 6-320, tel. +370 612 944 

40, info@transporent.lt, www.transporent.com. While 

they are a fleet company, they also offer rental cars to individuals 

with all the services you would expect. 24hr service, oneway 

rentals and pick-up and delivery. Reservations required 

for weekends. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Unirent Rodūnios kelias 2 (Airport), tel. +370 700 558 

55, fax 216 54 62, unirent@unirent.lt, www.unirent.lt. 

Comfortable cars for tours and business trips. Very reasonable 

rates. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00. 

Airport 

Airport Rodūnios kelias 2, tel. 273 93 05, fax 232 91 

22, airport@vno.lt, www.vno.lt. The airport (oro uostas), 

situated approximately 5km south of the city centre, is small 

and easily navigable. The departure lounge has only two gates 

with a small gift shop. Take the spiral staircase upstairs to 

the café and watch while others take-off. A small post office 

is also on hand. To get there by bus, take bus 2 from Lukiškių 

square or 1 from in front of the train station. 

Airlines 

Aeroflot A-2, Pylimo 8/2, tel./fax 212 41 89, www. 

aeroflot.ru. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

J 

Aeroservisas G-3, J.Jasinskio 16B, tel. 252 65 88/ 

+370 655 481 21, fax 252 65 89, info@aeroservisas. 

lt, www.airtaxi.lt. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, 

Sun. 

air Baltic C-2, Universiteto 10-7, tel. 243 06 18/243 06 

19, fax 262 96 82, www.airbaltic.com. Also at Rodūnios 

2 (Airport, Departure hall, 2nd floor), fax 235 60 10. Open 

05:00-22:30, Tue, Thu 04:00-20:30, Sat 05:00-18:30, Sun 

05:00-22:30. QOpen 09:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00. 

Closed Sun. J

Airline & Airport news 

The shiny new terminal at Vilnius Airport was completed 

at the time of writing but had not opened. Reasons for 

this depend on who you talk to: staffing problems, headscratching 

about how air bridges work or a lack of shops. 

Lack of shops seems most likely, so they’ll probably 

install a coffee vending machine sometime soon and get 

the new terminal open during the life of this guide. 

We were delighted to see recently that flyLAL, Lithuania’s 

national (and budgetish) airline, have scheduled flights to 

Stansted airport, north of London. Great news to those for 

whom Stansted is a more convenient option than Gatwick. 

Unfortunately there are only a handful of flights during 

December and January. See www.flylal.com. 

airBaltic is offering what they call a Baltic Pass. It’s a bit 

messy and confusing, but the nub of it all is that if you 

fly into the Baltic states with airBaltic, they will offer you 

cheap flights within the Baltic states – €35 or 125Lt (not 

including airport taxes). The idea is that you can hop 

around exploring the Baltic capitals for bus-like prices. 

You can have up to eight Baltic Pass flights which must 

be used within three weeks of first arriving in the Baltics. 

The first one must be scheduled in advance but after that 

you can fly willy-nilly with only two hours notice. Book at 

airBaltic (or agents’) ticket offices – listed to the right. 

Austrian Airlines H-4, J.Basanavičiaus 11/1, tel. 231 

31 37, fax 279 14 17, www.austrianairlines.lt. QOpen 

08:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun. 

Czech Airlines G-3, M.Valančiaus 4/9, tel. 215 15 

03/215 15 04, fax 215 15 11, vno@czechairlines. 

com, www.czechairlines.com. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. 


Finnair Rodūnios kelias 2 (Airport), tel. 261 93 39, fax 

210 63 53, www.finnair.com/lt. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. 

Flight schedule 



Days Dep. Arr. Destination Days Dep. Arr. 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 07:30 09:05 AMSTERDAM - Schiphol (TE) until Dec 23 and from Jan 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10:10 13:25 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 17:05 19:00 AMSTERDAM - Schiphol (TE) until Dec 23 and from Jan 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 20:10 23:40 

1 – 3 4 5 6 7 07:30 09:05 AMSTERDAM - Schiphol (TE) Dec 24 - Dec 30 1 – 3 4 5 6 7 10:10 13:25 

– – 3 4 5 6 7 17:05 18:40 AMSTERDAM - Schiphol (TE) Dec 24 - Dec 30 – – 3 4 5 6 7 19:30 22:45 

– – – 4 – – – 05:25 09:00 BARCELONA (BT) from Dec 20 – – – 4 – – – 09:55 13:35 

– – – – – 6 – 12:50 16:25 BARCELONA (BT) from Dec 22 – – – – – 6 – 17:10 20:50 

1 – 3 – 5 – – 05:35 07:10 BERLIN - Tegel (BT) until Dec 21 and from Jan 7 1 – 3 – 5 – – 07:40 09:10 

– – 3 – 5 – – 05:35 07:10 BERLIN - Tegel (BT) Dec 26 - Jan 4 – – 3 – 5 – – 07:40 09:10 

– – – – – – 7 05:00 06:35 BERLIN - Tegel (BT) Dec 2 - Dec 16 – – – – – – 7 07:05 08:35 

– – – – – 6 7 05:00 06:35 BERLIN - Tegel (BT) from Dec 30 – – – – – 6 7 07:05 08:35 

1 2 3 4 – – – 04:35 07:00 BRUSSELS - Zaventem (BT) until Dec 24 and from Jan 7 1 2 3 4 – – – 07:40 10:05 

– – – – – – 7 15:00 17:25 BRUSSELS - Zaventem (BT) – – – – – – 7 18:15 20:40 

– – 3 4 – – – 04:35 07:00 BRUSSELS - Zaventem (BT) Dec 26 - Jan 3 – – 3 4 – – – 07:40 10:05 

– – – – 5 – – 14:30 16:15 BRUSSELS - Zaventem (BT) – – – – 5 – – 17:40 20:05 

– 2 3 4 5 – – 16:45 18:15 BRUSSELS - Zaventem (TE) until Dec 22 and from Jan 2 – 2 3 4 5 – – 19:10 22:35 

1 – – – – – – 08:25 09:35 BRUSSELS - Zaventem (TE) until Dec 22 and from Jan 2 1 – – – – – – 10:20 13:45 

– – – – – – 7 16:20 18:15 BRUSSELS - Zaventem (TE) until Dec 22 and from Jan 2 – – – – – – 7 19:10 22:55 

– – 3 4 5 – – 16:45 18:15 BRUSSELS - Zaventem (TE) Dec 26 - Dec 29 – – 3 4 5 – – 19:10 22:35 

– – – – – 6 – 16:20 18:15 BRUSSELS - Zaventem (TE) Dec 26 - Dec 29 – – – – – 6 – 19:10 22:55 

– – – – – 6 7 05:00 06:30 COPENHAGEN (BT) until Dec 29 and from Jan 5 12:05 

Dec 24 - Jan 4 

1 – 3 4 5 – – 04:45 06:15 COPENHAGEN (BT) 

1 2 3 4 5 – – 04:45 06:15 COPENHAGEN (BT) 


flyLAL A.Gustaičio 4, tel. 252 55 55, info@flylal.com, www. 

flylal.lt. QOpen 08:00 - 19:00, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 14:00. 

LOT Rodūnios kelias 2 (Airport, Arrival hall), tel./fax 

273 90 20, lotvno@lot.pl, www.lot.com. QOpen 07:30 

- 15:30, Tue 08:00 - 15:30, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 15:00. 

Lufthansa Rodūnios kelias 2 (Airport), tel. 232 92 92, fax 

210 63 53, ticketing@litcargus.lt, www.lufthansa.com. 

(Cargo Export tel. 233 76 99 Import tel. 232 93 02 cargo@ 

litcargus.lt). QOpen 04:30 - 18:00. 

SAS Rodūnios kelias 2 (Airport), tel. 235 60 00, fax 235 

60 01, www.sas.lt. QOpen 05:00 - 22:30. 

Travel agencies 

AAA Wrislit B-5, Rūdninkų 16, tel. 210 76 61/210 76 

60, fax 212 20 98, wrislit@wrislit.lt, www.wrislit.lt. Also 

at Konstitucijos 7 (Europa), tel. 248 72 02, fax 248 72 07. 

08:00-18:00. Closed Sat, Sun. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 

10:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. J 

Avanturas C-3, Literatų 8, tel. 265 23 55, fax 265 19 34, 

info@avanturas.lt, www.avanturas.lt. Lithuania not extreme 

enough for you? These people have interesting hair and can send 

you to interesting places like China, Nepal and Vietnam. QOpen 

09:00 - 18:00, Fri 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

Baltic Clipper G-3, Gedimino 64, tel. 231 23 23, fax 

231 23 24, info@bc.lt, www.bc.lt. Specialising in helping 

visitors from Denmark, Italy, Protugal, Finland and USA. 

Conferences and excursions. Also at A.Goštauto/J.Jasinskio 

17, tel. 249 09 00, fax 249 09 07. Open 09:00-18:00. 

Closed Sat, Sun. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00. 

Closed Sun. 

Baltic Tours Vilnius G-3, J.Tumo-Vaižganto 9/1, tel. 

266 16 16, fax 212 67 67, info@baltictours.lt, www. 

baltictours.lt. Helping visitors from Japan and the States, 

but also happy to send you anywhere. Excellent service from 

friendly English speaking staff. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Fri 

09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Dec 21 and from Jan 7 

COPENHAGEN (BT) until Dec 23 and from Jan 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 08:35 10:05 

COPENHAGEN (BT) Dec 24 - Dec 31 1 – 3 4 5 6 – 08:35 10:05 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10:55 12:30 COPENHAGEN (BT) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 14:05 15:35 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 16:20 17:55 COPENHAGEN (BT) until Dec 23 and from Jan 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 19:30 21:00 

– 2 3 4 5 – 7 16:20 17:55 COPENHAGEN (BT) Dec 25 - Dec 30 – 2 3 4 5 – 7 19:30 21:00 

1 – 3 – 5 6 – 05:20 08:40 DUBLIN (BT) 1 – 3 – 5 6 – 09:05 12:30 

1 – – – 5 6 – 22:55 00:20 DUBLIN (TE) until Dec 30 and from Jan 4 – 2 – – – 6 7 01:05 04:15 

– 2 – 4 – 6 – 09:15 12:30 DUSSELDORF (BT) until Dec 22 and from Jan 8 – 2 – 4 – 6 – 13:00 16:05 

– – – 4 – 6 – 09:15 12:30 DUSSELDORF (BT) Dec 27 - Jan 5 – – – 4 – 6 – 13:00 16:05 



Flight schedule continued 


Days Dep. Arr. Destination Days Dep. Arr. 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 14:30 15:45 FRANKFURT/MAIN - Terminal 2 (LH) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10:45 13:55 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 11:30 13:00 FRANKFURT/MAIN - Terminal 2 (TE) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 14:20 17:45 

1 – 3 – 5 – 7 10:20 13:00 HAMBURG (BT) until Dec 23 and from Jan 7 1 – 3 – 5 – 7 13:35 15:55 

– – 3 – 5 – 7 10:20 13:00 HAMBURG (BT) Dec 26 - Jan 6 – – 3 – 5 – 7 13:35 15:55 

1 2 3 4 5 6 – 04:45 06:30 HELSINKI - Vantaa (BT) until Dec 6, Dec 8 - 22, from Jan 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 – 07:00 08:40 

1 – – 4 – 6 – 04:45 06:30 HELSINKI - Vantaa (BT) Dec 27 - Dec 31 1 – – 4 – 6 – 07:00 08:40 

1 2 3 4 5 – 7 16:55 18:40 HELSINKI - Vantaa (BT) until Dec 5, Dec 7 - 23, from Jan 7 1 2 3 4 5 – 7 19:10 20:50 

– 2 3 4 5 – 7 16:55 18:40 HELSINKI - Vantaa (BT) Dec 26 - Jan 6 – 2 3 4 5 – 7 19:10 20:50 

1 2 3 4 5 6 – 11:30 12:40 HELSINKI - Vantaa (AY) 1 2 3 4 5 6 – 09:30 10:45 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 18:05 19:20 HELSINKI - Vantaa (AY) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 16:15 17:30 

– – – – – – 7 07:50 09:05 INNSBRUCK (TE) from Dec 30 – – – – – – 7 10:50 13:20 

– 2 – – 5 – – 06:40 09:50 ISTANBUL (TE) – 2 – – 5 – – 10:45 13:50 

1 – – – – – – 10:20 11:40 KIEV - Borispol (TE) 1 – – – – – – 13:00 14:25 

– 2 3 4 – 6 7 10:35 12:00 KIEV - Borispol (TE) – 2 3 4 – 6 7 12:55 14:20 

– – – – 5 – – 09:45 11:05 KIEV - Borispol (TE) – – – – 5 – – 12:05 13:30 

– – – – 5 – – 18:35 19:55 KIEV - Borispol (TE) – – – – 5 – – 20:40 22:05 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 14:40 17:35 LONDON - Gatwick (BT) until Dec 30 and from Jan 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 18:15 21:00 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 14:25 15:25 LONDON - Gatwick N (TE) until Dec 24 and from Jan 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 16:15 21:05 

– – 3 4 5 6 7 14:25 15:25 LONDON - Gatwick N (TE) Dec 26 - Dec 30 – – 3 4 5 6 7 16:15 21:05 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 06:00 07:00 LONDON - Stansted (TE) Dec 17 - Dec 23 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 07:45 12:50 

– – 3 4 5 6 7 06:00 07:00 LONDON - Stansted (TE) Jan 2 - Jan 6 – – 3 4 5 6 7 07:45 12:50 

– – – – – 6 – 14:15 16:05 LYON (TE) from Dec 29 – – – – – 6 – 16:55 20:45 

– 2 – 4 – 6 – 13:20 17:10 MALAGA (TE) – 2 – 4 – 6 – 00:35 06:00 

1 – – – 5 – – 16:00 17:50 MILAN - Malpensa (TE) 1 – – – 5 – – 18:40 22:15 

– – 3 – – – 7 09:05 10:45 MILAN - Malpensa (TE) – – 3 – – – 7 11:40 15:15 

– 2 – 4 – – – 14:30 17:10 MILAN - Malpensa (BT) Dec 6 - Dec 20 and from Dec 27 – 2 – 4 – – – 17:55 20:35 

– – – – 5 – – 07:35 10:15 MILAN - Malpensa (BT) Dec 7 - Dec 14 – – – – 5 – – 11:00 13:40 

– – – – 5 6 – 07:35 10:15 MILAN - Malpensa (BT) from Dec 21 – – – – 5 6 – 11:00 13:40 

– – – – – – 7 09:05 11:45 MILAN - Malpensa (BT) – – – – – – 7 13:10 15:50 

1 – – – – 6 – 06:10 08:50 MOSCOW - Sheremetievo - C (TE) Dec 22 - Dec 30 1 – – – – 6 – 09:40 10:25 

– – 3 4 5 – 7 17:45 20:25 MOSCOW - Sheremetievo - C (TE) Dec 22 - Dec 30 – – 3 4 5 – 7 21:25 22:10 

1 – 3 – – 6 – 06:10 08:50 MOSCOW- Sheremetievo - C (TE) until Dec 21, from Jan 7 1 – 3 – – 6 – 09:40 10:25 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 17:45 20:25 MOSCOW- Sheremetievo - C (TE) until Dec 21, from Jan 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 21:25 22:10 

– – 3 4 5 6 7 17:45 20:25 MOSCOW - Sheremetievo - C (TE) Jan 2 - Jan 6 – – 3 4 5 6 7 21:25 22:10 

1 – 3 – 5 – 7 09:45 11:55 MUNICH (BT) until Dec 2 1 – 3 – 5 – 7 12:25 14:30 

1 – 3 – 5 6 7 09:45 11:55 MUNICH (BT) Dec 3 - Dec 17 1 – 3 – 5 6 7 12:25 14:30 

– – 3 4 5 6 7 09:45 11:55 MUNICH (BT) Dec 19 - Dec 30 – – 3 4 5 6 7 12:25 14:30 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 09:45 11:55 MUNICH (BT) from Jan 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 12:25 14:30 

1 – 3 – 5 – 7 16:35 18:30 OSLO (BT) until Dec 23 and from Jan 7 1 – 3 – 5 – 7 19:10 21:00 

– – 3 – 5 – 7 16:35 18:30 OSLO (BT) Dec 26 - Jan 6 – – 3 – 5 – 7 19:10 21:00 

– – – 4 – – – 07:10 09:00 OSLO (BT) until Dec 20 and from Jan 3 – – – 4 – – – 04:35 06:30 

1 – 3 – – – – 07:35 09:25 PARIS - Charles de Gaulle (TE) until Dec 23 and from Jan 2 1 – 3 – – – – 10:50 14:35 

– – – – 5 – – 08:05 09:55 PARIS - Charles de Gaulle (TE) until Dec 23 and from Jan 2 – – – – 5 – – 11:10 14:55 

– – – – – – 7 16:35 18:25 PARIS - Charles de Gaulle (TE) until Dec 23 and from Jan 2 – – – – – – 7 19:10 22:55 

– – 3 – – – – 07:35 09:25 PARIS - Charles de Gaulle (TE) Dec 26 - Dec 30 – – 3 – – – – 10:50 14:35 

– – – – 5 – – 08:05 09:55 PARIS - Charles de Gaulle (TE) Dec 26 - Dec 30, from Jan 2 – – – – 5 – – 11:10 14:55 

– – – – – – 7 16:35 18:25 PARIS - Charles de Gaulle (TE) Dec 26 - Dec 30, from Jan 2 – – – – – – 7 19:10 22:55 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 06:00 06:35 PRAGUE - Ruzin (OK) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 11:30 14:10 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 14:55 15:35 PRAGUE - Ruzin (OK) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 19:10 21:50 

1 2 3 4 5 6 – 06:50 07:45 RIGA (BT) until Dec 22, from Jan 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 – 05:30 06:25 

– – 3 4 5 6 – 06:50 07:45 RIGA (BT) Dec 29 - Jan 5 – – 3 4 5 6 – 05:30 06:25 

1 2 3 4 5 – – 10:00 10:55 RIGA (BT) until Dec 22, from Jan 7 1 2 3 4 5 – – 11:20 12:15 

1 2 3 4 5 – – 18:15 19:10 RIGA (BT) until Dec 22, from Jan 7 1 2 3 4 5 – – 16:55 17:50 

– 2 3 4 5 – – 18:15 19:10 RIGA (BT) Dec 27 - Jan 4 – 2 3 4 5 – – 16:55 17:50 

– – – – – – 7 07:20 10:05 ROME - Fiumicino (BT) – – – – – – 7 10:55 13:45 

– – 3 – – – – 10:50 13:35 ROME - Fiumicino (BT) – – 3 – – – – 14:25 17:15 

– – – – 5 – – 08:25 10:20 ROME - Fiumicino (TE) – – – – 5 – – 11:10 14:55 

– – – – – – 7 16:05 18:00 ROME - Fiumicino (TE) – – – – – – 7 18:50 22:35 

1 2 3 4 5 – 7 16:15 18:15 STOCKHOLM (BT) until Dec 23 and from Jan 7 1 2 3 4 5 – 7 18:45 20:35 

1 2 3 4 5 – 7 16:15 18:15 STOCKHOLM (BT) Dec 26 - Jan 6 1 2 3 4 5 – 7 18:45 20:35 

1 2 3 4 5 6 – 05:15 07:15 STOCKHOLM (BT) until Dec 24 and from Jan 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 – 07:45 09:35 

1 2 3 4 5 6 – 04:55 06:25 TALLINN (BT) until Dec 24 and from Jan 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 – 06:55 08:20 

1 2 3 4 5 – – 12:40 14:10 TALLINN (BT) until Dec 21 and from Jan 7 1 2 3 4 5 – – 14:35 16:00 

1 – 3 4 5 6 – 04:55 06:25 TALLINN (BT) Dec 27 - Jan 5 1 – 3 4 5 6 – 06:55 08:20 

1 2 3 4 5 – 7 16:25 17:55 TALLINN (BT) until Dec 23 and from Jan 7 1 2 3 4 5 – 7 18:20 19:45 

– 2 3 4 5 – 7 16:25 17:55 TALLINN (BT) Dec 25 - Jan 6 – 2 3 4 5 – – 18:20 19:45 

1 2 3 4 5 6 – 06:35 08:00 TALLINN (TE) until Dec 23 and from Jan 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 – 08:30 09:40 

1 2 3 4 5 – 7 18:30 19:45 TALLINN (TE) until Dec 23 and from Jan 2 1 2 3 4 5 – 7 20:20 21:30 

1 – 3 4 5 6 – 06:45 08:00 TALLINN (TE) Dec 24 - Jan 1 1 – 3 4 5 6 – 08:30 09:40 

– 2 3 4 5 – 7 18:30 19:45 TALLINN (TE) Dec 24 - Jan 1 – 2 3 4 5 – 7 20:20 21:30 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 15:05 16:10 VIENA (OS) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10:50 13:55 

1 – 3 4 5 6 – 06:25 06:50 WARSAW - Okiecie (LO) – 2 3 4 5 – 7 19:55 22:20 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 14:50 15:15 WARSAW - Okiecie (LO) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 11:45 14:10 

– – – 4 – 6 – 15:20 17:45 ZURICH (BT) until Dec 29 – – – 4 – 6 – 18:25 20:45 

– 2 – 4 – 6 – 15:20 17:45 ZURICH (BT) from Jan 1 – 2 – 4 – 6 – 18:25 20:45 

Airline codes: AY - Finnair, BT - Air Baltic, LO-LOT - Polish Airlines, LH - Lufthansa, TE - flyLAL, OK - Czech Airlines, OS - Austrian Airlines, 

Valid until February 1, 2008, unless indicated. 

