Vilnius tourist information centers are located at the Vilnius airport, in the Town Hall (Didžioji st. 31) and in the restaurant “Grey” (Pilies st. 2). There you will find a lot of useful information, will be able to rent an audio guide, acquire the Vilnius Pass and buy some unique souvenirs. Tourist information centers have free Wi-Fi connection.
For assistance in planning your trip, we recommend you visit Vilnius tourist information center website at www.govilnius.lt, and check the calendar of events taking place in Vilnius at www.vilnius-events.lt.
GOOD TO KNOW
TIME ZONE
Lithuania is in the Eastern European Time Zone. Lithuania is GMT/UTC + 3h during Daylight Savings Time (also referred to as Summer Time) and Lithuania is GMT/UTC + 2h during Standard Time (Winter Time).
CLIMATE AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CLOTHING
The average temperature in July is + 17 ° C (63 ° F), the coldest average temperature in January is -5 ° C (23 ° F). From late April to mid-September days are pleasantly warm, so travelers often choose this time to visit Vilnius.
If travelling to Vilnius during winter and early spring, you should be prepared for inclement weather and temperatures that may drop below freezing. During this period, we recommend that you bring gloves, hats and warmer footwear. In spring, summer and autumn, a raincoat and umbrella are recommended. Because of frequently changing weather conditions, as well as cooler temperatures in some of the older churches, several layers of clothing are recommended to keep you comfortable.
INTERNET
Lithuania’s internet connection is one of the fastest in the world. In Vilnius Old Town there are at least 55 free Wi-Fi wireless internet zones. Almost every cafe or restaurant provides its customers with free Wi-Fi connection. Some buses also have Wi-Fi connection.
SAFETY
Vilnius is a safe city, but general security tips and common sense apply here as well. Avoid walking alone in the dark, and be aware of your surroundings near bus and train stations; do not get involved in conflicts; do not leave your valuables unattended in public places, etc.
TRADITIONAL FOOD
In summer it is “saltibarsciai” (refreshing cold borsht with cucumbers) served with potatoes; and in all seasons – “cepelinai” (zeppelin-shaped dumplings, filled with meat or cottage cheese), potato pancakes, and as an appetizer – fried bread with cheese. Notable traditional sweets – “sakotis” (a delicious tree-shaped pastry) and “simtalapis” (“hundred leaf” pastry with honey) – although with origins in Germany and the Black Sea region, have long become an integral part of Lithuanian cuisine and a staple of most holiday celebrations. “Gira” is a Lithuanian traditional beverage made from bread. If you happen to see on the menu acorn coffee – we highly recommend you taste this traditional Lithuanian beverage as well.
WHERE TO HAVE BREAKFAST AND FIND VEGETARIAN OPTIONS
Most Lithuanians enjoy their breakfast at home. Breakfast culture in Vilnius cafes is still developing, so travelers are often faced with the dilemma of where to eat breakfast in the early morning. In addition to chain-type cafes, you might want to try “Fire Place” pizzeria, “Sugamore” and “Huracán” cafes, “Cozy” bar, “Crustum” or “Biržų duona” bakeries, and for fresh donuts visit “Holy Donuts” coffee shop.
If you are looking for vegetarian dining options you won’t be disappointed. Vilnius has great vegetarian restaurants, such as “Vieta” on Sv. Ignoto Street, “Vegacafe” on Totoriu and Augustionu Streets, and many others.
GRATUITIES (TIPS)
About 10 % of your bill is considered an appropriate amount for a tip.
WHERE TO BUY SOUVENIRS?
Vilnius Old Town is full of souvenir shops. You will find an array of jewelry and art objects made with Baltic amber, which is a point of national pride and is referred to as Lithuanian gold. In the Old Town you will discover many Lithuanian designer boutiques, chocolate artisan shops and art galleries, where you can buy unique Lithuanian products. Stikliu, Sv. Stepono and Sv. Mykolo Streets, an entire area of Uzupis, and many other Old Town areas, are good places to enjoy your shopping experience.
VOLTAGE
230V A/C, sockets outlets and sockets Type C 2 pin and Type F 2 pin are used.
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Lithuania is a member of EU. Visas are not required for EU citizens. List of countries whose citizens do not require short-stay visas to enter or travel on transit through the Republic of Lithuania:
PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS
EU passport holders travelling to Lithuania must have an up-to-date passport or ID card valid for travel three months beyond the date of return; non-EU citizens are advised to check with the relevant authorities.
CONSULAR INFORMATION
All information about entry into the country, visas, etc., can be found on the website of the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign affairs.
CITY TAX
Starting 1 July 2018, Vilnius is introducing a city tax. The tax rate is EUR 1 person/night. The tax applies to all guests using accommodation services.