A december weekend trip to Vilnius was exctly what we needed to get the christmas spirit. We started by visiting the Christmas market, which was beautifully decorated and full of festive treats, handmade crafts, and the warm glow of holiday lights. Vilnius has two Christmas markets:

Cathedral Square Christmas Market

The heart of Vilnius’ Christmas celebration is the market at Cathedral Square, set against the backdrop of the iconic Vilnius Cathedral and its grand bell tower. The centerpiece is the massive Christmas tree, beautifully decorated with lights and ornaments, often designed to reflect Lithuanian traditions or modern artistic concepts.

This market features charming wooden stalls offering a variety of handcrafted goods, such as ornaments, jewelry, candles, and knitted winter accessories. It’s an ideal place to pick up unique gifts and souvenirs. The food stalls are equally tempting, with Lithuanian holiday specialties like kūčiukai (small sweet pastries), šakotis (a layered tree cake), and mulled wine to warm you up on chilly evenings.

Live performances and a festive carousel add to the market’s lively atmosphere, making it a great spot for families and couples alike.

Town Hall Square Christmas Market

The second Christmas market is located at Town Hall Square, a short walk from Cathedral Square. This market is slightly smaller and has a more intimate feel but is no less festive. It’s perfect for those who prefer a quieter holiday experience while still enjoying the seasonal ambiance.

Here, the stalls focus on artisanal crafts and gourmet treats, including locally made chocolates, honey, and herbal teas. You can also find unique handmade items like pottery and wooden decorations that reflect Lithuanian craftsmanship.

The food options here are excellent, with a mix of traditional and modern street food, alongside hot drinks to keep you warm as you explore. The market also has a cozy vibe in the evenings, with its lights glowing softly in the historic square.

Shopping

Shopping along the city’s main shopping street was a treat as well, with unique boutiques and stores offering everything from fashion to local specialties.

A highlight of the trip was visiting 2D Cafe, an artistic and playful spot where everything is designed to look like a 2D cartoon. It was fun and definitely a unique experience! We also checked out the Museum of Illusions, which was fascinating with its mind-bending exhibits and optical illusions that left us amazed and entertained.

Vilnius for foodies

Vilnius boasts a vibrant and diverse food scene, offering a wide range of dining experiences, from traditional Lithuanian cuisine to modern international flavors. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to relax with a drink or a fine dining experience, the city has something for everyone.

Stebuklai was a nice restaurant with a panoramic view to Cathedral square and the Christmas market.

Overall, it was a memorable trip filled with festive moments, historical sites, shopping, and plenty of fun activities. Vilnius was the perfect destination for a weekend getaway!