Vilnius In Your Pocket

Baltic Travel Service Lufthansa City Center C-4, 

Subačiaus 2, tel. 1593/212 02 20, fax 212 21 96, lcc@ 

bts.lt, www.bts.lt. Bringing visitors from Russia, Germany, 

USA, UK and South America. Also at Gedimino 24, tel. 212 

77 15, faks. 212 77 05. Open 10:00-20:00, Sat 10:00-16:00. 

Closed Sun. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 16:00. 

Closed Sun. J 

BPC Travel A.Gustaičio 4, tel. 210 27 37, fax 210 27 

38, info@bpctravel.lt, www.bpctravel.lt. Also at Rodūnios 

kelias 2 (Airport), tel. 210 52 59, fax 210 52 74, Ozo 25 

(Akropolis), tel. 204 23 88, fax 204 23 87. Konstitucijos 12, 

tel. 210 25 90. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Delta H-3, A.Jakšto 13, tel. 210 74 44, fax 210 74 43, 

info@delta-interservis.lt, www.delta-interservis.lt. Also 

at J.Jasinskio 16a, tel. 252 61 61, faks. 252 61 63. QOpen 

09:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun. 

In Via G-3, M.K.Čiurlionio 7/1-1, tel. 231 00 49, fax 231 

09 37, tours@invia.lt, www.invia.lt. Full tourism service 

and excursions in both Vilnius and Lithuania. QOpen 09:00 


Kelionių Panorama A-1, A.Vienuolio 12, tel. 261 

87 26, fax 215 15 10, info@panoramatravel.lt, www. 

panoramatravel.lt. Services for visitors from Spain, Italy 

and Russia. Also conferences. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00. Closed 

Sat, Sun. J 

Kelvita B-6, Geležinkelio 16, tel. 210 61 30, fax 210 

61 31, kelvita@takas.lt, www.kelvita.lt. Friendly German 

and English-speaking staff tucked away inside a little kiosk 

(stand Nr 30) in the international ticket sales hall at the train 

station. They can sort out car rental, accomodation visas for 

Belarus, Russia or Ukraine. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00. Closed 

Sat, Sun. J 

Lithuanian Holidays H-2, Šeimyniškių 1a, tel. 263 

60 64, fax 272 68 64, travel@lithuanianholidays.lt, 

www.lithuanianholidays.lt. Helping visitors from western 

Europe, the States and Japan. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. 


Lithuanian Tours I-2, Šeimyniškių 18, tel. 272 41 

54, fax 272 18 15, contact@lithuaniantours.com, 

www.lithuaniantours.com. Full range of travel services in 

Lithuania and the Baltics. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00. Closed 

Sat, Sun. 

Liturimex H-4, J.Basanavičiaus 11/1, tel. 212 60 63, 

fax 262 84 29, info@liturimex.lt, www.liturimex.lt. Also 

Konstitucijos 15/5, tel. 279 99 88. Open 09:00-18:00. Closed 

Sat, Sun. Incoming tour operator in the Baltics. QOpen 

09:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun. 

Pasaulio Ratas G-4, J.Basanavičiaus 29A-16, tel./fax 

265 02 45, pasaulioratas@takas.lt. QOpen 09:00 


Senamiesčio Gidas C-5, Aušros Vartų 7, tel./fax 261 55 

58, tel. +370 699 540 64, info@vilniuscitytour.com, www. 

vilniuscitytour.com. Not just tours of Old Town, but tours of Belarus 

too. QOpen 09:30 - 17:30, Sat, Sun 09:30 - 15:00. J 

Vilnius Travel Service G-3, J.Jasinskio 4-15, tel. 249 

65 07/+370 616 594 18, info@vilniustravel.lt, www. 

vilniustravel.lt. QOpen 09:00 - 19:00, Sat 09:00 - 13:00. 

Closed Sun. 

Visit Lithuania B-2, Odminių 5, tel. 262 52 41, fax 262 

52 42, info@visitlithuania.net, www.visitlithuania.net. 

Guided tours, accommodation, transport services in the 

Baltic States. Flight tickets.StartFragment QOpen 08:00 


Travel agencies abroad 

Baltic Adventures Tel. +44 158 246 22 83, info@balticadventures.co.uk, 

www.balticadventures.co.uk. UK 

based company specialising in group tours to Baltics, selling 

activity weekends, sports, corporate incentives. 


Driving 

Lithuanian drivers are bloody-minded and completely 

bonkers, making any journey in a car a bit of an edge-ofthe-seat 

adventure. They are especially fond of tailgating, 

cutting lanes and dangerous overtaking manoeuvres. 

Indeed, Lithuanians are now, officially, the worst drivers 

in Europe. The country has the hightest rate of fatalities 

in the European Union. 

Not surprisingly, accidents are common. If you are 

unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident in which 

any material or personal damage occurs (even if only to 

your own vehicle) you must leave your vehicle exactly 

where it is, call the police, and then wait for them to arrive. 

Even if your car is obstructing the flow of traffic, you must 

not move it until the police have arrived, danced about 

the wreckage with a tape measure and some lollipops, 

drawn some little pictures, and given you the all-clear. 

Not only is leaving the scene of an accident an offence, 

but the lack of an official police report will give insurance 

companies an excuse to not pay. 

Seat belts must be worn, although locals tend not to 

bother. (Hardly surprising for the country that also has the 

highest suicide rate.) Headlights must be on at all times 

while driving. All vehicles must be fitted with a small fire 

extinguisher and carry a first-aid kit, a reflective road-side 

warning triangle and a reflective safety-vest. You must 

have your vehicle registration papers and licence with 

you while driving. A supply of bribe money is no longer 

required, but can come in handy. 

In winter, you’ll also want to make sure you have an ice 

scraper and maybe a brush for getting all the weather off 

your car before you set off. Winter tyres are mandatory 

from November 10. 

In and around town the speed limit is 50km/h unless 

indicated otherwise. On country roads you can drive at 

70km/h, and on highways you can drive at 110km/h. The 

big exception is the A1 (Vilnius - Kaunas) where 100km/h 

is the maximum. Lithuanian police use radar speed guns 

and enforce speed limits stringently. 

Baltic Holidays 40 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 

6DE, UK, tel. +44 845 070 57 11, fax +44 870 120 

29 73, info@balticholidays.com, www.balticholidays. 

com. The UK’s specialist in travel to Lithuania, Latvia and 

Estonia, offering flights, accommodation and a whole host 

of specialist packages.QOpen 08:30 - 18:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Baltics and Beyond 73 Lwr Market Street, Broadbottom, 

Cheshire, SK14 6AA, UK, tel. +44 845 094 2125, info@ 

balticsandbeyond.com, www.balticsandbeyond.com. 

Specialising in custom and creative themed holidays, such as 

spa breaks, fun family adventures, country tourism and more. 

Baltic Travel Company Queens Wharf, Queen Caroline 

Street, London, W6 9RJ, United Kingdom, tel. +44 

870 753 77 47, info@baltictravelcompany.com, www. 

baltictravelcompany.com. Specialising in tailor made 

holidays and tours from UK to the Baltics. QOpen 08:30 


Regent Holidays 15 John Street, Bristol BS1 2HR, UK, 

tel. +44 870 499 09 11, fax +44 117 925 48 66, regent@ 

regent-holidays.co.uk, www.regent-holidays.co.uk. Long 

established leaders in specialised trips to Lithuania, the 

Baltics and other ‘difficult’ countries in the immediate region. 



0 MAil & Phones 

Post 

Central Post Office B-1, Gedimino 7, tel. 261 67 59, 

info.vilnius@post.lt, www.post.lt. QOpen 07:00 - 19:00, 


Postal rates 

Express mail rates 

Comparative rates for sending a package weighing a 

maximum of 500g. EMS is cheap because it’s slow. 


London Paris New York 

DHL 216Lt* 216Lt* 274Lt 

EMS 133Lt 122Lt 155Lt 

FedEx 149Lt* 149Lt* 166Lt 

TNT 190Lt* 190Lt* 200Lt* 

UPS 166Lt* 166Lt* 195Lt* 

* additional payment 

Prepaid SIM cards 

Avoid steep roaming costs when visiting Lithuania by buying a prepaid SIM card and sticking it in your 

mobile. All three Lithuanian mobile phone companies now offer a prepaid service. Below is a comparitive 

list of what you’ll need to pay to use each of them. 

Card Price 

(Lt) 

Lithuania EU Outside EU 

Letter (44g) 1.05Lt 2.95Lt 3.35Lt 

Postcard (20g) 1.55Lt 2.45Lt 2.90Lt 

CD (130g) 2.50Lt 5.90Lt 11.75Lt 

Book (600g) 4.90Lt 15Lt 40.95Lt 

Express mail 

DHL Dariaus ir Girėno 40, tel. 236 07 00/(8-800) 223 

45, fax 216 77 40, ltinfo@dhl.com, www.dhl.lt. QOpen 

08:00 - 18:30. Closed Sat, Sun. 

EMS B-6, Geležinkelio 6, tel. 239 83 28/239 83 33, fax 

233 02 28, www.post.lt. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. J 

FedEx Gustaičio 1, tel. (8-800) 202 00, fax 230 61 40, 

fedexlt.ops@fedexbaltic.com, www.fedex.com. QOpen 

08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

TNT Dariaus ir Girėno 44, tel. 239 75 55/(8-800) 252 

22, fax 239 75 56, www.tnt.lt. QOpen 08:00 - 19:00, 

Fri 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

UPS E-5, Eigulių 15, tel. 247 22 22, fax 247 22 00, 

ups@ups.lt, www.ups.com. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00. 


Local 

(Lt/min) 

London 

(Lt/min) 

Top-up 

(Lt) 

ISPs 

Aiva Sistema A-5, Aguonų 10, tel. 212 32 58, fax 212 

78 25, sales@office.aiva.lt, www.aiva.lt. QOpen 08:30 - 

18:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

Infostruktūra C-3, Pilies 23/15, tel. 239 17 34, fax 

279 13 31, info@is.lt, www.is.lt. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00, 

Fri 08:00 - 16:45. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

Zebra Tel. 1817, informacija@zebra.lt, www.zebra.lt. 

Lithuanian Telecom can provide you with internet access 

too! Call them for details. 

Making the call 

As if transfixed by the power of the eight Pagan Sabbaths, 

or one of those stupid Magic 8 balls that comes 

up with answers like ‘Reply hazy, try again’, Lithuania has 

decided to chuck an 8 in front of every phone number 

– except if you’re dialling within a city to a fixed line, or if 

you’re dialling from outside the country. It’s like an area 

code for the whole country. Got it? No, of course not 

– because it’s stupid and it doesn’t make sense. Let’s 

try to break it down: 

Calling from a mobile 

If you’ve got the full number, use the international format: 

+370 123 412 34. 

If you’ve been given a local mobile number, just throw 

away the 8 and replace it with a +370. So 8123 412 

34 becomes +370 123 412 34. If you’ve been given an 

eight-digit mobile number that doesn’t start with 8, just 

put the +370 in front of it. 

Calling a fixed line gets a little more complicated 

because you need to know in which city the number is 

located. Then it’s +370 – City Code – number. The city 

codes are listed above. 

If you are given a number starting with 8, it must also 

contain a city code, so you can just drop the 8 and 

replace it with +370. 

Calling from a fixed line 

To call an international format number in Lithuania, such 

as +370 123 412 34, replace the +370 with an 8. 

If you’ve been given what looks like a shortish number 

– five or six digits – you’ll need to know the city code, and 

then dial 8 – City Code – number. To call an international 

number, dial 00 – Country Code – number. 

SMS 

(Lt) 

Voicemail 

(Lt/call) 

Bitė (Labas) 5.00 0.49 1.95 5/10/20/40/99 0.15 0.10 99% 

Omnitel (Ekstra) 9.99 0.52 1.95 5/10/20/40/100 0.15 0.30 99% 

Tele 2 (Pildyk) 4.79 0.48 1.85 5/7/10/15/20/35/50 0.10 0.15 96% 

Coverage 

Note All prices quoted are for peak-time calls, and are subject to change during the lifespan of this guide.

Telephone codes 

Laptop login 

Wi-Fi W 

If you’re wi-fi enabled, you’re ready to go online. There are 

many cafés, restaurants, hotels and public spaces in Vilnius 

that are a part of a network of wireless internet hotspots. 

Notable hotspots include the whole of Pilies and Gedimino 

streets and tourist information centres. To use these hotspots, 

just turn your wi-fi on, and choose the ‘Zebra’ network. 

When you open your web browser, you will see a web page 

with prices and instructions. You can pay via SMS if you have 

a local SIM card. Be warned, however, that the Zebra network 

is not cheap (50Lt per month plus 5Lt per hour) and, in our 

experience, is unreliable. We also noticed free WiFi (from 

another supplier) in Cozy (see page 29), and that some hotels 

offer free WiFi, so hanging around in their foyers, bars and 

cafés could be another option worth trying. 

Modem 

A nifty hassle-free dial-up option is also available. Wire 

yourself up to any fixed phone line, and set up a connection 

to dial 890 15 55 55. Leave the username and 

password blank – the charges of 0.12Lt per minute will 

be charged to the telephone line account holder. 

GPRS & 3G/UMTS 

Third-generation mobile services are offered by Bitė and 

Omnitel – but of course you’ll need a local SIM card to 

use them. They both have big sparkly shops on Gedimino 

where the staff will be happy to help you. 

MAil & Phones 

Lithuanian city codes International country codes 

Alytus 315 Klaipėda 46 Šilalė 449 Albania 355 Germany 49 New 

Zealand 

Anykščiai 381 Kretinga 445 Šilutė 441 Australia 61 Greece 30 Norway 47 

Birštonas 319 Marijampolė 343 Švenčionys 387 Austria 43 Hong Kong 852 Poland 48 

Biržai 319 Molėtai 383 Tauragė 446 Belarus 375 Hungary 36 Portugal 351 

Druskininkai 313 Neringa/ 

Nida 

469 Telšiai 444 Belgium 32 Ireland 353 Romania 40 

Elektrėnai 528 Palanga 460 Trakai 528 Bulgaria 359 Israel 972 Russia 7 

Ignalina 386 Panevėžys 45 Ukmergė 340 USA/ 

Canada 

Collegium C-3, Pilies 22, tel. 261 83 

34, info@dora.lt. Art meets the internet 

in this cosy and pleasant internet café 

right on the main street of the Old Town. 

Full programme package for serious 

work. A range of useful internet and 

office services including laptop access, 

photocopying, printing, binding, laminating, and cheap 

calls. QOpen 09:00 - 20:00, Sat 11:00 - 20:00. Closed 

Sun. J 

64 

1 Italy 39 Slovakia 421 

Jonava 349 Pasvalys 451 Utena 389 Croatia 385 Japan 81 Slovenia 386 

Joniškis 426 Plungė 448 Varėna 310 Cuba 53 Latvia 371 Spain 34 

Kaišiadorys 346 Radviliškis 422 Vilnius 5 Czech Rep. 420 Liectenstein 423 Sweden 46 

Kaunas 37 Rokiškis 458 Visaginas 386 Denmark 45 Lithuania 370 Switzerland 41 

Kėdainiai 347 Šiauliai 41 Zarasai 385 Estonia 372 Luxembourg 352 Turkey 90 

Mobile phones 

Bitė G-5, Žemaitės 15, tel. +370 699 232 30, info@ 

bite.lt, www.bite.lt. The second of the three current mobile 

operators in the country. Also Gedimino 1, open 10:00-19:00, 

Sat 10:00-16:00. Closed Sun. Ozo 25 (Akropolis), Konstitucijos 

7A (Europa), open 10:00-22:00. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00. 


Finland 358 Moldova 373 Ukraine 380 

France 33 Netherlands 31 UK 44 

Omnitel G-3, J.Jasinskio 16b, tel. +370 698 633 33, 

fax 274 55 74, info@omnitel.net, www.omnitel.lt. The most 

popular of the bunch. Also at Gedimino 12, open 09:00-18:00, Sat 

10:00-16:00. Closed Sun. Gedimino 33, open 09:00-18:00, Sat 

10:00-16:00. Closed Sun. Ozo 25 (Akropolis), open 10:00-22:00. 


TELE2 G-4, Vytenio 9/25, tel. 213 09 10/+370 684 

002 12, fax 236 33 90, tele2@tele2.lt, www.tele2.lt. 

This low-cost mobile provider is the choice of many an expat 

because it rewards subscribers with free time whenever 

people call your phone, and it is the only service that offers 

roaming throughout its entire network with prepaid cards. A 

good choice if you plan a pan-Baltic trip. Also at Vienuolio 12, 

tel. 261 34 98. Open 10:00 -19:00, Sat 10:00-16:00. Closed 

Sun. Ozo 25 (Akropolis), open 10:00-22:00. QOpen 08:30 

- 18:30, Sat 09:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. 

Telephone 

Public telephones 

Lithuanian public telephones (taksofonas) work using a 

card-only system, of which there are several denominations 

to choose from, namely 9Lt, 13Lt, 16Lt and 30Lt respectively. 

Get them at Lietuvos Spauda kiosks, post offices. 

TEO B-2, Vilniaus 33, tel. 117, www.teo.lt. The people to 

call if you want a new telephone line. QOpen 09:00 - 19:00, 



1

2 shoPPing 

There are two main shopping districts in Old Town. For 

amber, linen, little dolls in traditional dress, t-shirts that 

say things like ‘Lithuania? What? Where?’, miscellaneous 

tourist tatt and, inexplicably, nesting Russian matrioshka 

dolls, head for Pilies (C-2/3), Didžioji (C-3/4) and Aušros 

Vartų (C-5). The area around the Town Hall (C-4) is also rife 

with top-end fashion stores for people with lots of litas, but 

no sense. Prices for global fashion brands in Lithuania are 

not cheap. It’s not a shopping mecca.For more fashion, 

footwear and a new handbag, you’ll find a somewhat more 

modern selection of shops lining Gedimino Prospektas 

(G-3/4). We won’t bother spelling out where all the individual 

stores are, but we will point out that there are a few 

Lithuanian designers scattered about – you’ll see them 

listed under ‘Lithuanian Designers’ in this section.If you’re 

after computer bits, international electrical adaptors, nuts 

and bolts, a vacuum cleaner, household items or a butterfly 

flange grommet valve thingy whotsit, you’ll have to 

head out of the centre of town. In addition to the Shopping 

Centres listed in this section, we’ve also listed a few handpicked 

handy places under ‘Household Goods’. 

Amber 

Amber C-5, Aušros Vartų 9, tel. 212 19 88, fax 

272 46 36, info@ambergif t.lt, w w w.ambergif t. 

lt. An astounding Aladdin’s cave of amber. The walls 

and ceiling are plastered with glowing chips of amber 

while display cabinets are full of jewellery, sculptures 

and more. Worth visiting even if you’re not interested in 

shopping. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00. 

JA 

Amber Museum-Gallery C-3, Šv. Mykolo 8, tel./fax 

262 30 92, info@ambergallery.lt, www.ambergallery.lt. 

