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Vilnius

2013-03-17T10:25:38Z

Angelake: /* Transportation in Vilnius */

{{IsIn|Lithuania}}
'''Vilnius''' is the capital city of [[Lithuania]] and the largest city in the country with the population of over
550.000 and all major political, economic, social and cultural centres.

== Vilnius on CouchSurfing ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1351 The Vilnius group] currently consists of approximately 2000
members, who are locals, expats and travellers from all over the world. It is an active and constantly growing group with lots of events, meetings and activities - just follow posts in the forum.

Take a look at some photos of our meetings in the [http://picasaweb.google.com/cslithuania CS Lithuania Gallery] and
[https://picasaweb.google.com/106659005364119821571 CS Vilnius Gallery]

=== Emergency couch in Vilnius ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=13026 Emergency couch in Vilnius] is a group of CS'ers from Vilnius who
are able to offer a couch at a short notice for guests who are coming in 3-4 days or less and do not have a couch
yet. Therefore, use this group to find a couch only if it is emergency situation so if you know you are coming in 1
month, please use couchsearch and send individual couch requests.

=== Vilnius CS Musicians ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=33375 Vilnius CS Musicians] is a new fresh group of local and traveling
musicians for sharing great music. If you want to organise a concert, gig, jam-session or just meet CS'ers who love
music, this is a group for you. There is a list of some useful live music spots and festivals held in all Lithuania.
Let the music play!

== City Attractions ==

Vilnius is one of the most frequently visited cities of Eastern Europe. It draws attention, not only because of its
unique architectural character, but also by its cultural events and attractions.

Parts of the town you should definitely visit are first of all the Old Town (Senamiestis) which is one of the
largest old town centres in Eastern Europe and is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. However, before starting
your meanderings around the streets of the Old Town it is worth getting a bird’s eye view of Vilnius and taking in a
panoramic view of the city. There are some high buildings suitable for this purpose namely the TV tower, ''Skybar''
of the ''Reval Hotel Lietuva'' and the top floor of the shopping mall ''Europa'' near the northern bank of the Neris
River, on the edge of the Old Town. You can get the best open air view of the Old Town at the top of the Gediminas’
Hill, Hill of Three Crosses, Bastille Hill or Bekešo Hill.

Top attractions in the old town would include Gediminas’ Tower and upper castle; The cathedral with a Belfry by the
side; Pilies & Didžioji streets with lots of luxurious boutiques, coffee shops, cultural centres, embassies, night
clubs, souvenir sellers and the happy hubbub of the city; late Gothic architectural masterpiece that impressed
Napoléon Bonaparte a lot - St. Anne’s Church; Townhall and Vokiečių street where many bars, clubs and restaurants
are located; an area known as the “Jewish Ghetto” centred on Stiklių, Gaono, Antokolskio and Žydų streets;
Presidential Palace and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe - Vilnius University which campus consists
of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical buildings arranged around twelve closed courtyards and the tallest
Church of St John; the Bastion which is an original Renaissance fortification; the only surviving gate of the first
original five gates in the city wall named the Gates of Dawn and of course the main street of Vilnius - Gediminas’
Avenue, where you can find some important national institutions such as the Parliament or the National Library, as
well as banks, hotels, shops, casinos, restaurants and cafés. Some small things also worth experiencing is Frank
Zappa monument and a "magical" tyle with the word "Stebuklas" (Miracle) in the Cathedral square where one can make
his wish come true by simply stepping on it and turning around with the eyes closed.

The Republic of Užupis is worth a separate notice and is a must while visiting Vilnius. Užupis is a recognised
district for artists and won the name of the most bohemic, mysterious and romantic district of Vilnius which has
its own constitution, national anthem, calendar, map, its own holidays, "main institutions" and so on. If you walk
along the banks of the Vilnia River, you will be sure to come across artists working there who will invited to have
a try at the various kinds of art, like photography and painting, or to take part in an evening of summer cinema or
exhibitions.

Take a look at our album of
[http://picasaweb.google.com/CSLithuania/SightsOfLithuania# Vilnius Sights] in order
to get a better view what the city looks like.

=== Museums and Galleries ===

There are a lot of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=95 museums]and [http://www.vilnius-
tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=97 galleries] in Vilnius however, not all of them are worth visiting. Here is the
list of the most recommended ones:

[http://www.genocid.lt/muziejus Museum of Genocide Victims (KGB)]is located in the former headquarters of the KGB
and has the former execution chamber open to visitors.

[http://www.cac.lt/ Contemporary Art Centre]is the largest art centre in the Baltic States presenting the latest
international art tendencies of the contemporary art.

[http://www.ndg.lt/index.php?id=37&L=1 National Gallery of Art] presents a collection of Lithuanian art of the 20th
and 21st century and is a good space for active communication where the audience can see the permanent exposition
and temporary exhibitions as well as participate in cultural events, lectures and educational programmes.

[http://galera.multiply.com/ Užupis Galera] is an alternative gallery in Užupis where the expositions are pretty
unique and you can witness the creatinion of it's masterpieces.

[http://kultflux.puslapiai.lt/ Kultflux] is a gallery - platform on the river Neris next to Mindaugas bridge where
various exhibitions and other cultural events take place.

=== Sightseeing outside Vilnius ===

If you are staying in Vilnius for few days, you might want to make some day trips and see few places outside
Vilnius:

[http://www.trakai.lt/index.php?-2130764187 Trakai] is a historical capital of Lithuania where one can find the only
castle in Eastern Europe built on the island on the lake, Karaite national minority and it's unique cuisine. There
are a lot of buses and trainsgoing there and it takes only about half an hour to get there. If the weather is good,
you should take a chance to see it!

[http://www.europosparkas.lt/ Open air museum of the center of Europe] signifies the geographical centre of Europe
in the language of contemporary art and is a place where nature and art are combined.

[http://www.belmontas.lt/apie_belmonta/ Belmontas park] is very close to Vilnius center and is a complex of
restaurants serving traditional meals arranged around little lakes, watermills, river and waterfalls and is a very
nice place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

=== Tourist information ===

If your host cannot show you around or you like exploring the city by yourself, you might still find it helpful to
get city maps and some additional information about the city, things to see&do, events etc. There are a few tourist
information centres in the Old Town: one is inside the Townhall and another one is located in Vilniaus street.

You also have a superb possibility to go for [http://www.vilniusfreetour.com/ Vilnius free tour] and see the hiden
side of Vilnius through the eyes of the people who live here. All you need to do is to appear at 12PM any day of the
week in front of the Townhall and look for a person with a yellow suitcase. Enjoy!

You can get some more information about Vilnius prior to your arrival in [http://www.inyourpocket.com/lithuania/
city/vilnius.html?more=1 Vilnius in your pocket] guide or browse [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=63
Vilnius tourist information center website].

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/mediabank/A4_Dviraciai%20PRINT(1).pdf Map of Vilnius old town] - quite a nice map
with the routes you can explore either by bike or on foot.

[http://www.lietuvosmarsrutai.eu/index.php?lang=2 Lithuanian routes] is a really great website where Lithuanian
routes are coherently presented with the help of textual, photo and video material for those who want to travel
around Lithuania.

[http://www.fotoskrydis.lt/kategorija/vilniaus-apskritis/ Vilnius from above] - some nice pictures of Vilnius and
other cities of Lithuania made from an air ballon.

=== Events ===

Apart from Couchsurfing events there are plenty of things to do in Vilnius and around. Vilnius is ''European Capital
of Culture 2009'' and therefore there are a lot of cultural, artistic and social activities every month. Check out
what's happening in Vilnius during your stay:

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=4162900 Cultural events in Vilnius ]
about interesting events in Vilnius provided by Couchsurfers of Vilnius group;

[http://www.eb.lt/en.php3 Entertainment bank] - the biggest database of all kinds of events in Vilnius and the rest
of Lithuania;

[http://www.vilnius-life.com/ Vilnius life] - a very handy website with a lot of useful information about Vilnius;

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/index.php?lang=EN Vilnius tourist information center];

[http://www.djscene.lt/event?fCity=vilnius&lang=en DJ Scene LT]

[http://www.club.lt/ Club.lt] - and some more clubbing events

[http://www.ore.lt/event.php?kada=&kur=Vilnius Ore.lt] - one more event calendor. Please note that the website is
only in Lithuanian;

some information

- some clubbing events in Vilnius;

[http://lietuva.lt/en/events/ Events in Lithuania] - if it's still not enough ;)

[http://www.cinema.lt/ Cinema] news. The website is in Lithuanian, but they have titles in original language as
well, so it's easy to get it;)

[http://www.vilniusjazz.lt Vilnius Jazz festival] - takes place every October and invites lots of great jazz
musicians from all over the world. Jazz lovers - don't miss a chance!

==== Cinemas ====

All non-hollywood movies fans should check out two cinemas in Vilnius (both of them are major venues for cinematic
events – festivals, meetings with filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings etc.):

* [http://www.kinopasaka.lt/ Cinema Pasaka] - (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) is a very cozy little cinema in the heart of the
old town, same building as La Boheme wine bar.

* [http://www.skalvija.lt/index.php/about_skalvija/743 Skalvija] - (A. Goštauto St. 2/15) is another cinema center
that focuses on non-commercial European and World cinema, both classics and recent film.

Other cinemas with more recent/Hollywood movie repertoire are:

* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Vingis] - Savanorių St. 7;
* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Akropolis] - Ozo St. 25 - the one in a shopping mall

=== Shopping ===

Although Vilnius is not the capital of shopping, there are several places to do that:

* There are a lot of souvenir shops and little street market in the Old town. The typical Lithuanian souvenirs would
be amber, linen and mead, but the latter is available only in the shops where they sell alcohol.
* Shopping centers: the biggest in the city center are ''Europa'' (Konstitucijos 7a) and ''Gedimino 9'' (Gedimino
Av.9) and ''VCUP'' (Konstitucijos St. 16); a bit out of the city center, but still in Vilnius - ''Akropolis'' (Ozo
St. 25) and ''Panorama'' (Saltoniškių St. 9)
* The biggest grocery chain stores are ''Rimi'', ''Maxima'' and ''Iki'' - you'll see them everywhere.
* There are a lot of proprietary brand clothing shops in the Old town, especially in the area round the Town hall;)

== Accommodation ==

Hopefully you will be able to find a host and will not need to look for accommodation, but in case you do, here are some useful websites:

[http://www.hostels.com/findabed.php?ChosenCity=Vilnius&ChosenCountry=Lithuania&Search=1 Inexpensive hostels,
guesthouses and hotels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=437 Youth hostels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=438 Motels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=630 Hotels and guest houses]

[http://www.camping.lt/index.php?lang=2&sid=432 Campsites across Lithuania] - in case you feel like going to the
nature ;)

== Restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs & clubs ==

=== Restaurants & cafés===

No doubt you will find McDonald's yourself, but in case you want to experience lithuanian cuisine, here are the most
popular restaurants serving traditional lithuanian meals:

[http://www.cili.lt/ Čili Kaimas] - a chain restaurant, located in Vokiečių St. 8 and Gedimino Ave. 14;

[http://www.fortodvaras.lt Forto dvaras] - also a good one and is right in the center - Pilies St. 16;

[http://www.zemaiciai.lt Žemaičiai] - a bit more expensive place in Vokiečių St. 24 and sometimes it takes ages to
get your meal, but the result is usually rewarding.

''Pilies menė'' in Pilies St. 8 or ''Amatininkų užeiga'' in Didžioji St. 19/2 might be also an option for
traditional meals.

What shall you order there to get real lithuanian experience? A distinctive trait of Lithuanian cuisine is the
preponderance of potato dishes, so try one of those:

* ''Cepelinai'' (‘Zeppelins’) - the most typical dish, large boiled potato dumplings (made from grated raw potato)
with fillings of minced meat or cottage cheese. Be careful - they are really filling;
* ''Kugelis'' (potato pie);
* Potato pancakes made from grated raw potato or boiled potato (sometimes – with a meat filling);
* ''Vėdarai'' (potato sausages) – a pretty creepy meal, made of pork intestines stuffed with grated raw potato,
baked in a wood stove or electric oven.

For a snack you should definitely try fried bread with cheese, marinated herring with boiled potatoes, various kinds
of cottage cheese or fermented cheeses, and hot-smoked or cold-smoked hams and sausages. Lithuanians also know many
recipes for mushroom dishes which are used in sauces, as fillings, or served as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Soup is very popular in Lithuania and there are lots of kinds of it, but the most interesting Lithuanian soup
is ''šaltibarščiai'' (cold beetroot soup), which is made from beetroot, kefir (a fermented milk product), greens and
boiled eggs, is served chilled and is very refreshing on a hot summer day. Just don't get scared of a pink colour!

And finally, beer goes with pretty much everything, so go ahead! (ok, maybe not for breakfast;)

If you're done with typical lithuanian cuisine, there's plenty of other choices to eat out that match all tastes and
budgets (in most restaurants approximately LTL 20-40 should be enough for lunch or dinner for one person):

* European cuisine is predominant in Vilnius restaurants, with a few Lithuanian dishes included in the menu - check
out ''Užupio cafe'' (Užupio 2) - a super place and a heart of Užupis Republic during the summer time; [http://
www.avilys.lt Avilys] - really nice beer brewery & restaurant (Gedimino Ave. 5); [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] - a
restaurant and a cozy club downstairs (Dominikonų St. 10); [http://www.steakhouse.lt Steak House Helios] (Didžioji
St. 28, 2 floor, Helios Entertainment Centre).
* Italian cuisine - [http://www.antonio.lt/index.php?k=EN Da Antonio I] (Vilniaus St. 23) and ''Da Antonio
Tratoria'' (Pilies St. 20); ''St. Valentino'' (Vilniaus St. 47/Trakų St. 18); ''Pomodoro'' (Jogailos g. 4)
and ''Fiorentino'' (Universiteto g. 4) with a nice inside yard during spring/summer. Note that pizzerias now
outnumber Lithuanian restaurants, so do not be surprised to find a wide range of pizzas available at most
restaurants (especially medium price range restaurants). The people of Vilnius are starting to jokingly say that
pizza is becoming Lithuania’s national dish.
* French cuisine - ''Les Amis'' (Savičiaus St. 9) and ''Saint Germain'' (Literatų g. 9), also ''La Provence''
(Vokiečių St. 22), but this one is a bit expensive.
* Czech cuisine - ''Pas Rudolfą II'' (Gedimino Ave. 46-2) - not very cozy place, but they have some quite nice
beers.
* Argentine cuisine - ''El Gaucho Sano'' (Pilies St. 10) - meat lovers, please enjoy;)
* Chinese cuisine - there is a big and always growing number of chinese restaurants in the Old town, so you will see
them at once.
* Vegetarian - ''Balti drambliai'' (White Elephants) is a purely vegetarian restaurant and very cozy bar (Vilniaus
St. 41) although you might have to wait about an hour for a beer, so better don't go there if you are in a hurry.
Vegetarians should be also able to find a suitable dish on the menu of almost any restaurant.

In terms of numbers of cafés, Vilnius is not far behind the traditional ‘café culture’ cities of Europe and they can
be found in almost every street of the Old Town, mostly in Trakų, Pilies, Didžioji, Vokiečių, Domininkonų, Savičiaus
streets and Gedimino Prospect. Most popular chain cafés are ''Double Coffee'' and ''Coffee Inn'', but don't expect
to find ''Starbucks Coffee'' here;)

=== Going out ===

There are few more mellow capitals than Vilnius - a hectic metropolis it ain't. But when night falls, there's no
shortage of revellers who are up for a party. What's more, the local beers make for a tasty tipple really worth
giving a try...again and again ;)

Note that many Vilnius bars function as restaurants during the day, and in terms of subtlety of interior décor and
quality of cuisine, they compete with the best restaurants. Some of the bars could also be appropriately included
in the list of intimate-sized clubs, because in the evenings they have live music or a DJ. List of suggested bars &
pubs, which might have a dance-floor as well is the following:

* [http://www.cafedeparis.lt Cafe de Paris] (Didžioji St. 1) - a small place in one of the main streets of the old
town, which has an incredible capacity to surprise with its wide range of events and installations, always vivid
and full of interesting people,live music every Saturday, local and international DJ’s any other day, visual arts,
alternative foods and international staff.
* [http://www.baltidrambliai.lt/main.php?page=1 Balti drambliai] (Vilniaus St. 41) - cozy and extremely relaxed
atmosphere, very reasonable prices and live music once in a while.
* [http://www.invino.lt/ In Vino] (Aušros Vartų St. 7) - is the kind of laid back haunt, especially recommended
during summertime when you can sit in outside in the inner yard, but note that it's not easy to get a table as this
place is always crowded. But give it a try.
* [http://www.mojitonaktys.lt/ Mohito Naktys] (Didžioji St. 33/2)- cocktail bar famous for their Mojitos (the best
in town), currently one of Vilnius’ hottest night spots. Drinks are pricey enough here (so not the best place to get
drunk;) therefore it tends to attract a bit more sophisticated but fun crowd rather than a beer-swilling rabble.
* [http://www.laboheme.lt/ La Boheme] (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) - cozy and very beautiful wine place + nice atmosphere,
very recommended.
* [http://www.tempolibero.lt/index.php/pageid/459 Tappo d'oro] ( l.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus St. 7) - cozy wine places
that has lots of inexpensive wines to offer;)
* Vasaros terasa (Vilniaus St. 39) - a very nice outdoor terrace located in the yard of the historic Teacher's
House, opened during spring/summer/early autumn, there are usually live concerts on weekends, as well as other
cultural events during the week, like cinema, theatre, dance, market etc. Really nice place.
* [http://www.absentofejos.lt/ Absento Fėjos] (Aušros Vartų St. 11) - if you manage to get in (the queue at the door
is usually pretty long and the face control is trick enough as well) you will probably like it, though it's pretty
expensive. No kids running around though :)
* [http://www.briusly.lt/ Briusly] (Islandijos St. 4.) - a very nice and cozy place, reasonably priced and very
popular + it also offers nice asian food.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - combination of bar, cafe, restaurant and nightclub, where from
morning till nighttime, people can come to eat, drink and relax and later go downstairs for more lively activities.
* [http://www.alutis.lt/snekutis/ Šnekutis] (Polocko St. 7A and Šv.Stepono St. 8) - if you want to try some awsome
home-brewed "live beer" without any ripoff, that's the place to be.
* [http://www.busitrecias.lt/index.php/en/ Būsi trečias] (Totoriu st.) 18 - mini brewery, offering a big range of
flavoured beers and hearty food.

The most recommended nightclubs would be the following:

* [http://www.tamstaclub.lt Tamsta] (Subačiaus St. 11A) - probably the best club with live music (unfortunately
closed for summer holidays..).
* [http://www.pabolatino.lt Pabo Latino] (Trakų St. 3/2)- if you like salsa, then that's the place to be. Beautiful
interior, nice cocktails, if you come a bit earlier, the entrance fee is not too bad + you get a free drink.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - a really cozy place to chill out and the entry is always free of
charge.
* [http://www.pachavilnius.lt Pacha club] (Gynėjų St. 14) - the name already speaks for itself, and people say it is
one of best clubs in Vilnius, posh and expensive though, but pretty worth it.
* [http://www.tarantinoclub.lt Tarantino club] (Trakų g. 2) - quite cozy and nice club, sometimes have live
concerts, sometimes the entrance is free, so might be worth checking it out.
* [http://www.artistai.lt Artistai] (Šv. Kazimiero St. 3) - pretty simple and relaxed place, especially popular
among students, so expect to be surrounded by a very young crowd and a possibility to get drinks in a plastic cup.
Has a nice inside yard and there is karaoke night on Tuesday.
* [http://www.havanasocialclub.lt Havana Social Club] (Šermukšnių St. 4a) - pretty nice place with friendly
atmosphere, not too posh, but nice interrior, has some good cocktails as well;)
* [http://www.brodvejus.lt Brodvėjus pub] (Mesiniu St. 4) is mostly attended by foreigners and students and the
music is mostly 90's pop, however, the place is still quite popular.
* [http://www.clubgravity.lt Gravity Club] is a good place for electronic music lovers, located in a former bunker,
usually crowded and always lacks oxygen.
* [http://www.play-club.com Play Club](Pamenkalnio St. 17/3) - you either love it or hate it: it's very small, very
alternative and simple, drinks usually come in plastic cups, but it has some charm for sure. And a football table.
* [http://www.bix.lt Bix baras](Etmonų St. 6) - rock club, pretty laid back and very popular among students.

