Vilnius

Vilnius has many faces – its labyrinthine Old Town, its sleek business district, its elegant centre, its many open squares and parks, and its historic suburbs – all of which blend together into a seamless complete city. The city’s charm is in its harmonious sense of unity – it just feels right whichever way you look at it.

The historical centre of Vilnius, is one of the largest old town centres in Eastern Europe covering almost 360 hectares. The Old Town is situated in a picturesque valley of Vilnia and Neris rivers, at the crossroads of trade roads, next to the fort, which was guarded by Vilnius castle in the past. The Old Town offers an interesting mix of the old and the new, with cobblestone streets that lead to boutiques and trendy restaurants.

This Lithuanian city wows with its Baroque architecture, but it doesn't stay stuck in the past. Vilnius offers different museums of art, nature, architecture, history, science, theatre, music and cinema, literature, as well as memorial museums. Those who love impressive sights should visit Gediminas’ Castle or the Campanile of St. John‘s and enjoy an impressive panorama of Vilnius. The Gates of Dawn is famed for a painting, which is said to have miracle-working powers and the apparition of the Virgin Mary. For panoramic city vistas, you can take a ride to the revolving observation platform at the top of the Vilnius Television Tower.

Rankings:

• #10 in Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe

Location: Lithuania