A great little place apt at displaying amber at its 

best. The knowledgeable and friendly staff speak English, 

and can waffle on for hours about the stuff if you want to 

know all about it. Also at Šv. Mykolo 12, tel. 212 04 99. 

Open 09:00-18:00. Closed Mon. QOpen 10:00 - 19:00. 

JA 

Beata Amber J-1, Antakalnio 60, tel. 234 46 85, fax 

234 46 67, beata_amber@aiva.lt, www.beataamber. 

com. As much a wholesaler as retailer, you can pick up amber 

at a variety of stages of production here. There are hunks of 

raw amber, various polished beads and blobs that you can 

use to make your own jewellery and fine finished creations. 

Also Stiklių 9, tel 262 89 61. Open 10:00 - 19:00, Sun 10:00 

- 17:00. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Fri 10:00 - 17:00. Closed 

Sat, Sun. A 

Mažasis Gintaro Muziejus C-3, Didžioji 6, tel./fax 262 

49 86, anmejus@one.lt, www.lgstudija.lt. Arguably one 

of the best places to buy amber. They have a great selection 

and the girls who work here are really helpful. Also at Didžioji 

5, Didžioji 10, Didžioji 11; Aušros vartų 12, tel. 261 09 15; 

Pilies 38, tel. 261 11 80; Pilies 7, tel. 212 21 17; Stiklių 3 and 

Stiklių 7, tel. 261 02 13. Open Mon - Sat 10:00 - 19:00, Sun 

10:00 - 17:00. QOpen 10:00 - 19:00. JA 

Antiques 

Unless the item in question is your mother-in-law, some 

degree of hoop-jumping and filling-in of forms may be 

required to get antiques out of the country. See the 

Customs Information in the Basics section for details, and 

remember that a good antique seller will assist you with 

formalities. 

Dominikonų Antiques B-3, Dominikonų 3-2, tel. 261 

17 38, domininkonu@one.lt. Selling old books, furniture, 

postcards and other outdated items. QOpen 12:00 - 19:00, 



Fabra Ars F-3, A. Mickevičiaus 26, tel. +370 682 175 

67, antik@fabraars.lt. Classic and original artworks mostly 

from the 18-19th centuries. Mostly of interest to collectors 

and dealers. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 16:00. 

Closed Mon, Sun. 

Sauluvos Antikvariatas C-3, Pilies 36/Literatų 3, 

tel. +370 613 728 30, ajibag@yahoo.com. A pokey littie 

hidey-hole where you can visit Stalin in the toilet, wonder 

how those old military helments got those dents in them and 

smell some interesting books. Truly bizarre. QOpen 11:00 


Vilnius Antiques Centre C-3, Dominikonų 16, tel./fax 

262 74 79, helena@centras.lt, www.antiques.lt. A wide 

selection of paintings, icons, furniture, silverwear, and other 

cute curiosities. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 15:00. 

Closed Sun. JA 

Books 

Bookworms and cheapskates should note that in addition 

to the following bookstores, reading matter can be found 

at various libraries listed in our Lifestyle Directory. 

Akademinė Knyga C-3, Universiteto 4, tel. 261 97 11, 

fax 266 16 81, akademineknyga@humanitas.lt, www. 

humanitas.lt. A wide range of works for lexicographers, plus 

the usual dictionaries, reference books and paperback novels. 

One of the better places in town for foreign literature, which 

you will find in the back room downstairs. QOpen 10:00 


Draugystė B-2, Gedimino 2, tel./fax 268 50 81, draugyste.knygynas@vaga.lt, 

www.vaga.lt. A large selection 

of Polish books and a few in English, German, Russian and 

Spanish. A few magazines, CDs and several tonnes of English 

coffee-table books and trashy novels for bags of litas. QOpen 

10:00 - 20:00, Sat 11:00 - 18:00, Sun 11:00 - 16:00. JA 

French Bookshop C-3, Didžioji 1, tel. 262 05 17, 

l.barstyte@sviesa.lt, www.sviesa.lt. Adjoining the French 

Cultural Centre, if they don’t stock it they will happily order. 

You can also subscribe to French-language magazines here. 


JA 

Humanitas B-3, Dominikonų 5, tel. 262 11 53, daile@ 

humanitas.lt, www.humanitas.lt. Coffee table books about 

art, artytecture, interior design, shoes and Jamie Oliver. Also 

travel guides and atlases. Annoyingly, they don’t put prices on 

everything. Also still at Vokiečių 2 for a while.QOpen 10:00 


Littera C-3, Universiteto 3, tel. 212 77 46/+370 685 

771 05, littera@musuknyga.lt, www.musuknyga.lt. The 

university bookstore is one of the best in town, as is the 

breathtaking work of art that is the interior. QOpen 09:00 


Mūsų Knyga H-2, Konstitucijos 7a, tel. 248 70 61/+370 

655 540 40, fax 248 70 62, europa@musuknyga.lt, www. 

musuknyga.lt. Also at Žirmūnų 2, tel. 275 48 68, Savanorių 

43, tel. 213 29 92 , Ateities 91 (Mandarinas shopping centre), 

tel. 279 36 81. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00. A 

Oxford Centre B-3, Trakų 5A, tel./fax 261 04 16, 

jolanta@humanitas.lt, www.humanitas.lt. The only place 

in town that can boast a choice of Kurt Vonnegut novels, 

also stocks EFL literature and can order just about anything 

that comes with an ISBN. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 


Prie Halės C-5, Pylimo 53, tel. 269 11 80, fax 262 45 

28, prie-hales@sviesa.lt, www.sviesa.lt. Everything from 

medicine, economics, law, history, travel guides, dictionaries, 

classical literature to cookery and children’s books. An 

excellent selection of fiction in English, at the lowest prices 

in town. Orders taken. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:00 

- 15:00. Closed Sun. JA

Rūdninkų Knyg ynas 

B-5, Rūdninkų 20, tel. 261 02 

66, rudninku.knygynas@gmail.com. A bookshop and music 

shop that also happens to be the best place in town to get 

English language magazines. Everything from MAD comics to 

cooking with some motorbikes and National Geographic in between. 

Load up before you hit the café scene. QOpen 10:00 

- 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 - 15:00. JA 

Vaga G-3, Gedimino 50/2, tel. 249 83 92, fax 249 83 96, 

knygunamai@vaga.lt, www.vaga.lt. Recently renovated 

and one of the newest-looking bookshops in town. English 

language books are upstairs. QOpen 10:00 - 19:00, Sat 

11:00 - 18:00, Sun 11:00 - 16:00. A 

Connoisseur shops 

Cognac Boutique C-4, Etmonų 4, tel. 263 99 64, info@ 

cognac.lt, www.cognacboutique.lt. This boutique offers 

exclusive cognacs from such celebrated houses as Delamain, 

Frapin, Chateau de Beaulon, Jean Fillioux, Leopold Gourmel as 

well as spirits from other small and exclusive producers. Here 

you can also find such exclusive cognac brands as Hennessy, 

Camus and Remy Martin.QOpen 10:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 


Gero vyno parduotuvė C-4/5, Subačiaus 2, tel./fax 

262 04 09, gvp.subaciaus@mv.lt, www.mv.lt. You 

can not only buy wine here, but also consult with experts 

(or argue with them if you think you know more than they 

do) and attend tastings. The range is not the best in 

town, but still quite impressive. Conveniently located in 

Old Town, so you won’t have to carry your bottles too far. 


JA 

In Vinotuvė A-3, Teatro 7-7, tel. 212 22 43, tuve@ 

invino.lt, www.invino.lt. Vilnius’s favourite wine bar now 

has their very own plonk peddling shop. A worthwhile stop for 

those wanting to entertain at home. Or homeless people with 

empty brown paper bags and very refined palates.QOpen 

10:00 - 22:00. Closed Sun. JA 

Skonis ir Kvapas B-3, Trakų 8, tel. 212 24 80, info@ 

skonis-kvapas.lt, www.skonis-kvapas.lt. A small yet well 

chosen selection of fat Havana cigars, pipes, lighters, and 

miscellaneous smoking maintainence gear. Cough cough. Also 

at Konstitucijos 7a (Europa), tel. 248 70 82. Open 10:00-22:00. 

Ozo 25 (Akropolis), tel. 238 77 17. 10:00-22:00. Ukmergės 282, 

tel. 230 47 42. Open 11:00-22:00. Jogailos 4, tel. 269 00 05. 

Open 10:00-19:00, Sat 10:00-17:00. Closed Sun. Mindaugo 11, 

tel. 265 24 37. IOpen 10:00-22:00. Žirmūnų 64. Open 10:00- 

22:00. QOpen 10:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. 

JA 

Vyno Klubas (Wine Club) D-2, B.Radvilaitės 7/2 -1, 

tel. 231 38 12, info@vynoklubas.lt, www.vynoklubas. 

lt. The experts on wine, as well as selling the stuff they 

also organise tasting sessions. However, we’ve found the 

service here leaves a lot to be desired. Also at Savanorių 

22, tel. 213 84 69. Open 10:00-20:00, Sat 10:00-18:00. 



Flowers & Plants 

Florisima A-3, J.Basanavičiaus 3, tel./fax 212 09 15, 

info@florisima.lt, www.florisima.lt. Also at Mindaugo 11 

(Maxima), tel. 260 34 94. Open 08:00-22:00. QOpen 08:00 

- 19:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 18:00. J 

Gėlės Studija B-4, Šv. Mikalojaus 5, tel./fax 261 01 

66, info@gele.lt, www.gele.lt. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00. 

Closed Sat, Sun. JA 

shoPPing 

Food & Drink 

Gourmet Studio G-4, J.Basanavičiaus 18, tel. 246 61 

24/+370 616 307 70, info@skonio-studija.lt. A spicy 

saviour for anyone after garam masala, wasabi or a bathtub 

full of gravy. While the range of spices they offer is by no means 

complete it is much better than in supermarkets. QOpen 

09:00 - 18:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

IKI G-3, J.Jasinskio 16, tel. 249 83 40, fax 249 83 

37, info@iki.lt, www.iki.lt. Lithuania’s first supermarket 

chain, and still sticking to their core values of quality and 

freshness. Notable for having top-notch in-house bakeries. 

Also at Žirmūnų 2, tel. 272 19 68. Sodų 22, tel. 233 91 61. 

Architektų 43/31, tel. 244 86 87. Fabijoniškių 2a, tel. 230 11 

99. Antakalnio 42, tel. 270 97 71. Antakalnio 73, tel. 234 71 

54. Didlaukio 80a, tel. 231 60 48, Viršuliškių 40, tel. 241 32 

00, P.Lukšio 34, tel 278 88 42, Sėlių 54, tel. 210 87 29, Parko 

34a, tel. 267 09 52, Šeškinės 32, 241 41 66, Žirmūnų 106, 

tel. 231 67 40, Kovo 11-osios 36b (Grigiškės), tel. 243 22 08, 

Jeruzalės 17, tel. 271 16 90, S.Stanevičiaus 23, tel. 240 77 

03. Buivydiškių 17, tel. 246 05 28. QOpen 08:00 - 22:00. 

A 

Ikiukas D-3, Užupio 7, tel. 260 84 88, info@iki.lt, www. 

iki.lt. The ‘little IKI’ convenience stores are tucked into handy 

locations and always have edible treats on offer. Fresh-baked 

goods are a key attraction, as is the decent range of groceries. 

Also at Pylimo 21, tel. 231 34 03, Gabijos 83, tel. 247 00 53, 

Jogailos 12, 231 31 35. Kalvarijų 105, tel. 270 00 78, Rygos 41, 

tel. 230 50 34, A.Vivulskio 15, tel. 265 25 57. J.Franko g. 2a, tel. 

240 95 44. Kalvarijų 3, tel. 277 83 91. QOpen 08:00 - 23:00. 

JA 

Maxima G-4, Mindaugo 11, tel. 233 04 15, fax 233 74 

83, www.maxima.lt. The only big supermarket near Old 

Town, but somehow still managing to have a mediocre range 

of food mixed in among pots and pans, unfashionable clothes, 

and miscellaneous clutter. Come at 03:00 in the morning if 

you want to avoid queues. Q Open 24hrs. A 

Rimi C-4, Didžioji 28, tel. 260 88 51, www.rimi.lt. The 

Old Town location is known for having nothing you actually 

want, and making you queue for an hour to pay too much for 

it. The other locations are much better - almost like proper supermarkets. 

Also at Architektų 19, tel. 246 04 44, Antakalnio 

55/1, tel. 210 56 06. QOpen 08:00 - 22:00. JA 

Gifts & Souvenirs 

Aukso Avis C-4, Savičiaus 10, tel. 261 04 21, auksoavis@ 

iti.lt. Textile works of Lithuanian artists, expressing Lithuanian 

culture through a modern context. With the help of their staff, 

one can also make himself/herself a small souvenir from felt 

(as well as stabbing yourself in the fingertips a few times, 

if you’re not careful) for a symbolic price in just 15 minutes. 

QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. 

JA 

Elementai C-3, Stiklių 14-1, tel. 260 85 88. QOpen 

11:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. JA 

Exhibition Hall (Dailininkų Sąjungos Galerija) C-4, 

Vokiečių 2, tel. 261 95 16, info@galerija-lds.lt, www. 

galerija-lds.lt. Paintings, of course, and hand-decorated 

greetings cards, amber and modern ceramics. A great selection 

of art books in English too. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 

10:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. JA 

Linen & Amber Studio C-4, Stiklių 3, tel. 261 02 13, 

info@lgstudija.lt, www.lgstudija.lt. The best place to buy 

linen and amber. They have a great selection and the girls who 

work here are really helpful. Also at Stiklių 7, Didžioji 5, Didžioji 6, 

Didžioji 10, Didžioji 11, Pilies 7, Pilies 38, Aušros Vartų 12, Karaimų 

43-1, Trakai, tel. +370 528 554 00. Open 10:00-19:00. Closed 

Mon. QOpen 10:00 - 19:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00. JA 


shoPPing 

Lino namai C-3, Pilies 38, tel./fax 212 23 22, www. 

siulas.lt. Linen, the fabric that really breathes, is available for 

just about any part of the body or home. One of the city’s top 

shops. Also at Universiteto 10, tel. 212 12 13. Open 10:00- 

19:00, Sat 10:00-16:00. Closed Sun. Vilniaus 12, tel 212 19 

21. Open 10:00-19:00, Sat 10:00-16:00.Closed Sun. QOpen 

10:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 18:00, Sun 11:00 - 17:00. JA 

Mini Pasaulis H-2, Konstitucijos 16a (VCUP), tel. 

210 17 54, info@minipasaulis.lt, www.minipasaulis.lt. 

Store for model railroads and model cars, airplanes. Wide 

range of scale models from major world manufacturers LGB, 

Fleischmann, Autoart, Minichamps, Franklin mint, CMC, Piko, 

Busch, Herpa, etc. Also features models of Soviet planes and 

cars. QOpen 10:00 - 21:00. A 

Ona Tel. 212 42 63/+370 687 511 22, info@ona.com, 

www.ona.com. We normally wouldn’t bother listing an online 

store, but this one is quite simply outstanding. Give it a click 

and you’ll find art, household knick-knacks, jewellery, and more 

- much of it from Lithuanian artists. They can even take orders 

for personalised gifts. A great way to treat yourself, or keep 

favour with friends you’ve made while visiting Lithuania. A 

Sauluva C-3, Literatų 3, tel. 212 12 27, info@sauluva.lt, 

www.sauluva.lt. Great choice for souvenir and holiday shopping. 

This new store has two rooms: one for a very respectable 

collection of retail amber jewelry and another room for Lithuanian 

made handicrafts, mostly made of wood and glass. English is 

spoken in all stores. Also at Šv. Mykolo 4, tel. 212 16 96. Open 

10:00-19:00. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J 

Sesutės B-2, Vokiečių 1, tel. 212 02 06, info@sesutes. 

lt, www.sesutes.lt. Here is a large selection of gilded frames 

for those old photos of your elders along with a fine choice 

of candles to burn around the newly framed photos of your 

parents. Knick-knacks reign supreme. Also at Konstitucijos 

7a (Europa), tel. 248 70 32, 248 70 00. Open 10:00-22:00. 


JA 

Verpstė B-4, Žydų 2, tel. 262 58 87, vilnius@lietuvostautodaile.lt. 

A small and cute gallery selling linen, wood 

sculptures, amber and paintings. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, 

Sat 10:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J 

Household goods 

BMS Megapolis P.Lukšio 23, tel. 274 17 71, 

v3.megapolis@bms.lt, www.bms.lt. All manner of PC bits 

and bobs, complete with staff who know their business better 

than many. Also at Ukmergės 283, tel. 246 22 00. Open 

10:00-20:00, Sat 10:00-17:00. Closed Sun. Laisvės 2, tel. 

247 73 00. Open 09:00-20:00, Sat 10:00-17:00. Closed 

Sun. QOpen 10:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 18:00. Closed 

Sun. A 

Ornamentum H-2, Konstitucijos 7a 

(Europa), tel./fax 248 70 65, info@ 

ornamentum.lt, www.ornamentum. 

lt. Bits and pieces that will turn an 

empty box into a home. Franco-elegance, 

English cottage charm , etc. Also 

at Smolensko 10, tel. 215 94 72. Open 10:00-18:00, Sat 

10:00-15:00. Closed Sun. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00. A 

Senukai Ukmergės 244, tel. 252 52 55, fax 252 52 01, 

pic@senukai.lt, www.senukai.lt. A huge shopping centre 

with building materials, electrical equipment and miscellaneous 

household essentials. Also at P.Lukšio 34, tel. 252 52 

52. Open 07:30-21:30, Sat 07:30-20:00, Sun 09:00-17:00. 

Savanorių 182 a, tel. 243 33 33. Open 08:00-18:00, Sat 

08:00-14:00. Closed Sun. QOpen 07:30 - 21:30, Sat 07:30 

- 20:00, Sun 09:00 - 17:00. A 


Jewellery 

Bareket H-3, Vasario 16-osios 16, tel. 212 30 87, fax 

261 82 14, info@bareket.lt, www.bareket.lt. Silver and 

gold melt together in fantastic medleys. If you are looking 

to propose, the Bareket people are also deep into the diamond 

business. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00. 

Closed Sun. A 

Dorė Jewellery D-3, Maironio 9, tel. 260 83 29/+370 

686 888 86, info@dore.lt, www.dore.lt. Offering everything 

from ‘subtle style’ to ‘bordering on bling’, and in a 

gorgeous little courtyard location within casual glancing 

distance of St. Anne’s Church. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Sat 

11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JA 

Jūratės Akmenėliai A-3, Pylimo 22a, tel./fax 262 02 

79, info@juratesakmeneliai.lt, www.juratesakmeneliai.lt. 

Why just buy jewellery when you can make your own? The concept 

here is all about importing a glittering array of beady things from 

all over the world and allowing you to string them together to make 

whatever you please. Brilliant! (If you like beads.) QOpen 10:00 

- 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JA 

Lithuanian designers 

Julija Žilėnienė C-3, Stiklių 7, tel./fax 231 06 09, julija. 

zileniene@iti.lt, www.jzileniene.lt. Applying a soft touch 

with stunning effect, Julija is the sort of designer who would like to 

get to know you before you get dressed. Not only can she design 

your personal wardrobe, but your whole house too. Clients include 

the President’s wife. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 15:00. 

Closed Sun. Closed for lunch from 13:00-14:00. JA 

Juozas Statkevičius Couture B-2, Odminių 11, tel. 

212 20 29, www.josefstatkus.com. Juozas Statkevičius 

(or just Josef Statku) is arguably the most prominent Lithuanian 

fashion designer. Most of his designs tend to offer 

elegance and femininity with a bit of a twist, but without 

nonsense impracticalities. Occasionally, however, he goes 

completely la-di-da bonkers and dresses models up in babies’ 

bonnets while painting blood dribbling out of their mouths. 

QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Sun. 

Closed for ‘lunch’ from 14:00-15:00. JA 

Lino kopos H-2, Krokuvos 6, tel. 275 12 00, info@ 

linokopos.lt, www.linokopos.lt. The name mean ‘dunes of 

linen’, which sounds like a laundry nightmare, but is actually 

a fair reflection of the range and beauty of creations made 

exclusively from this versitle natural fibre, which Giedrius 

Šarkauskas has been working wonders with for five years. 

QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. A 

National Design and Fashion Gallery 

B-1, Gedimino 9, tel. +370 652 59 299, 

g9g@gedimino9.lt, www.gedimino9.lt. 

The top floor of the shopping centre is a top 

spot to flitter through racks of creations from 

various Lithuanian designers. There are also plenty of accessories 

and knick-knacks. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00. J 

Ramunė Piekautaitė C-4, Didžioji 20, tel. 231 22 70, 

info@ramunepiekautaite.com, www.ramunepiekautaite. 

com. Put elegance and confidence in a blender, add a hint of 

‘daring’ or ‘fruity nonsense’ (depending on your point of view), and 

press the puree button. Or just pop along here to see the results, 

courtesy of another internationally successful local designer. 

QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. JA 

Sandros Salionas C-3, Stiklių 7, tel. 243 00 54, www. 

sandra.lt. Bright, colourful, zesty, cheeky and a little bit dotty 

without being honkingly mad - and now tucked away in a nice 

new little courtyard in Old Town. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Mon, 

Sat 12:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. JA

Sirena B-4, Mėsinių 9, tel. 212 66 01/+370 656 017 

64, sirena@sirena.lt, www.sirena.lt. Handmade handbags, 

leather belts, wallets, leather souvenirs with little Lithuanian 

symbols, dinky little key pouches and more. QOpen 10:00 


Trinité Boutique C-3, Literatų 5, tel. 262 95 18, fax 

233 90 10, info@trinite.lt, www.trinite.lt. Fashion and 

accessories with a certain quirky local flavour - but nothing 

too out-there, unless you ask for it. QOpen 12:00 - 20:00. 

Closed Mon. JA 

Vilniaus Modelių Namai C-2, B.Radvilaitės 3-1, tel. 

262 98 80, info@vmn.lt. Off-the-shelf locally designed and 

produced fashion ranging from sombre style to fun, frilly and 

flighty. There are also accessories which could make nice 

gifts. Most importantly, they design and produce bespoke 

beauty totally in-house, so you can go and bark and point 

while they doodle, cut and sew you into shape. QOpen 10:00 


Zoraza C-3, Stiklių 6, tel. 212 00 84, zoraza@zoraza. 

com. Bags, boots, shoes, furry things, shiny things, florid 

frocks, and a glitzy upholstered toilet. The only thing we can 

find in common among all the creations tucked away in this 

bristling boutique, other than the fact that they have tumbled 

from the presumably chaotic cognitions of designer Daiva 

Urbonavičiūtė, is a certain wacky weirdness. Not for the 

straight-laced. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 15:00. 


Photography 

Fotoservisas C-3, Pilies 23, tel. 212 23 27, www.fotoservisas.lt. 

Films and film development. Also at Gedimino 7, tel. 

212 77 71. Open 08:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. 

Ozo 25 (Akropolis), tel. 238 77 27. Open 09:00-22:00. QOpen 

09:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 - 16:00. JA 

Fototechnika H-3, Pamėnkalnio 15/6, tel. 262 28 50, 

info@fototechnika.lt, www.fototechnika.lt. New and second-hand 

cameras, including some great old Russian single 

lens and twin lens reflexes at good rates. Also an excellent 

selection of filmstock (including a wide range of 120-format 

films), lights, tripods, filters and everything else necessary 

for the serious photographer. QOpen 09:00 - 19:00, Sat 

10:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. A 

Kodak Express G-4, Savanorių 16, tel. 235 40 55, 

vilnius@valbora.lt. Notable for being the only reliable place in 

town to get 120-format film developed, they can also provide 

you with contact sheets and rush a film through in one hour. 

QOpen 09:00 - 20:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00. A 

Shopping centres 

Akropolis G-1, Ozo 25, tel. 1820, www.akropolis.lt. A 

big tin and concrete shed full of shops and the flocks that visit 

them. In case shopping isn’t your thing, you can try ice-skating, 

bowling, or see a film. There’s also a good range of restaurants, 

and a constant cacophonous argument between the cheap car 

alarms in the enormous car park. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00. A 

Europa H-2, Konstitucijos 7a, tel. 248 70 70, info@ 

europa.lt, www.europa.lt. Still feels shiny and new, and 

there are weird floating egg-shaped pod thingies that you can 

sit in and sip coffee, but as far as shopping centres go this 

one doesn’t have much to offer. There are not many shops. 

QOpen 10:00 - 22:00. A 

Flagman A-1, Gedimino 16, tel. +370 698 306 62/263 

96 17, fax 212 00 28, nerijus@flagman.lt, www.flagman.lt. 

It’s a centre. With shops in. Original, eh? Notable only for its central 

location. QOpen 10:00 - 20:00, Sun 11:00 - 18:00. JA 

Gedimino 9 B-1, Gedimino 9, tel. 262 97 64, fax 262 97 

74, adm@gedimino9.lt, www.gedimino9.lt. All glitzy and 

new with unusable escaltors that force you to walk around 

Markets 

shoPPing 

Flower Market G-4, Basanavičiaus 42. Open 

always and overflowing with flowers, bouquets, wreaths 

and other floral arrangements. Haggle over pricing. It’s 

expected. Q Open 24hrs. 

Gariūnai Market 4km from Vilnius just off the 

Kaunas highway. 120ha of market madness, and a great 

place for cheap clothes and household items if you know how 

to spot quality.QOpen sunrise to lunchtime. Closed Mon. 

Halės Market C-5, Corner of Pylimo and Bazilijonų. 

The place to go for half a cow, a pig’s face, four hundred 

eggs, etc.Q Open sunrise to lunchtime. J 

Kalvarijų Market H-2, Kalvarijų 61. A mixture of 

clothes, food and wacky local characters, including pickpockets.Q 

Open sunrise to lunchtime. Closed Mon. 

Souvenir Market C-2/3, Pilies 23. If it’s made from 

amber, linen or wood you will find it here. This stretch 

of street has a formidable amount of things - most of 

which are not worth purchasing. Russian lacquer boxes 

and alleged rabbit fur KGB hats can also be found here. 

In front of the Orthodox Church of St. Paraskeva there is 

a collection of artists selling their watercolours and oils. 

QOpen 09:00 - 19:00. J 

in circles looking at fashion and footwear shops. There is 

also a National Fashion & Design Gallery on the top floor 

- if you can get that far. QOpen 10:00 - 20:00, Sun 11:00 

- 18:00. PJA 

Helios City G-4, Savanorių 1, helioscity@helios.lt, 

www.helioscity.lt. Restaurants, cafés, and a smattering of 

boutiques and services. All bright and sparkly and a bit spacestation. 

The bread factory over the road ensures it smells 

nice. QOpen 10:00 - 20:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00. 

VCUP (Vilniaus centrinė universalinė parduotuvė) 

H-2, Konstitucijos 16, tel. 273 04 69, fax 272 38 19, 

centras@vcup.lt, www.vcup.lt. The bottom couple of floors 

of an office building are pretending to be a shopping centre. 

QOpen 10:00 - 21:00. PA 

Tea, coffee & Chocolate 

Šokolado Namai B-3, Trakų 13, tel. 212 14 23, info@ 

chocolade.lt, www.chocolade.lt. Sweet treats that start 

and end with layers of chocolate. Dinky little gift boxes are 

available in case you have to apologize to someone, or 

suck-up to colleagues or... QOpen 10:00 - 20:00, Sat, Sun 

11:00 - 18:00. JA 

AJ Šokoladas G-3, Gedimino 46, tel. 249 71 22/+370 

655 140 55, www.ajsokoladas.lt. Delicious chocolates, 

even sexier than Johnny Depp in Chocolat, and sold by the 

gram. Also at Konstitucijos 7a (Europa), tel. +370 699 616 

41. Open 10:00-22:00. QOpen 08:00 - 20:00, Sat, Sun 

10:00 - 18:00. JA 

Gurman’s House of Taste C-2, Pilies 6/2, tel. 210 71 

73, www.kavinukas.lt. This is the place with the tea pots 

stuck to the outside walls. Most people just stop to take a 

photo, but if you pop inside you’ll discover more kinds of coffee 

and tea than you could poke an outstretched pinkie finger at. 

QOpen 10:00 - 20:00, Sun 10:00 - 18:00. JA 

Kavinukė D’ORO C-3, Bokšto 1, tel. 261 08 30, sigis@ 

doro.lt, www.doro.lt. You can buy fancy-pants beans here. 

QOpen 07:30 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 07:30 - 23:00, Sun 09:00 

- 21:00. JA 


liFestyle direCtory 

Barbers & Salons 

Beauty Institute B-3, Vokiečių 28/17, tel. 262 91 87, 

guinot@sugihara.lt, www.sugihara.lt. Also at A.Stulginskio 

5, tel. 260 84 48. QOpen 08:00 - 21:00, Sat 08:00 - 18:00. 


Figaro B-4, Vokiečių 14, tel. 262 12 12, figaro@figaro.lt, 

www.figaro.lt. Chopping locks here there and everywhere. Also 

at Gedimino 9, tel. 212 06 91. Open 10:00-20:00, Sun 11:00- 

18:00. Gedimino 54, tel. 249 74 24. Open Mon-Fri 08:00 - 20:00, 

Sat 08:00-16:00. Closed Sun. Stanevičiaus 23, tel. 240 78 21. 

Open 09:00 -20:00, Sat 09:00 -17:00. Closed Sun. Konstitucijos 

7a, tel. 248 70 78. Open 10:00 - 22:00. QOpen 08:00 - 20:00, 

Sat 09:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. JA 

Franko C-3, Pilies 23, tel. 262 00 82, frankosalonas@ 

yahoo.com. Get a sprucing-up in this comfortable salon 

right on Pilies. The bright-eyed, English-speaking staff will 

make your hair swell with style.QOpen 09:00 - 20:00, Sat 

09:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun, and Jan 1-21. JA 

Gatineau B-2, Totorių 19, tel. 261 83 64/+370 675 

444 48, fax 270 02 61, salonas@gmail.com, www. 

groziopaslaugos.lt. A very pleasant hairdressing, manicure, 

pedicure, make-up, massage, cosmetology salon with early 

hours and smiling English- and Italian-speaking staff. QOpen 

09:00 - 20:00, Sat 09:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. J 

Salon+ G-1, Ozo 25, tel. 249 29 09, akropolis@salonplus. 

lt, www.salonplus.lt. Bright zesty salons that can clip, frizz, 

colour or style, and leave you feeling all shiny and new. Also at 

Ateities 91 (Mandarinas shopping centre), tel. 279 39 65, open 

10:00 - 21:00. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00. JA 

Toni & Guy C-3, Didžioji 8-19, tel. 260 96 09, salonas@toniandguy.lt, 

www.toniandguy.com. The hair chain with, arguably, 

the sharpest scissors. Now in Vilnius. QOpen 09:30 - 20:30, Fri 


Vis Unita B-2, Odminių 11, tel. 210 70 55/+370 611 

496 27, fax 210 70 56, visunita@visunita.lt, www. 

visunita.lt. Pampering from top to ... pedicure, including 

hairdressing, manicure and cosmetology. Also located on 

the first floor of the Reval Hotel Lietuva. (H-2, Konstitucijos 

20), tel. 231 49 11. Open 08:00-21:00, Sat 08:00-19:00. 



Dress hire 

Kino Studija Nemenčinės plentas 4, tel. 276 34 

17/+370 684 744 49, www.kinostudija.lt. Vilnius’ film 

studios in Antakalnis can rent you anything they have in 

stock from their wide range of silly costumes. QOpen 08:00 

- 16:30, Fri 08:00 - 15:30. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Užupio Salonas D-3, Užupio 1, tel. 215 36 14. Besides 

the rental of formal wear you can get prepped for a big event by 

first having a massage here. Flowers available too. QOpen 


Dry cleaners & Launderettes 

Joglė G-3, Jasinskio 16 (entrance from Goštauto), tel. 

264 91 64/(8-800) 600 00, info@jogle.lt, www.jogle.lt. 

Also at Mindaugo 11 (Maxima), tel. +370 620 111 33. Open 

09:00-20:00, Sat, Sun 10:00-19:00. Ozo 25 (Akropolis), 

tel. +370 620 111 44. Open 10:00-22:00. Konstitucijos 7a 

(Europa), tel. 248 70 39. Open 10:00-22:00. QOpen 08:00 

- 20:00, Sat 09:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. A 

Skalbiu Sau Darbininkų 21, tel. 216 46 89/+370 673 005 

25, www.skalbiusau.lt. This is a convenient drop-off and pickup 

point for laundrettes that are located out of the centre of town. 

Take bus 1 or 2, microbus 15, 20 or 23, or trolleybus 10 or 17 

toward the airport (Oro Uostas) and get off at the Naujininkai stop 

(near the ‘Maxima’ store). You can also call the mobile number 


to arrange pick-up and delivery to your home, office or hotel. If 

you really want to go and sit in your undies while you watch your 

brand-name jeans being washed, you’ll have to haul your ass to: 

Stanevičiaus 44, tel. 247 04 00. Open 10:00-20:00, Tue 10:00- 

21:00, Sat 10:00-19:00. Closed Mon, Fri, Sun. Take bus 40 or 

53 or microbus 2 or 20 in the direction of Fabijoniškės and get 

off at the Stanevičiaus stop; Šeškinės 26, tel. 233 94 40. Open 

10:00-20:00, Mon 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00-19:00. Closed Sun. 

Take bus 2 or microbus 4 in the direction of Šeškinė until they 

kick you out at the end of the line. Saulėtekio 41, tel. 269 60 98. 

Open 15:00-21:00, Sat 10:00-19:00. Closed Wed, Fri, Sun. We 

suggest going to the website and printing out maps before you 

set off in case you need to ask for directions. QOpen 09:30 

- 19:30, Mon, Fri 15:00 - 19:30, Sat 09:30 - 16:00, Sun 10:00 

- 15:00. Closed Wed. 

Home entertainment 

DVDOnline.lt Tel. 241 02 83, www.dvdonline.lt. Mailbased 

DVD rental service. Pay a monthly fee, fill-in a wish-list 

online, and the DVD will arrive in your mailbox with a post-itback 

envelope. You can do the whole thing without meeting 

anyone. Ideal for shy types and albinos. 

Eliksyras D-3, Šv. Mykolo 12-8, tel. 261 64 03, www. 

eliksyras.lt. A baffling array of videos and an interesting little 

man who somehow magically knows what you’re going to like. 

Not much English spoken. Also at Domaševičiaus 3, tel. 260 

90 21. Open 12:00-23:00. QOpen 15:00 - 22:00. J 

Videoline G-4, Mindaugo 11 (Maxima), tel. 260 34 87, 

mindaugo11@gpi.lt, www.videoline.lt. A short uphill walk 

from Old Town, but conveniently located above a supermarket 

when you can stock up on movie-watching snacks. QOpen 

10:00 - 21:00. 

Videoplanet B-1, Gedimino 9, tel. 260 91 30. The most 

central place to grab a vid. Foreigners and visitors can rent movies 

if they flash their passport, drivers’ licence or some other form of 

ID with an address. 5Lt for DVDs, 6Lt for new releases. Return by 

21:00 next day. Your membership card also works at the location 

near the Coca-Cola Plaza, which can be handy. Also at Savanorių 

7.QOpen 10:00 - 20:00, Sun 11:00 - 18:00. J 

International schools 

American International School of Vilnius J-4, Subačiaus 

41, tel. 212 10 31, fax 264 72 02, office@aisvilnius.lt, www. 

aisv.lt. QOpen 08:00 - 16:30. Closed Sat, Sun. 

French International School Žirmūnų 108, tel. 276 91 

32/+370 650 991 69, apeefv@takas.lt, www.efv.lt. Also 

at Višinskio 23. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Vilnius International School Turniškių 21, tel. 276 

15 64/+370 698 862 18, admin@vischool.lt, www. 

vischool.lt. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Interpreters 

Litinterp D-2, Bernardinų 9-4, tel. 212 29 24, fax 212 

33 59, vertimai@litinterp.lt, www.litinterp.lt. Interpreters 

and translators. Reliable and quick service. Legal documents, 

notarisation upon request. QOpen 08:30 - 17:30, Fri 08:30 


Skrivanek H-2, Konstitucijos 15-24, tel. 212 16 40/+370 

655 219 19, fax 260 95 51, info@skrivanek.lt, www. 

skrivanek.lt. QOpen 09:00 - 20:00. Closed Sat, Sun. A 

Keys cut 

Raktinė D-2, B.Radvilaitės 7, tel. 212 65 65/+370 698 

334 13, info@raktine.lt, www.raktine.lt. Also at Pylimo 

49, tel. 212 72 91. QOpen 09:00 - 19:00, Fri 09:00 - 18:00, 

Sat 09:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun. J

Language courses 

EF English First I-3, T.Kosciuškos 11, tel. 279 16 

16/(8-800) 216 16, vilnius@ef.lt, www.ef.lt. Also at 

Žalgirio 92, tel. 205 12 27, 205 12 28. QOpen 06:30 - 21:00, 

Fri 06:30 - 18:00. Closed Sat, Sun. A 

French Cultural Centre C-3, Didžioji 1, tel. 231 29 85, fax 

231 29 87, cours@centrefrancais.lt, www.centrefrancais. 

lt. QOpen 09:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. J 

International Language Services G-3, Lukiškių 5-115, 

tel. 262 54 06, fax 262 54 19, info@ilsvilnius.lt, www. 

ilsvilnius.lt. QOpen 10:00 - 19:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Italian Cultural Institute C-3, Universiteto 4, tel. 261 

10 76, fax 261 64 90, iicvilnius@esteri.it, www.iicvilnius.esteri.it. 


Jaunimo Perspektyva A-2, Vilniaus 39, tel. 234 09 

53/+370 687 494 22, vytautas.grivickas@ff.vu.lt, www. 

ltmrs.lt/jp. Various levels of Lithuanian language instruction 

on an individual or group basis. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. J 

Libraries 

American Center Library B-4, Akmenų 7, tel. 266 53 

00, fax 266 53 10, WebMailVilnius@state.gov, www. 

vilnius.usembassy.gov. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. Closed 

Sat, Sun. J 

British Council Library A-2, Jogailos 4, tel. 264 48 

90, fax 264 48 93, mail@britishcouncil.lt, www.britishcouncil.lt. 

Books, CDs, videos (and DVDs), magazines 

and free internet access. This centre will close at the end of 

2007 and is not accepting new members. So, unless you’re 

an existing member, you can’t borrow stuff. QOpen 11:00 


CAC Info Lab (ŠMC Info Lab’as) C-4, Vokiečių 2, 

Contemporary Art Centre, tel. 212 19 45, fax 262 39 

54, info@cac.lt, www.cac.lt. The archives of information 

on contemporary art. Dynamic library with an extensive collection 

of exhibitions catalogues, theoretical books, periodicals, 

videotapes, CDs. QOpen 12:00 - 19:30. Closed Mon. J 

French Cultural Centre C-3, Didžioji 1, tel. 231 29 

85, fax 231 29 87, biblio@centrefrancais.lt, www. 

centrefrancais.lt. Pick up your copy of Hugo in French, a 

how-to-learn French book, children’s books in French, posters, 

art books and the possibility to subscribe to over 2,000 

French magazines. QOpen 13:30 - 18:30, Sat 10:00 - 15:00. 

Closed Sun. J 

Martynas Mažvydas Lithuanian National Library 

(Nacionalinė Martyno Mažvydo biblioteka) G-3, 

Gedimino 51, tel. 249 70 23/249 70 28, fax 249 61 

29, biblio@lnb.lt, www.lnb.lt. QOpen 09:00 - 20:00, Sat 

10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. 

Nordic Information Office Library D-3, Didžioji 5, 

tel. 212 20 21, fax 212 24 23, info@norden.lt, www. 

norden.lt. Offers Nordic books, newspapers, videos and CDs. 

QOpen 12:00 - 18:00. Closed Wed, Sat, Sun. J 

Massage 

Ayurvedic Centre Shanti D-5, Subačiaus 17, tel. 

+370 606 755 57, info@ajurveda.lt, www.ajurveda. 

lt. Rejuvenation, relaxation and cleansing treatments. 

Panchakarma, ayurvedic massage, cosmetology and sauna. 

Consultations in English. Gift certificates and massage 

courses available. QOpen 09:00 - 22:00. J 

East Island C-4, Didžioji 40/Šv. Kazimiero 2, tel. 