== Getting in & around ==

=== Transportation to/from Vilnius ===

Choose the best way to get to Vilnius city:

* If you are coming by '''plane''' to [http://www.vilnius-airport.lt/en/ Vilnius international airport] you can take
a train to the central railway station (it only takes 7 minutes to get there, it goes twice an hour and costs less
than EUR 1) or take a bus Nr.1 going to the bus station or bus Nr. 2 going to the center of the city. There are
lockers in the railway station if you need to leave your luggage before heading to the city, it is very close to
the bus station (just across the street) and they both are close to the Old town even if you are going on foot (but
note that almost every trolleybus goes to the city center). You can always take a taxi, but it if you catch the ones
standing in front of the airport, they will charge you much more than you would if you call one. The journey should
cost you about EUR 7.

If you are landing in [http://www.kaunasair.lt/index.php?lang=en&page=express Kaunas airport], there is a bus going
to Vilnius (the bus schedule is in accordance with operating flights).

* [http://www.litrail.lt/wps/portal Lithuanian railways] - for those who are travelling by '''train'''. Note that
unfortunatelly ''Interrail'', ''Eurorail'' and similar tickets are not valid in Lithuania :(

* [http://www.autobusustotis.lt/en Vilnius bus station website] might be useful if you are travelling by '''bus'''.
[http://www.eurolines.ee/en/node Eurolines] coach company offers probably the cheapest and the most popular
international bus routes in the Baltics and the rest of Europe.

* '''Hitch-hiking''' is pretty popular way to travel in Lithuania as well as to the other countries and is safe
enough as long as you are staying rational yourself. [http://www.autostop.lt/main.php Hitch-hiking Club's] members
can help you a lot with tips on the best hitch-hiking-routes both in Lithuania and to nearby countries, what are the
best spots to hitch-hike etc. so definitely check out the website if you choose to travele this way.

* It is also possible to take a '''ferry''' to Klaipeda and then come to Vilnius by bus, car or train. Check out the
website of [http://www.portofklaipeda.lt/en.php/port_of_klaipda/cruising/ferry_lines/437 Klaipeda seaport] for the
ferry lines.

=== Transportation in Vilnius ===

A good thing about Vilnius is that it's small enough for you to easily get around on foot, by bike or by public
transport.

* If you are staying in the Old town, the best way to explore it is on foot. Most sights are within the walking
distance and don't be afraid to get lost, as it is the best way to discover the wonders of the city ;)

* [http://www.vilniustransport.lt/en.php/ Public transport] is neither the worse nor the best: there are quite
enough of buses and trolleybuses during the day, but they stop at 11:30 P.M. and there are no more night buses
available :( You can buy a ticket either in a kiosk (LTL 2) or from the driver (LTL 2.5) There are also tickets
valid for 1 day (LTL 13), 3 days (LTL 23) or 10 days (LTL 46), but see if it's worth it. [http://www.marsrutai.lt/
vilnius/?a=p.routes&transport_id=bus&t=xhtml&l=en Traffic schedules and route planning]might be handy as well. Note
that the public transport starts running at 5:30 AM and stops around 11:30 PM, so if you happen to fall in this gap,
choose taxi, walking, friends car or killing a night in a club ;)

* Taxi...uh, if you need to get a cab, there are two things you should bear in mind:
1)it is way cheaper to call a cab than to catch one on the street and
2)most likely they will try to rip you off anyway, so ask some local how
much your journey should cost in advance (the rate varies from LTL 2.2 to LTL 4 per km). You may try calling one of
those [http://www.taksi.lt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=63 taxi companies]

* Bike can also be an option so if you or your host doesn't have one, you can try to rent. Some places hiring bikes
in the city center are [http://www.dviratis.lt/index.php?page=catalogue&cat=nuoma&view=45 Velo-City] (Bernadinų St.
10, in front of St. Anns Church) or [http://www.kelrodis.lt Kelrodis](T.Ševčenkos g. 15/14).

* If you're coming by car, well, be careful :) but if you wish to rent a car, you can do it in the centre of the
city as well as at the airport. Note that you will be asked for your identification card and a valid international
credit card. Check out the list of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=76&aid=461 car rental
companies]

== Other useful information ==

* There are many Wi-fi places in Vilnius, but if you need an '''Internet cafe''', here are some of them (click for
the map):

[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=780BEC7DC51211D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=112C5A2E7C2E11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=70651542C51411D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=5064990FC51311D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=A37A73BA7C2B11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=7113DE227C3111DA8602746164617373

* [http://www.meteo.lt/english/forecasts.php Weather forecast] if you want to check what the weather is like during
your stay.
* You can '''exchange''' money in any bank, which may also be located in bigger shopping centers, there is an
exchange booth at the airport (arrivals hall) and outside railway/bus station as well. Note that ''Parex'' bank is
the only bank that accepts coins for exchange.
* '''Smoking''' is prohibited inside all restaurants, cafes, bars etc. unless there are tables outside.
* If you you can use your phone with other SIM cards, it would be cheaper to buy local sim card in a kiosk or in any
mobile phone shop. The most popular ones are ''Pildyk'', ''Labas'', ''Ezys'', ''Extra''. The SIM card costs from 5
to 10 lt (1,5-2,5 euros) and you can top it up.
* Free Wifi internet spots are available at many cafes in the whole city. Please ask the staff or watch for a Wifi-
sign at the door.
* '''Emergency number''' is the same as for the rest of Europe - 112.

Some websites to give you an idea about the '''costs in Vilnius''', but note that the prices are rising all the
time, so the information can really be not accurate enough:

* [http://www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=81&tefl_session=9fad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f3d&x=1&y=1
International City Cost Guide] - update the prices by doubling the given ones;)

== Foreigners about Vilnius, LT & CS ==

Colleqium] - Pilies St. 22-1;
Avineta] - Naugarduko St. 76;
Bazė] - A. Rotundo St. 2;
Fantazija] - Naugarduko St. 34;
Liumineta] - Antakalnio St. 40;
Netcafe]- Antakalnio St. 36

* [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=2680237 Vilnius. What it's like in foreign eyes?] - CS
thread on foreigners' impression about Vilnius.
* [http://www.expatintelligence.com/expat-lithuania.shtml Expat Lithuania] - short introduction about life in LT
* [http://www.expatexchange.com/expat/index.cfm?frmid=247&forumid=0&dbname=ee&shared=N ExpatExchange] - website
where expats share their experience in LT. Can't promise all the information is correct, but might be useful.

== CS in the Press ==

There are several articles about CS in the media in Lithuanian:

http://www.zebra.lt/lt/laisvalaikis/keliones/Couch-surfing-kitoks-keliavimo-budas-2009-10-12.html
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16689368
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16695835
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17138568
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17188256
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17203292
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17285172
http://www.alfa.lt/straipsnis/157702
http://www.universitetozurnalistas.lt/uz/skotija/pub4.html

[UPDATE] and in english:
* http://www.travelblog.org/Europe/Sweden/Orebro-County/Orebro/blog-558605.html

Vilnius

2013-03-17T10:24:06Z

Angelake: /* Going out */

{{IsIn|Lithuania}}
'''Vilnius''' is the capital city of [[Lithuania]] and the largest city in the country with the population of over
550.000 and all major political, economic, social and cultural centres.

== Vilnius on CouchSurfing ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1351 The Vilnius group] currently consists of approximately 2000
members, who are locals, expats and travellers from all over the world. It is an active and constantly growing group with lots of events, meetings and activities - just follow posts in the forum.

Take a look at some photos of our meetings in the [http://picasaweb.google.com/cslithuania CS Lithuania Gallery] and
[https://picasaweb.google.com/106659005364119821571 CS Vilnius Gallery]

=== Emergency couch in Vilnius ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=13026 Emergency couch in Vilnius] is a group of CS'ers from Vilnius who
are able to offer a couch at a short notice for guests who are coming in 3-4 days or less and do not have a couch
yet. Therefore, use this group to find a couch only if it is emergency situation so if you know you are coming in 1
month, please use couchsearch and send individual couch requests.

=== Vilnius CS Musicians ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=33375 Vilnius CS Musicians] is a new fresh group of local and traveling
musicians for sharing great music. If you want to organise a concert, gig, jam-session or just meet CS'ers who love
music, this is a group for you. There is a list of some useful live music spots and festivals held in all Lithuania.
Let the music play!

== City Attractions ==

Vilnius is one of the most frequently visited cities of Eastern Europe. It draws attention, not only because of its
unique architectural character, but also by its cultural events and attractions.

Parts of the town you should definitely visit are first of all the Old Town (Senamiestis) which is one of the
largest old town centres in Eastern Europe and is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. However, before starting
your meanderings around the streets of the Old Town it is worth getting a bird’s eye view of Vilnius and taking in a
panoramic view of the city. There are some high buildings suitable for this purpose namely the TV tower, ''Skybar''
of the ''Reval Hotel Lietuva'' and the top floor of the shopping mall ''Europa'' near the northern bank of the Neris
River, on the edge of the Old Town. You can get the best open air view of the Old Town at the top of the Gediminas’
Hill, Hill of Three Crosses, Bastille Hill or Bekešo Hill.

Top attractions in the old town would include Gediminas’ Tower and upper castle; The cathedral with a Belfry by the
side; Pilies & Didžioji streets with lots of luxurious boutiques, coffee shops, cultural centres, embassies, night
clubs, souvenir sellers and the happy hubbub of the city; late Gothic architectural masterpiece that impressed
Napoléon Bonaparte a lot - St. Anne’s Church; Townhall and Vokiečių street where many bars, clubs and restaurants
are located; an area known as the “Jewish Ghetto” centred on Stiklių, Gaono, Antokolskio and Žydų streets;
Presidential Palace and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe - Vilnius University which campus consists
of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical buildings arranged around twelve closed courtyards and the tallest
Church of St John; the Bastion which is an original Renaissance fortification; the only surviving gate of the first
original five gates in the city wall named the Gates of Dawn and of course the main street of Vilnius - Gediminas’
Avenue, where you can find some important national institutions such as the Parliament or the National Library, as
well as banks, hotels, shops, casinos, restaurants and cafés. Some small things also worth experiencing is Frank
Zappa monument and a "magical" tyle with the word "Stebuklas" (Miracle) in the Cathedral square where one can make
his wish come true by simply stepping on it and turning around with the eyes closed.

The Republic of Užupis is worth a separate notice and is a must while visiting Vilnius. Užupis is a recognised
district for artists and won the name of the most bohemic, mysterious and romantic district of Vilnius which has
its own constitution, national anthem, calendar, map, its own holidays, "main institutions" and so on. If you walk
along the banks of the Vilnia River, you will be sure to come across artists working there who will invited to have
a try at the various kinds of art, like photography and painting, or to take part in an evening of summer cinema or
exhibitions.

Take a look at our album of
[http://picasaweb.google.com/CSLithuania/SightsOfLithuania# Vilnius Sights] in order
to get a better view what the city looks like.

=== Museums and Galleries ===

There are a lot of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=95 museums]and [http://www.vilnius-
tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=97 galleries] in Vilnius however, not all of them are worth visiting. Here is the
list of the most recommended ones:

[http://www.genocid.lt/muziejus Museum of Genocide Victims (KGB)]is located in the former headquarters of the KGB
and has the former execution chamber open to visitors.

[http://www.cac.lt/ Contemporary Art Centre]is the largest art centre in the Baltic States presenting the latest
international art tendencies of the contemporary art.

[http://www.ndg.lt/index.php?id=37&L=1 National Gallery of Art] presents a collection of Lithuanian art of the 20th
and 21st century and is a good space for active communication where the audience can see the permanent exposition
and temporary exhibitions as well as participate in cultural events, lectures and educational programmes.

[http://galera.multiply.com/ Užupis Galera] is an alternative gallery in Užupis where the expositions are pretty
unique and you can witness the creatinion of it's masterpieces.

[http://kultflux.puslapiai.lt/ Kultflux] is a gallery - platform on the river Neris next to Mindaugas bridge where
various exhibitions and other cultural events take place.

=== Sightseeing outside Vilnius ===

If you are staying in Vilnius for few days, you might want to make some day trips and see few places outside
Vilnius:

[http://www.trakai.lt/index.php?-2130764187 Trakai] is a historical capital of Lithuania where one can find the only
castle in Eastern Europe built on the island on the lake, Karaite national minority and it's unique cuisine. There
are a lot of buses and trainsgoing there and it takes only about half an hour to get there. If the weather is good,
you should take a chance to see it!

[http://www.europosparkas.lt/ Open air museum of the center of Europe] signifies the geographical centre of Europe
in the language of contemporary art and is a place where nature and art are combined.

[http://www.belmontas.lt/apie_belmonta/ Belmontas park] is very close to Vilnius center and is a complex of
restaurants serving traditional meals arranged around little lakes, watermills, river and waterfalls and is a very
nice place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

=== Tourist information ===

If your host cannot show you around or you like exploring the city by yourself, you might still find it helpful to
get city maps and some additional information about the city, things to see&do, events etc. There are a few tourist
information centres in the Old Town: one is inside the Townhall and another one is located in Vilniaus street.

You also have a superb possibility to go for [http://www.vilniusfreetour.com/ Vilnius free tour] and see the hiden
side of Vilnius through the eyes of the people who live here. All you need to do is to appear at 12PM any day of the
week in front of the Townhall and look for a person with a yellow suitcase. Enjoy!

You can get some more information about Vilnius prior to your arrival in [http://www.inyourpocket.com/lithuania/
city/vilnius.html?more=1 Vilnius in your pocket] guide or browse [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=63
Vilnius tourist information center website].

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/mediabank/A4_Dviraciai%20PRINT(1).pdf Map of Vilnius old town] - quite a nice map
with the routes you can explore either by bike or on foot.

[http://www.lietuvosmarsrutai.eu/index.php?lang=2 Lithuanian routes] is a really great website where Lithuanian
routes are coherently presented with the help of textual, photo and video material for those who want to travel
around Lithuania.

[http://www.fotoskrydis.lt/kategorija/vilniaus-apskritis/ Vilnius from above] - some nice pictures of Vilnius and
other cities of Lithuania made from an air ballon.

=== Events ===

Apart from Couchsurfing events there are plenty of things to do in Vilnius and around. Vilnius is ''European Capital
of Culture 2009'' and therefore there are a lot of cultural, artistic and social activities every month. Check out
what's happening in Vilnius during your stay:

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=4162900 Cultural events in Vilnius ]
about interesting events in Vilnius provided by Couchsurfers of Vilnius group;

[http://www.eb.lt/en.php3 Entertainment bank] - the biggest database of all kinds of events in Vilnius and the rest
of Lithuania;

[http://www.vilnius-life.com/ Vilnius life] - a very handy website with a lot of useful information about Vilnius;

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/index.php?lang=EN Vilnius tourist information center];

[http://www.djscene.lt/event?fCity=vilnius&lang=en DJ Scene LT]

[http://www.club.lt/ Club.lt] - and some more clubbing events

[http://www.ore.lt/event.php?kada=&kur=Vilnius Ore.lt] - one more event calendor. Please note that the website is
only in Lithuanian;

some information

- some clubbing events in Vilnius;

[http://lietuva.lt/en/events/ Events in Lithuania] - if it's still not enough ;)

[http://www.cinema.lt/ Cinema] news. The website is in Lithuanian, but they have titles in original language as
well, so it's easy to get it;)

[http://www.vilniusjazz.lt Vilnius Jazz festival] - takes place every October and invites lots of great jazz
musicians from all over the world. Jazz lovers - don't miss a chance!

==== Cinemas ====

All non-hollywood movies fans should check out two cinemas in Vilnius (both of them are major venues for cinematic
events – festivals, meetings with filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings etc.):

* [http://www.kinopasaka.lt/ Cinema Pasaka] - (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) is a very cozy little cinema in the heart of the
old town, same building as La Boheme wine bar.

* [http://www.skalvija.lt/index.php/about_skalvija/743 Skalvija] - (A. Goštauto St. 2/15) is another cinema center
that focuses on non-commercial European and World cinema, both classics and recent film.

Other cinemas with more recent/Hollywood movie repertoire are:

* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Vingis] - Savanorių St. 7;
* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Akropolis] - Ozo St. 25 - the one in a shopping mall

=== Shopping ===

Although Vilnius is not the capital of shopping, there are several places to do that:

* There are a lot of souvenir shops and little street market in the Old town. The typical Lithuanian souvenirs would
be amber, linen and mead, but the latter is available only in the shops where they sell alcohol.
* Shopping centers: the biggest in the city center are ''Europa'' (Konstitucijos 7a) and ''Gedimino 9'' (Gedimino
Av.9) and ''VCUP'' (Konstitucijos St. 16); a bit out of the city center, but still in Vilnius - ''Akropolis'' (Ozo
St. 25) and ''Panorama'' (Saltoniškių St. 9)
* The biggest grocery chain stores are ''Rimi'', ''Maxima'' and ''Iki'' - you'll see them everywhere.
* There are a lot of proprietary brand clothing shops in the Old town, especially in the area round the Town hall;)

== Accommodation ==

Hopefully you will be able to find a host and will not need to look for accommodation, but in case you do, here are some useful websites:

[http://www.hostels.com/findabed.php?ChosenCity=Vilnius&ChosenCountry=Lithuania&Search=1 Inexpensive hostels,
guesthouses and hotels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=437 Youth hostels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=438 Motels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=630 Hotels and guest houses]

[http://www.camping.lt/index.php?lang=2&sid=432 Campsites across Lithuania] - in case you feel like going to the
nature ;)

== Restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs & clubs ==

=== Restaurants & cafés===

No doubt you will find McDonald's yourself, but in case you want to experience lithuanian cuisine, here are the most
popular restaurants serving traditional lithuanian meals:

[http://www.cili.lt/ Čili Kaimas] - a chain restaurant, located in Vokiečių St. 8 and Gedimino Ave. 14;

[http://www.fortodvaras.lt Forto dvaras] - also a good one and is right in the center - Pilies St. 16;

[http://www.zemaiciai.lt Žemaičiai] - a bit more expensive place in Vokiečių St. 24 and sometimes it takes ages to
get your meal, but the result is usually rewarding.

''Pilies menė'' in Pilies St. 8 or ''Amatininkų užeiga'' in Didžioji St. 19/2 might be also an option for
traditional meals.

What shall you order there to get real lithuanian experience? A distinctive trait of Lithuanian cuisine is the
preponderance of potato dishes, so try one of those:

* ''Cepelinai'' (‘Zeppelins’) - the most typical dish, large boiled potato dumplings (made from grated raw potato)
with fillings of minced meat or cottage cheese. Be careful - they are really filling;
* ''Kugelis'' (potato pie);
* Potato pancakes made from grated raw potato or boiled potato (sometimes – with a meat filling);
* ''Vėdarai'' (potato sausages) – a pretty creepy meal, made of pork intestines stuffed with grated raw potato,
baked in a wood stove or electric oven.

For a snack you should definitely try fried bread with cheese, marinated herring with boiled potatoes, various kinds
of cottage cheese or fermented cheeses, and hot-smoked or cold-smoked hams and sausages. Lithuanians also know many
recipes for mushroom dishes which are used in sauces, as fillings, or served as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Soup is very popular in Lithuania and there are lots of kinds of it, but the most interesting Lithuanian soup
is ''šaltibarščiai'' (cold beetroot soup), which is made from beetroot, kefir (a fermented milk product), greens and
boiled eggs, is served chilled and is very refreshing on a hot summer day. Just don't get scared of a pink colour!

