How to Spend 3 Days in Lithuania: Vilnius, Kaunas & the Hill of Crosses

Lithuania might be the least visited of the three Baltic countries — but don’t let that fool you. From the elegant streets of Vilnius Old Town to the haunting beauty of the Hill of Crosses and the creative pulse of Kaunas, this compact itinerary gives you a taste of everything that makes this Baltic nation so compelling.

Whether you're road-tripping through the region or flying in for a long weekend, here's how to spend 3 unforgettable days in Lithuania.

Day 1: Discover Vilnius – Lithuania’s Charming Capital

Vilnius is one of the most underrated capitals in Europe. With its beautifully preserved Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), stunning baroque churches, and vibrant creative districts, Vilnius is definitely worthy of being capital. It’s elegant, walkable, and far less crowded than many other European cities.

Top Things to Do in Vilnius:

• Vilnius Old Town – Explore one of Europe’s largest and most beautiful old towns. Expect pastel facades, cobbled lanes, and hidden courtyards.

• Gediminas Castle Tower – Take the funicular or hike up for incredible views of the red rooftops and green hills.

• Vilnius Cathedral & Bell Tower – A neoclassical masterpiece and a must-see landmark.

• Uzupis – Vilnius’s quirky “Republic,” complete with its own constitution, art installations, and a creative, countercultural vibe.

• St. Anne’s Church – A gothic gem that wowed even Napoleon. Its gorgeous!

• Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights (KGB Museum) – Offers deep insight into Lithuania’s Soviet-era history. We skipped as we visited the one in Riga instead but we were told this was very well curated.

Optional add-on half-day trip: Trakai Castle

If you have time for a half-day detour, Trakai Castle is one of Lithuania’s most photogenic and fairytale-like sights. Located on an island in Lake Galvė, just 30 minutes from Vilnius by Uber, this red-brick Gothic castle was once the seat of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

Explore the museum inside, stroll along the lakeside trails, or take a boat ride around the island for a different perspective.

PRO TIP: Visit in the late afternoon or early evening to avoid the big tour groups and catch the golden light on the castle walls.

Where to Eat in Vilnius:

• Džiaugsmas – Fine dining with Lithuanian flair; also has a Michelin star

• Etno Dvaras – Traditional comfort food like cepelinai (Lithuania's version of dumplings) and cold beet soup.

• Uzupio picerija – Casual pizzeria in Uzupis 

Where to Stay in Vilnius:

We stayed at Hotel PACAI— a stunning blend of Baroque architecture and modern design. The location in the heart of the Old Town was unbeatable, and we loved coming back to the lovely courtyard for a drink. Check out our full review of our stay at Hotel PACAI here.

PRO TIPS

• Join the free walking tour from Cathedral Square to get your bearings and some local legends.

• Head to Subačiaus Observation Deck for a lesser-known (and less crowded) city view at sunset.

• Vilnius is compact, so you can walk to almost everything — no car needed

Day 2: Visit the Hill of Crosses – Lithuania’s Most Haunting Landmark

Located near Šiauliai in northern Lithuania, the Hill of Crosses is one of the most iconic and meaningful sights in the Baltics. Over 100,000 crosses have been placed here over the years, a symbol of resistance, remembrance, and faith — especially during the Soviet occupation when religion was suppressed.

It’s one of those places that stays with you. For some, it’s history. For others, it’s personal memory. And for many around the world, it remains a living act of devotion.

Practical Info:

• How to get to the Hill of Crosses: It's about 2.5 hours from Vilnius or 1.5 from Kaunas. You can drive or join a guided day tour.

• Opening hours: Open 24/7 and free to enter.

• Pro tip: Bring your own cross to leave, or buy one from nearby stalls.

Day 3: Explore Kaunas – Lithuania’s Creative Capital

Often overshadowed by Vilnius, Kaunas is actually Lithuania’s second-largest city and was once the temporary capital. Today it’s a buzzing university town and a UNESCO City of Design, full of modernist architecture, vibrant street art, and a laid-back charm.

Things to Do in Kaunas:

• Kaunas Old Town – Stroll through cobbled streets and stop for a drink in the main square.

• Laisvės Alėja (Liberty Avenue) – One of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, lined with cafés, shops, and trees.

• Ninth Fort Museum – A sobering WWII and Soviet history site with powerful exhibits.

• Explore Kaunas Modernism – 1920s and 1930s architecture is everywhere — keep your eyes up!

Pro tip: If you’re driving between Vilnius and Riga like we did, both the Hill of Crosses and Kaunas make the perfect halfway stops for lunch and sightseeing.

Why Visit Lithuania?

Lithuania is one of Europe’s hidden gems — full of complex history, beautiful cities, and fewer tourists. You’ll find UNESCO sites, artistic neighbourhoods, and deep cultural resilience all wrapped in Baltic warmth.

Whether you’re tracing history at the KGB museums, tasting your way through traditional Lithuanian cuisine, or discovering street art in Uzupis or Kaunas, there’s something in Lithuania for every type of traveller.

Planning a Baltic itinerary? Let us know in the comments or DM us with questions — we’re happy to help you plan your trip to Lithuania!

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