Vilnius

Vilnius, once the heart of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, flourished as a major European center where Baroque architecture took root and still defines its UNESCO-listed Old Town.

Today, it balances this rich past with a vibrant, modern creativity epitomized by the self-declared Užupis Republic, where artists and free spirits have etched their own quirky constitution into a wall.

Fly into:

• Vilnius International Airport VNO

Vilnius Old Town is best explored on foot. For longer distances, a good network of trolleybuses and buses operates, with tickets bought via apps or kiosks. Trakai is easily reached by local train or bus in under an hour.

Embrace the city's café culture, especially in the Old Town, where locals linger over coffee. In Užupis, seek out the unique constitution plaques and river angels, part of its artistic identity. Most museums are closed on Mondays.

Best in Spring

Spring: mild days around 10-18C, cooler evenings, with trees budding and the city coming alive.

• comfortable walking shoes
• light jacket or layers for evenings
• compact umbrella
• reusable water bottle