And finally, beer goes with pretty much everything, so go ahead! (ok, maybe not for breakfast;)

If you're done with typical lithuanian cuisine, there's plenty of other choices to eat out that match all tastes and
budgets (in most restaurants approximately LTL 20-40 should be enough for lunch or dinner for one person):

* European cuisine is predominant in Vilnius restaurants, with a few Lithuanian dishes included in the menu - check
out ''Užupio cafe'' (Užupio 2) - a super place and a heart of Užupis Republic during the summer time; [http://
www.avilys.lt Avilys] - really nice beer brewery & restaurant (Gedimino Ave. 5); [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] - a
restaurant and a cozy club downstairs (Dominikonų St. 10); [http://www.steakhouse.lt Steak House Helios] (Didžioji
St. 28, 2 floor, Helios Entertainment Centre).
* Italian cuisine - [http://www.antonio.lt/index.php?k=EN Da Antonio I] (Vilniaus St. 23) and ''Da Antonio
Tratoria'' (Pilies St. 20); ''St. Valentino'' (Vilniaus St. 47/Trakų St. 18); ''Pomodoro'' (Jogailos g. 4)
and ''Fiorentino'' (Universiteto g. 4) with a nice inside yard during spring/summer. Note that pizzerias now
outnumber Lithuanian restaurants, so do not be surprised to find a wide range of pizzas available at most
restaurants (especially medium price range restaurants). The people of Vilnius are starting to jokingly say that
pizza is becoming Lithuania’s national dish.
* French cuisine - ''Les Amis'' (Savičiaus St. 9) and ''Saint Germain'' (Literatų g. 9), also ''La Provence''
(Vokiečių St. 22), but this one is a bit expensive.
* Czech cuisine - ''Pas Rudolfą II'' (Gedimino Ave. 46-2) - not very cozy place, but they have some quite nice
beers.
* Argentine cuisine - ''El Gaucho Sano'' (Pilies St. 10) - meat lovers, please enjoy;)
* Chinese cuisine - there is a big and always growing number of chinese restaurants in the Old town, so you will see
them at once.
* Vegetarian - ''Balti drambliai'' (White Elephants) is a purely vegetarian restaurant and very cozy bar (Vilniaus
St. 41) although you might have to wait about an hour for a beer, so better don't go there if you are in a hurry.
Vegetarians should be also able to find a suitable dish on the menu of almost any restaurant.

In terms of numbers of cafés, Vilnius is not far behind the traditional ‘café culture’ cities of Europe and they can
be found in almost every street of the Old Town, mostly in Trakų, Pilies, Didžioji, Vokiečių, Domininkonų, Savičiaus
streets and Gedimino Prospect. Most popular chain cafés are ''Double Coffee'' and ''Coffee Inn'', but don't expect
to find ''Starbucks Coffee'' here;)

=== Going out ===

There are few more mellow capitals than Vilnius - a hectic metropolis it ain't. But when night falls, there's no
shortage of revellers who are up for a party. What's more, the local beers make for a tasty tipple really worth
giving a try...again and again ;)

Note that many Vilnius bars function as restaurants during the day, and in terms of subtlety of interior décor and
quality of cuisine, they compete with the best restaurants. Some of the bars could also be appropriately included
in the list of intimate-sized clubs, because in the evenings they have live music or a DJ. List of suggested bars &
pubs, which might have a dance-floor as well is the following:

* [http://www.cafedeparis.lt Cafe de Paris] (Didžioji St. 1) - a small place in one of the main streets of the old
town, which has an incredible capacity to surprise with its wide range of events and installations, always vivid
and full of interesting people,live music every Saturday, local and international DJ’s any other day, visual arts,
alternative foods and international staff.
* [http://www.baltidrambliai.lt/main.php?page=1 Balti drambliai] (Vilniaus St. 41) - cozy and extremely relaxed
atmosphere, very reasonable prices and live music once in a while.
* [http://www.invino.lt/ In Vino] (Aušros Vartų St. 7) - is the kind of laid back haunt, especially recommended
during summertime when you can sit in outside in the inner yard, but note that it's not easy to get a table as this
place is always crowded. But give it a try.
* [http://www.mojitonaktys.lt/ Mohito Naktys] (Didžioji St. 33/2)- cocktail bar famous for their Mojitos (the best
in town), currently one of Vilnius’ hottest night spots. Drinks are pricey enough here (so not the best place to get
drunk;) therefore it tends to attract a bit more sophisticated but fun crowd rather than a beer-swilling rabble.
* [http://www.laboheme.lt/ La Boheme] (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) - cozy and very beautiful wine place + nice atmosphere,
very recommended.
* [http://www.tempolibero.lt/index.php/pageid/459 Tappo d'oro] ( l.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus St. 7) - cozy wine places
that has lots of inexpensive wines to offer;)
* Vasaros terasa (Vilniaus St. 39) - a very nice outdoor terrace located in the yard of the historic Teacher's
House, opened during spring/summer/early autumn, there are usually live concerts on weekends, as well as other
cultural events during the week, like cinema, theatre, dance, market etc. Really nice place.
* [http://www.absentofejos.lt/ Absento Fėjos] (Aušros Vartų St. 11) - if you manage to get in (the queue at the door
is usually pretty long and the face control is trick enough as well) you will probably like it, though it's pretty
expensive. No kids running around though :)
* [http://www.briusly.lt/ Briusly] (Islandijos St. 4.) - a very nice and cozy place, reasonably priced and very
popular + it also offers nice asian food.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - combination of bar, cafe, restaurant and nightclub, where from
morning till nighttime, people can come to eat, drink and relax and later go downstairs for more lively activities.
* [http://www.alutis.lt/snekutis/ Šnekutis] (Polocko St. 7A and Šv.Stepono St. 8) - if you want to try some awsome
home-brewed "live beer" without any ripoff, that's the place to be.
* [http://www.busitrecias.lt/index.php/en/ Būsi trečias] (Totoriu st.) 18 - mini brewery, offering a big range of
flavoured beers and hearty food.

The most recommended nightclubs would be the following:

* [http://www.tamstaclub.lt Tamsta] (Subačiaus St. 11A) - probably the best club with live music (unfortunately
closed for summer holidays..).
* [http://www.pabolatino.lt Pabo Latino] (Trakų St. 3/2)- if you like salsa, then that's the place to be. Beautiful
interior, nice cocktails, if you come a bit earlier, the entrance fee is not too bad + you get a free drink.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - a really cozy place to chill out and the entry is always free of
charge.
* [http://www.pachavilnius.lt Pacha club] (Gynėjų St. 14) - the name already speaks for itself, and people say it is
one of best clubs in Vilnius, posh and expensive though, but pretty worth it.
* [http://www.tarantinoclub.lt Tarantino club] (Trakų g. 2) - quite cozy and nice club, sometimes have live
concerts, sometimes the entrance is free, so might be worth checking it out.
* [http://www.artistai.lt Artistai] (Šv. Kazimiero St. 3) - pretty simple and relaxed place, especially popular
among students, so expect to be surrounded by a very young crowd and a possibility to get drinks in a plastic cup.
Has a nice inside yard and there is karaoke night on Tuesday.
* [http://www.havanasocialclub.lt Havana Social Club] (Šermukšnių St. 4a) - pretty nice place with friendly
atmosphere, not too posh, but nice interrior, has some good cocktails as well;)
* [http://www.brodvejus.lt Brodvėjus pub] (Mesiniu St. 4) is mostly attended by foreigners and students and the
music is mostly 90's pop, however, the place is still quite popular.
* [http://www.clubgravity.lt Gravity Club] is a good place for electronic music lovers, located in a former bunker,
usually crowded and always lacks oxygen.
* [http://www.play-club.com Play Club](Pamenkalnio St. 17/3) - you either love it or hate it: it's very small, very
alternative and simple, drinks usually come in plastic cups, but it has some charm for sure. And a football table.
* [http://www.bix.lt Bix baras](Etmonų St. 6) - rock club, pretty laid back and very popular among students.

== Getting in & around ==

=== Transportation to/from Vilnius ===

Choose the best way to get to Vilnius city:

* If you are coming by '''plane''' to [http://www.vilnius-airport.lt/en/ Vilnius international airport] you can take
a train to the central railway station (it only takes 7 minutes to get there, it goes twice an hour and costs less
than EUR 1) or take a bus Nr.1 going to the bus station or bus Nr. 2 going to the center of the city. There are
lockers in the railway station if you need to leave your luggage before heading to the city, it is very close to
the bus station (just across the street) and they both are close to the Old town even if you are going on foot (but
note that almost every trolleybus goes to the city center). You can always take a taxi, but it if you catch the ones
standing in front of the airport, they will charge you much more than you would if you call one. The journey should
cost you about EUR 7.

If you are landing in [http://www.kaunasair.lt/index.php?lang=en&page=express Kaunas airport], there is a bus going
to Vilnius (the bus schedule is in accordance with operating flights).

* [http://www.litrail.lt/wps/portal Lithuanian railways] - for those who are travelling by '''train'''. Note that
unfortunatelly ''Interrail'', ''Eurorail'' and similar tickets are not valid in Lithuania :(

* [http://www.autobusustotis.lt/en Vilnius bus station website] might be useful if you are travelling by '''bus'''.
[http://www.eurolines.ee/en/node Eurolines] coach company offers probably the cheapest and the most popular
international bus routes in the Baltics and the rest of Europe.

* '''Hitch-hiking''' is pretty popular way to travel in Lithuania as well as to the other countries and is safe
enough as long as you are staying rational yourself. [http://www.autostop.lt/main.php Hitch-hiking Club's] members
can help you a lot with tips on the best hitch-hiking-routes both in Lithuania and to nearby countries, what are the
best spots to hitch-hike etc. so definitely check out the website if you choose to travele this way.

* It is also possible to take a '''ferry''' to Klaipeda and then come to Vilnius by bus, car or train. Check out the
website of [http://www.portofklaipeda.lt/en.php/port_of_klaipda/cruising/ferry_lines/437 Klaipeda seaport] for the
ferry lines.

=== Transportation in Vilnius ===

A good thing about Vilnius is that it's small enough for you to easily get around on foot, by bike or by public
transport.

* If you are staying in the Old town, the best way to explore it is on foot. Most sights are within the walking
distance and don't be afraid to get lost, as it is the best way to discover the wonders of the city ;)

* [http://www.vilniustransport.lt/en.php/ Public transport] is neither the worse nor the best: there are quite
enough of buses and trolleybuses during the day, but they stop at 11:30 P.M. and there are no more night buses
available :( You can buy a ticket either in a kiosk (LTL 2) or from the driver (LTL 2.5) There are also tickets
valid for 1 day (LTL 13), 3 days (LTL 23) or 10 days (LTL 46), but see if it's worth it. [http://www.marsrutai.lt/
vilnius/?a=p.routes&transport_id=bus&t=xhtml&l=en Traffic schedules and route planning]might be handy as well. Note
that the public transport starts running at 5:30 AM and stops around 11:30 PM, so if you happen to fall in this gap,
choose taxi, walking, friends car or killing a night in a club ;)

* Taxi...uh, if you need to get a cab, there are two things you should bear in mind: 1)it is way cheaper to call a
cab than to catch one on the street and 2)most likely they will try to rip you off anyway, so ask some local how
much your journey should cost in advance (the rate varies from LTL 1.5 to LTL 4 per km). You may try calling one of
those [http://www.taksi.lt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=63 taxi companies]

* Bike can also be an option so if you or your host doesn't have one, you can try to rent. Some places hiring bikes
in the city center are [http://www.dviratis.lt/index.php?page=catalogue&cat=nuoma&view=45 Velo-City] (Bernadinų St.
10, in front of St. Anns Church) or [http://www.kelrodis.lt Kelrodis](T.Ševčenkos g. 15/14).

* If you're coming by car, well, be careful :) but if you wish to rent a car, you can do it in the centre of the
city as well as at the airport. Note that you will be asked for your identification card and a valid international
credit card. Check out the list of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=76&aid=461 car rental
companies]

== Other useful information ==

* There are many Wi-fi places in Vilnius, but if you need an '''Internet cafe''', here are some of them (click for
the map):

[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=780BEC7DC51211D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=112C5A2E7C2E11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=70651542C51411D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=5064990FC51311D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=A37A73BA7C2B11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=7113DE227C3111DA8602746164617373

* [http://www.meteo.lt/english/forecasts.php Weather forecast] if you want to check what the weather is like during
your stay.
* You can '''exchange''' money in any bank, which may also be located in bigger shopping centers, there is an
exchange booth at the airport (arrivals hall) and outside railway/bus station as well. Note that ''Parex'' bank is
the only bank that accepts coins for exchange.
* '''Smoking''' is prohibited inside all restaurants, cafes, bars etc. unless there are tables outside.
* If you you can use your phone with other SIM cards, it would be cheaper to buy local sim card in a kiosk or in any
mobile phone shop. The most popular ones are ''Pildyk'', ''Labas'', ''Ezys'', ''Extra''. The SIM card costs from 5
to 10 lt (1,5-2,5 euros) and you can top it up.
* Free Wifi internet spots are available at many cafes in the whole city. Please ask the staff or watch for a Wifi-
sign at the door.
* '''Emergency number''' is the same as for the rest of Europe - 112.

Some websites to give you an idea about the '''costs in Vilnius''', but note that the prices are rising all the
time, so the information can really be not accurate enough:

* [http://www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=81&tefl_session=9fad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f3d&x=1&y=1
International City Cost Guide] - update the prices by doubling the given ones;)

== Foreigners about Vilnius, LT & CS ==

Colleqium] - Pilies St. 22-1;
Avineta] - Naugarduko St. 76;
Bazė] - A. Rotundo St. 2;
Fantazija] - Naugarduko St. 34;
Liumineta] - Antakalnio St. 40;
Netcafe]- Antakalnio St. 36

* [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=2680237 Vilnius. What it's like in foreign eyes?] - CS
thread on foreigners' impression about Vilnius.
* [http://www.expatintelligence.com/expat-lithuania.shtml Expat Lithuania] - short introduction about life in LT
* [http://www.expatexchange.com/expat/index.cfm?frmid=247&forumid=0&dbname=ee&shared=N ExpatExchange] - website
where expats share their experience in LT. Can't promise all the information is correct, but might be useful.

== CS in the Press ==

There are several articles about CS in the media in Lithuanian:

http://www.zebra.lt/lt/laisvalaikis/keliones/Couch-surfing-kitoks-keliavimo-budas-2009-10-12.html
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16689368
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16695835
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17138568
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17188256
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17203292
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17285172
http://www.alfa.lt/straipsnis/157702
http://www.universitetozurnalistas.lt/uz/skotija/pub4.html

[UPDATE] and in english:
* http://www.travelblog.org/Europe/Sweden/Orebro-County/Orebro/blog-558605.html

Vilnius

2013-03-17T10:22:59Z

Angelake: /* Restaurants & cafés */

{{IsIn|Lithuania}}
'''Vilnius''' is the capital city of [[Lithuania]] and the largest city in the country with the population of over
550.000 and all major political, economic, social and cultural centres.

== Vilnius on CouchSurfing ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1351 The Vilnius group] currently consists of approximately 2000
members, who are locals, expats and travellers from all over the world. It is an active and constantly growing group with lots of events, meetings and activities - just follow posts in the forum.

Take a look at some photos of our meetings in the [http://picasaweb.google.com/cslithuania CS Lithuania Gallery] and
[https://picasaweb.google.com/106659005364119821571 CS Vilnius Gallery]

=== Emergency couch in Vilnius ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=13026 Emergency couch in Vilnius] is a group of CS'ers from Vilnius who
are able to offer a couch at a short notice for guests who are coming in 3-4 days or less and do not have a couch
yet. Therefore, use this group to find a couch only if it is emergency situation so if you know you are coming in 1
month, please use couchsearch and send individual couch requests.

=== Vilnius CS Musicians ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=33375 Vilnius CS Musicians] is a new fresh group of local and traveling
musicians for sharing great music. If you want to organise a concert, gig, jam-session or just meet CS'ers who love
music, this is a group for you. There is a list of some useful live music spots and festivals held in all Lithuania.
Let the music play!

== City Attractions ==

Vilnius is one of the most frequently visited cities of Eastern Europe. It draws attention, not only because of its
unique architectural character, but also by its cultural events and attractions.

Parts of the town you should definitely visit are first of all the Old Town (Senamiestis) which is one of the
largest old town centres in Eastern Europe and is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. However, before starting
your meanderings around the streets of the Old Town it is worth getting a bird’s eye view of Vilnius and taking in a
panoramic view of the city. There are some high buildings suitable for this purpose namely the TV tower, ''Skybar''
of the ''Reval Hotel Lietuva'' and the top floor of the shopping mall ''Europa'' near the northern bank of the Neris
River, on the edge of the Old Town. You can get the best open air view of the Old Town at the top of the Gediminas’
Hill, Hill of Three Crosses, Bastille Hill or Bekešo Hill.

Top attractions in the old town would include Gediminas’ Tower and upper castle; The cathedral with a Belfry by the
side; Pilies & Didžioji streets with lots of luxurious boutiques, coffee shops, cultural centres, embassies, night
clubs, souvenir sellers and the happy hubbub of the city; late Gothic architectural masterpiece that impressed
Napoléon Bonaparte a lot - St. Anne’s Church; Townhall and Vokiečių street where many bars, clubs and restaurants
are located; an area known as the “Jewish Ghetto” centred on Stiklių, Gaono, Antokolskio and Žydų streets;
Presidential Palace and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe - Vilnius University which campus consists
of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical buildings arranged around twelve closed courtyards and the tallest
Church of St John; the Bastion which is an original Renaissance fortification; the only surviving gate of the first
original five gates in the city wall named the Gates of Dawn and of course the main street of Vilnius - Gediminas’
Avenue, where you can find some important national institutions such as the Parliament or the National Library, as
well as banks, hotels, shops, casinos, restaurants and cafés. Some small things also worth experiencing is Frank
Zappa monument and a "magical" tyle with the word "Stebuklas" (Miracle) in the Cathedral square where one can make
his wish come true by simply stepping on it and turning around with the eyes closed.

The Republic of Užupis is worth a separate notice and is a must while visiting Vilnius. Užupis is a recognised
district for artists and won the name of the most bohemic, mysterious and romantic district of Vilnius which has
its own constitution, national anthem, calendar, map, its own holidays, "main institutions" and so on. If you walk
along the banks of the Vilnia River, you will be sure to come across artists working there who will invited to have
a try at the various kinds of art, like photography and painting, or to take part in an evening of summer cinema or
exhibitions.

Take a look at our album of
[http://picasaweb.google.com/CSLithuania/SightsOfLithuania# Vilnius Sights] in order
to get a better view what the city looks like.

=== Museums and Galleries ===

There are a lot of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=95 museums]and [http://www.vilnius-
tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=97 galleries] in Vilnius however, not all of them are worth visiting. Here is the
list of the most recommended ones:

[http://www.genocid.lt/muziejus Museum of Genocide Victims (KGB)]is located in the former headquarters of the KGB
and has the former execution chamber open to visitors.

[http://www.cac.lt/ Contemporary Art Centre]is the largest art centre in the Baltic States presenting the latest
international art tendencies of the contemporary art.

[http://www.ndg.lt/index.php?id=37&L=1 National Gallery of Art] presents a collection of Lithuanian art of the 20th
and 21st century and is a good space for active communication where the audience can see the permanent exposition
and temporary exhibitions as well as participate in cultural events, lectures and educational programmes.

[http://galera.multiply.com/ Užupis Galera] is an alternative gallery in Užupis where the expositions are pretty
unique and you can witness the creatinion of it's masterpieces.

[http://kultflux.puslapiai.lt/ Kultflux] is a gallery - platform on the river Neris next to Mindaugas bridge where
various exhibitions and other cultural events take place.