212 55 99/+370 606 639 99, info@east-island. 

lt, www.east-island.lt. A centrally located oriental 

SPA. All types of massage and peeling are offered here. 

QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. J 

Home of Massage B-2, Labdarių 5, tel. 262 70 


69/+370 699 997 72, borisas@takas.lt, www.masazonamai.lt. 

English speaking masseur Gintas performs no 

frills relaxation massage as well as more complex procedures. 


Mabre Beauty Centre D-3, Maironio 13, tel. 231 30 

83. Highly professional and skillful beauty specialists. QOpen 


Nuad Thai C-4, Didžioji 20/Savičiaus 1, tel. 212 55 

33/+370 699 92 333, www.nuadthai.lt. Thai massage 

options from top to toe. They even cater for babies and pregnant 

women. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. J 

News agencies 

BNS A-2, Jogailos 9/1, tel. 205 85 01, fax 205 85 04, 

prenumerata@bns.lt, www.bns.lt. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00. 


Reuters B-2, Odminių 8, tel. 266 13 70, fax 212 35 

18, www.reuters.com. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00. Closed 

Sat, Sun. J 

For kids 

Hey kids! How do you keep those pesky parents amused 

and out of your hair during the long, cold Vilnius winter? 

Here’s our hand-picked In Your Pocket suggestions for 

things you can do in and around Vilnius to keep your 

parents out of trouble and somewhat sane: 

Splash out 

The Vichy Aqua Park (see page 69) has oodles of 

splishy-splashy fun for parents in the form of pools and 

waterslides. There are even things like saunas and pool 

bars which, while they may not do much for you, are great 

for keeping parents quiet for a few precious moments. 

Oh – and while the groan-ups are busy complaining 

about the queues for food or worrying about how big 

their bum looks in the bathing suit, you can admire the 

architectural splendour of the special ‘kids’ play area’ 

(21st-century renaissance-plastic, in case you’re taking 

notes). There’s even a special executive suite (they call 

it a ‘crèche’ for some reason) that you can book yourself 

into for some well-earned and well-guarded rest while 

your parents run amok. 

We also recommend the Lazdynų Laisvalaikio Centras 

(also on page 69) and Forum Sports Club (page 69). 

Children who haven’t been born yet can take their mothers 

there for aerobics. 

Skating 

Your ‘blades’ may be packed away, but you can still skate. 

See the Snow & Ice listings on page 95 for ice-skating 

rinks where you can zoom about while your parents 

wobble and fall over. 

Be an angel 

Take your parents to Sereikiškių Park (D-2), lie in the 

snow, wave your arms and legs back and forth, and make 

a shape like an angel. Parents love to take photographs 

of such antics. 

Lėlė Puppet Theatre 

This is fun. Just when you think it’s all Jim-Henson cuddly 

and fluffly, they whip out a puppet that looks like a deformed 

Mr. Potato Head and all the old people get scared. 

Morning and afternoon shows are available, so grandparents 

can go before their bedtime. See page 13.. 



Newspapers & Magazines 

City Paper Mere pst 20, Tallinn, Estonia, tel. +372 

655 50 95, fax +372 655 50 96, citypaper@citypaper.ee, 

www.balticsworldwide.com. English language 

editorial/listings glossy focusing on the three 

Baltic capitals. 

Lietuvos Rytas B-2, Gedimino 12a, tel. 274 36 00, 

fax 274 37 00, daily@lrytas.lt, www.lrytas.lt. The most 

popular daily newspaper in Lithuania (in Lithuanian). J 

Lithuanian Business Review B-3, Vokiečių 28/17-35, 

tel. 210 13 79, fax 210 13 80, lbr@neolitas.lt. This monthly 

English-language publication packed with useful business information 

is a good place to start. Copies can be found in some of the 

larger bookshops in Vilnius, or you can subscribe online at www. 

neolitas.lt. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

The Baltic Times B-5, Raugyklos 15-302, tel./fax 212 

15 45, www.baltictimes.com. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00. 


Verslo Žinios (weekly business news summaries 

in English) G-3, Jasinskio 16a, tel. 252 63 00, fax 252 

63 13, info@vzinios.lt, www.vz.lt. Features weekly news 

summaries in English. 

Repair services 

Avalynės Taisykla (Shoes) B-4, Labdarių 1, tel. 262 

88 63. QOpen 08:00 - 19:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

Spa 

Idzumi I-2, Sporto 12, tel. 247 24 70/+370 652 888 

54, fax 272 81 82, info@idzumi.lt, www.idzumi.lt. An 

Asian atmosphere permeates and soothes, as do all the 

treatments and services including spa, sauna, massage, 


cosmetics, solarium and more. It’s a fresh approach which 

will leave you feeling very alive and refreshed. QOpen 09:00 

- 22:00, Sun 09:00 - 18:00. AD 

Le Méridien Villon Fitness Club & Spa Vilnius-Riga 

A2 highway 19km, tel. 273 97 77, fax 273 97 30, spa@ 

lemeridien.lt, www.lemeridien.lt. Aerobics, gym, jacuzzi, 

Turkish and Finnish saunas, huge swimming pool, spa, beauty 

salon, Swedish, full body and underwater massage, solarium, 

hydrotherapy, aroma spa, treatment consultations. The 

beauty team take care of cellulite, and will firm, refresh, massage 

your body. QOpen 06:45 - 22:30. TAFDC 

Sothys Spa Centre B-5, Pylimo 45/1, tel. 262 27 

77/262 28 88, grozis@sothys.lt, www.sothys.lt. Turkish 

baths, Dead Sea water baths, and all manner of ways to bathe 

yoruself in unparalleled pampering and luxury. QOpen 09:00 

- 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun. JAC 

Tattoos & Piercing 

Angis C-3, Literatų 4, tel. +370 689 165 94, angistattoo@gmail.com, 

www.angistattoo.lt. Ink wielding artists 

who speak English, Russian, French and Spanish. Half an 

hour of scratching costs 150Lt. Minimum charge 100Lt. They 

refused to tattoo our eyeballs, but didn’t refuse a client who 

requested a tattoo in a place normally only seen by proctologists 

and customs officers. That would have hurt. They also 

do piercing. QOpen 12:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun. J 

Drakono Ženklas (Sign of the Dragon) B-3, Vilniaus 

45-7, tel. 261 40 64, fax 245 66 65, info@tattoo.lt, 

www.tattoo.lt. Prices start from around 80Lt, but changing 

the name of a former lover into an anchor and chain usually 

involves a bit of work and costs more. Especially if you’re trying 

to remove a Lithuanian surname. Piercing is offered, but 

they won’t touch your naughty bits. Unless you’re very sexy. 

They have previously refused to tattoo tongues, but did once 

tattoo someone’s foot. They limped home. QOpen 11:00 

- 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. J 

Modus A-6, Kauno 6, tel./fax 233 42 38, info@modus. 

lt, www.modus.lt. A little out of the centre but worth it 

because they only charge 80Lt to change ‘Asta’ to ‘Pasta’. 

They claim they will tattoo anything anywhere for the right 

price, so take your granny along and give them a challenge. 

They have previously slapped tatts on little toes and bald 

heads. They also do piercing. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 

10:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. J 

Paradizė B-2, Totorių 15, tel. 261 41 20, info2@ 

paradize.lt, www.paradize.lt. For 50-150Lt you can get 

a matchbox, or any similarly sized design, tattooed almost 

anywhere. (There are body parts that they won’t fill with ink, 

but they wouldn’t tell us which ones.) Somewhat worryingly, 

they couldn’t remember the strangest tattoo they’ve ever 

been asked to do. They will also poke holes in you. QOpen 


Television 

C Gates H-3, Gedimino 28/2, tel. 210 75 75, info@ 

cgates.lt, www.cgates.lt. QOpen 08:00 - 20:00, Fri 08:00 

- 19:30, Sat 10:00 - 14:30. Closed Sun. 

Lithuanian TV (Lietuvos TV) F-4, Konarskio 49, tel. 

236 32 09, fax 236 32 08, lrt@lrt.lt, www.lrt.lt. The national 

television station. Sensible, family-friendly, etc.QOpen 

08:00 - 17:00, Fri 08:00 - 15:45. Closed Sat, Sun. 

LNK TV Šeškinės 20, tel. 243 10 58/+370 680 601 

88, fax 243 10 54, info@lnk.lt, www.lnk.lt. Home of 

dimwit celebrities and inane ‘reality’ television garbage. 

Singing and ice-skates a speciality.QOpen 08:00 - 17:00. 


TV3 Nemenčinės 4, tel. 231 61 31, fax 276 42 53, biuras@ 

tv3.lt, www.tv3.lt. QOpen 08:30 - 17:30. Closed Sat, Sun.

Action & Adventure 

Active Holidays J.Galvydžio 3-110, tel. +370 698 247 

95, vilnius@activeholidays.lt, www.activeholidays.lt. 

These guys will take the hassle out of arranging all manner of 

activities that involve jumping, flying, floating, driving, diving, 

shooting, eating, drinking or just relaxing. If they can’t arrange 

it, you probably shouldn’t do it anyway. They also organize 

stag dos - but we won’t tell anyone if you don’t. 

Force One Tel. +370 611 274 27, info@forceone.lt, 

www.forceone.lt. Extreme, outdoorsy and team-building 

type activities. Mostly caters to corporate clients. 

Lokės Pėda / Motosafari Lokėnėliai village, Jonava 

region, tel. +370 699 211 44, fax +370 349 529 25, 

info@lokespeda.lt, www.lokespeda.lt. Test your courage, 

balance, agility and fitness with various levels of tree-top challenges 

formed from high-wires, wobbly bridges, dangling Tarzan 

ropes and zip-wires. Or throw your leg over a four-wheel motorbike 

for a wild ride through lovely Lithuanian nature. A great day 

out. Take a bus to Kaunas, and then another to Jonava and get 

a taxi from there for around 10Lt. By car, take the A2 toward 

Riga and turn off on the A6 to pass through Ukmergė and then 

on to Jonava. A big sign will ensure you don’t miss it. 

Oreivystės centras Motorų 6, tel. 273 27 03/+370 652 

005 10, fax 273 27 02, info@oreivystescentras.lt, www. 

oreivystescentras.lt. Balloons, full of hot air, as well as other 

off-the-ground antics. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Pramogų Pasaulis G-3, J.Jasinskio 14, tel. 249 72 

32/+370 676 111 31, info@enjoylithuania.com, www. 

enjoylithuania.com. Everything from paintball to pub crawls. 

Although not at the same time. 

Promokartas Plytinės 27, tel./fax 243 83 90, tel. +370 

699 567 04, info@kartodromas.lt, www.kartodromas.lt. 

This go-kart track offers speed, mayhem, danger, so it’s just like 

the rest of Lithuania’s road network, but with smaller cars and 

more fun. QOpen 13:00 - 20:00, Sat, Sun 11:00 - 20:00. 

Vilniaus Dariaus ir Girėno Aeroklubas (Skydiving) 

Lakūnų 1, Kyviškės,Vilnius region, tel. 232 57 18/+370 

686 671 76, info@dropzone.lt. Get chucked out of a Russian 

AN-2 biplane at altitudes of up to 2,500m. 

Vilniaus Oreivių Asociacija Krokuvos 11-29, tel. 

+370 676 000 50/+370 620 225 33, info@oreivis.lt, 

www.oreivis.lt. A friendly and professional bunch to float 

over Vilnius with. They even offer a fun ‘first flight’ celebration 

after touchdown. 

Fitness & Gyms 

Forum Sports Club G-2, Konstitucijos 26, tel. 210 31 

49/263 66 66, fax 210 31 33, info@forumpalace.lt, 

www.forumpalace.lt. Gym, aerobics, 25m pool, saunas, 

modern equipment and the option of a personal trainer to 

shout at you while you use it. QOpen 06:30 - 22:30, Sat, 

Sun 08:00 - 22:00. AFDC 

Impuls Plus Kareivių 14, tel. 247 77 44/247 77 66, 

info@impuls.lt, www.impuls.lt. Strength and cardiovascular 

workout gear, aerobics, sauna, spa, pool and waterslide. Also 

at L.Asanavičiūtės 15, tel. 216 99 49; Ozo 41, tel. 240 09 60; 

Savanorių 28, tel. 260 37 57; Fabijoniškių 97a, tel. 273 60 90. 

QOpen 07:00 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 20:00ADC 

Racket Sports 

Ping Pong Table Tennis G-3, Jasinskio 6, tel. 212 66 

22. QOpen 09:00 - 21:00, Sat, Sun 08:00 - 12:00. 

Teniso Pasaulis E-1, Ąžuolyno 5, tel. +370 655 040 

50, fax 246 08 36, tenisas@tenisopasaulis.lt, www. 

tenisopasaulis.lt. 30-95Lt/hour depending on when you 

want to play. Kids can play twice a week for 180Lt/month. 

QOpen 06:00 - 24:00. A 

ACtivities & sPorts 

Saunas 

City Park B-2, L.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus 3, tel. 212 35 15, 

fax 210 74 60, citypark@citypark.lt, www.citypark.lt. 

The hotel has a little spa centre tucked away in a neighbouring 

building that offers a subtle beachy feel (they’ve scattered 

some shells about) and is ideal for small groups who want to 

sit in a box full of steam, a pool full of crystal clear water or a 

bowl full of bubbles. JA 

Narutis C-3, Pilies 24, tel. 212 28 94, fax 262 28 82, info@ 

narutis.com, www.narutis.com. There’s a sauna, steam room 

and a modest pool with spa bath. And a nice little fountain. A hidden 

treat on the main tourist promenade of Old Town. JA 


01 10, fax 212 17 62, sales.vilnius@radissonsas.com, 

www.vilnius.radissonsas.com. A vast(ish) and gleaming 

facility tucked away under one of the city’s finest hotels. 

Sauna, pool, spa bath and some fitness kit are all present. 

You can watch people swimming while you’re on the treadmill. 

And then join them. JA 

Snow & Ice 

Akropolis Ice (Akropolio Ledas) G-1, Ozo 25, tel. +370 

659 919 74, www.akropolis.lt. It’s skating in a shopping centre, 

and it’s cooler than it sounds. QOpen 08:00 - 24:00. 

Ice Palace (Ledo Rūmai) E-1, Ąžuolyno 5, tel. 242 

44 44, fax 242 44 00, versenta@ledorumai.lt, www. 

ledorumai.lt. Vilnius’s ‘proper’ skating rink, capable of 

hosting 400 skaters (provided most of them stay vertical). 

You can also go to watch the fights and see a hockey game 

break out. Skating sessions start at 18:00, 20:00, 22:00 

(weekdays) and from 08:00 till 22:00 every two hours on 

weekends. QOpen 08:00 - 23:30. 

Social Sports 

Hash House Harriers Tel. +370 685 212 43, vilniushhh@gmail.com, 

www.vilniushhh.blogspot.com. Run 

(or walk) around for a bit, then drink and chat. 

Swimming & Water Sports 

Lazdynų Laisvalaikio Centras Erfurto 13, tel. 216 90 

41/216 90 30, info@lazdynubaseinas.lt, www.lazdynubaseinas.lt. 

An Olympic sized pool with sauna but without 

swish facilities, membership requirements, or high prices. 

A bit decrepit and full of uncouth human flotsam (including 

our Editor, sometimes) but a good no-nonsense option for 

people who are more interested in swimming than posing 

or perving. Take bus 21 from the Reformatų Square (A-3) for 

the half-hour trip to ‘Lazdynėliai’, which will be the 15th and 

last stop. 10-15Lt in a taxi from Old Town. 16Lt for 60mins 

swimming. Will be closed for holiday until the first weekend 

of September. QOpen 09:00 - 21:00. 

Lietuvos Vaikų ir Jaunimo Centras (Children’s and 

Youth Centre) G-2, Konstitucijos 25, tel. 273 33 33, fax 

272 56 51, info@lvjc.lt, www.lvjc.lt. The pool is only 25m long 

but it is as clean as a whistle and, despite being in this child and 

youth centre, not just for kiddies. QOpen 06:00 - 22:00. 

Vichy Aquapark Ozo 14c, tel. 211 11 12. A big explosion 

of aquatic fun with a pleasantly up-lifting Polynesian 

theme throughout. There are dizzying water slides, a pretend 

beach with real waves, oodles of pools of various types (one 

with a bar) and all sorts of saunas and spa baths. All this 

splashy extravagance will set you back 69Lt for four hours 

on a weekend. Bus 53 will take you there from the corner of 

Gedimino and Vilniaus (B-1). Get off at the Pramogų Arena 

stop. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 22:00. 

TEBKDC 


0 heAlth 

According to a recent study, Lithuania has the worst health 

care system in the EU. We often hear stories of locals who 

have to put up with dodgy doctors and surgeons without 

scruples who are highly skilled in performing bribectomies. 

Excellent medical care is available here for a price that, 

while out of reach to many locals, is still reasonable for 

visitors from the west. Not surprisingly, health tourism is 

a growing industry with many visitors turning up not just 

for a holiday, but for some high-quality dental tinkering, or 

even a whole new hip to take home along with their amber 

trinkets and local linen. The standard of facilities can vary 

here – you get what you pay for. 

AIDS 

Lithuanian AIDS Centre G-5, Kauno 37/59, tel./fax 

233 01 11, tel. (8-800) 011 11, www.aids.lt. QOpen 

08:00 - 16:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Hospitals 

Vilnius University Emergency Hospital (Vilniaus 

Greitosios Pagalbos Universitetinė Ligoninė) 

Šiltnamių 29, tel. 216 90 69, fax 216 89 84, vgpul@ 

vlk.lt, www.vgpul.lt. 

Medical services 

Baltic-American Medical & Surgical Clinic 

Nemenčinės 54a, tel. 234 20 20/+370 698 526 55, 

fax 276 79 42, info@bak.lt, www.bak.lt. Highly recommended 

modern professional health care and diagnostics. 

Q Open 24hrs. A 


Beauty Therapy and Surgery Clinic E-1, Č.Sugiharos 

3, tel. 270 57 10, info@sugihara.lt, www.sugihara.lt. A 

highly trained team of consulting doctors will come to the 

rescue if your beauty is, erm... slipping away. You can also 

indulge yourself with a massage or various other forms of 

pampering. QOpen 08:00 - 21:00. Closed Sun. A 

Fertility Centre C-2, Maironio 25, tel./fax 261 42 26, 

tel. +370 687 806 05, vaisingumocentras@gmail.com, 

www.fertility.lt. Highly recommended modern fertility treatments. 

QOpen 08:00 - 19:00. Closed Sat, Sun. JA 

Fertility Clinic Laisvės 64a, tel. 239 05 95/+370 656 

444 40, info@vaisingumas.lt, www.vaisingumas.lt. Fullservice 

gynaecologist. Fertility treatments, obstetrics and 

modern therapies for menopause. QOpen 08:30 - 19:00. 

Closed Sat, Sun. A 

Heart Surgery Centre (Širdies Chirurgijos Centras) 

Laisvės 64a, tel. 239 05 00/239 05 01, fax 239 05 02, 

info@kardiolita.lt, www.kardiolita.lt. High-tech heart surgery 

centre. QOpen 08:00 - 20:00. Closed Sat, Sun. A 

Med General Private Clinic B-2, Gedimino 1a-19, 2nd 

floor, tel. 261 35 34/+370 684 331 00, medgen@takas. 

lt, www.clinic.lt. City centre-based Australian doctor, UN 

and embassy affiliated. High standard of family and personal 

care. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. JA 

Medical Diagnostic Centre (Medicinos diagnostikos 

centras) J-1, V.Grybo 32/10, tel. 270 91 20/+370 698 000 

00, fax 270 91 27, mdc@medcentras.lt, www.medcentras. 

lt. Consultation, diagnosis and treatment of different diseases in 

both adults and children. 24-hour urgent surgery services. QOpen 

08:00 - 20:00, Sat 08:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. A 

Northway Medical Center I-1, S.Žukausko 19, tel. 

264 44 66/264 44 63, fax 264 44 67, klauskite@nmc.lt, 

www.nmc.lt. General practitioners and specialists in cardiol-

ogy, gynaecology, otorhinolaryngology (ear, nose and 

throat, in case you’re wondering) and more. There are also 

rehabilitation, health and beauty centre services. QOpen 

08:00 - 20:30, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 18:00. A 

Skin and Laser Surgery Center G-4, Z.Sierakausko 36, 

tel. 264 73 04, fax 264 73 05, lasers@centras.lt, www.lazerinechirurgija.lt. 


