Summer is almost here! Can you feel the excitement in the air? For us, the guides, these are the last weeks before the hustle and bustle of the high season. And we think it’s finally the time to announce that this summer we will start not one, not two, but four new tours! From the Republic of Užupis to the Open Gallery in the New Town - we will walk about 10,000 steps across beautiful Vilnius every single day! In this blog post, we're gonna introduce you to these new tours and help you pick the one you're most into!
Užupis Free Walking Tour
Užupis isn't just a place on the map; it's a lively cultural and artistic movement that's always evolving and attracting attention worldwide. Join us on the Free Užupis Walking Tour, and in just 2.5 hours, we'll dive into the history of this quirky independent state of artists and witness how it changed from a neglected neighborhood to one of Vilnius's coolest artistic hubs. But wait, there's more! This tour will take us off the usual path to find hidden art, amazing murals, and quirky sculptures. We'll stop by Užupis Independence Square, the Parliament of Užupis, and if we're lucky, meet some of the famous Užupis cats. And that's not all - we'll also venture beyond Užupis to explore the Paupys neighborhood and even take a stroll through the picturesque Bernardine Cemetery, said to have inspired many artists over the years. Who knows, by the end of the tour, you might even feel like becoming a citizen of this quirky Republic!
Highlights
- Learn about Užupis' artistic transformation
- Decode Užupis' symbols and unique celebrations
- Meet famous Užupis' cats
- Discover hidden art
- Stroll along the romantic Vilnele river
When? Tuesdays & Fridays 3PM
Premiere: May 3, 2024
Vilnius: from ‘90 to now
The last 34 years have been quite a journey for Lithuania, from the turmoil and uncertainty of the '90s, to becoming one of the top 20 happiest countries in the world! And there's no better place to witness this transformation than in the Vilnius Stotis district. Once considered a dangerous and rundown neighborhood, it's now undergoing a dramatic change, bustling with hipster bars, trendy cafes, alternative music, and a vibrant community of young people. Join our 2.5-hour 'Vilnius: From ‘90 to now' tour to explore contemporary Vilnius, its society, and the cultural shifts we're experiencing. From the bustling Hales market to the unpolished Kaunas Street, we'll delve into the transformations shaping both the Stotis district community and Lithuanian society at large. Engage in discussions with our local guides and fellow travelers about the challenges and opportunities communities around the world face today. Come along for an insightful exploration of contemporary Lithuania and what it means to live as a young person in this evolving society.
Highlights
- NB! Lots of walking involved!
- Explore Vilnius Stotis district before its dramatic transformation
- Investigate the cultural and societal shifts facing Vilnius
- Discover thought-provoking street art at Open Gallery
- Hear the locals’ perspective on what it means to be Lithuanian in the 21st century
When? Wednesdays & Sundays 3PM
Premiere: May 1, 2024
Lithuanian Flavors experience
Embark on a flavorful journey through Vilnius and discover the rich tapestry of Lithuanian cuisine. From traditional desserts to innovative culinary creations, this tour offers a taste of centuries-old traditions blended with contemporary flavors. Explore small local businesses in old town Vilnius, sampling Lithuanian nibbles and beverages loved by locals. Experience the diverse influences on Lithuanian gastronomy, from Jewish confectionery to the unique use of rye bread. Finish with a savory surprise rounding off an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Bear in mind, that the tour is done in one/two bite tastings, thus the aim of the tour is to introduce you with the diverse flavors of our cuisine, so that after the tour your tummy is prepared for the heavier dinner.
Highlights
- Immerse yourself in diverse Lithuanian flavors
- Learn what food a modern Lithuanian cannot live without
- Discover small local businesses
- Meet the passionate guides with “tasty” stories on the table
- Enjoy your food experience in a small group (max.10)
When? Sundays 2:30PM
How much? 49EUR/person
Premiere: May 5, 2024
Regular walking tour of Vilnius Old Town
Join our 2.5-hour Vilnius Old Town walking tour for a comprehensive historical overview and a deeper understanding of the city's key features. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour not only delves into the past but also showcases how Vilnius Old Town is evolving today. From politics to economics and education, our guides offer insightful perspectives on daily life in the city. Starting at the Cathedral Square, you'll learn about the city's foundation before exploring architectural marvels like St. Anne's Church and the Gates of Dawn. Wander through the old Jewish quarter, uncover hidden spots, and soak in the charm of Pilies street. Perfect for history enthusiasts, this tour promises picturesque sights and valuable insights into both past and present life in Vilnius Old Town.
Highlights
- Visit all the must-see attractions in Vilnius Old Town ( St. Anne’s church, Gates of Dawn, Stiklių str., etc.)
- Learn how Vilnius has changed over the centuries
- Hear stories about Lithuania's glorious past and nowadays life in Vilnius
- Understand the key features that define this city
When? Thursdays, Thursdays, Saturdays 10AM
How much? 18EUR/person online , 20 EUR/person on the spot
Premiere: May 2, 2024
So here you have it! Our latest additions to the walking tour schedule.
But don’t forget we have our long-running and much-loved historical tours: Soviet Vilnius and Jewish Vilnius walking tours as well as the traditional Vilnius Free Walking Tour (Old Town & Užupis)! Explore the charm of Vilnius Old Town, discover unique things to do in Vilnius, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Užupis. Join us for an unforgettable experience in Vilnius this summer!