=== Sightseeing outside Vilnius ===

If you are staying in Vilnius for few days, you might want to make some day trips and see few places outside
Vilnius:

[http://www.trakai.lt/index.php?-2130764187 Trakai] is a historical capital of Lithuania where one can find the only
castle in Eastern Europe built on the island on the lake, Karaite national minority and it's unique cuisine. There
are a lot of buses and trainsgoing there and it takes only about half an hour to get there. If the weather is good,
you should take a chance to see it!

[http://www.europosparkas.lt/ Open air museum of the center of Europe] signifies the geographical centre of Europe
in the language of contemporary art and is a place where nature and art are combined.

[http://www.belmontas.lt/apie_belmonta/ Belmontas park] is very close to Vilnius center and is a complex of
restaurants serving traditional meals arranged around little lakes, watermills, river and waterfalls and is a very
nice place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

=== Tourist information ===

If your host cannot show you around or you like exploring the city by yourself, you might still find it helpful to
get city maps and some additional information about the city, things to see&do, events etc. There are a few tourist
information centres in the Old Town: one is inside the Townhall and another one is located in Vilniaus street.

You also have a superb possibility to go for [http://www.vilniusfreetour.com/ Vilnius free tour] and see the hiden
side of Vilnius through the eyes of the people who live here. All you need to do is to appear at 12PM any day of the
week in front of the Townhall and look for a person with a yellow suitcase. Enjoy!

You can get some more information about Vilnius prior to your arrival in [http://www.inyourpocket.com/lithuania/
city/vilnius.html?more=1 Vilnius in your pocket] guide or browse [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=63
Vilnius tourist information center website].

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/mediabank/A4_Dviraciai%20PRINT(1).pdf Map of Vilnius old town] - quite a nice map
with the routes you can explore either by bike or on foot.

[http://www.lietuvosmarsrutai.eu/index.php?lang=2 Lithuanian routes] is a really great website where Lithuanian
routes are coherently presented with the help of textual, photo and video material for those who want to travel
around Lithuania.

[http://www.fotoskrydis.lt/kategorija/vilniaus-apskritis/ Vilnius from above] - some nice pictures of Vilnius and
other cities of Lithuania made from an air ballon.

=== Events ===

Apart from Couchsurfing events there are plenty of things to do in Vilnius and around. Vilnius is ''European Capital
of Culture 2009'' and therefore there are a lot of cultural, artistic and social activities every month. Check out
what's happening in Vilnius during your stay:

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=4162900 Cultural events in Vilnius ]
about interesting events in Vilnius provided by Couchsurfers of Vilnius group;

[http://www.eb.lt/en.php3 Entertainment bank] - the biggest database of all kinds of events in Vilnius and the rest
of Lithuania;

[http://www.vilnius-life.com/ Vilnius life] - a very handy website with a lot of useful information about Vilnius;

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/index.php?lang=EN Vilnius tourist information center];

[http://www.djscene.lt/event?fCity=vilnius&lang=en DJ Scene LT]

[http://www.club.lt/ Club.lt] - and some more clubbing events

[http://www.ore.lt/event.php?kada=&kur=Vilnius Ore.lt] - one more event calendor. Please note that the website is
only in Lithuanian;

some information

- some clubbing events in Vilnius;

[http://lietuva.lt/en/events/ Events in Lithuania] - if it's still not enough ;)

[http://www.cinema.lt/ Cinema] news. The website is in Lithuanian, but they have titles in original language as
well, so it's easy to get it;)

[http://www.vilniusjazz.lt Vilnius Jazz festival] - takes place every October and invites lots of great jazz
musicians from all over the world. Jazz lovers - don't miss a chance!

==== Cinemas ====

All non-hollywood movies fans should check out two cinemas in Vilnius (both of them are major venues for cinematic
events – festivals, meetings with filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings etc.):

* [http://www.kinopasaka.lt/ Cinema Pasaka] - (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) is a very cozy little cinema in the heart of the
old town, same building as La Boheme wine bar.

* [http://www.skalvija.lt/index.php/about_skalvija/743 Skalvija] - (A. Goštauto St. 2/15) is another cinema center
that focuses on non-commercial European and World cinema, both classics and recent film.

Other cinemas with more recent/Hollywood movie repertoire are:

* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Vingis] - Savanorių St. 7;
* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Akropolis] - Ozo St. 25 - the one in a shopping mall

=== Shopping ===

Although Vilnius is not the capital of shopping, there are several places to do that:

* There are a lot of souvenir shops and little street market in the Old town. The typical Lithuanian souvenirs would
be amber, linen and mead, but the latter is available only in the shops where they sell alcohol.
* Shopping centers: the biggest in the city center are ''Europa'' (Konstitucijos 7a) and ''Gedimino 9'' (Gedimino
Av.9) and ''VCUP'' (Konstitucijos St. 16); a bit out of the city center, but still in Vilnius - ''Akropolis'' (Ozo
St. 25) and ''Panorama'' (Saltoniškių St. 9)
* The biggest grocery chain stores are ''Rimi'', ''Maxima'' and ''Iki'' - you'll see them everywhere.
* There are a lot of proprietary brand clothing shops in the Old town, especially in the area round the Town hall;)

== Accommodation ==

Hopefully you will be able to find a host and will not need to look for accommodation, but in case you do, here are some useful websites:

[http://www.hostels.com/findabed.php?ChosenCity=Vilnius&ChosenCountry=Lithuania&Search=1 Inexpensive hostels,
guesthouses and hotels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=437 Youth hostels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=438 Motels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=630 Hotels and guest houses]

[http://www.camping.lt/index.php?lang=2&sid=432 Campsites across Lithuania] - in case you feel like going to the
nature ;)

== Restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs & clubs ==

=== Restaurants & cafés===

No doubt you will find McDonald's yourself, but in case you want to experience lithuanian cuisine, here are the most
popular restaurants serving traditional lithuanian meals:

[http://www.cili.lt/ Čili Kaimas] - a chain restaurant, located in Vokiečių St. 8 and Gedimino Ave. 14;

[http://www.fortodvaras.lt Forto dvaras] - also a good one and is right in the center - Pilies St. 16;

[http://www.zemaiciai.lt Žemaičiai] - a bit more expensive place in Vokiečių St. 24 and sometimes it takes ages to
get your meal, but the result is usually rewarding.

''Pilies menė'' in Pilies St. 8 or ''Amatininkų užeiga'' in Didžioji St. 19/2 might be also an option for
traditional meals.

What shall you order there to get real lithuanian experience? A distinctive trait of Lithuanian cuisine is the
preponderance of potato dishes, so try one of those:

* ''Cepelinai'' (‘Zeppelins’) - the most typical dish, large boiled potato dumplings (made from grated raw potato)
with fillings of minced meat or cottage cheese. Be careful - they are really filling;
* ''Kugelis'' (potato pie);
* Potato pancakes made from grated raw potato or boiled potato (sometimes – with a meat filling);
* ''Vėdarai'' (potato sausages) – a pretty creepy meal, made of pork intestines stuffed with grated raw potato,
baked in a wood stove or electric oven.

For a snack you should definitely try fried bread with cheese, marinated herring with boiled potatoes, various kinds
of cottage cheese or fermented cheeses, and hot-smoked or cold-smoked hams and sausages. Lithuanians also know many
recipes for mushroom dishes which are used in sauces, as fillings, or served as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Soup is very popular in Lithuania and there are lots of kinds of it, but the most interesting Lithuanian soup
is ''šaltibarščiai'' (cold beetroot soup), which is made from beetroot, kefir (a fermented milk product), greens and
boiled eggs, is served chilled and is very refreshing on a hot summer day. Just don't get scared of a pink colour!

And finally, beer goes with pretty much everything, so go ahead! (ok, maybe not for breakfast;)

If you're done with typical lithuanian cuisine, there's plenty of other choices to eat out that match all tastes and
budgets (in most restaurants approximately LTL 20-40 should be enough for lunch or dinner for one person):

* European cuisine is predominant in Vilnius restaurants, with a few Lithuanian dishes included in the menu - check
out ''Užupio cafe'' (Užupio 2) - a super place and a heart of Užupis Republic during the summer time; [http://
www.avilys.lt Avilys] - really nice beer brewery & restaurant (Gedimino Ave. 5); [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] - a
restaurant and a cozy club downstairs (Dominikonų St. 10); [http://www.steakhouse.lt Steak House Helios] (Didžioji
St. 28, 2 floor, Helios Entertainment Centre).
* Italian cuisine - [http://www.antonio.lt/index.php?k=EN Da Antonio I] (Vilniaus St. 23) and ''Da Antonio
Tratoria'' (Pilies St. 20); ''St. Valentino'' (Vilniaus St. 47/Trakų St. 18); ''Pomodoro'' (Jogailos g. 4)
and ''Fiorentino'' (Universiteto g. 4) with a nice inside yard during spring/summer. Note that pizzerias now
outnumber Lithuanian restaurants, so do not be surprised to find a wide range of pizzas available at most
restaurants (especially medium price range restaurants). The people of Vilnius are starting to jokingly say that
pizza is becoming Lithuania’s national dish.
* French cuisine - ''Les Amis'' (Savičiaus St. 9) and ''Saint Germain'' (Literatų g. 9), also ''La Provence''
(Vokiečių St. 22), but this one is a bit expensive.
* Czech cuisine - ''Pas Rudolfą II'' (Gedimino Ave. 46-2) - not very cozy place, but they have some quite nice
beers.
* Argentine cuisine - ''El Gaucho Sano'' (Pilies St. 10) - meat lovers, please enjoy;)
* Chinese cuisine - there is a big and always growing number of chinese restaurants in the Old town, so you will see
them at once.
* Vegetarian - ''Balti drambliai'' (White Elephants) is a purely vegetarian restaurant and very cozy bar (Vilniaus
St. 41) although you might have to wait about an hour for a beer, so better don't go there if you are in a hurry.
Vegetarians should be also able to find a suitable dish on the menu of almost any restaurant.

In terms of numbers of cafés, Vilnius is not far behind the traditional ‘café culture’ cities of Europe and they can
be found in almost every street of the Old Town, mostly in Trakų, Pilies, Didžioji, Vokiečių, Domininkonų, Savičiaus
streets and Gedimino Prospect. Most popular chain cafés are ''Double Coffee'' and ''Coffee Inn'', but don't expect
to find ''Starbucks Coffee'' here;)

=== Going out ===

There are few more mellow capitals than Vilnius - a hectic metropolis it ain't. But when night falls, there's no
shortage of revellers who are up for a party. What's more, the local beers make for a tasty tipple really worth
giving a try...again and again ;)

Note that many Vilnius bars function as restaurants during the day, and in terms of subtlety of interior décor and
quality of cuisine, they compete with the best restaurants. Some of the bars could also be appropriately included
in the list of intimate-sized clubs, because in the evenings they have live music or a DJ. List of suggested bars &
pubs, which might have a dance-floor as well is the following:

* [http://www.cafedeparis.lt Cafe de Paris] (Didžioji St. 1) - a small place in one of the main streets of the old
town, which has an incredible capacity to surprise with its wide range of events and installations, always vivid
and full of interesting people,live music every Saturday, local and international DJ’s any other day, visual arts,
alternative foods and international staff.
* [http://www.baltidrambliai.lt/main.php?page=1 Balti drambliai] (Vilniaus St. 41) - cozy and extremely relaxed
atmosphere, very reasonable prices and live music once in a while.
* [http://www.invino.lt/ In Vino] (Aušros Vartų St. 7) - is the kind of laid back haunt, especially recommended
during summertime when you can sit in outside in the inner yard, but note that it's not easy to get a table as this
place is always crowded. But give it a try.
* [http://www.mojitonaktys.lt/ Mohito Naktys] (Didžioji St. 33/2)- cocktail bar famous for their Mojitos (the best
in town), currently one of Vilnius’ hottest night spots. Drinks are pricey enough here (so not the best place to get
drunk;) therefore it tends to attract a bit more sophisticated but fun crowd rather than a beer-swilling rabble.
* [http://www.laboheme.lt/ La Boheme] (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) - cozy and very beautiful wine place + nice atmosphere,
very recommended.
* [http://www.tempolibero.lt/index.php/pageid/459 Tappo d'oro] ( l.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus St. 7) - cozy wine places
that has lots of inexpensive wines to offer;)
* Vasaros terasa (Vilniaus St. 39) - a very nice outdoor terrace located in the yard of the historic Teacher's
House, opened during spring/summer/early autumn, there are usually live concerts on weekends, as well as other
cultural events during the week, like cinema, theatre, dance, market etc. Really nice place.
* [http://www.chaplin.lt/?file=kop1.php Chaplin] (Labdarių g. 7/Totorių g. 11.) - pretty nice place, drinks and food
are still not overpriced and there is a chance there will be a DJ on the weekend. We had quite a lot of CS meetings
held there. Note that the page is in Lithuanian only.
* [http://www.absentofejos.lt/ Absento Fėjos] (Aušros Vartų St. 11) - if you manage to get in (the queue at the door
is usually pretty long and the face control is trick enough as well) you will probably like it, though it's pretty
expensive. No kids running around though :)
* [http://www.briusly.lt/ Briusly] (Islandijos St. 4.) - a very nice and cozy place, reasonably priced and very
popular + it also offers nice asian food.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - combination of bar, cafe, restaurant and nightclub, where from
morning till nighttime, people can come to eat, drink and relax and later go downstairs for more lively activities.
* [http://www.alutis.lt/snekutis/ Šnekutis] (Polocko St. 7A and Šv.Stepono St. 8) - if you want to try some awsome
home-brewed "live beer" without any ripoff, that's the place to be.
* [http://www.busitrecias.lt/index.php/en/ Būsi trečias] (Totoriu st.) 18 - mini brewery, offering a big range of
flavoured beers and hearty food.

The most recommended nightclubs would be the following:

* [http://www.tamstaclub.lt Tamsta] (Subačiaus St. 11A) - probably the best club with live music (unfortunately
closed for summer holidays..).
* [http://www.pabolatino.lt Pabo Latino] (Trakų St. 3/2)- if you like salsa, then that's the place to be. Beautiful
interior, nice cocktails, if you come a bit earlier, the entrance fee is not too bad + you get a free drink.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - a really cozy place to chill out and the entry is always free of
charge.
* [http://www.pachavilnius.lt Pacha club] (Gynėjų St. 14) - the name already speaks for itself, and people say it is
one of best clubs in Vilnius, posh and expensive though, but pretty worth it.
* [http://www.tarantinoclub.lt Tarantino club] (Trakų g. 2) - quite cozy and nice club, sometimes have live
concerts, sometimes the entrance is free, so might be worth checking it out.
* [http://www.artistai.lt Artistai] (Šv. Kazimiero St. 3) - pretty simple and relaxed place, especially popular
among students, so expect to be surrounded by a very young crowd and a possibility to get drinks in a plastic cup.
Has a nice inside yard and there is karaoke night on Tuesday.
* [http://www.havanasocialclub.lt Havana Social Club] (Šermukšnių St. 4a) - pretty nice place with friendly
atmosphere, not too posh, but nice interrior, has some good cocktails as well;)
* [http://www.brodvejus.lt Brodvėjus pub] (Mesiniu St. 4) is mostly attended by foreigners and students and the
music is mostly 90's pop, however, the place is still quite popular.
* [http://www.clubgravity.lt Gravity Club] is a good place for electronic music lovers, located in a former bunker,
usually crowded and always lacks oxygen.
* [http://www.play-club.com Play Club](Pamenkalnio St. 17/3) - you either love it or hate it: it's very small, very
alternative and simple, drinks usually come in plastic cups, but it has some charm for sure. And a football table.
* [http://www.bix.lt Bix baras](Etmonų St. 6) - rock club, pretty laid back and very popular among students.

== Getting in & around ==

=== Transportation to/from Vilnius ===

Choose the best way to get to Vilnius city:

* If you are coming by '''plane''' to [http://www.vilnius-airport.lt/en/ Vilnius international airport] you can take
a train to the central railway station (it only takes 7 minutes to get there, it goes twice an hour and costs less
than EUR 1) or take a bus Nr.1 going to the bus station or bus Nr. 2 going to the center of the city. There are
lockers in the railway station if you need to leave your luggage before heading to the city, it is very close to
the bus station (just across the street) and they both are close to the Old town even if you are going on foot (but
note that almost every trolleybus goes to the city center). You can always take a taxi, but it if you catch the ones
standing in front of the airport, they will charge you much more than you would if you call one. The journey should
cost you about EUR 7.

If you are landing in [http://www.kaunasair.lt/index.php?lang=en&page=express Kaunas airport], there is a bus going
to Vilnius (the bus schedule is in accordance with operating flights).

* [http://www.litrail.lt/wps/portal Lithuanian railways] - for those who are travelling by '''train'''. Note that
unfortunatelly ''Interrail'', ''Eurorail'' and similar tickets are not valid in Lithuania :(

* [http://www.autobusustotis.lt/en Vilnius bus station website] might be useful if you are travelling by '''bus'''.
[http://www.eurolines.ee/en/node Eurolines] coach company offers probably the cheapest and the most popular
international bus routes in the Baltics and the rest of Europe.

* '''Hitch-hiking''' is pretty popular way to travel in Lithuania as well as to the other countries and is safe
enough as long as you are staying rational yourself. [http://www.autostop.lt/main.php Hitch-hiking Club's] members
can help you a lot with tips on the best hitch-hiking-routes both in Lithuania and to nearby countries, what are the
best spots to hitch-hike etc. so definitely check out the website if you choose to travele this way.

* It is also possible to take a '''ferry''' to Klaipeda and then come to Vilnius by bus, car or train. Check out the
website of [http://www.portofklaipeda.lt/en.php/port_of_klaipda/cruising/ferry_lines/437 Klaipeda seaport] for the
ferry lines.

=== Transportation in Vilnius ===

A good thing about Vilnius is that it's small enough for you to easily get around on foot, by bike or by public
transport.

* If you are staying in the Old town, the best way to explore it is on foot. Most sights are within the walking
distance and don't be afraid to get lost, as it is the best way to discover the wonders of the city ;)

* [http://www.vilniustransport.lt/en.php/ Public transport] is neither the worse nor the best: there are quite
enough of buses and trolleybuses during the day, but they stop at 11:30 P.M. and there are no more night buses
available :( You can buy a ticket either in a kiosk (LTL 2) or from the driver (LTL 2.5) There are also tickets
valid for 1 day (LTL 13), 3 days (LTL 23) or 10 days (LTL 46), but see if it's worth it. [http://www.marsrutai.lt/
vilnius/?a=p.routes&transport_id=bus&t=xhtml&l=en Traffic schedules and route planning]might be handy as well. Note
that the public transport starts running at 5:30 AM and stops around 11:30 PM, so if you happen to fall in this gap,
choose taxi, walking, friends car or killing a night in a club ;)

* Taxi...uh, if you need to get a cab, there are two things you should bear in mind: 1)it is way cheaper to call a
cab than to catch one on the street and 2)most likely they will try to rip you off anyway, so ask some local how
much your journey should cost in advance (the rate varies from LTL 1.5 to LTL 4 per km). You may try calling one of
those [http://www.taksi.lt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=63 taxi companies]

* Bike can also be an option so if you or your host doesn't have one, you can try to rent. Some places hiring bikes
in the city center are [http://www.dviratis.lt/index.php?page=catalogue&cat=nuoma&view=45 Velo-City] (Bernadinų St.
10, in front of St. Anns Church) or [http://www.kelrodis.lt Kelrodis](T.Ševčenkos g. 15/14).