Šeimos Medicinos Centras (Family Medical Centre) 

A-3, Pylimo 9, tel. 260 86 84, fax 262 36 53, info@ 

seimosgydytojas.lt, www.seimosgydytojas.lt. QOpen 


Opticians 

Rega C-3, Pilies 32, tel. 262 00 73/+370 606 054 20, 

piliesoptika@rega.lt, www.rega.lt. QOpen 10:00 - 19:00, 

Sat 10:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. JA 

Vision Express B-4, Vokiečių 13, tel. 262 26 69, fax 

212 19 87, vilnius.vokieciu@visionexpress.lt. QOpen 


Pharmacies 

Gedimino Vaistinė H-3, Gedimino 27, tel. 261 01 35, 

fax 268 55 59, gedimino.vaistine@takas.lt. Round-theclock 

pharmacy, but only vital essentials available at night. 

Q Open 24hrs. JA 

Operos Vaistinė A-1, A.Vienuolio 6, tel. 212 61 16, 

fax 212 71 65. QOpen 07:30 - 19:00, Sat 09:00 - 15:00. 


Universiteto Vaistinė C-3, Universiteto 2, tel. 212 12 

19, fax 231 31 10. QOpen 07:30 - 19:30, Sat 09:00 - 16:00. 


Vokiečių Vaistinė C-4, Didžioji 13, tel. 212 42 32. 

QOpen 08:00 - 19:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 18:00. JA 


N°4 - 400 lek 


TIRANA 

2006 - 2007 

Save and smile 

heAlth 

Dentists in Vilnius are of a high quality but are not expensive. 

So why not get a check-up, or a scrub-up, and leave 

Vilnius with a shiny new smile? 

The following dentists offer services to foreigners. They 

have English-speaking staff who won’t start to chat with 

you while your mouth is full of cuttlery. We asked them 

for prices for a basic check-up, a jolly-good tooth cleaning 

session, a tooth-whitening (priced per tooth), filling a hole 

and removing a gold tooth from Nanna so that it can be 

melted down and turned into something useful. 

Dr. Br. Sidaravičius Dental Clinic A-3, Klaipėdos 

2/14-3, tel. 262 97 60/261 20 41, helika@takas. 

lt. Check-up 10-100Lt, cleaning 250Lt, whitening 50Lt/1 

tooth, hole 150 - 500Lt, nanna - n.a. QOpen 08:00 


Gidenta H-3, Vienuolio 14-3, tel. 261 71 43, fax 262 

09 27, info@gidenta.lt, www.gidenta.lt. General dental 

treatment, implants, professional hygienical care. Check-up 

50Lt, cleaning 3 - 6Lt/1tooth, whitening 450 - 800Lt, hole 

100 - 150Lt, nanna 40 - 200Lt, implant 2000Lt/1 tooth. 


Stomatologic Clinic C-3, Universiteto 2/18, tel. 

231 29 52, info@odontologijosklinika.lt, www. 

odontologijosklinika.lt. Check-up - 45Lt, cleaning 

- 5Lt/tooth, whitening - 900Lt, nanna - 60-350Lt, 

hole - 90-150Lt. QOpen 08:00 - 20:00. Closed Sat, 

Sun. JA 

Stomatologijos Gydykla C-3, Dominikonų 3-45, 

tel./fax 262 84 82. Check-up 20 - 30Lt, cleaning 5Lt/1 

tooth, whitening 350 - 1400Lt, hole 100 - 200Lt, nanna 100 

- 350Lt. QOpen 08:00 - 20:00. Closed Sat, Sun. JA 






Facade art 



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Going to the 

chapel 


jewel 

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1

2 Business direCtory 

Far from the yellow pages, this Vilnius directory is focused 

on the places that really matter to foreign visitors and 

guests of the city. However concise, it somehow remains 

complete. 

Accountants 

CO Finansai G-2, A.Goštauto 12a, tel. 268 38 51. 

Deloitte & Touche A-1, Jogailos 4, tel. 255 30 00. 

Ernst & Young Baltic C-5, Subačiaus 7, tel. 274 

22 00. 

Financial Management Group C-4, Didžioji 23, 

tel. 261 94 77. 

KPMG Baltics G-2, Vytauto 12, tel. 210 26 00. 

Leinonen B-2, Labdarių 5, tel. 237 50 40. 

PricewaterhouseCoopers G-3, Jasinskio 16b, tel. 

239 23 00. 

Rödl & Partner C-4, Tilto 1/2, tel. 212 35 90. 

Business connections 

ABB G-2, Saltoniškių 14, tel. 273 83 00. 

American Chamber of Commerce G-3, Lukiškių 

5-204, tel. 261 11 81. 

Association of Lithuanian Banks G-3, Ankštoji 5, 

tel. 249 66 69. 

Association of Lithuanian Chambers of Commerce, 

Industry & Crafts G-3, Tumo-Vaižganto 

9/1-63a, tel. 261 21 02. 

Belgian Trade Representative/AWEX (Brussels 

and Walloon) Alberta 13-5, Riga, Latvia, tel. +371 

703 93 21. 

British Chamber of Commerce A-2, Jogailos 4, tel. 

269 00 62. 

Department of Statistics (Statistikos departamentas) 

H-3, Gedimino 29, tel. 236 48 00. 

French Trade Mission C-3, Švarco 1, tel. 212 29 

88. 

German - Baltic Chamber of Commerce in Estonia, 

Latvia, Lithuania G-3, Kudirkos 6, tel. 213 

11 22. 

Hungary Commercial Office C-4, Savičiaus 8-4, 

tel. 269 09 31. 

Chamber of Commerce & Industry H-4, Algirdo 

31, tel. 213 55 50. 

Chambre de Commerce Franco-Lituanienne G-4, 

Smolensko 12-220, tel. 233 54 88. 

Italian Trade Commission (ICE) C-3, Universiteto 

4, tel. 212 37 44. 

Lithuanian Development Agency (Lietuvos 

ekonominės plėtros agentūra) C-3, Šv. Jono 3, 

tel. 262 74 38. 

Open Society Fund C-4, Didžioji 5, tel. 268 55 11. 

Business services 

Consensus Europae G-2, Goštauto 11, tel. 261 

49 08. 

Conference facilities 

Ad Astrum I-2, Šeimyniškių 21b, tel. 273 01 21. 

Barbacan Palace D-4, Bokšto 19 / Šv. Kazimiero 

12, tel. 266 08 40. 

Best Western Naujasis Vilnius Conference Centre 

H-2, Konstitucijos 14, tel. 273 95 95. 

Centrum Uniquestay & Business Centre G-4, 

Vytenio 9/25, tel. 268 33 00. 

City Park B-2, Stuokos-Gucevičiaus 3, tel. 210 74 

61. 

Comfort Vilnius B-5, Gėlių 5, tel. 264 88 33. 


European Commission 

European Commission A-4, Naugarduko 10, 

tel. 231 31 91, fax 231 31 92, comm-rep-lithuania@ec.europa.eu, 

http:// 

ec.europa.eu/lietuva. Established 

in 1996, the Delegation 

of the European Commission in 

Lithuania boasts full diplomatic 

mission status, serving as both a 

mediator between the Lithuanian 

government and the EU, and an information source for the 

general public. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Fri 09:00 - 17:00. 


European Commission Information Centre 

A-4, Naugarduko 10, tel. 231 31 91, fax 231 31 

92, comm-rep-lithuania@ec.europa.eu, http:// 

ec.europa.eu/lietuva. QOpen 13:00 - 17:00. Closed 

Sat, Sun. J 

Conti B-5, Raugyklos 7/2, tel. 251 41 11. 

Domus Maria C-5, Aušros Vartų 12, tel. 264 48 80. 

Ecotel Vilnius H-2, Slucko 8, tel. 210 27 00. 

Europa Royale Vilnius C-5, Aušros Vartų 6, tel. 

266 07 70. 

Europos Parkas Joneikiškių village, Vilnius district, 

tel. 237 70 77. 

Forum Business Centre G-2, Konstitucijos 26, tel. 

210 31 03. 

Holiday Inn H-2, Šeimyniškių 1, tel. 210 30 16. 

Karolina Sausio 13-osios 2, tel. 245 39 39. 

Le Méridien Villon Resort & Convention Centre 

19km from Vilnius on the Vilnius-Riga A2 highway, tel. 

273 97 05. 

Mabre Residence D-3, Maironio 13, tel. 212 20 87. 

Narutis C-3, Pilies 24, tel. 212 28 94. 

Novotel B-1, Gedimino 16, tel. 266 62 00. 


01 10. 

Relais&Chateaux Stikliai C-3, Gaono 7, tel. 264 

95 95. 

Reval Hotel Lietuva Conference Centre H-2, Konstitucijos 

20, tel. 272 62 72. 

Reval Inn Vilnius Ukmergės 363, tel. 238 80 00. 

Shakespeare Boutique Hotel D-2, Bernardinų 8/8, 

tel. 266 58 85. 

Start Office A-2, Business Centre 2000, Jogailos 4, 

tel. 269 00 69. 

Šarūnas I-2, Raitininkų 4, tel. 272 32 50. 

Conference organisers 

Conbaltas H-3, Kareivių 6, tel. 212 00 03. 

Litexpo E-4, Laisvės 5, tel. 268 68 96. 

Visus Plenus G-4, Vytenio 9/25, tel. 213 63 26. 

Foreign representations 

Australia (Consulate) B-2, Vilniaus 23, tel./fax 212 

33 69, australia@consulate.lt. Open to visitors Tue 

10:00-13:00, Thu 14:00-17:00. J 

Austria G-3, Gaono 6, tel. 266 05 80, fax 279 13 63, 

wilna-ob@bmaa.gv.at. Open to visitors 09:00 - 12:00 daily. 


Belarus Muitinės 41, tel. 213 22 55, fax 233 06 26, 

consulate@belarus.lt, www.belarus.lt. QOpen 08:30 

- 16:30, Fri 08:30 - 15:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Belgium A-3, K.Kalinausko 2b, tel. 266 08 20, fax 212

64 44, vilnius@diplobel.org, www.diplomatie.be/vilnius. 

Open for visitors: 09:00 - 12:00 ; 14:00 - 16:00. QOpen 


Canada A-2, Jogailos 4, tel. 249 09 50, fax 249 78 

65, vilnius@canada.lt, www.canada.lt. QOpen 08:30 


China H-4, Algirdo 36, tel. 216 28 61, fax 216 26 82, 

chinaemb_lithuania@mfa.gov.cn, www.chinaembassy. 

lt. QOpen , Mon, Wed 09:00 - 18:00, Tue, Thu 09:00 - 12:00, 

Fri 09:00 - 16:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Czech Republic F-3, Birutės 16, tel. 266 10 40, fax 266 

10 66, vilnius@embassy.mzv.cz, www.mzv.cz/vilnius. 


Denmark I-2, T.Kosciuškos 36, tel. 264 87 60, fax 

231 23 00, vnoamb@um.dk, www.ambvilnius.um.dk. 

Open for visitors 10:00 - 12:00. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. 


Dominican Republic (Consulate) C-1, T.Vrublevskio 

6, tel./fax 212 24 56. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00. Closed 

Sat, Sun. J 

Estonia G-3, A.Mickevičiaus 4a, tel. 278 02 00, fax 278 

02 01, sekretar@estemb.lt, www.estemb.lt. Visas Tue, 

Wed, Thu 10:00 - 12:00. QOpen 08:30 - 17:00. 

Finland A-3, Klaipėdos 6 (3rd floor), tel. 212 16 21, 

fax 212 24 63, sanomat.vil@formin.fi, www.finland.lt. 

Open for visas 09:00 - 13:00 ; 14:00 - 16:00. QOpen 08:30 


France C-3, Švarco 1, tel. 212 29 79, fax 212 42 11, ambafrance.vilnius@diplomatie.gouv.fr,www.ambafrancelt.org. 

Open for visas 09:00 - 11:30. QOpen 09:00 - 17:30. 


Georgia F-2, D.Poškos 13, tel. 273 69 59, fax 272 

36 23, embassy@georgia.w3.lt. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. 


Germany G-3, Z.Sierakausko 24/8, tel. 210 64 00, fax 

210 64 46, info@wilna.diplo.de, www.vilnius.diplo.de. 

QOpen 08:30 - 16:00, Fri 08:30 - 14:30. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Greece C-4, Rūdninkų 2, tel. 261 05 26, fax 261 05 

36, embassy@grembvil.w3.lt. QOpen 09:00 - 16:00. 


Hungary A-2, Jogailos 4, tel. 269 00 38, fax 269 00 39, office@vengrijosambasada.lt, 

www.mfa.gov.hu/emb/vilnius. 

QOpen 09:00 - 17:30, Fri 09:00 - 15:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

Iceland (Consulate) F-4, Konarskio 28a, tel. 215 05 75, 

fax 215 05 76. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Ireland C-2, Gedimino 1, tel. 262 94 60, fax 262 94 62, 

ireland.vilnius@gmail.com. Open for visitors 10:00 -12:00 ; 

14:00 - 16:00. QOpen 09:00 - 17:30. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

Italy F-3, Vytauto 1, tel. 212 06 20/212 06 22, fax 212 04 

05, ambasciata.vilnius@esteri.it, www.ambvilnius.esteri.it. 

Open for visitors: Mon, Fri 09:30-12:30; Tue, Thu 09:30-12:30, 

15:00-17:00. QOpen 09:00 - 17:12. Closed Wed, Sat, Sun. 

Japan G-4, M.K.Čiurlionio 82b, tel. 231 04 62, fax 231 

04 61. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Kazakhstan F-2, Birutės 20a/35, tel. 212 21 23, fax 

231 35 80, kazemb@iti.lt, kazakhstan.embassy.lt. 


Kirgizian Republic (Consulate) P.Lukšio 16, tel. 216 

28 98/+370 687 471 72, fax 276 22 95. 

Latvia G-4, M.K.Čiurlionio 76, tel. 213 12 60/213 12 

20, fax 213 11 30, embassy.lithuania@mfa.gov.lv, www. 

latvia.lt. QOpen 08:30 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Malta (Consulate) C-4/5, Subačiaus 2, tel. 251 44 91, 

fax 212 68 68. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

Morocco (Consulate) Kirtimų 57D, tel. 262 02 

09/+370 686 108 67, fax 262 02 03, consulate@ 

litbana.lt. QOpen Thu 09:00 - 12:00. 

Norway B-4, Mėsinių 5/2, tel. 261 00 00, fax 261 01 

00, emb.vilnius@mfa.no, www.norvegija.lt. QOpen 


Business direCtory 

Poland J-1, Smėlio 22a, tel. 270 90 01, fax 270 90 07, 

kgpl@tdd.lt, www.polandembassy.lt. QOpen 09:00 


Portugal B-2, Gedimino 5, tel. 262 05 11/262 05 09, 

fax 262 05 12, vilnius@embportugal.lt. QOpen 09:00 


Romania G-4, A.Vivulskio 19, tel. 231 05 57, fax 231 06 

52, ambromania@romania.lt, www.romania.lt. QOpen 

08:30 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Russia F-2, Latvių 53/54, tel. 272 17 63, fax 272 38 

77, post@rusemb.lt, www.rusemb.lt. QOpen 08:00 


Spain G-4, Algirdo 4, tel. 231 39 61, fax 231 39 62, emb. 

vilnius@mae.es, www.mae.es/embajadas/vilnius/es/ 

home. QOpen 09:30 - 13:30. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Sweden C-4, Didžioji 16, tel. 268 50 10, fax 268 50 

30, ambassaden.vilnius@foreign.ministry.se, www.swedenabroad.com. 


Thailand (Consulate) A-2, Jogailos 9/1, tel. 268 18 

92/268 18 88, fax 212 55 91, visa@thaiconsulate. 

lt, www.thaiconsulate.lt. Q Open 09:00-12:00, 13:30- 

16:30. Closed Sat, Sun. J 

The Netherlands A-2, Jogailos 4, tel. 269 00 72, fax 

269 00 73, vil@minbuza.nl, www.netherlandsembassy.lt. 


The Republic of the Philippines A-2, Jogailos 4 (B 

corps), tel. 212 00 33, fax 212 10 33. QOpen 08:30 


Turkey C-4, Didžioji 37, tel. 264 95 70, fax 212 32 77, 

turemvil@eunet.lt. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

UK J-2, Antakalnio 2, tel. 246 29 00/+370 698 370 

97, fax 246 29 01, be-vilnius@britain.lt, www.britain.lt. 


Ukraine A-3, Teatro 4, tel. 212 15 36, fax 212 04 75, 


Business direCtory 

ukrembassy@post.5ci.lt, www.5ci.lt/ukrembassy. 


USA G-3, Akmenų 6, tel. 266 55 00, fax 266 55 10, www. 

usembassy.lt. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 

Vatican I-2, T.Kosciuškos 28, tel. 212 36 96, fax 212 

42 28, nuntiusbalt@aiva.lt, www.vatican.va. QOpen 

09:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 12:00. Closed Sun. 

Freight forwarding 

Ad Rem Metalo 2a/7, tel. 232 93 30. 

DPD F-5, Vilkpėdės 4, tel. 210 67 50. 

DSV Transport Liudvinavo 123a, tel. 268 62 00. 

Genealogy 

Lithuanian Central State Archive (Lietuvos centrinis 

valstybės archyvas) Milašiaus 21, tel. 247 78 11. 

Lithuanian Repatriation Information Centre 

(Lietuvių grįžimo į Tėvynę informacijos centras) 

G-3, Gedimino 64, tel. 231 36 23. 

Lithuanian State Historical Archives (Lietuvos 

valstybės istorijos archyvas) F-6, Gerosios Vilties 

10, tel. 213 74 82. 

Registry (Gyventojų registro tarnyba) G-4, Lvovo 

7/6, tel. 271 77 88. 

Human resources 

Delta Management Solutions B-3, Vilniaus 39/6, 

tel. 231 44 23. 

INSCAPI Baltic A-3, Klaipėdos 1/16, tel. 261 23 26. 

J. Friisberg & Partners B-4, Vokiečių 26, tel. 266 

11 01. 

People Management C-4, Savičiaus 11-37, tel. 

269 13 34. 

Person Premier B-1, Tilto 10-3, tel. 264 73 88. 

Primum Esse H-2, Juozapavičiaus 6/2D, tel. 275 

58 44. 

Search & Selection G-4, Smolensko 10, tel. 232 

62 37. 

Vilniaus Konsultacinė Grupė H-2, Konstitucijos 7, 

tel. 266 11 00. 

Insurance 

ERGO Lietuva H-5, Geležinio Vilko 6a, tel. (8-800) 

270 00. 

Lietuvos Draudimas A-3, Basanavičiaus 12, tel. 

1828. 

Lawyers 

Bernotas ir Dominas Glimstedt A-2, Jogailos 4, 

tel. 269 07 00. 

D.Foight & Partners/Regija Borenius G-3, Jasinskio 

16a, tel. 264 95 55. 

Financial Management Group A-1, Didžioji 23, tel. 

261 94 77. 

Foresta G-3, Kudirkos 22, tel. 212 45 64. 

Hough, Žulys ir Partneriai I-4, Užupio 30, tel. 215 30 73. 

Jurevičius, Balčiūnas & Bartkus C-5, Subačiaus 

7, tel. 274 24 00. 

Juridicon Law Firm G-3, Totorių 5-7, tel. 269 11 00. 

Law Firm MK&P (Miškinis, Kvainauskas & Partners) 

A-2, Pylimo 6, tel. 212 40 84. 

Law Office of Attorney Mindaugas Šimkūnas 

Jakšto 14-6, tel. 212 08 86. 

Lideika, Petrauskas, Valiūnas & Partners LAWIN 

A-2, Jogailos 9/1, tel. 268 18 88. 


Sabaliauskas ir Partneriai B-1, Tilto 8/3, tel. 212 

42 44. 

Saladžius & Partners G-3, Jasinskio 16b, tel. 239 

23 91. 

Sorainen Law Offices A-2, Jogailos 4, tel. 268 50 40. 

Sutkienė, Pilkauskas & Partners C-4, Didžioji 23, 

tel. 251 44 44. 

Lithuanian officials 

Department of Customs (Muitinės departamentas) 

H-3, A.Jakšto 1/25, tel. 261 30 27. 

Government B-1, Gedimino 11, tel. 266 37 11. 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs G-3, Tumo-Vaižganto 2, 

tel. 236 24 44. 

Municipality (Savivaldybė) B-1, Konstitucijos 3, 

tel. 211 20 00. 

Parliament (Seimas) G-3, Gedimino 53, tel. 239 

60 60. 

President’s Office C-2, Daukanto 3/8, tel. 266 41 54. 

Notaries 

Notary Bureau 2 (Notarų biuras) C-2, Tilto 12a, 

tel. 231 46 83. 

Notary Bureau 3 C-4, Rūdninkų 8, tel. 262 01 17. 

Office rental 

Scandinavian Business Center A-4, Naugarduko 

3, tel. 266 06 66. 

Start Office A-2, Jogailos 4, Business Centre 2000, 

tel. 269 00 69. 

Office supplies 

Daily Service G-2, Saltoniškių 9b, tel. 278 54 44. 

PR 

Integrity PR C-3, Pilies 25a, tel. 268 51 35. 

VRP Hill & Knowlton G-3, Goštauto 40B, tel. 249 99 49. 

Real estate 

Butas Tau B-2, Vilniaus 45, tel. 261 87 74. 

Centro Kubas D-4, Bokšto 19/ Šv.Kazimiero 12, tel. 

212 70 90, www.centrokubas.lt 

Nuomos Biuras (Rental Bureau) A-3, Pylimo 20-15, 

tel. 233 55 77, www.nuomosbiuras.lt. 

Ober-Haus H-3, Kaštonų 8, tel. 231 41 67, www. 

oberhaus.lt. 

Sektor RealEstate C-4, Savičiaus 11-57, tel. 266 03 

10, www.sector.lt. 

Start Office A-2, Business Centre 2000, Jogailos 4, 

tel. 269 00 69. 

Šimtas Vienas Procentas G-3, Kalvarijų 2a, tel. 233 

27 77, www.101.lt. 

Removal companies 

Calenberg Vilnius Bukiškės, Vilniaus reg., tel. 243 

00 04. 

Interdean.Interconex F-2, Stirnų 27a-309, tel. 210 

91 11. 

Security firms 

Ekskomisarų Biuras F-3, Kęstučio 10, tel. 212 41 61. 

Falck Security G-3, Jasinskio 16c, tel. 275 58 80.

Arriving in Druskininkai 

From Vilnius A little over 130km southwest of Vilnius, 

Druskininkai is a few kilometres west of the fabulous 

Grūto Parkas, which should not be missed if in the 

area. To get to either by car, head west out of Vilnius 

on Savanorių, take the right turn signposted for Trakai 

and keep following the Druskininkai signs. Journey 

time is between 90 and 120 minutes. Alternatively, 

plenty of buses leave from the bus station every day. 

Bus station C-2, Gardino 1, tel. +370 313 513 33. 

QOpen 04:45 - 21:15. 

Tourism Information Centre C-2, Gardino 3, tel. 

+370 313 608 00, information@druskininkai.lt, 

info.druskininkai.lt. Unfortunately, they’re completely 

useless, are no help in finding accommodation and don’t 

even have free maps. The main office, where presumably 

there might be someone more helpful than a disinterested 

teenager, is closed on weekends. Pathetic. Also 

at M.K.Čiurlionio 65, Open 10:00 - 18:45, Sun 10:00 

- 17:00, tel +370 313 517 77 QOpen 08:30 - 17:15. 


More on Druskininkai 

More detailed information about Druskininkai, including 

a handy map and full details of the new aqua park, are 

available in Kaunas In Your Pocket, which will probably 

be available from the same place where you got this copy 

of Vilnius In Your Pocket. 

Where to stay 

Druskininkai offer plenty of options for all tastes and budgets, 

from straightforward hotels, to all-inclusive deals including 

therapies at one of the town’s many sanatoriums. 

The town is changing rapidly, with plenty of development 

and renovation occuring all about the place. Outposts of 

Soviet-style horibleness are now few and far between, but 

you can find them if you really try. A few cheap and cheerful 

self-catering packages are also on offer. 

Hotels 

Aqua Medūna A-2, Vilniaus 13-1, tel. +370 313 59195, 

fax +370 313 59 194, aquameduna@stamita.lt, www. 

aquameduna.lt. This hotel, located within the sparkly 

new Aqua Park, is equally sparkly and new but overpriced. 

You see, they just opened in a prime location and they’re 

up-themselves already. The rooms are more functional 

than comfortable, and really a little bit too basic given the 

prices. Good views are available from some rooms but until 

they get a bit more realistic with the prices this should be 

a last resort. Q92 rooms (7 singles €45 - 52, 78 doubles 

€55 - 81, 5 suites €93 - 127, 2 apartments €162 - 202). 

PHAR6UILGKW hhh 

Dalija B-2, Vasario 16-osios 1, tel. +370 313 518 14, 

dalijahotel@one.lt, www.druskonis.lt. You won’t do better 

in terms of location and price. The charming late-1800s 

building hints at the mildly dowdy and dated but throroughly 

comfortable innards. The rooms are like mini-apartments, 

with their own kitchenette and private bathrooms. Staying 

here is not just a bargain, but a pleasant experience. Plenty 

of smiles from the nice people who run the place, which is 

lovely.Q11 rooms (6 doubles 80 - 100Lt, 1 triple 100 - 120Lt, 

4 suites 120 - 180Lt). LG 

druskininkAi 

Archispectre Park 

Druskininkai B-2, Kudirkos 43, tel. +370 313 525 66, 

fax +370 313 513 45, admin@hotel-druskininkai.lt, 

www.hotel-druskininkai.lt. A smart and gleaming glass box 

that screams out ‘business types, come hither!’ Big beds, 

a quaint spa and service that goes beyond the call of duty 

are the highlights here. Excellent breakfasts and high speed 

internet stations in the lobby. Don’t miss the rooftop garden 

in summer and the spa facilities at any time. Q50 rooms (11 

singles 200 - 210Lt, 20 doubles 290 - 300Lt, 8 suites 420 - 

510Lt, 10 junior suites 340 - 370Lt, 1 presidential apartments 

800Lt). PHARULGKD hhhh 

Europa Royale Druskininkai B-2, Vilniaus 7, tel. 

+370 313 422 21, fax +370 313 422 23, druskininkai@ 

EuropaRoyale.com, www.EuropaRoyale.com. It’s a 

mansion. Actually, it was an 18th century mansion, and now 

it is a swish and sparkly new hotel that offers the utmost in 

comfort and luxury. All rooms have heated floors, minibar, 

safes, air conditioning and a telephone in the toilet so you 

can lord it over the staff - serenely friendly types, we might 

add - from the comfort of your throne. There’s even twicedaily 

housekeeping. You’ll be tempted to stay until you run 

out of money. Q101 rooms (2 singles €58 - 94, 78 doubles 

€70 - 111, 8 suites €87 - 156, 13 apartments €145 - 264). 

PTHAR6UFLGKDW hhhh 

Galia B-1, Dabintos 3, tel. +370 313 605 10, fax +370 

313 551 00, hotel@galia.lt, www.galia.lt. So that’s where 

all the used furniture from the Star Trek set went. The hotel 

is actually located in three buildings, one of which looks a 

bit mock-medieval. Yes, it’s totally wacky, and may be the 

perfect place for those who love Lithuanian strangeness, 

as well as a green bubbling pool with twinkling ‘stars’ in the 

ceiling above. Q44 rooms (2 singles 80 - 110Lt, 36 doubles 

140 - 220Lt, 3 triples 220 - 260Lt, 3 suites 180 - 250Lt). 

HAR6LGKDW hhh 

Jerevan M. K.Čiurlionio 128, tel./fax +370 313 555 

54, martingass@takas.lt, www.jerevan.lt. Out of town, 

and out of the question unless you like the idea of a technicolor 

yawn before bedtime. Rooms are colour-themed and 

totally tasteless. The pink room, in particular, is hideous - pink 

curtains, shimmering pink bedspread, heart-shaped lamps. 

Small girls might like it, but for everyone else, staying here 

is a headache waiting to happen. Q 10 rooms (60-250Lt). 

HARLGKDXC hhh 


druskininkAi 

Medūna B-2, Liepų 2, tel. +370 313 580 33, fax +370 

313 580 34, meduna@stamita.lt, www.meduna.lt. 

The gleaming glass and ochre exterior hints at the modernity 

and warmth inside, but does nothing to prepare you for 

the chintzy and somewhat over-the-top rooms, possibly 

decorated by Flash Gordon’s mum. Still, it’s nothing a quick 

respite in the rough brick and lumpen leather wine cellar won’t 

fix. Q14 rooms (12 doubles €23 - 52, 2 suites €64 - 87). 

A6ILGK hhh 

Pušynas B-2, Vilniaus 3, tel./fax +370 313 566 66, 

info@pusynas.lt, www.pusynas.lt. You can’t miss it. It looks 

like a birthday cake designed by Gaudi. Or maybe a termite 

mound. Anyway, while the outside may appear a bit startling 

the interior is simple, subtle, smart and suave. If you can 

resist the temptation of your weird bikini-shaped balcony for 

a while, you will enjoy satellite television, minibar and internet 

access. Q66 rooms (17 singles 150Lt, 52 doubles 180Lt, 7 

suites 280Lt). HARU6GXKW hhh 

Regina A/B-2, Kosciuškos 3, tel. +370 313 590 60, fax 

+370 313 590 61, reservation@regina.lt, www.regina. 

lt. A stylish hotel without the extra frills, but with some great 

offers to entice guests - romantic weekends, family breaks 

and healthy holiday packages are all available. A peachy 

plum place for a weekend away. Q40 rooms (8 singles 

150 - 190Lt, 29 doubles 220 - 280Lt, 3 suites 320 - 400Lt). 

PTHAGK hhh 

Violeta B-3, Kurorto 4, tel. +370 313 606 00, fax +370 

313 606 02, info@violeta.lt, www.violeta.lt. Offering as 

spectacular a riverside landscape as is possible. Rooms 

are gorgeous, but as there is a wonderful dining terrace for 

summer and a cafe/restaurant with a fireplace for winter, 

you may not stay in them too much. There’s also a sprinkling 

of small pools, massage and fitness services, and secure 

underground parking. Q20 rooms (2 singles 180 - 210Lt, 13 

doubles 230 - 357Lt, 4 suites 300 - 400Lt, 1 apartment 500 

- 945Lt). HARUFLGKDXC hhhh 

Spas 

Draugystės Sanatorija B-3, Krėvės 7, tel. +370 313 

531 32, sanatorija@draugyste.lt, www.draugyste.lt. 

The name means ‘friendship’ and if you want a friendly massage, 

mud bath or mineral bath they will be happy to oblige. 

Accommodation is available in pretty little villas located on 

the sprawling grounds where two rivers meet. QOpen 08:00 

- 20:00. DC 


Druskininkų Gydykla 

Sat 10:00 - 22:00. 

East Island Oriental SPA 

Vilniaus 13 (Aqua Park), tel. +370 

313 566 43/+370 670 004 44, 

spa@east-island.lt. Spa packages, 

beauty treatments, soliariums. 

QOpen 10:00 - 21:00, Fri, 

Druskininkų Gydykla A-2, Vilniaus 11, tel. +370 

313 605 08, fax +370 313 605 09, www.gydykla.lt. A 

bright and modern sanatorium offering mud, mineral, bubble, 

carbonic, turpentine, herbal, vapor, vertical and underwater 

massage baths - and a nice room to sit down in and look out 

across the park and river afterwards. Don’t drink the water 

in the fountains, it’s salty and might make you puke. No accommodation. 

QOpen 08:00 - 20:00. 

Eglės Sanatorija A-5, Eglės 1, tel. +370 313 602 

20/+370 313 602 83, fax +370 313 602 38, info@ 

sanatorija.lt, www.sanatorija.lt. The building is a bit 

dated on the outside and the accommodation is a bit simple 

on the inside, but they offer full treatment and therapy 

services. A bit more hospital-like and less hotel-like than its 

competitors. QOpen 07:00 - 19:00. 669 rooms (229 singles 

176-151Lt, 400 doubles 148-130Lt, 40 suites 190-165Lt. 

Prices for one person, including procedures and all meals). 

THUFLGKDC 

Lietuvos Sanatorija B-2, Kudirkos 45, tel. +370 313 

528 33/+370 620 244 40, fax +370 313 554 90, 

info@sanatorijalietuva.lt, www.sanatorijalietuva.lt. Not 

one of the most modern places - it might remind you of an 

old James Bond movie - but it is certainly professional and 

comfortable and there’s no chance that you will be drowned 

in your mud bath by a SPECTRE operative. QOpen 08:00 

- 20:00. HAK 

Spa Vilnius C-3, Dineikos 1, tel. +370 313 538 

11/+370 313 591 60, fax +370 313 590 59, info@ 

spa-vilnius.lt, www.spa-vilnius.lt. The all-in-one modern 

hotel and sparkly spa package with a generous mineral 

water swimming pool and modern gym packed with blinking, 

whirring exercise machines. Mud and mineral baths 

are also available. Spa open: 08:00 - 22:00. Q187 

rooms (24 singles 149 - 179Lt, 114 doubles 209 - 259Lt, 

41 suites 289 - 349Lt, 8 apartments 359 - 439Lt, 23 

mini suites 259 - 309Lt). THARFLGKDC 

hhhh 

Camping 

Dainava A-2, Maironio 22, tel. +370 313 591 00, 

dainava@centrasdainava.lt, www.centrasdainava.lt. 

This is part of a training centre for civil servants, but don’t 

let that worry you. There’s spaces for vans and tents with 

electricity, water, showers and toilets. And you don’t even 

have to take a number and wait in a queue to use them. Yet. 

Tent or van - 10Lt. 

Kempingas C-2, Gardino 3a, tel. +370 313 608 00, 

camping@druskininkai.lt. Clean, tidy, family friendly and 

the ideal place to park your caravan or pitch your tent. 

(Although we would advise against a tent at this time of 

year.) Ideally located a short way out of the centre, so you 

get nearby forests and lakes while being just a few hundred 

metres stroll from the centre. Enough room for 45 caravans 

or tents. Q Tents 20Lt, vans 50Lt and little cabins 120Lt 

per night for two people.

Where to eat 

Cafés 

Saulėgrąža B-2, Vilniaus 22, tel. +370 313 523 18, 

euristal@one.lt. The no-nonsense pub-shack-dump kind 

of place that is ideal for beer, pizza and basic grilled meat 

kinds of meals. Very ordinary, but hits the spot when you’re 

having a slobbing around in the tracksuit kind of day and 

are feeling unfussy. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 

- 24:00. AS 

Sicilia I & II B-2, Taikos 9, tel. +370 313 518 65, www. 

sicilia.lt. There are two locations, so once you’ve worked 

out that this is the best option for cheap and cheerful dining 

you can alternate between them without feeling like you’re 

becoming a part of the furniture. The pizzas, according to 

one local pizza lover, are better than those offered by the 

chain stores, and other meals hit a pleasing balance of 

value and quality. The only problem is that you’ll often have 

to wait for a table. Also at M.K.Čiurlionio 56, tel. +370 313 

572 58. QOpen 10:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 24:00. 

PTAS 

Restaurants & Clubs 

Dangaus Skliautas B-3, Kurorto 8, tel. +370 313 

518 19. If Elvis was an Arab, he might have come up with 

something like this. It’s mildly over the top, and replete with 

little booths tucked away behind tasselled frames and glitzy 

curtains that look like little Bedouin tents. With a table in 

the middle. It’s also great joint for pop-star food, and they 

crank out a good blend of music that brings the place to 

life in the evenings. Sometimes. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. 

PAIS 

Era C-3, Druskininkų 3, tel. +370 313 559 03. A new 

nightclub that we haven’t been to yet. The PR pics show 

a rock-walled den bathed in an indigo haze. Quite befitting 

Druskininkai strangeness. We’ll let you know more if and when 

we visit. QOpen 21:00 - 03:00. Closed Mon, Sun. P 

Europa Royale B-2, Vilniaus 7, tel. +370 313 422 21, 

fax +370 313 422 23, druskininkai@EuropaRoyale.com, 

www.EuropaRoyale.com. When we went to print, this place 

was still so new and gleaming that it looked like they might 

only serve toothpaste to angels. If it starts to look a bit livedin 

it wouldn’t be a bad thing, because they serve things like 

soups, salads and a small selection of exquisite meat dishes 

- duck, beef, venison, salmon and so on - to mortals with 

money. A bright summer house with lush furnishings, lovely 

views, and very tempting meals. QOpen 08:00 - 22:00. 

PAULES 

Kolonada B-2, Kudirkos 22, tel. +370 313 512 

22/+370 612 110 88, info@kolonada.lt, www.kolonada. 

lt. A music club as much as a restaurant, and reviving a prewar 

history of intellectual types sitting around being... erm, 

intellectual. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights enjoy jazz, 

blues and rock ‘n’ roll, and classical music respectively. On 

other evenings, be entertained by a DVD player. Despite the 

opening hours printed here, they keep going until the last 

person leaves. QOpen 11:00 - 23:00, Sat 10:00 - 01:00, 

Sun 10:00 - 24:00. PAUILESW 

Regina A-2, Kosciuškos 3, tel. +370 313 590 60, www. 

regina.lt. The restaurant has doubled in size, making it the 

biggest in town. Plenty of interesting options to choose from 

in a fairly romantic environment. QOpen 08:00 - 23:00. 

TAES 

druskininkAi 

Grūto Parkas 

Grūtas, 130km southwest of Vilnius, tel. +370 313 

555 11, fax +370 313 474 51, info@grutoparkas. 

lt, www.grutoparkas.lt. Several Stalins and loads of 

Lenins litter this bizarre, mildly controversial sculpture 

park near the spa town of Druskininkai. The brainchild 

of local mushroom millionaire Viliumas Malinauskas, 

come and gaze upon row after row of retired communist 

sculptures, collected en mass from their former positions 

of importance throughout Lithuania. A small zoo is 

thoughtfully provided so the wild boar in the cages can 

bite off the little children’s fingers, and if you’re hungry 

there’s a restaurant too. To get there by car, take the 

A4 highway towards Druskininkai and keep your foot on 

the accelerator until you see a big sign that says Grūto 

Parkas. Turn left and you’re there. To get there by bus, 

jump on a bumpy Druskininkai-bound bus at Vilnius 

bus station. Take the 11:00, getting you to Grūtas 90 

minutes or so later, remembering to ask the driver to tell 

you when you’re there. This gives you plenty of time to 

do everything before buying a postcard on the way out 

and heading back to get the same bus home at around 

16:40. The park is clearly signposted from the A4 for 

the final 1km hike to the park itself. QOpen 09:00 

- 17:00. Admission, adults 10Lt, children 3Lt, photo and 

filming fee 5-10Lt. 


druskininkAi 

What to see 

Churches 

Holy Virgin Mary Scapular Church B-2, I.Fonbergo 

15, tel. +370 313 552 28. A pretty neo-Gothic church that 

was rebuilt as you see it now from 1912-1931. Russian Orthodox Church B-2, Laisvės square. Dating 

from 1865 this diminutive blue wooden building is delightful 

both inside and out, and seemingly rather out of place. When 

Čiurlionis 

Čiurlionis Memorial Museum B-2, M.K.Čiurlionio 

35, tel. +370 313 511 31. Lithuania’s greatest artist 

and musician was a Polish-speaking man by the name 

of Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis. Born in the nearby 

town of Varėna, Čiurlionis (1875-1911) spent his childhood 

in Druskininkai and the town remains the spiritual 

home of the much loved man. 

An immensely prolific artist, Čiurlionis wrote extensively 

for the piano, composed string quartets, and also penned 

the country’s first symphony, In The Forest. His musical 

style shifted between the pastoral and romantic to 

occasional dabblings in serialism. A busy painter too, 

Čiurlionis was one of the primary organizers of the 

country’s first exhibition of Lithuanian art in Vilnius in 

1907. He served as a conductor, was deeply involved 

in the Lithuanian independence movement, married the 

writer Sofija Kymantaitė, and also found time to design 

some beautiful stained glass. 