* If you're coming by car, well, be careful :) but if you wish to rent a car, you can do it in the centre of the
city as well as at the airport. Note that you will be asked for your identification card and a valid international
credit card. Check out the list of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=76&aid=461 car rental
companies]

== Other useful information ==

* There are many Wi-fi places in Vilnius, but if you need an '''Internet cafe''', here are some of them (click for
the map):

[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=780BEC7DC51211D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=112C5A2E7C2E11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=70651542C51411D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=5064990FC51311D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=A37A73BA7C2B11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=7113DE227C3111DA8602746164617373

* [http://www.meteo.lt/english/forecasts.php Weather forecast] if you want to check what the weather is like during
your stay.
* You can '''exchange''' money in any bank, which may also be located in bigger shopping centers, there is an
exchange booth at the airport (arrivals hall) and outside railway/bus station as well. Note that ''Parex'' bank is
the only bank that accepts coins for exchange.
* '''Smoking''' is prohibited inside all restaurants, cafes, bars etc. unless there are tables outside.
* If you you can use your phone with other SIM cards, it would be cheaper to buy local sim card in a kiosk or in any
mobile phone shop. The most popular ones are ''Pildyk'', ''Labas'', ''Ezys'', ''Extra''. The SIM card costs from 5
to 10 lt (1,5-2,5 euros) and you can top it up.
* Free Wifi internet spots are available at many cafes in the whole city. Please ask the staff or watch for a Wifi-
sign at the door.
* '''Emergency number''' is the same as for the rest of Europe - 112.

Some websites to give you an idea about the '''costs in Vilnius''', but note that the prices are rising all the
time, so the information can really be not accurate enough:

* [http://www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=81&tefl_session=9fad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f3d&x=1&y=1
International City Cost Guide] - update the prices by doubling the given ones;)

== Foreigners about Vilnius, LT & CS ==

Colleqium] - Pilies St. 22-1;
Avineta] - Naugarduko St. 76;
Bazė] - A. Rotundo St. 2;
Fantazija] - Naugarduko St. 34;
Liumineta] - Antakalnio St. 40;
Netcafe]- Antakalnio St. 36

* [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=2680237 Vilnius. What it's like in foreign eyes?] - CS
thread on foreigners' impression about Vilnius.
* [http://www.expatintelligence.com/expat-lithuania.shtml Expat Lithuania] - short introduction about life in LT
* [http://www.expatexchange.com/expat/index.cfm?frmid=247&forumid=0&dbname=ee&shared=N ExpatExchange] - website
where expats share their experience in LT. Can't promise all the information is correct, but might be useful.

== CS in the Press ==

There are several articles about CS in the media in Lithuanian:

http://www.zebra.lt/lt/laisvalaikis/keliones/Couch-surfing-kitoks-keliavimo-budas-2009-10-12.html
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16689368
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16695835
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17138568
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17188256
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17203292
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17285172
http://www.alfa.lt/straipsnis/157702
http://www.universitetozurnalistas.lt/uz/skotija/pub4.html

[UPDATE] and in english:
* http://www.travelblog.org/Europe/Sweden/Orebro-County/Orebro/blog-558605.html

Vilnius

2013-03-17T10:21:42Z

Angelake: /* Shopping */

{{IsIn|Lithuania}}
'''Vilnius''' is the capital city of [[Lithuania]] and the largest city in the country with the population of over
550.000 and all major political, economic, social and cultural centres.

== Vilnius on CouchSurfing ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1351 The Vilnius group] currently consists of approximately 2000
members, who are locals, expats and travellers from all over the world. It is an active and constantly growing group with lots of events, meetings and activities - just follow posts in the forum.

Take a look at some photos of our meetings in the [http://picasaweb.google.com/cslithuania CS Lithuania Gallery] and
[https://picasaweb.google.com/106659005364119821571 CS Vilnius Gallery]

=== Emergency couch in Vilnius ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=13026 Emergency couch in Vilnius] is a group of CS'ers from Vilnius who
are able to offer a couch at a short notice for guests who are coming in 3-4 days or less and do not have a couch
yet. Therefore, use this group to find a couch only if it is emergency situation so if you know you are coming in 1
month, please use couchsearch and send individual couch requests.

=== Vilnius CS Musicians ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=33375 Vilnius CS Musicians] is a new fresh group of local and traveling
musicians for sharing great music. If you want to organise a concert, gig, jam-session or just meet CS'ers who love
music, this is a group for you. There is a list of some useful live music spots and festivals held in all Lithuania.
Let the music play!

== City Attractions ==

Vilnius is one of the most frequently visited cities of Eastern Europe. It draws attention, not only because of its
unique architectural character, but also by its cultural events and attractions.

Parts of the town you should definitely visit are first of all the Old Town (Senamiestis) which is one of the
largest old town centres in Eastern Europe and is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. However, before starting
your meanderings around the streets of the Old Town it is worth getting a bird’s eye view of Vilnius and taking in a
panoramic view of the city. There are some high buildings suitable for this purpose namely the TV tower, ''Skybar''
of the ''Reval Hotel Lietuva'' and the top floor of the shopping mall ''Europa'' near the northern bank of the Neris
River, on the edge of the Old Town. You can get the best open air view of the Old Town at the top of the Gediminas’
Hill, Hill of Three Crosses, Bastille Hill or Bekešo Hill.

Top attractions in the old town would include Gediminas’ Tower and upper castle; The cathedral with a Belfry by the
side; Pilies & Didžioji streets with lots of luxurious boutiques, coffee shops, cultural centres, embassies, night
clubs, souvenir sellers and the happy hubbub of the city; late Gothic architectural masterpiece that impressed
Napoléon Bonaparte a lot - St. Anne’s Church; Townhall and Vokiečių street where many bars, clubs and restaurants
are located; an area known as the “Jewish Ghetto” centred on Stiklių, Gaono, Antokolskio and Žydų streets;
Presidential Palace and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe - Vilnius University which campus consists
of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical buildings arranged around twelve closed courtyards and the tallest
Church of St John; the Bastion which is an original Renaissance fortification; the only surviving gate of the first
original five gates in the city wall named the Gates of Dawn and of course the main street of Vilnius - Gediminas’
Avenue, where you can find some important national institutions such as the Parliament or the National Library, as
well as banks, hotels, shops, casinos, restaurants and cafés. Some small things also worth experiencing is Frank
Zappa monument and a "magical" tyle with the word "Stebuklas" (Miracle) in the Cathedral square where one can make
his wish come true by simply stepping on it and turning around with the eyes closed.

The Republic of Užupis is worth a separate notice and is a must while visiting Vilnius. Užupis is a recognised
district for artists and won the name of the most bohemic, mysterious and romantic district of Vilnius which has
its own constitution, national anthem, calendar, map, its own holidays, "main institutions" and so on. If you walk
along the banks of the Vilnia River, you will be sure to come across artists working there who will invited to have
a try at the various kinds of art, like photography and painting, or to take part in an evening of summer cinema or
exhibitions.

Take a look at our album of
[http://picasaweb.google.com/CSLithuania/SightsOfLithuania# Vilnius Sights] in order
to get a better view what the city looks like.

=== Museums and Galleries ===

There are a lot of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=95 museums]and [http://www.vilnius-
tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=97 galleries] in Vilnius however, not all of them are worth visiting. Here is the
list of the most recommended ones:

[http://www.genocid.lt/muziejus Museum of Genocide Victims (KGB)]is located in the former headquarters of the KGB
and has the former execution chamber open to visitors.

[http://www.cac.lt/ Contemporary Art Centre]is the largest art centre in the Baltic States presenting the latest
international art tendencies of the contemporary art.

[http://www.ndg.lt/index.php?id=37&L=1 National Gallery of Art] presents a collection of Lithuanian art of the 20th
and 21st century and is a good space for active communication where the audience can see the permanent exposition
and temporary exhibitions as well as participate in cultural events, lectures and educational programmes.

[http://galera.multiply.com/ Užupis Galera] is an alternative gallery in Užupis where the expositions are pretty
unique and you can witness the creatinion of it's masterpieces.

[http://kultflux.puslapiai.lt/ Kultflux] is a gallery - platform on the river Neris next to Mindaugas bridge where
various exhibitions and other cultural events take place.

=== Sightseeing outside Vilnius ===

If you are staying in Vilnius for few days, you might want to make some day trips and see few places outside
Vilnius:

[http://www.trakai.lt/index.php?-2130764187 Trakai] is a historical capital of Lithuania where one can find the only
castle in Eastern Europe built on the island on the lake, Karaite national minority and it's unique cuisine. There
are a lot of buses and trainsgoing there and it takes only about half an hour to get there. If the weather is good,
you should take a chance to see it!

[http://www.europosparkas.lt/ Open air museum of the center of Europe] signifies the geographical centre of Europe
in the language of contemporary art and is a place where nature and art are combined.

[http://www.belmontas.lt/apie_belmonta/ Belmontas park] is very close to Vilnius center and is a complex of
restaurants serving traditional meals arranged around little lakes, watermills, river and waterfalls and is a very
nice place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

=== Tourist information ===

If your host cannot show you around or you like exploring the city by yourself, you might still find it helpful to
get city maps and some additional information about the city, things to see&do, events etc. There are a few tourist
information centres in the Old Town: one is inside the Townhall and another one is located in Vilniaus street.

You also have a superb possibility to go for [http://www.vilniusfreetour.com/ Vilnius free tour] and see the hiden
side of Vilnius through the eyes of the people who live here. All you need to do is to appear at 12PM any day of the
week in front of the Townhall and look for a person with a yellow suitcase. Enjoy!

You can get some more information about Vilnius prior to your arrival in [http://www.inyourpocket.com/lithuania/
city/vilnius.html?more=1 Vilnius in your pocket] guide or browse [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=63
Vilnius tourist information center website].

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/mediabank/A4_Dviraciai%20PRINT(1).pdf Map of Vilnius old town] - quite a nice map
with the routes you can explore either by bike or on foot.

[http://www.lietuvosmarsrutai.eu/index.php?lang=2 Lithuanian routes] is a really great website where Lithuanian
routes are coherently presented with the help of textual, photo and video material for those who want to travel
around Lithuania.

[http://www.fotoskrydis.lt/kategorija/vilniaus-apskritis/ Vilnius from above] - some nice pictures of Vilnius and
other cities of Lithuania made from an air ballon.

=== Events ===

Apart from Couchsurfing events there are plenty of things to do in Vilnius and around. Vilnius is ''European Capital
of Culture 2009'' and therefore there are a lot of cultural, artistic and social activities every month. Check out
what's happening in Vilnius during your stay:

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=4162900 Cultural events in Vilnius ]
about interesting events in Vilnius provided by Couchsurfers of Vilnius group;

[http://www.eb.lt/en.php3 Entertainment bank] - the biggest database of all kinds of events in Vilnius and the rest
of Lithuania;

[http://www.vilnius-life.com/ Vilnius life] - a very handy website with a lot of useful information about Vilnius;

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/index.php?lang=EN Vilnius tourist information center];

[http://www.djscene.lt/event?fCity=vilnius&lang=en DJ Scene LT]

[http://www.club.lt/ Club.lt] - and some more clubbing events

[http://www.ore.lt/event.php?kada=&kur=Vilnius Ore.lt] - one more event calendor. Please note that the website is
only in Lithuanian;

some information

- some clubbing events in Vilnius;

[http://lietuva.lt/en/events/ Events in Lithuania] - if it's still not enough ;)

[http://www.cinema.lt/ Cinema] news. The website is in Lithuanian, but they have titles in original language as
well, so it's easy to get it;)

[http://www.vilniusjazz.lt Vilnius Jazz festival] - takes place every October and invites lots of great jazz
musicians from all over the world. Jazz lovers - don't miss a chance!

==== Cinemas ====

All non-hollywood movies fans should check out two cinemas in Vilnius (both of them are major venues for cinematic
events – festivals, meetings with filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings etc.):

* [http://www.kinopasaka.lt/ Cinema Pasaka] - (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) is a very cozy little cinema in the heart of the
old town, same building as La Boheme wine bar.

* [http://www.skalvija.lt/index.php/about_skalvija/743 Skalvija] - (A. Goštauto St. 2/15) is another cinema center
that focuses on non-commercial European and World cinema, both classics and recent film.

Other cinemas with more recent/Hollywood movie repertoire are:

* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Vingis] - Savanorių St. 7;
* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Akropolis] - Ozo St. 25 - the one in a shopping mall

=== Shopping ===

Although Vilnius is not the capital of shopping, there are several places to do that:

* There are a lot of souvenir shops and little street market in the Old town. The typical Lithuanian souvenirs would
be amber, linen and mead, but the latter is available only in the shops where they sell alcohol.
* Shopping centers: the biggest in the city center are ''Europa'' (Konstitucijos 7a) and ''Gedimino 9'' (Gedimino
Av.9) and ''VCUP'' (Konstitucijos St. 16); a bit out of the city center, but still in Vilnius - ''Akropolis'' (Ozo
St. 25) and ''Panorama'' (Saltoniškių St. 9)
* The biggest grocery chain stores are ''Rimi'', ''Maxima'' and ''Iki'' - you'll see them everywhere.
* There are a lot of proprietary brand clothing shops in the Old town, especially in the area round the Town hall;)

== Accommodation ==

Hopefully you will be able to find a host and will not need to look for accommodation, but in case you do, here are some useful websites:

[http://www.hostels.com/findabed.php?ChosenCity=Vilnius&ChosenCountry=Lithuania&Search=1 Inexpensive hostels,
guesthouses and hotels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=437 Youth hostels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=438 Motels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=630 Hotels and guest houses]

[http://www.camping.lt/index.php?lang=2&sid=432 Campsites across Lithuania] - in case you feel like going to the
nature ;)

== Restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs & clubs ==

=== Restaurants & cafés===

No doubt you will find McDonald's yourself, but in case you want to experience lithuanian cuisine, here are the most
popular restaurants serving traditional lithuanian meals:

[http://www.cili.lt/ Čili Kaimas] - a chain restaurant, located in Vokiečių St. 8 and Gedimino Ave. 14;

[http://www.fortodvaras.lt Forto dvaras] - also a good one and is right in the center - Pilies St. 16;

[http://www.zemaiciai.lt Žemaičiai] - a bit more expensive place in Vokiečių St. 24 and sometimes it takes ages to
get your meal, but the result is usually rewarding.

''Pilies menė'' in Pilies St. 8 or ''Amatininkų užeiga'' in Didžioji St. 19/2 might be also an option for
traditional meals.

What shall you order there to get real lithuanian experience? A distinctive trait of Lithuanian cuisine is the
preponderance of potato dishes, so try one of those:

[[File:N46 cepelinai alus.jpg|thumb|300px|left|Cepelinai (‘Zeppelins’). Skanaus!]]

* ''Cepelinai'' (‘Zeppelins’) - the most typical dish, large boiled potato dumplings (made from grated raw potato)
with fillings of minced meat or cottage cheese. Be careful - they are really filling;
* ''Kugelis'' (potato pie);
* Potato pancakes made from grated raw potato or boiled potato (sometimes – with a meat filling);
* ''Vėdarai'' (potato sausages) – a pretty creepy meal, made of pork intestines stuffed with grated raw potato,
baked in a wood stove or electric oven.

For a snack you should definitely try fried bread with cheese, marinated herring with boiled potatoes, various kinds
of cottage cheese or fermented cheeses, and hot-smoked or cold-smoked hams and sausages. Lithuanians also know many
recipes for mushroom dishes which are used in sauces, as fillings, or served as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Soup is very popular in Lithuania and there are lots of kinds of it, but the most interesting Lithuanian soup
is ''šaltibarščiai'' (cold beetroot soup), which is made from beetroot, kefir (a fermented milk product), greens and
boiled eggs, is served chilled and is very refreshing on a hot summer day. Just don't get scared of a pink colour!

And finally, beer goes with pretty much everything, so go ahead! (ok, maybe not for breakfast;)

If you're done with typical lithuanian cuisine, there's plenty of other choices to eat out that match all tastes and
budgets (in most restaurants approximately LTL 20-40 should be enough for lunch or dinner for one person):

* European cuisine is predominant in Vilnius restaurants, with a few Lithuanian dishes included in the menu - check
out ''Užupio cafe'' (Užupio 2) - a super place and a heart of Užupis Republic during the summer time; [http://
www.avilys.lt Avilys] - really nice beer brewery & restaurant (Gedimino Ave. 5); [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] - a
restaurant and a cozy club downstairs (Dominikonų St. 10); [http://www.steakhouse.lt Steak House Helios] (Didžioji
St. 28, 2 floor, Helios Entertainment Centre).
* Italian cuisine - [http://www.antonio.lt/index.php?k=EN Da Antonio I] (Vilniaus St. 23) and ''Da Antonio
Tratoria'' (Pilies St. 20); ''St. Valentino'' (Vilniaus St. 47/Trakų St. 18); ''Pomodoro'' (Jogailos g. 4)
and ''Fiorentino'' (Universiteto g. 4) with a nice inside yard during spring/summer. Note that pizzerias now
outnumber Lithuanian restaurants, so do not be surprised to find a wide range of pizzas available at most
restaurants (especially medium price range restaurants). The people of Vilnius are starting to jokingly say that
pizza is becoming Lithuania’s national dish.
* French cuisine - ''Les Amis'' (Savičiaus St. 9) and ''Saint Germain'' (Literatų g. 9), also ''La Provence''
(Vokiečių St. 22), but this one is a bit expensive.
* Czech cuisine - ''Pas Rudolfą II'' (Gedimino Ave. 46-2) - not very cozy place, but they have some quite nice
beers.
* Argentine cuisine - ''El Gaucho Sano'' (Pilies St. 10) - meat lovers, please enjoy;)
* Chinese cuisine - there is a big and always growing number of chinese restaurants in the Old town, so you will see
them at once.
* Vegetarian - ''Balti drambliai'' (White Elephants) is a purely vegetarian restaurant and very cozy bar (Vilniaus
St. 41) although you might have to wait about an hour for a beer, so better don't go there if you are in a hurry.
Vegetarians should be also able to find a suitable dish on the menu of almost any restaurant.

In terms of numbers of cafés, Vilnius is not far behind the traditional ‘café culture’ cities of Europe and they can
be found in almost every street of the Old Town, mostly in Trakų, Pilies, Didžioji, Vokiečių, Domininkonų, Savičiaus
streets and Gedimino Prospect. Most popular chain cafés are ''Double Coffee'' and ''Coffee Inn'', but don't expect
to find ''Starbucks Coffee'' here;)

=== Going out ===

There are few more mellow capitals than Vilnius - a hectic metropolis it ain't. But when night falls, there's no
shortage of revellers who are up for a party. What's more, the local beers make for a tasty tipple really worth
giving a try...again and again ;)

Note that many Vilnius bars function as restaurants during the day, and in terms of subtlety of interior décor and
quality of cuisine, they compete with the best restaurants. Some of the bars could also be appropriately included
in the list of intimate-sized clubs, because in the evenings they have live music or a DJ. List of suggested bars &
pubs, which might have a dance-floor as well is the following:

* [http://www.cafedeparis.lt Cafe de Paris] (Didžioji St. 1) - a small place in one of the main streets of the old
town, which has an incredible capacity to surprise with its wide range of events and installations, always vivid
and full of interesting people,live music every Saturday, local and international DJ’s any other day, visual arts,
alternative foods and international staff.
* [http://www.baltidrambliai.lt/main.php?page=1 Balti drambliai] (Vilniaus St. 41) - cozy and extremely relaxed
atmosphere, very reasonable prices and live music once in a while.
* [http://www.invino.lt/ In Vino] (Aušros Vartų St. 7) - is the kind of laid back haunt, especially recommended
during summertime when you can sit in outside in the inner yard, but note that it's not easy to get a table as this
place is always crowded. But give it a try.
* [http://www.mojitonaktys.lt/ Mohito Naktys] (Didžioji St. 33/2)- cocktail bar famous for their Mojitos (the best
in town), currently one of Vilnius’ hottest night spots. Drinks are pricey enough here (so not the best place to get
drunk;) therefore it tends to attract a bit more sophisticated but fun crowd rather than a beer-swilling rabble.
* [http://www.laboheme.lt/ La Boheme] (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) - cozy and very beautiful wine place + nice atmosphere,
very recommended.
* [http://www.tempolibero.lt/index.php/pageid/459 Tappo d'oro] ( l.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus St. 7) - cozy wine places
that has lots of inexpensive wines to offer;)
* Vasaros terasa (Vilniaus St. 39) - a very nice outdoor terrace located in the yard of the historic Teacher's
House, opened during spring/summer/early autumn, there are usually live concerts on weekends, as well as other
cultural events during the week, like cinema, theatre, dance, market etc. Really nice place.
* [http://www.chaplin.lt/?file=kop1.php Chaplin] (Labdarių g. 7/Totorių g. 11.) - pretty nice place, drinks and food
are still not overpriced and there is a chance there will be a DJ on the weekend. We had quite a lot of CS meetings
held there. Note that the page is in Lithuanian only.
* [http://www.absentofejos.lt/ Absento Fėjos] (Aušros Vartų St. 11) - if you manage to get in (the queue at the door
is usually pretty long and the face control is trick enough as well) you will probably like it, though it's pretty
expensive. No kids running around though :)
* [http://www.briusly.lt/ Briusly] (Islandijos St. 4.) - a very nice and cozy place, reasonably priced and very
popular + it also offers nice asian food.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - combination of bar, cafe, restaurant and nightclub, where from
morning till nighttime, people can come to eat, drink and relax and later go downstairs for more lively activities.
* [http://www.alutis.lt/snekutis/ Šnekutis] (Polocko St. 7A and Šv.Stepono St. 8) - if you want to try some awsome
home-brewed "live beer" without any ripoff, that's the place to be.
* [http://www.busitrecias.lt/index.php/en/ Būsi trečias] (Totoriu st.) 18 - mini brewery, offering a big range of
flavoured beers and hearty food.