Such a frenetic life for a man known for his profound 

shyness was bound to take its toll, and a bout of serious 

depression resulted in him first coming home to 

Druskininkai for recuperation, and then to a nursing 

home near Warsaw where he died of pneumonia at the 

tragically young age of 35. Čiurlionis left one daughter, 

whom although almost a year old when he died, he 

never met. 

Much has been written about the man, on the subject of 

his art (some claim he was the founder of abstract art), 

music, and his general mental condition, most of it being 

pithy academic nonsense. What is clear is that Čiurlionis 

was a huge talent, coming at the right time to coincide 

with the rebirth of the Lithuanian psyche. As well as the 

statue of the man at the northern end of Kudirkos, a 

museum comprising of four buildings can be found at the 

site of his childhood home in the street that now bears his 

name, featuring examples of his work, musical scores, 

instruments, stained glass and photographs. They also 

sell a range of postcards, posters and CDs of his work. In 

the summer the museum also boasts strange weekend 

piano concerts, during which a pianist plays through an 

open window to an audience sat outside in the garden. 

QOpen 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. 


� The Druskininkai 

telephone code is +370 313 

you’ve finally finished gaping in wonder at the exterior take 

some time and go through the main door to be astonished 

at the sheer splendour of the array of icons and religious 

paintings scattered throughout. 

Museums 

Druskininkai Museum B-2, M.K.Čiurlionio 59, tel. 

+370 313 510 24, muziejus@druskininkai.lt. Housed in 

a grand villa, this museum doesn’t just offer a glimpse of town 

history and a peek into the work of a few honorary citizens, 

but also hosts occasional concerts and events. Worth a visit 

for the building and lakeside location alone. QOpen 11:00 

- 17:00. Closed Sun. 

Museum of Resistance & Relics Of Deportations 

(Rezistencijos ir Tremties Muziejus) B-2, Vilniaus 

24, tel. +370 656 083 73. It’s just what the name says, 

focusing on the resistance movement of 1944-1953 and the 

Dainava region partisans and deportees. Mostly photographs 

and press clippings. Open Wed, Sun 13:00-17:00. For visits 

at other times call in advance. 


Druskininkų Aqua Park A-2, Vilniaus 13, tel. +370 

313 523 38, info@akvapark.lt, www.akvapark.lt. One 

of Druskininkai’s wackiest old Soviet style buildings has been 

turned into a sparkling new aquatic amusement centre. Parts 

of the original architecture have been retained and combined 

with modern glassy bits, making this one of the must unique 

buildings in Lithuania. It’s full-to-overflowing with fun, too. 

There are all sorts of pools, waterfalls, a flowing ‘river’, hot 

and bubbling spa baths and even an outdoor area. Probably 

the biggest attraction is the squiggly mess of waterslides. 

These range from fairly sedate rides for the whole family to 

rather extreme adventures that involve G-forces that will try to 

suck your brains out through your ears and will leave you with 

a wedgie that has the be surgically removed. Basic saunas are 

also offered, but for an additional fee you can venture into the 

more sedate and sophistocated sauna centre, where a wider 

range of sauna types are on offer. Well worth a visit during 

your stay. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 23:00, Sun 

10:00 - 21:00. AULK 

Echo of the Forest C-5, M.K.Čiurlionio 116, tel. +370 

313 539 01. This quite extraordinary construction has been 

built to give the illusion of floating in the air, and it almost 

works. Inside you’ll find a ‘living evocation’ of the forest it sits 

in, complete with all manner of flora and fauna, animals and 

bugs. An oak tree grows through the centre of the building, 

making the whole place quite the most bizarre and uplifting 

adventure. Those looking for pure nature can step out the 

back and go for a walk along the specially arranged trail. 

QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Tue. 

Jewish Cemetery Find the tiny cemetery/memorial hidden 

in the woods, a few hundred metres directly southwest of the 

Tourist Information centre at Gardino 3. A chilly combination 

of silence, Hebrew script and deep forest, this is not a place 

for the timid.

Arriving in Trakai 

Busses depart from Vilnius Bus Station every half-hour 

or so, and are the most convenient way to get to Trakai. 

Once you arrive in Trakai and get off the bus, follow the 

road in the same direction that the bus was going. You’ll 

be at the castle in 10 or 15 minutes. 

Trakai Bus Station Vytauto 90, tel. +370 528 

513 33. 

Trakai Train Station Vilniaus 5, tel. +370 528 

510 55. 

Tourist Information Centre Vytauto 69, tel./fax 

+370 528 519 34, trakaitic@is.lt, www.trakai. 

lt. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00, Fri 08:00 - 15:45. Closed 

Sat, Sun. 

Where to stay 

Akmeninė Rezidencija Bražuolės village, (behind 

Trakai, near Akmena lake), tel. +370 614 866 54, info@ 

akmenineuzeiga.lt, www.akmenineuzeiga.lt. A little hard 

to find this one, but worth it when you finally do. Set on the 

edge of arguably the finest of all Trakai’s lakes, this complex is 

perfect for relaxed business deals, naughty weekend breaks 

and all manner of other high-end adventures. As well as luxury 

accommodation, outside jacuzzis and the rest, these people 

can also organise extra activities such as fishing, sailing, 

horse riding, and hot air balloon trips. The whole place is 

based on an old fashioned wooden theme complete with 

thatched roofs. Q Prices for 2 persons: singles/doubles 

200-295Lt, luxury suites 500 - 675Lt, villas 600-795Lt. Restaurant 

open 12:00-24:00. HA6LGKXW 

Apvalaus Stalo Klubas Hotel Karaimų 53a, Trakai, 

tel. +370 528 555 95, fax +370 528 517 60, info@ 

asklubas.lt, www.asklubas.lt. Done-up by Laura Ashley on 

acid - but not even she could dream-up such picture-perfect 

views. There’s one room where you can lie in bed and look 

out at the castle (or sit on the toilet and look at the castle, if 

you prefer). In other rooms, you have to teeter on a chair and 

stick your head out the attic window to get a view, but it’s still 

a lovely spot. The whole facility, with restaurant, sauna and 

cigar lounge, is the utmost in un-subtle opulence. Q17 rooms 

(15 doubles 340 - 480Lt, 1 suite 580 - 780Lt, 1 apartment 

650 - 720Lt). PHAUILGKDW 

hhhh 

Lakštas Farm Varnikų forest, 4km east of Trakai on the 

road to Lentvaris, tel. +370 698 165 33, info@kaimoturizmas.lt, 

www.kaimoturizmas.lt. Stay in an antique cottage 

with toilet and shower. During the coming winter months 

partake in all manner of activities from sledding, cross-country 

skiing, ice-skating and skating. To get there, take the Vilnius- 

Trakai road towards Trakai, take a left on the road to Lentvaris. 

Drive 4km and then take a left on the dirt road, Rubežius which 

begins right at the border sign to Lentvaris. Once on the dirt 

road stay on the main dirt road and take the third left road. 

Follow it to the end. Q Rooms 120Lt. D 

Salos Kranto 5b, tel. +370 528 539 90, fax +370 528 

539 91, salos@salos.lt, www.salos.lt. Fittings are ultrabasic 

but mildly modern and beds do look a bit droopy, but 

this hotel (complete with restaurant and surprisingly modern 

nightclub) offers a fantastic location just a javelin throw from 

the centre of all the action. There’s also a restaurant, swimming 

pool and, thoughtfully, noise-resistant windows in all the 

rooms. Q9 rooms (5 doubles 160Lt, 4 suites 240 - 280Lt). 

HALGKDCW 

trAkAi 

Castle, as seen by Vilnius Ballooning Association 

Trasalis Gedimino 26, tel. +370 528 515 88/+370 528 

250 48, fax +370 528 515 89, hotel@trasalis.lt, www. 

trasalis.lt. This is a huge hotel, conference, entertainment 

and SPA complex. The rooms are basic but very new, smart 

and comfortable. With so many distractions, however (bowling, 

billiards, mud baths, massage, dead sea dipping pool, 

water slide, and all manner of bizarre treatments) you won’t 

spend much time in your room, and may not even mind the fact 

that this place is 3km from the centre of Trakai and actually 

in the middle of nowhere. Q103 rooms (4 suites 320Lt, 2 

apartments 340Lt, 91 standard rooms 220Lt, 6 business 

class 300Lt). PTHARUFLGKDXCW 

hhh 

Where to eat 

Žvejų Namai On the Vievis -Trakai road, 2km west 

off the A1 highway, tel. +370 528 260 08, fax +370 

528 260 04, zvejunamai@takas.lt, www.zvejunamai. 

lt. Bring your own rods and reels or hire some old ones, 

and dip your string in the water until you get a bite. After 

you’ve caught what you want or need, take the specimens 

in question along to the nice man who’ll weigh them, give 

you a ticket, and cook the beast for you (36Lt/kg). The 

atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and the whole adventure 

comes highly recommended. Note that the place gets 

extremely busy on a Saturday and Sunday and calling in 

advance is highly recommended. QOpen 11:00 - 22:00. 

UILS 

AJ Šokoladas Vytauto 4, tel. +370 655 711 43, 

info@ajsokoladas.lt. You’ll walk past this place on your 

way between the castle and the bus station. And it’s the 

perfect spot to pop into for coffee or tea and cake. Oh - and 

chocolate. We like the leather seats and air conditioning 

inside, but sitting outside in the warmer months is also 

pleasant. QOpen 10:00 - 20:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 21:00. 

PULS 

� The Trakai 

telephone code is +370 528 


0 

trAkAi 

Apvalaus Stalo Klubas Karaimų 53a, tel. +370 528 

555 95, fax +370 528 517 60, info@asklubas.lt, www. 

asklubas.lt. Whether you want crisp linen on your lap and 

fine French cuisine on your plate, or just want to stuff yourself 

silly and wipe pizza goop from your chin, you can do so 

here while enjoying the best view of the castle available. 

There are separate areas for both dining styles, as well 

as a nice outdoor terrace, and a lovely airy dining room. 

Conference facilities are available, and they will even pack 

a picnic for you - just make sure you come back in time to 

enjoy the romantic fairytale sunset views of the castle. Q 

Open 12:00 - 22:00 (restaurant), 11:00 - 22:00 (pizzeria). 

PHAUISW 

Csarda Aukštadvario 28a, tel. +370 616 290 11, 

csarda@csarda.lt, www.csarda.lt. It’s a little out of the 

way, but worth the diversion to spice up your trip to Trakai with 

a little Hungarian - or a lot of it, as the portions are enormous. 

There’s a variety of meat and fish dishes, exclusive Hungarian 

wine and vodka, as well as more standard Lithuanian fare. 

Warm up on cool nights with a place by the big chimney that 

looks like a witch’s hat, or on warm summer evenings, park 

yourself outside on a bench hacked from a log. Either way, 

the atmosphere alone is worth the short walk from the bus 

station. QOpen 12:00 - 23:00, Sat 12:00 - 24:00, Sun 12:00 

- 22:00. TAILESW 

Karaimų 13 Karaimų 13, tel. +370 528 519 11, karaimu13@karaimai.lt. 

The building made of whitewashed logs 

doesn’t look very Karaime at all. It’s not colourful and it’s got 

more than three windows. But it is very Karaime because it is 

home to the Karaim community centre, a lovely little restaurant 

with authentic Karaim food, and a fourteen-year-old girl 

with a moustache. The menu offers a range of Karaim dishes 

that extend beyond the usual pastry pockets, and the service 

is pleasant and prompt. A good spot tucked away from the 

meandering crowds. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, 

Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri. AULSW 

Kybynlar Karaimų 29, tel. +370 528 551 79, kybynlar@ 

kybynlar.lt, www.kybynlar.lt. Not much to look at from the 

outside, this cosy diner is actually very stylish inside, with old 

photos framed on the walls alongside hand painted script in 

the language of the Karaite people, a minority race centred 

in the region. (At least that’s probably what the script is, but 

we wouldn’t have a clue, to be honest.) There’s a good range 

of options on the menu, with the traditional Karaite dish 

kibinai. There’s generous seating outdoors but, regrettably, 

no decent views (unless you like looking at a car park and a 

rusty shed). QOpen 11:00 - 21:00, Mon 12:00 - 21:00, Fri, 

Sat 11:00 - 22:00. PTAUISW 

Markizas Karaimų 25a, tel. +370 687 453 72, www. 

markizas.lt. While it only offers a through-the-trees view of 

the castle, the quiet lakeside location, pleasant atmosphere 

and stuff-a-glutton food more than make up for it. There are 

some simple, honest, generous and very pleasing meals here. 

The kibinai are rubbish but everything else is honest-to-goodness 

simple and scrumptious. Outdoor seating is a treat in 

summer. Unfortunately they kept hanging up on us when we 

called to check their opening times and facilities so we can’t 

be any more informative about them. We hope they are less 

rude to you. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00. JES 

Prie Tilto Karaimų 41, tel. +370 682 348 21. Right 

beside the footbridge that leads to the castle, and serving 

unimpressive meals to the passing hordes who can’t be 

bothered exploring more distant alternatives. Still, they say 

they’re open from 09:30 till the last client leaves. So you may 

as well move in and live there. S 


Senoji Kibininė Karaimų 65, tel./fax +370 528 558 65, 

info@kibinas.lt, www.kibinas.lt. Kibinai, a quite wonderful, 

small and piping hot pastry stuffed full of delicious chopped meat 

and onions, famous for squirting juice down one’s front during 

each bite, are the traditional food of the Karaites, a minority race 

originating from Mesopotamia (modern day Iraq) and now settled 

primarily in Trakai. Kibininė creates and distributes some of the 

biggest and best in the world, and where Kibinai are involved size 

does matter. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00. ASW 

Senolių Židinys Vytauto 91, tel./fax +370 528 555 63. 

We don’t have to describe this place because you can easily 

imagine it - just think of a café that’s been set up in and around 

a house on a gentle slope overlooking a lake. A few tables in the 

carport, a few more on the paved patch out the back, and lake 

views everywhere. All we have to do to complete the picture is 

let on that the food is traditional Lithuanian and pretty good, 

actually.QOpen 11:00 - 22:00.TILS 

Trakų Dvarkiemis Užukampis village - on the way to 

Trakai, tel. +370 618 888 80, info@trakudvarkiemis.lt, 

www.trakudvarkiemis.lt. This is what happens when architects 

get their ‘barn’ and ‘mansion’ drawings mixed up. And we love it. 

It’s a big wooden box stuffed with frilly carved furniture and portraits 

of stern looking maidens. Waitresses in traditional looking 

dress scurry about delivering plates of stodgy grub to ravenous 

travellers, and the whole place jollies along merrily. The menu is 

vast, with something for everyone.QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Fri, 

Sat 11:00 - 01:00. PTAUILESW 

Museums 

Karaite Ethnographic Museum Karaimų 22, tel. +370 

528 552 86. The Karaite are a small religious group who 

came to Lithuania from the Crimea, enslaved as bodyguards 

for Grand Duke Vytautas, some time in the 15th century. 

Originating from Mesopotamia (modern day Iraq) in the 8th 

century, the word Karaite comes form kara, meaning in both 

Hebrew and Arabic ‘to study the scriptures’. With just some 

250 Karaite still here in Lithuania (namely in Trakai, Vilnius 

and Panevėžys), this extraordinary little museum is packed 

with photographs, scriptures, exquisitely carved jewellery, 

household items and weapons. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. 

Closed Mon, Tue. 

Trakai Castle & Museum Pilies island, tel. +370 528 

539 46, fax +370 528 552 88, info@trakaimuziejus.lt, 

www.trakaimuziejus.lt. The highlight of any trip to Trakai, 

whether one wants to stand and gawk at it or have a peer 

inside, is the castle. Dating from the 14th century, the place 

was destroyed during the war with the Russians (17th-18th 

centuries), with restoration work only starting again as recently 

as 1955. Inside find a museum tracing the history of 

the castle and its significance as one of the holiest of holy 

Lithuanian sites. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. 


Užutrakis Palace Southeast bank of Galvė lake, off 

Totoriškės highway. In its glory this mansion belonged to the 

prominent Tiškevičius family who lived there until 1939. Now, 

while the palace itself is closed, the grounds have become a 

tourist attraction due to the lovely gardens and picturesque 

surroundings. In summer this is a prime spot for a picnic or 

for horse riding (which can be arranged via the helpful Trakai 

Tourism information centre). A walk around the palace grounds 

is free. To get here, you can catch the passenger ship Skaistis 

from the castle (15Lt) - look for a sandwich board just near 

the entrance to the castle, and be sure to mention that you 

want to get off at Užutrakis.

All of the venues in this 

guidebook marked with 

an Old Town symbol (�) 

are featured as such 

because even if they’re 

not in Old Town per se, 

they are at least on 

the map over the page 

which we call Old Town. 

Confused? Don’t be. 

Aguonų A-4/6 

A.Jakšto A-1 

Alkūnės D-6 

Arklių C-4/5 

Arsenalo C/D-1 

A.Smetonos A-1/2 

A.Strazdelio D-5 

A.Stulginskio A-2/1 

Ašmenos B-4 

Augustijonų C-4 

Aukštaičių D-4 

Aušros Vartų C-5/6 

A.Volano D-3 

Bazilijonų C/D-5 

Beatričės A1 

Benediktinių B-3 

Bernardinų C-2/D-3 

Bokšto C-3/D-5 

B.Radvilaitės C/D-2 

Didžioji C-3/4 

Dominikonų B/C-3 

Dysnos B-4 

Etmonų C-4 

Gaono C-3 

Gedimino A-1/D-2 

Geležinkelio C-6 

Gėlių B-5 

Islandijos A-2 

Išganytojo C/D-3 

J.Basanavičiaus A-3/4 

J.Jablonskio A-5/6 

J.Lelevelio A/B-1 

Jogailos A-1/2 

Karmelitų C-4/5 

Kaštonų A1 

Kauno A/B-6 

Kėdainių A/B-4 

K.Griniaus A-2 

K.Kalinausko A-3 

Klaipėdos A/B-3 

Kruopų B-5 

K.Sirvydo B-1 

K.Škirpos D-1/2 

Kūdrų D-4 

K.Vanagėlio D-5 

Labdarių B-2 

Lapų C-5/6 

Latako C/D-3 

Liejyklos B-2/3 

Liepkalnio D-6 

Ligoninės B-4/5 

Literatų C/D-3 

Lydos B-4 

street register 

L.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus 

B/C-2 

M.Antokolskio C-3/4 

Maironio D-2/4 

Malūnų D-3 

M.Daukšos D-5 

Mėsinių B-5/C-4 

Mindaugo A-4/6 

Naručio D-6 

Naugarduko A-4/5 

Odminių B-2 

Palangos A-3 

Pamėnkalnio A-2 

Pasažo C-5 

Paupio D-3 

Pelesos C/D-6 

Pilies C-2/3 

Plačioji B-5 

Pranciškonų B-3/4 

Punsko A-6 

Pylimo A-2/C-6 

Radvilų B-1 

Raugyklos A-6/B-5 

Rožių A-3/2 

Rusų C/D-3 

Rūdninkų B-5/C-4 

Savičiaus C-4 

Seinų B/C-6 

Sodų B-5/6 

S.Skapo C-2 

Stiklių C-3/4 

Stoties B-6 

Subačiaus C/D-5 

Šaltinių A/B-5 

Šermukšnių A1 

Šiaulių B-4 

Šiltadaržio D-2 

Švarco C-3 

Šventaragio C-2 

Šv. Dvasios D-5 

Šv. Ignoto B-3 

Šv. Jono C-3 

Šv. Kazimiero C/D-4 

Šv. Mikalojaus B-4 

Šv. Mykolo C/D-3 

Šv. Stepono A-6/B-5 

Teatro A-3 

Tilto B-1/C-2 

Totorių B-2/3 

Trakų A-4/B-3 

Turgelių D-6 

T.Vrublevskio C-1 

Universiteto C-2/3 

Užupio D-3 

Vienuolio A1 

Vilniaus B-1/3 

Vingrių A/B-4 

Visų Šventųjų B/C-5 

Vokiečių B-3/C-4 

V.Šopeno B-6 

Žemaitijos B-4 

Žiupronių D-5 

Ž.Liauksmino B-1/C-2 

Žydų B-4/C-3 

Žygimantų B/C-1 


1

Public transport scheme 

www.vilniustransport.lt

VILNIUS - In Your Pocket

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