The most recommended nightclubs would be the following:

* [http://www.tamstaclub.lt Tamsta] (Subačiaus St. 11A) - probably the best club with live music (unfortunately
closed for summer holidays..).
* [http://www.pabolatino.lt Pabo Latino] (Trakų St. 3/2)- if you like salsa, then that's the place to be. Beautiful
interior, nice cocktails, if you come a bit earlier, the entrance fee is not too bad + you get a free drink.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - a really cozy place to chill out and the entry is always free of
charge.
* [http://www.pachavilnius.lt Pacha club] (Gynėjų St. 14) - the name already speaks for itself, and people say it is
one of best clubs in Vilnius, posh and expensive though, but pretty worth it.
* [http://www.tarantinoclub.lt Tarantino club] (Trakų g. 2) - quite cozy and nice club, sometimes have live
concerts, sometimes the entrance is free, so might be worth checking it out.
* [http://www.artistai.lt Artistai] (Šv. Kazimiero St. 3) - pretty simple and relaxed place, especially popular
among students, so expect to be surrounded by a very young crowd and a possibility to get drinks in a plastic cup.
Has a nice inside yard and there is karaoke night on Tuesday.
* [http://www.havanasocialclub.lt Havana Social Club] (Šermukšnių St. 4a) - pretty nice place with friendly
atmosphere, not too posh, but nice interrior, has some good cocktails as well;)
* [http://www.brodvejus.lt Brodvėjus pub] (Mesiniu St. 4) is mostly attended by foreigners and students and the
music is mostly 90's pop, however, the place is still quite popular.
* [http://www.clubgravity.lt Gravity Club] is a good place for electronic music lovers, located in a former bunker,
usually crowded and always lacks oxygen.
* [http://www.play-club.com Play Club](Pamenkalnio St. 17/3) - you either love it or hate it: it's very small, very
alternative and simple, drinks usually come in plastic cups, but it has some charm for sure. And a football table.
* [http://www.bix.lt Bix baras](Etmonų St. 6) - rock club, pretty laid back and very popular among students.

== Getting in & around ==

=== Transportation to/from Vilnius ===

Choose the best way to get to Vilnius city:

* If you are coming by '''plane''' to [http://www.vilnius-airport.lt/en/ Vilnius international airport] you can take
a train to the central railway station (it only takes 7 minutes to get there, it goes twice an hour and costs less
than EUR 1) or take a bus Nr.1 going to the bus station or bus Nr. 2 going to the center of the city. There are
lockers in the railway station if you need to leave your luggage before heading to the city, it is very close to
the bus station (just across the street) and they both are close to the Old town even if you are going on foot (but
note that almost every trolleybus goes to the city center). You can always take a taxi, but it if you catch the ones
standing in front of the airport, they will charge you much more than you would if you call one. The journey should
cost you about EUR 7.

If you are landing in [http://www.kaunasair.lt/index.php?lang=en&page=express Kaunas airport], there is a bus going
to Vilnius (the bus schedule is in accordance with operating flights).

* [http://www.litrail.lt/wps/portal Lithuanian railways] - for those who are travelling by '''train'''. Note that
unfortunatelly ''Interrail'', ''Eurorail'' and similar tickets are not valid in Lithuania :(

* [http://www.autobusustotis.lt/en Vilnius bus station website] might be useful if you are travelling by '''bus'''.
[http://www.eurolines.ee/en/node Eurolines] coach company offers probably the cheapest and the most popular
international bus routes in the Baltics and the rest of Europe.

* '''Hitch-hiking''' is pretty popular way to travel in Lithuania as well as to the other countries and is safe
enough as long as you are staying rational yourself. [http://www.autostop.lt/main.php Hitch-hiking Club's] members
can help you a lot with tips on the best hitch-hiking-routes both in Lithuania and to nearby countries, what are the
best spots to hitch-hike etc. so definitely check out the website if you choose to travele this way.

* It is also possible to take a '''ferry''' to Klaipeda and then come to Vilnius by bus, car or train. Check out the
website of [http://www.portofklaipeda.lt/en.php/port_of_klaipda/cruising/ferry_lines/437 Klaipeda seaport] for the
ferry lines.

=== Transportation in Vilnius ===

A good thing about Vilnius is that it's small enough for you to easily get around on foot, by bike or by public
transport.

* If you are staying in the Old town, the best way to explore it is on foot. Most sights are within the walking
distance and don't be afraid to get lost, as it is the best way to discover the wonders of the city ;)

* [http://www.vilniustransport.lt/en.php/ Public transport] is neither the worse nor the best: there are quite
enough of buses and trolleybuses during the day, but they stop at 11:30 P.M. and there are no more night buses
available :( You can buy a ticket either in a kiosk (LTL 2) or from the driver (LTL 2.5) There are also tickets
valid for 1 day (LTL 13), 3 days (LTL 23) or 10 days (LTL 46), but see if it's worth it. [http://www.marsrutai.lt/
vilnius/?a=p.routes&transport_id=bus&t=xhtml&l=en Traffic schedules and route planning]might be handy as well. Note
that the public transport starts running at 5:30 AM and stops around 11:30 PM, so if you happen to fall in this gap,
choose taxi, walking, friends car or killing a night in a club ;)

* Taxi...uh, if you need to get a cab, there are two things you should bear in mind: 1)it is way cheaper to call a
cab than to catch one on the street and 2)most likely they will try to rip you off anyway, so ask some local how
much your journey should cost in advance (the rate varies from LTL 1.5 to LTL 4 per km). You may try calling one of
those [http://www.taksi.lt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=63 taxi companies]

* Bike can also be an option so if you or your host doesn't have one, you can try to rent. Some places hiring bikes
in the city center are [http://www.dviratis.lt/index.php?page=catalogue&cat=nuoma&view=45 Velo-City] (Bernadinų St.
10, in front of St. Anns Church) or [http://www.kelrodis.lt Kelrodis](T.Ševčenkos g. 15/14).

* If you're coming by car, well, be careful :) but if you wish to rent a car, you can do it in the centre of the
city as well as at the airport. Note that you will be asked for your identification card and a valid international
credit card. Check out the list of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=76&aid=461 car rental
companies]

== Other useful information ==

* There are many Wi-fi places in Vilnius, but if you need an '''Internet cafe''', here are some of them (click for
the map):

[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=780BEC7DC51211D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=112C5A2E7C2E11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=70651542C51411D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=5064990FC51311D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=A37A73BA7C2B11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=7113DE227C3111DA8602746164617373

* [http://www.meteo.lt/english/forecasts.php Weather forecast] if you want to check what the weather is like during
your stay.
* You can '''exchange''' money in any bank, which may also be located in bigger shopping centers, there is an
exchange booth at the airport (arrivals hall) and outside railway/bus station as well. Note that ''Parex'' bank is
the only bank that accepts coins for exchange.
* '''Smoking''' is prohibited inside all restaurants, cafes, bars etc. unless there are tables outside.
* If you you can use your phone with other SIM cards, it would be cheaper to buy local sim card in a kiosk or in any
mobile phone shop. The most popular ones are ''Pildyk'', ''Labas'', ''Ezys'', ''Extra''. The SIM card costs from 5
to 10 lt (1,5-2,5 euros) and you can top it up.
* Free Wifi internet spots are available at many cafes in the whole city. Please ask the staff or watch for a Wifi-
sign at the door.
* '''Emergency number''' is the same as for the rest of Europe - 112.

Some websites to give you an idea about the '''costs in Vilnius''', but note that the prices are rising all the
time, so the information can really be not accurate enough:

* [http://www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=81&tefl_session=9fad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f3d&x=1&y=1
International City Cost Guide] - update the prices by doubling the given ones;)

== Foreigners about Vilnius, LT & CS ==

Colleqium] - Pilies St. 22-1;
Avineta] - Naugarduko St. 76;
Bazė] - A. Rotundo St. 2;
Fantazija] - Naugarduko St. 34;
Liumineta] - Antakalnio St. 40;
Netcafe]- Antakalnio St. 36

* [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=2680237 Vilnius. What it's like in foreign eyes?] - CS
thread on foreigners' impression about Vilnius.
* [http://www.expatintelligence.com/expat-lithuania.shtml Expat Lithuania] - short introduction about life in LT
* [http://www.expatexchange.com/expat/index.cfm?frmid=247&forumid=0&dbname=ee&shared=N ExpatExchange] - website
where expats share their experience in LT. Can't promise all the information is correct, but might be useful.

== CS in the Press ==

There are several articles about CS in the media in Lithuanian:

http://www.zebra.lt/lt/laisvalaikis/keliones/Couch-surfing-kitoks-keliavimo-budas-2009-10-12.html
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16689368
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16695835
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17138568
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17188256
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17203292
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17285172
http://www.alfa.lt/straipsnis/157702
http://www.universitetozurnalistas.lt/uz/skotija/pub4.html

[UPDATE] and in english:
* http://www.travelblog.org/Europe/Sweden/Orebro-County/Orebro/blog-558605.html

Vilnius

2013-03-17T10:21:25Z

Angelake: /* Accommodation */

{{IsIn|Lithuania}}
'''Vilnius''' is the capital city of [[Lithuania]] and the largest city in the country with the population of over
550.000 and all major political, economic, social and cultural centres.

== Vilnius on CouchSurfing ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1351 The Vilnius group] currently consists of approximately 2000
members, who are locals, expats and travellers from all over the world. It is an active and constantly growing group with lots of events, meetings and activities - just follow posts in the forum.

Take a look at some photos of our meetings in the [http://picasaweb.google.com/cslithuania CS Lithuania Gallery] and
[https://picasaweb.google.com/106659005364119821571 CS Vilnius Gallery]

=== Emergency couch in Vilnius ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=13026 Emergency couch in Vilnius] is a group of CS'ers from Vilnius who
are able to offer a couch at a short notice for guests who are coming in 3-4 days or less and do not have a couch
yet. Therefore, use this group to find a couch only if it is emergency situation so if you know you are coming in 1
month, please use couchsearch and send individual couch requests.

=== Vilnius CS Musicians ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=33375 Vilnius CS Musicians] is a new fresh group of local and traveling
musicians for sharing great music. If you want to organise a concert, gig, jam-session or just meet CS'ers who love
music, this is a group for you. There is a list of some useful live music spots and festivals held in all Lithuania.
Let the music play!

== City Attractions ==

Vilnius is one of the most frequently visited cities of Eastern Europe. It draws attention, not only because of its
unique architectural character, but also by its cultural events and attractions.

Parts of the town you should definitely visit are first of all the Old Town (Senamiestis) which is one of the
largest old town centres in Eastern Europe and is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. However, before starting
your meanderings around the streets of the Old Town it is worth getting a bird’s eye view of Vilnius and taking in a
panoramic view of the city. There are some high buildings suitable for this purpose namely the TV tower, ''Skybar''
of the ''Reval Hotel Lietuva'' and the top floor of the shopping mall ''Europa'' near the northern bank of the Neris
River, on the edge of the Old Town. You can get the best open air view of the Old Town at the top of the Gediminas’
Hill, Hill of Three Crosses, Bastille Hill or Bekešo Hill.

Top attractions in the old town would include Gediminas’ Tower and upper castle; The cathedral with a Belfry by the
side; Pilies & Didžioji streets with lots of luxurious boutiques, coffee shops, cultural centres, embassies, night
clubs, souvenir sellers and the happy hubbub of the city; late Gothic architectural masterpiece that impressed
Napoléon Bonaparte a lot - St. Anne’s Church; Townhall and Vokiečių street where many bars, clubs and restaurants
are located; an area known as the “Jewish Ghetto” centred on Stiklių, Gaono, Antokolskio and Žydų streets;
Presidential Palace and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe - Vilnius University which campus consists
of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical buildings arranged around twelve closed courtyards and the tallest
Church of St John; the Bastion which is an original Renaissance fortification; the only surviving gate of the first
original five gates in the city wall named the Gates of Dawn and of course the main street of Vilnius - Gediminas’
Avenue, where you can find some important national institutions such as the Parliament or the National Library, as
well as banks, hotels, shops, casinos, restaurants and cafés. Some small things also worth experiencing is Frank
Zappa monument and a "magical" tyle with the word "Stebuklas" (Miracle) in the Cathedral square where one can make
his wish come true by simply stepping on it and turning around with the eyes closed.

The Republic of Užupis is worth a separate notice and is a must while visiting Vilnius. Užupis is a recognised
district for artists and won the name of the most bohemic, mysterious and romantic district of Vilnius which has
its own constitution, national anthem, calendar, map, its own holidays, "main institutions" and so on. If you walk
along the banks of the Vilnia River, you will be sure to come across artists working there who will invited to have
a try at the various kinds of art, like photography and painting, or to take part in an evening of summer cinema or
exhibitions.

Take a look at our album of
[http://picasaweb.google.com/CSLithuania/SightsOfLithuania# Vilnius Sights] in order
to get a better view what the city looks like.

=== Museums and Galleries ===

There are a lot of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=95 museums]and [http://www.vilnius-
tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=97 galleries] in Vilnius however, not all of them are worth visiting. Here is the
list of the most recommended ones:

[http://www.genocid.lt/muziejus Museum of Genocide Victims (KGB)]is located in the former headquarters of the KGB
and has the former execution chamber open to visitors.

[http://www.cac.lt/ Contemporary Art Centre]is the largest art centre in the Baltic States presenting the latest
international art tendencies of the contemporary art.

[http://www.ndg.lt/index.php?id=37&L=1 National Gallery of Art] presents a collection of Lithuanian art of the 20th
and 21st century and is a good space for active communication where the audience can see the permanent exposition
and temporary exhibitions as well as participate in cultural events, lectures and educational programmes.

[http://galera.multiply.com/ Užupis Galera] is an alternative gallery in Užupis where the expositions are pretty
unique and you can witness the creatinion of it's masterpieces.

[http://kultflux.puslapiai.lt/ Kultflux] is a gallery - platform on the river Neris next to Mindaugas bridge where
various exhibitions and other cultural events take place.

=== Sightseeing outside Vilnius ===

If you are staying in Vilnius for few days, you might want to make some day trips and see few places outside
Vilnius:

[http://www.trakai.lt/index.php?-2130764187 Trakai] is a historical capital of Lithuania where one can find the only
castle in Eastern Europe built on the island on the lake, Karaite national minority and it's unique cuisine. There
are a lot of buses and trainsgoing there and it takes only about half an hour to get there. If the weather is good,
you should take a chance to see it!

[http://www.europosparkas.lt/ Open air museum of the center of Europe] signifies the geographical centre of Europe
in the language of contemporary art and is a place where nature and art are combined.

[http://www.belmontas.lt/apie_belmonta/ Belmontas park] is very close to Vilnius center and is a complex of
restaurants serving traditional meals arranged around little lakes, watermills, river and waterfalls and is a very
nice place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

=== Tourist information ===

If your host cannot show you around or you like exploring the city by yourself, you might still find it helpful to
get city maps and some additional information about the city, things to see&do, events etc. There are a few tourist
information centres in the Old Town: one is inside the Townhall and another one is located in Vilniaus street.

You also have a superb possibility to go for [http://www.vilniusfreetour.com/ Vilnius free tour] and see the hiden
side of Vilnius through the eyes of the people who live here. All you need to do is to appear at 12PM any day of the
week in front of the Townhall and look for a person with a yellow suitcase. Enjoy!

You can get some more information about Vilnius prior to your arrival in [http://www.inyourpocket.com/lithuania/
city/vilnius.html?more=1 Vilnius in your pocket] guide or browse [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=63
Vilnius tourist information center website].

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/mediabank/A4_Dviraciai%20PRINT(1).pdf Map of Vilnius old town] - quite a nice map
with the routes you can explore either by bike or on foot.

[http://www.lietuvosmarsrutai.eu/index.php?lang=2 Lithuanian routes] is a really great website where Lithuanian
routes are coherently presented with the help of textual, photo and video material for those who want to travel
around Lithuania.

[http://www.fotoskrydis.lt/kategorija/vilniaus-apskritis/ Vilnius from above] - some nice pictures of Vilnius and
other cities of Lithuania made from an air ballon.

=== Events ===

Apart from Couchsurfing events there are plenty of things to do in Vilnius and around. Vilnius is ''European Capital
of Culture 2009'' and therefore there are a lot of cultural, artistic and social activities every month. Check out
what's happening in Vilnius during your stay:

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=4162900 Cultural events in Vilnius ]
about interesting events in Vilnius provided by Couchsurfers of Vilnius group;

[http://www.eb.lt/en.php3 Entertainment bank] - the biggest database of all kinds of events in Vilnius and the rest
of Lithuania;

[http://www.vilnius-life.com/ Vilnius life] - a very handy website with a lot of useful information about Vilnius;

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/index.php?lang=EN Vilnius tourist information center];

[http://www.djscene.lt/event?fCity=vilnius&lang=en DJ Scene LT]

[http://www.club.lt/ Club.lt] - and some more clubbing events

[http://www.ore.lt/event.php?kada=&kur=Vilnius Ore.lt] - one more event calendor. Please note that the website is
only in Lithuanian;

some information

- some clubbing events in Vilnius;

[http://lietuva.lt/en/events/ Events in Lithuania] - if it's still not enough ;)

[http://www.cinema.lt/ Cinema] news. The website is in Lithuanian, but they have titles in original language as
well, so it's easy to get it;)

[http://www.vilniusjazz.lt Vilnius Jazz festival] - takes place every October and invites lots of great jazz
musicians from all over the world. Jazz lovers - don't miss a chance!

==== Cinemas ====

All non-hollywood movies fans should check out two cinemas in Vilnius (both of them are major venues for cinematic
events – festivals, meetings with filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings etc.):

* [http://www.kinopasaka.lt/ Cinema Pasaka] - (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) is a very cozy little cinema in the heart of the
old town, same building as La Boheme wine bar.

* [http://www.skalvija.lt/index.php/about_skalvija/743 Skalvija] - (A. Goštauto St. 2/15) is another cinema center
that focuses on non-commercial European and World cinema, both classics and recent film.

Other cinemas with more recent/Hollywood movie repertoire are:

* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Vingis] - Savanorių St. 7;
* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Akropolis] - Ozo St. 25 - the one in a shopping mall

=== Shopping ===

Although Vilnius is not the capital of shopping, there are several places to do that:

* There are a lot of souvenir shops and little street market in the Old town. The typical Lithuanian souvenirs would
be amber, linen and mead, but the latter is available only in the shops where they sell alcohol.
* Shopping centers: the biggest in the city center are ''Europa'' (Konstitucijos 7a) and ''Gedimino 9'' (Gedimino
Av.9) and ''VCUP'' (Konstitucijos St. 16); a bit out of the city center, but still in Vilnius - ''Akropolis'' (Ozo
St. 25) and ''Panorama'' (Saltoniškių St. 9)
* The biggest grocery chain stores are ''Rimi'', ''Maxima'' and ''Iki'' - you'll see them everywhere.
* There are a lot of proprietary brand clothing shops in the Old town, especially in the area round the Town hall;)

==

== Accommodation ==

Hopefully you will be able to find a host and will not need to look for accommodation, but in case you do, here are some useful websites:

[http://www.hostels.com/findabed.php?ChosenCity=Vilnius&ChosenCountry=Lithuania&Search=1 Inexpensive hostels,
guesthouses and hotels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=437 Youth hostels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=438 Motels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=630 Hotels and guest houses]

[http://www.camping.lt/index.php?lang=2&sid=432 Campsites across Lithuania] - in case you feel like going to the
nature ;)

== Restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs & clubs ==

=== Restaurants & cafés===

No doubt you will find McDonald's yourself, but in case you want to experience lithuanian cuisine, here are the most
popular restaurants serving traditional lithuanian meals:

[http://www.cili.lt/ Čili Kaimas] - a chain restaurant, located in Vokiečių St. 8 and Gedimino Ave. 14;

[http://www.fortodvaras.lt Forto dvaras] - also a good one and is right in the center - Pilies St. 16;

[http://www.zemaiciai.lt Žemaičiai] - a bit more expensive place in Vokiečių St. 24 and sometimes it takes ages to
get your meal, but the result is usually rewarding.

''Pilies menė'' in Pilies St. 8 or ''Amatininkų užeiga'' in Didžioji St. 19/2 might be also an option for
traditional meals.

What shall you order there to get real lithuanian experience? A distinctive trait of Lithuanian cuisine is the
preponderance of potato dishes, so try one of those:

[[File:N46 cepelinai alus.jpg|thumb|300px|left|Cepelinai (‘Zeppelins’). Skanaus!]]

* ''Cepelinai'' (‘Zeppelins’) - the most typical dish, large boiled potato dumplings (made from grated raw potato)
with fillings of minced meat or cottage cheese. Be careful - they are really filling;
* ''Kugelis'' (potato pie);
* Potato pancakes made from grated raw potato or boiled potato (sometimes – with a meat filling);
* ''Vėdarai'' (potato sausages) – a pretty creepy meal, made of pork intestines stuffed with grated raw potato,
baked in a wood stove or electric oven.

For a snack you should definitely try fried bread with cheese, marinated herring with boiled potatoes, various kinds
of cottage cheese or fermented cheeses, and hot-smoked or cold-smoked hams and sausages. Lithuanians also know many
recipes for mushroom dishes which are used in sauces, as fillings, or served as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Soup is very popular in Lithuania and there are lots of kinds of it, but the most interesting Lithuanian soup
is ''šaltibarščiai'' (cold beetroot soup), which is made from beetroot, kefir (a fermented milk product), greens and
boiled eggs, is served chilled and is very refreshing on a hot summer day. Just don't get scared of a pink colour!

And finally, beer goes with pretty much everything, so go ahead! (ok, maybe not for breakfast;)

If you're done with typical lithuanian cuisine, there's plenty of other choices to eat out that match all tastes and
budgets (in most restaurants approximately LTL 20-40 should be enough for lunch or dinner for one person):

* European cuisine is predominant in Vilnius restaurants, with a few Lithuanian dishes included in the menu - check
out ''Užupio cafe'' (Užupio 2) - a super place and a heart of Užupis Republic during the summer time; [http://
www.avilys.lt Avilys] - really nice beer brewery & restaurant (Gedimino Ave. 5); [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] - a
restaurant and a cozy club downstairs (Dominikonų St. 10); [http://www.steakhouse.lt Steak House Helios] (Didžioji
St. 28, 2 floor, Helios Entertainment Centre).
* Italian cuisine - [http://www.antonio.lt/index.php?k=EN Da Antonio I] (Vilniaus St. 23) and ''Da Antonio
Tratoria'' (Pilies St. 20); ''St. Valentino'' (Vilniaus St. 47/Trakų St. 18); ''Pomodoro'' (Jogailos g. 4)
and ''Fiorentino'' (Universiteto g. 4) with a nice inside yard during spring/summer. Note that pizzerias now
outnumber Lithuanian restaurants, so do not be surprised to find a wide range of pizzas available at most
restaurants (especially medium price range restaurants). The people of Vilnius are starting to jokingly say that
pizza is becoming Lithuania’s national dish.
* French cuisine - ''Les Amis'' (Savičiaus St. 9) and ''Saint Germain'' (Literatų g. 9), also ''La Provence''
(Vokiečių St. 22), but this one is a bit expensive.
* Czech cuisine - ''Pas Rudolfą II'' (Gedimino Ave. 46-2) - not very cozy place, but they have some quite nice
beers.
* Argentine cuisine - ''El Gaucho Sano'' (Pilies St. 10) - meat lovers, please enjoy;)
* Chinese cuisine - there is a big and always growing number of chinese restaurants in the Old town, so you will see
them at once.
* Vegetarian - ''Balti drambliai'' (White Elephants) is a purely vegetarian restaurant and very cozy bar (Vilniaus
St. 41) although you might have to wait about an hour for a beer, so better don't go there if you are in a hurry.
Vegetarians should be also able to find a suitable dish on the menu of almost any restaurant.

In terms of numbers of cafés, Vilnius is not far behind the traditional ‘café culture’ cities of Europe and they can
be found in almost every street of the Old Town, mostly in Trakų, Pilies, Didžioji, Vokiečių, Domininkonų, Savičiaus
streets and Gedimino Prospect. Most popular chain cafés are ''Double Coffee'' and ''Coffee Inn'', but don't expect
to find ''Starbucks Coffee'' here;)

=== Going out ===

There are few more mellow capitals than Vilnius - a hectic metropolis it ain't. But when night falls, there's no
shortage of revellers who are up for a party. What's more, the local beers make for a tasty tipple really worth
giving a try...again and again ;)

Note that many Vilnius bars function as restaurants during the day, and in terms of subtlety of interior décor and
quality of cuisine, they compete with the best restaurants. Some of the bars could also be appropriately included
in the list of intimate-sized clubs, because in the evenings they have live music or a DJ. List of suggested bars &
pubs, which might have a dance-floor as well is the following:

* [http://www.cafedeparis.lt Cafe de Paris] (Didžioji St. 1) - a small place in one of the main streets of the old
town, which has an incredible capacity to surprise with its wide range of events and installations, always vivid
and full of interesting people,live music every Saturday, local and international DJ’s any other day, visual arts,
alternative foods and international staff.
* [http://www.baltidrambliai.lt/main.php?page=1 Balti drambliai] (Vilniaus St. 41) - cozy and extremely relaxed
atmosphere, very reasonable prices and live music once in a while.
* [http://www.invino.lt/ In Vino] (Aušros Vartų St. 7) - is the kind of laid back haunt, especially recommended
during summertime when you can sit in outside in the inner yard, but note that it's not easy to get a table as this
place is always crowded. But give it a try.
* [http://www.mojitonaktys.lt/ Mohito Naktys] (Didžioji St. 33/2)- cocktail bar famous for their Mojitos (the best
in town), currently one of Vilnius’ hottest night spots. Drinks are pricey enough here (so not the best place to get
drunk;) therefore it tends to attract a bit more sophisticated but fun crowd rather than a beer-swilling rabble.
* [http://www.laboheme.lt/ La Boheme] (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) - cozy and very beautiful wine place + nice atmosphere,
very recommended.
* [http://www.tempolibero.lt/index.php/pageid/459 Tappo d'oro] ( l.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus St. 7) - cozy wine places
that has lots of inexpensive wines to offer;)
* Vasaros terasa (Vilniaus St. 39) - a very nice outdoor terrace located in the yard of the historic Teacher's
House, opened during spring/summer/early autumn, there are usually live concerts on weekends, as well as other
cultural events during the week, like cinema, theatre, dance, market etc. Really nice place.
* [http://www.chaplin.lt/?file=kop1.php Chaplin] (Labdarių g. 7/Totorių g. 11.) - pretty nice place, drinks and food
are still not overpriced and there is a chance there will be a DJ on the weekend. We had quite a lot of CS meetings
held there. Note that the page is in Lithuanian only.
* [http://www.absentofejos.lt/ Absento Fėjos] (Aušros Vartų St. 11) - if you manage to get in (the queue at the door
is usually pretty long and the face control is trick enough as well) you will probably like it, though it's pretty
expensive. No kids running around though :)
* [http://www.briusly.lt/ Briusly] (Islandijos St. 4.) - a very nice and cozy place, reasonably priced and very
popular + it also offers nice asian food.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - combination of bar, cafe, restaurant and nightclub, where from
morning till nighttime, people can come to eat, drink and relax and later go downstairs for more lively activities.
* [http://www.alutis.lt/snekutis/ Šnekutis] (Polocko St. 7A and Šv.Stepono St. 8) - if you want to try some awsome
home-brewed "live beer" without any ripoff, that's the place to be.
* [http://www.busitrecias.lt/index.php/en/ Būsi trečias] (Totoriu st.) 18 - mini brewery, offering a big range of
flavoured beers and hearty food.

The most recommended nightclubs would be the following:

* [http://www.tamstaclub.lt Tamsta] (Subačiaus St. 11A) - probably the best club with live music (unfortunately
closed for summer holidays..).
* [http://www.pabolatino.lt Pabo Latino] (Trakų St. 3/2)- if you like salsa, then that's the place to be. Beautiful
interior, nice cocktails, if you come a bit earlier, the entrance fee is not too bad + you get a free drink.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - a really cozy place to chill out and the entry is always free of
charge.
* [http://www.pachavilnius.lt Pacha club] (Gynėjų St. 14) - the name already speaks for itself, and people say it is
one of best clubs in Vilnius, posh and expensive though, but pretty worth it.
* [http://www.tarantinoclub.lt Tarantino club] (Trakų g. 2) - quite cozy and nice club, sometimes have live
concerts, sometimes the entrance is free, so might be worth checking it out.
* [http://www.artistai.lt Artistai] (Šv. Kazimiero St. 3) - pretty simple and relaxed place, especially popular
among students, so expect to be surrounded by a very young crowd and a possibility to get drinks in a plastic cup.
Has a nice inside yard and there is karaoke night on Tuesday.
* [http://www.havanasocialclub.lt Havana Social Club] (Šermukšnių St. 4a) - pretty nice place with friendly
atmosphere, not too posh, but nice interrior, has some good cocktails as well;)
* [http://www.brodvejus.lt Brodvėjus pub] (Mesiniu St. 4) is mostly attended by foreigners and students and the
music is mostly 90's pop, however, the place is still quite popular.
* [http://www.clubgravity.lt Gravity Club] is a good place for electronic music lovers, located in a former bunker,
usually crowded and always lacks oxygen.
* [http://www.play-club.com Play Club](Pamenkalnio St. 17/3) - you either love it or hate it: it's very small, very
alternative and simple, drinks usually come in plastic cups, but it has some charm for sure. And a football table.
* [http://www.bix.lt Bix baras](Etmonų St. 6) - rock club, pretty laid back and very popular among students.

== Getting in & around ==

=== Transportation to/from Vilnius ===

Choose the best way to get to Vilnius city:

* If you are coming by '''plane''' to [http://www.vilnius-airport.lt/en/ Vilnius international airport] you can take
a train to the central railway station (it only takes 7 minutes to get there, it goes twice an hour and costs less
than EUR 1) or take a bus Nr.1 going to the bus station or bus Nr. 2 going to the center of the city. There are
lockers in the railway station if you need to leave your luggage before heading to the city, it is very close to
the bus station (just across the street) and they both are close to the Old town even if you are going on foot (but
note that almost every trolleybus goes to the city center). You can always take a taxi, but it if you catch the ones
standing in front of the airport, they will charge you much more than you would if you call one. The journey should
cost you about EUR 7.

If you are landing in [http://www.kaunasair.lt/index.php?lang=en&page=express Kaunas airport], there is a bus going
to Vilnius (the bus schedule is in accordance with operating flights).

* [http://www.litrail.lt/wps/portal Lithuanian railways] - for those who are travelling by '''train'''. Note that
unfortunatelly ''Interrail'', ''Eurorail'' and similar tickets are not valid in Lithuania :(

* [http://www.autobusustotis.lt/en Vilnius bus station website] might be useful if you are travelling by '''bus'''.
[http://www.eurolines.ee/en/node Eurolines] coach company offers probably the cheapest and the most popular
international bus routes in the Baltics and the rest of Europe.

* '''Hitch-hiking''' is pretty popular way to travel in Lithuania as well as to the other countries and is safe
enough as long as you are staying rational yourself. [http://www.autostop.lt/main.php Hitch-hiking Club's] members
can help you a lot with tips on the best hitch-hiking-routes both in Lithuania and to nearby countries, what are the
best spots to hitch-hike etc. so definitely check out the website if you choose to travele this way.

* It is also possible to take a '''ferry''' to Klaipeda and then come to Vilnius by bus, car or train. Check out the
website of [http://www.portofklaipeda.lt/en.php/port_of_klaipda/cruising/ferry_lines/437 Klaipeda seaport] for the
ferry lines.

=== Transportation in Vilnius ===

A good thing about Vilnius is that it's small enough for you to easily get around on foot, by bike or by public
transport.

* If you are staying in the Old town, the best way to explore it is on foot. Most sights are within the walking
distance and don't be afraid to get lost, as it is the best way to discover the wonders of the city ;)

* [http://www.vilniustransport.lt/en.php/ Public transport] is neither the worse nor the best: there are quite
enough of buses and trolleybuses during the day, but they stop at 11:30 P.M. and there are no more night buses
available :( You can buy a ticket either in a kiosk (LTL 2) or from the driver (LTL 2.5) There are also tickets
valid for 1 day (LTL 13), 3 days (LTL 23) or 10 days (LTL 46), but see if it's worth it. [http://www.marsrutai.lt/
vilnius/?a=p.routes&transport_id=bus&t=xhtml&l=en Traffic schedules and route planning]might be handy as well. Note
that the public transport starts running at 5:30 AM and stops around 11:30 PM, so if you happen to fall in this gap,
choose taxi, walking, friends car or killing a night in a club ;)

* Taxi...uh, if you need to get a cab, there are two things you should bear in mind: 1)it is way cheaper to call a
cab than to catch one on the street and 2)most likely they will try to rip you off anyway, so ask some local how
much your journey should cost in advance (the rate varies from LTL 1.5 to LTL 4 per km). You may try calling one of
those [http://www.taksi.lt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=63 taxi companies]

* Bike can also be an option so if you or your host doesn't have one, you can try to rent. Some places hiring bikes
in the city center are [http://www.dviratis.lt/index.php?page=catalogue&cat=nuoma&view=45 Velo-City] (Bernadinų St.
10, in front of St. Anns Church) or [http://www.kelrodis.lt Kelrodis](T.Ševčenkos g. 15/14).

* If you're coming by car, well, be careful :) but if you wish to rent a car, you can do it in the centre of the
city as well as at the airport. Note that you will be asked for your identification card and a valid international
credit card. Check out the list of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=76&aid=461 car rental
companies]

== Other useful information ==

* There are many Wi-fi places in Vilnius, but if you need an '''Internet cafe''', here are some of them (click for
the map):

[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=780BEC7DC51211D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=112C5A2E7C2E11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=70651542C51411D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=5064990FC51311D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=A37A73BA7C2B11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=7113DE227C3111DA8602746164617373

* [http://www.meteo.lt/english/forecasts.php Weather forecast] if you want to check what the weather is like during
your stay.
* You can '''exchange''' money in any bank, which may also be located in bigger shopping centers, there is an
exchange booth at the airport (arrivals hall) and outside railway/bus station as well. Note that ''Parex'' bank is
the only bank that accepts coins for exchange.
* '''Smoking''' is prohibited inside all restaurants, cafes, bars etc. unless there are tables outside.
* If you you can use your phone with other SIM cards, it would be cheaper to buy local sim card in a kiosk or in any
mobile phone shop. The most popular ones are ''Pildyk'', ''Labas'', ''Ezys'', ''Extra''. The SIM card costs from 5
to 10 lt (1,5-2,5 euros) and you can top it up.
* Free Wifi internet spots are available at many cafes in the whole city. Please ask the staff or watch for a Wifi-
sign at the door.
* '''Emergency number''' is the same as for the rest of Europe - 112.

Some websites to give you an idea about the '''costs in Vilnius''', but note that the prices are rising all the
time, so the information can really be not accurate enough:

* [http://www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=81&tefl_session=9fad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f3d&x=1&y=1
International City Cost Guide] - update the prices by doubling the given ones;)

== Foreigners about Vilnius, LT & CS ==

Colleqium] - Pilies St. 22-1;
Avineta] - Naugarduko St. 76;
Bazė] - A. Rotundo St. 2;
Fantazija] - Naugarduko St. 34;
Liumineta] - Antakalnio St. 40;
Netcafe]- Antakalnio St. 36

* [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=2680237 Vilnius. What it's like in foreign eyes?] - CS
thread on foreigners' impression about Vilnius.
* [http://www.expatintelligence.com/expat-lithuania.shtml Expat Lithuania] - short introduction about life in LT
* [http://www.expatexchange.com/expat/index.cfm?frmid=247&forumid=0&dbname=ee&shared=N ExpatExchange] - website
where expats share their experience in LT. Can't promise all the information is correct, but might be useful.

== CS in the Press ==

There are several articles about CS in the media in Lithuanian:

http://www.zebra.lt/lt/laisvalaikis/keliones/Couch-surfing-kitoks-keliavimo-budas-2009-10-12.html
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16689368
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16695835
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17138568
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17188256
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17203292
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17285172
http://www.alfa.lt/straipsnis/157702
http://www.universitetozurnalistas.lt/uz/skotija/pub4.html

[UPDATE] and in english:
* http://www.travelblog.org/Europe/Sweden/Orebro-County/Orebro/blog-558605.html

Vilnius

2013-03-17T10:20:52Z

Angelake: /* Shopping */

{{IsIn|Lithuania}}
'''Vilnius''' is the capital city of [[Lithuania]] and the largest city in the country with the population of over
550.000 and all major political, economic, social and cultural centres.

== Vilnius on CouchSurfing ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1351 The Vilnius group] currently consists of approximately 2000
members, who are locals, expats and travellers from all over the world. It is an active and constantly growing group with lots of events, meetings and activities - just follow posts in the forum.

Take a look at some photos of our meetings in the [http://picasaweb.google.com/cslithuania CS Lithuania Gallery] and
[https://picasaweb.google.com/106659005364119821571 CS Vilnius Gallery]

=== Emergency couch in Vilnius ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=13026 Emergency couch in Vilnius] is a group of CS'ers from Vilnius who
are able to offer a couch at a short notice for guests who are coming in 3-4 days or less and do not have a couch
yet. Therefore, use this group to find a couch only if it is emergency situation so if you know you are coming in 1
month, please use couchsearch and send individual couch requests.

=== Vilnius CS Musicians ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=33375 Vilnius CS Musicians] is a new fresh group of local and traveling
musicians for sharing great music. If you want to organise a concert, gig, jam-session or just meet CS'ers who love
music, this is a group for you. There is a list of some useful live music spots and festivals held in all Lithuania.
Let the music play!

== City Attractions ==

Vilnius is one of the most frequently visited cities of Eastern Europe. It draws attention, not only because of its
unique architectural character, but also by its cultural events and attractions.

Parts of the town you should definitely visit are first of all the Old Town (Senamiestis) which is one of the
largest old town centres in Eastern Europe and is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. However, before starting
your meanderings around the streets of the Old Town it is worth getting a bird’s eye view of Vilnius and taking in a
panoramic view of the city. There are some high buildings suitable for this purpose namely the TV tower, ''Skybar''
of the ''Reval Hotel Lietuva'' and the top floor of the shopping mall ''Europa'' near the northern bank of the Neris
River, on the edge of the Old Town. You can get the best open air view of the Old Town at the top of the Gediminas’
Hill, Hill of Three Crosses, Bastille Hill or Bekešo Hill.

Top attractions in the old town would include Gediminas’ Tower and upper castle; The cathedral with a Belfry by the
side; Pilies & Didžioji streets with lots of luxurious boutiques, coffee shops, cultural centres, embassies, night
clubs, souvenir sellers and the happy hubbub of the city; late Gothic architectural masterpiece that impressed
Napoléon Bonaparte a lot - St. Anne’s Church; Townhall and Vokiečių street where many bars, clubs and restaurants
are located; an area known as the “Jewish Ghetto” centred on Stiklių, Gaono, Antokolskio and Žydų streets;
Presidential Palace and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe - Vilnius University which campus consists
of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical buildings arranged around twelve closed courtyards and the tallest
Church of St John; the Bastion which is an original Renaissance fortification; the only surviving gate of the first
original five gates in the city wall named the Gates of Dawn and of course the main street of Vilnius - Gediminas’
Avenue, where you can find some important national institutions such as the Parliament or the National Library, as
well as banks, hotels, shops, casinos, restaurants and cafés. Some small things also worth experiencing is Frank
Zappa monument and a "magical" tyle with the word "Stebuklas" (Miracle) in the Cathedral square where one can make
his wish come true by simply stepping on it and turning around with the eyes closed.

The Republic of Užupis is worth a separate notice and is a must while visiting Vilnius. Užupis is a recognised
district for artists and won the name of the most bohemic, mysterious and romantic district of Vilnius which has
its own constitution, national anthem, calendar, map, its own holidays, "main institutions" and so on. If you walk
along the banks of the Vilnia River, you will be sure to come across artists working there who will invited to have
a try at the various kinds of art, like photography and painting, or to take part in an evening of summer cinema or
exhibitions.

Take a look at our album of
[http://picasaweb.google.com/CSLithuania/SightsOfLithuania# Vilnius Sights] in order
to get a better view what the city looks like.

=== Museums and Galleries ===

There are a lot of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=95 museums]and [http://www.vilnius-
tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=97 galleries] in Vilnius however, not all of them are worth visiting. Here is the
list of the most recommended ones:

[http://www.genocid.lt/muziejus Museum of Genocide Victims (KGB)]is located in the former headquarters of the KGB
and has the former execution chamber open to visitors.

[http://www.cac.lt/ Contemporary Art Centre]is the largest art centre in the Baltic States presenting the latest
international art tendencies of the contemporary art.

[http://www.ndg.lt/index.php?id=37&L=1 National Gallery of Art] presents a collection of Lithuanian art of the 20th
and 21st century and is a good space for active communication where the audience can see the permanent exposition
and temporary exhibitions as well as participate in cultural events, lectures and educational programmes.

[http://galera.multiply.com/ Užupis Galera] is an alternative gallery in Užupis where the expositions are pretty
unique and you can witness the creatinion of it's masterpieces.

[http://kultflux.puslapiai.lt/ Kultflux] is a gallery - platform on the river Neris next to Mindaugas bridge where
various exhibitions and other cultural events take place.

=== Sightseeing outside Vilnius ===

If you are staying in Vilnius for few days, you might want to make some day trips and see few places outside
Vilnius:

[http://www.trakai.lt/index.php?-2130764187 Trakai] is a historical capital of Lithuania where one can find the only
castle in Eastern Europe built on the island on the lake, Karaite national minority and it's unique cuisine. There
are a lot of buses and trainsgoing there and it takes only about half an hour to get there. If the weather is good,
you should take a chance to see it!

[http://www.europosparkas.lt/ Open air museum of the center of Europe] signifies the geographical centre of Europe
in the language of contemporary art and is a place where nature and art are combined.

[http://www.belmontas.lt/apie_belmonta/ Belmontas park] is very close to Vilnius center and is a complex of
restaurants serving traditional meals arranged around little lakes, watermills, river and waterfalls and is a very
nice place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

=== Tourist information ===

If your host cannot show you around or you like exploring the city by yourself, you might still find it helpful to
get city maps and some additional information about the city, things to see&do, events etc. There are a few tourist
information centres in the Old Town: one is inside the Townhall and another one is located in Vilniaus street.

You also have a superb possibility to go for [http://www.vilniusfreetour.com/ Vilnius free tour] and see the hiden
side of Vilnius through the eyes of the people who live here. All you need to do is to appear at 12PM any day of the
week in front of the Townhall and look for a person with a yellow suitcase. Enjoy!

You can get some more information about Vilnius prior to your arrival in [http://www.inyourpocket.com/lithuania/
city/vilnius.html?more=1 Vilnius in your pocket] guide or browse [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=63
Vilnius tourist information center website].

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/mediabank/A4_Dviraciai%20PRINT(1).pdf Map of Vilnius old town] - quite a nice map
with the routes you can explore either by bike or on foot.

[http://www.lietuvosmarsrutai.eu/index.php?lang=2 Lithuanian routes] is a really great website where Lithuanian
routes are coherently presented with the help of textual, photo and video material for those who want to travel
around Lithuania.

[http://www.fotoskrydis.lt/kategorija/vilniaus-apskritis/ Vilnius from above] - some nice pictures of Vilnius and
other cities of Lithuania made from an air ballon.

=== Events ===

Apart from Couchsurfing events there are plenty of things to do in Vilnius and around. Vilnius is ''European Capital
of Culture 2009'' and therefore there are a lot of cultural, artistic and social activities every month. Check out
what's happening in Vilnius during your stay:

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=4162900 Cultural events in Vilnius ]
about interesting events in Vilnius provided by Couchsurfers of Vilnius group;

[http://www.eb.lt/en.php3 Entertainment bank] - the biggest database of all kinds of events in Vilnius and the rest
of Lithuania;

[http://www.vilnius-life.com/ Vilnius life] - a very handy website with a lot of useful information about Vilnius;

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/index.php?lang=EN Vilnius tourist information center];

[http://www.djscene.lt/event?fCity=vilnius&lang=en DJ Scene LT]

[http://www.club.lt/ Club.lt] - and some more clubbing events

[http://www.ore.lt/event.php?kada=&kur=Vilnius Ore.lt] - one more event calendor. Please note that the website is
only in Lithuanian;

some information

- some clubbing events in Vilnius;

[http://lietuva.lt/en/events/ Events in Lithuania] - if it's still not enough ;)

[http://www.cinema.lt/ Cinema] news. The website is in Lithuanian, but they have titles in original language as
well, so it's easy to get it;)

[http://www.vilniusjazz.lt Vilnius Jazz festival] - takes place every October and invites lots of great jazz
musicians from all over the world. Jazz lovers - don't miss a chance!

==== Cinemas ====

All non-hollywood movies fans should check out two cinemas in Vilnius (both of them are major venues for cinematic
events – festivals, meetings with filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings etc.):

* [http://www.kinopasaka.lt/ Cinema Pasaka] - (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) is a very cozy little cinema in the heart of the
old town, same building as La Boheme wine bar.

* [http://www.skalvija.lt/index.php/about_skalvija/743 Skalvija] - (A. Goštauto St. 2/15) is another cinema center
that focuses on non-commercial European and World cinema, both classics and recent film.

Other cinemas with more recent/Hollywood movie repertoire are:

* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Vingis] - Savanorių St. 7;
* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Akropolis] - Ozo St. 25 - the one in a shopping mall

=== Shopping ===

Although Vilnius is not the capital of shopping, there are several places to do that:

* There are a lot of souvenir shops and little street market in the Old town. The typical Lithuanian souvenirs would
be amber, linen and mead, but the latter is available only in the shops where they sell alcohol.
* Shopping centers: the biggest in the city center are ''Europa'' (Konstitucijos 7a) and ''Gedimino 9'' (Gedimino
Av.9) and ''VCUP'' (Konstitucijos St. 16); a bit out of the city center, but still in Vilnius - ''Akropolis'' (Ozo
St. 25) and ''Panorama'' (Saltoniškių St. 9)
* The biggest grocery chain stores are ''Rimi'', ''Maxima'' and ''Iki'' - you'll see them everywhere.
* There are a lot of proprietary brand clothing shops in the Old town, especially in the area round the Town hall;)

==

== Accommodation ==

Hopefully you will be able to find a host and will not need to look for accommodation, but in case you do, here are
some useful websites:

==

[http://www.hostels.com/findabed.php?ChosenCity=Vilnius&ChosenCountry=Lithuania&Search=1 Inexpensive hostels,
guesthouses and hotels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=437 Youth hostels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=438 Motels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=630 Hotels and guest houses]

[http://www.camping.lt/index.php?lang=2&sid=432 Campsites across Lithuania] - in case you feel like going to the
nature ;)

== Restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs & clubs ==

=== Restaurants & cafés===

No doubt you will find McDonald's yourself, but in case you want to experience lithuanian cuisine, here are the most
popular restaurants serving traditional lithuanian meals:

[http://www.cili.lt/ Čili Kaimas] - a chain restaurant, located in Vokiečių St. 8 and Gedimino Ave. 14;

[http://www.fortodvaras.lt Forto dvaras] - also a good one and is right in the center - Pilies St. 16;

[http://www.zemaiciai.lt Žemaičiai] - a bit more expensive place in Vokiečių St. 24 and sometimes it takes ages to
get your meal, but the result is usually rewarding.

''Pilies menė'' in Pilies St. 8 or ''Amatininkų užeiga'' in Didžioji St. 19/2 might be also an option for
traditional meals.

What shall you order there to get real lithuanian experience? A distinctive trait of Lithuanian cuisine is the
preponderance of potato dishes, so try one of those:

[[File:N46 cepelinai alus.jpg|thumb|300px|left|Cepelinai (‘Zeppelins’). Skanaus!]]

* ''Cepelinai'' (‘Zeppelins’) - the most typical dish, large boiled potato dumplings (made from grated raw potato)
with fillings of minced meat or cottage cheese. Be careful - they are really filling;
* ''Kugelis'' (potato pie);
* Potato pancakes made from grated raw potato or boiled potato (sometimes – with a meat filling);
* ''Vėdarai'' (potato sausages) – a pretty creepy meal, made of pork intestines stuffed with grated raw potato,
baked in a wood stove or electric oven.

For a snack you should definitely try fried bread with cheese, marinated herring with boiled potatoes, various kinds
of cottage cheese or fermented cheeses, and hot-smoked or cold-smoked hams and sausages. Lithuanians also know many
recipes for mushroom dishes which are used in sauces, as fillings, or served as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Soup is very popular in Lithuania and there are lots of kinds of it, but the most interesting Lithuanian soup
is ''šaltibarščiai'' (cold beetroot soup), which is made from beetroot, kefir (a fermented milk product), greens and
boiled eggs, is served chilled and is very refreshing on a hot summer day. Just don't get scared of a pink colour!

And finally, beer goes with pretty much everything, so go ahead! (ok, maybe not for breakfast;)

If you're done with typical lithuanian cuisine, there's plenty of other choices to eat out that match all tastes and
budgets (in most restaurants approximately LTL 20-40 should be enough for lunch or dinner for one person):

* European cuisine is predominant in Vilnius restaurants, with a few Lithuanian dishes included in the menu - check
out ''Užupio cafe'' (Užupio 2) - a super place and a heart of Užupis Republic during the summer time; [http://
www.avilys.lt Avilys] - really nice beer brewery & restaurant (Gedimino Ave. 5); [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] - a
restaurant and a cozy club downstairs (Dominikonų St. 10); [http://www.steakhouse.lt Steak House Helios] (Didžioji
St. 28, 2 floor, Helios Entertainment Centre).
* Italian cuisine - [http://www.antonio.lt/index.php?k=EN Da Antonio I] (Vilniaus St. 23) and ''Da Antonio
Tratoria'' (Pilies St. 20); ''St. Valentino'' (Vilniaus St. 47/Trakų St. 18); ''Pomodoro'' (Jogailos g. 4)
and ''Fiorentino'' (Universiteto g. 4) with a nice inside yard during spring/summer. Note that pizzerias now
outnumber Lithuanian restaurants, so do not be surprised to find a wide range of pizzas available at most
restaurants (especially medium price range restaurants). The people of Vilnius are starting to jokingly say that
pizza is becoming Lithuania’s national dish.
* French cuisine - ''Les Amis'' (Savičiaus St. 9) and ''Saint Germain'' (Literatų g. 9), also ''La Provence''
(Vokiečių St. 22), but this one is a bit expensive.
* Czech cuisine - ''Pas Rudolfą II'' (Gedimino Ave. 46-2) - not very cozy place, but they have some quite nice
beers.
* Argentine cuisine - ''El Gaucho Sano'' (Pilies St. 10) - meat lovers, please enjoy;)
* Chinese cuisine - there is a big and always growing number of chinese restaurants in the Old town, so you will see
them at once.
* Vegetarian - ''Balti drambliai'' (White Elephants) is a purely vegetarian restaurant and very cozy bar (Vilniaus
St. 41) although you might have to wait about an hour for a beer, so better don't go there if you are in a hurry.
Vegetarians should be also able to find a suitable dish on the menu of almost any restaurant.

In terms of numbers of cafés, Vilnius is not far behind the traditional ‘café culture’ cities of Europe and they can
be found in almost every street of the Old Town, mostly in Trakų, Pilies, Didžioji, Vokiečių, Domininkonų, Savičiaus
streets and Gedimino Prospect. Most popular chain cafés are ''Double Coffee'' and ''Coffee Inn'', but don't expect
to find ''Starbucks Coffee'' here;)

=== Going out ===

There are few more mellow capitals than Vilnius - a hectic metropolis it ain't. But when night falls, there's no
shortage of revellers who are up for a party. What's more, the local beers make for a tasty tipple really worth
giving a try...again and again ;)

Note that many Vilnius bars function as restaurants during the day, and in terms of subtlety of interior décor and
quality of cuisine, they compete with the best restaurants. Some of the bars could also be appropriately included
in the list of intimate-sized clubs, because in the evenings they have live music or a DJ. List of suggested bars &
pubs, which might have a dance-floor as well is the following:

* [http://www.cafedeparis.lt Cafe de Paris] (Didžioji St. 1) - a small place in one of the main streets of the old
town, which has an incredible capacity to surprise with its wide range of events and installations, always vivid
and full of interesting people,live music every Saturday, local and international DJ’s any other day, visual arts,
alternative foods and international staff.
* [http://www.baltidrambliai.lt/main.php?page=1 Balti drambliai] (Vilniaus St. 41) - cozy and extremely relaxed
atmosphere, very reasonable prices and live music once in a while.
* [http://www.invino.lt/ In Vino] (Aušros Vartų St. 7) - is the kind of laid back haunt, especially recommended
during summertime when you can sit in outside in the inner yard, but note that it's not easy to get a table as this
place is always crowded. But give it a try.
* [http://www.mojitonaktys.lt/ Mohito Naktys] (Didžioji St. 33/2)- cocktail bar famous for their Mojitos (the best
in town), currently one of Vilnius’ hottest night spots. Drinks are pricey enough here (so not the best place to get
drunk;) therefore it tends to attract a bit more sophisticated but fun crowd rather than a beer-swilling rabble.
* [http://www.laboheme.lt/ La Boheme] (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) - cozy and very beautiful wine place + nice atmosphere,
very recommended.
* [http://www.tempolibero.lt/index.php/pageid/459 Tappo d'oro] ( l.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus St. 7) - cozy wine places
that has lots of inexpensive wines to offer;)
* Vasaros terasa (Vilniaus St. 39) - a very nice outdoor terrace located in the yard of the historic Teacher's
House, opened during spring/summer/early autumn, there are usually live concerts on weekends, as well as other
cultural events during the week, like cinema, theatre, dance, market etc. Really nice place.
* [http://www.chaplin.lt/?file=kop1.php Chaplin] (Labdarių g. 7/Totorių g. 11.) - pretty nice place, drinks and food
are still not overpriced and there is a chance there will be a DJ on the weekend. We had quite a lot of CS meetings
held there. Note that the page is in Lithuanian only.
* [http://www.absentofejos.lt/ Absento Fėjos] (Aušros Vartų St. 11) - if you manage to get in (the queue at the door
is usually pretty long and the face control is trick enough as well) you will probably like it, though it's pretty
expensive. No kids running around though :)
* [http://www.briusly.lt/ Briusly] (Islandijos St. 4.) - a very nice and cozy place, reasonably priced and very
popular + it also offers nice asian food.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - combination of bar, cafe, restaurant and nightclub, where from
morning till nighttime, people can come to eat, drink and relax and later go downstairs for more lively activities.
* [http://www.alutis.lt/snekutis/ Šnekutis] (Polocko St. 7A and Šv.Stepono St. 8) - if you want to try some awsome
home-brewed "live beer" without any ripoff, that's the place to be.
* [http://www.busitrecias.lt/index.php/en/ Būsi trečias] (Totoriu st.) 18 - mini brewery, offering a big range of
flavoured beers and hearty food.

The most recommended nightclubs would be the following:

* [http://www.tamstaclub.lt Tamsta] (Subačiaus St. 11A) - probably the best club with live music (unfortunately
closed for summer holidays..).
* [http://www.pabolatino.lt Pabo Latino] (Trakų St. 3/2)- if you like salsa, then that's the place to be. Beautiful
interior, nice cocktails, if you come a bit earlier, the entrance fee is not too bad + you get a free drink.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - a really cozy place to chill out and the entry is always free of
charge.
* [http://www.pachavilnius.lt Pacha club] (Gynėjų St. 14) - the name already speaks for itself, and people say it is
one of best clubs in Vilnius, posh and expensive though, but pretty worth it.
* [http://www.tarantinoclub.lt Tarantino club] (Trakų g. 2) - quite cozy and nice club, sometimes have live
concerts, sometimes the entrance is free, so might be worth checking it out.
* [http://www.artistai.lt Artistai] (Šv. Kazimiero St. 3) - pretty simple and relaxed place, especially popular
among students, so expect to be surrounded by a very young crowd and a possibility to get drinks in a plastic cup.
Has a nice inside yard and there is karaoke night on Tuesday.
* [http://www.havanasocialclub.lt Havana Social Club] (Šermukšnių St. 4a) - pretty nice place with friendly
atmosphere, not too posh, but nice interrior, has some good cocktails as well;)
* [http://www.brodvejus.lt Brodvėjus pub] (Mesiniu St. 4) is mostly attended by foreigners and students and the
music is mostly 90's pop, however, the place is still quite popular.
* [http://www.clubgravity.lt Gravity Club] is a good place for electronic music lovers, located in a former bunker,
usually crowded and always lacks oxygen.
* [http://www.play-club.com Play Club](Pamenkalnio St. 17/3) - you either love it or hate it: it's very small, very
alternative and simple, drinks usually come in plastic cups, but it has some charm for sure. And a football table.
* [http://www.bix.lt Bix baras](Etmonų St. 6) - rock club, pretty laid back and very popular among students.

== Getting in & around ==

=== Transportation to/from Vilnius ===

Choose the best way to get to Vilnius city:

* If you are coming by '''plane''' to [http://www.vilnius-airport.lt/en/ Vilnius international airport] you can take
a train to the central railway station (it only takes 7 minutes to get there, it goes twice an hour and costs less
than EUR 1) or take a bus Nr.1 going to the bus station or bus Nr. 2 going to the center of the city. There are
lockers in the railway station if you need to leave your luggage before heading to the city, it is very close to
the bus station (just across the street) and they both are close to the Old town even if you are going on foot (but
note that almost every trolleybus goes to the city center). You can always take a taxi, but it if you catch the ones
standing in front of the airport, they will charge you much more than you would if you call one. The journey should
cost you about EUR 7.

If you are landing in [http://www.kaunasair.lt/index.php?lang=en&page=express Kaunas airport], there is a bus going
to Vilnius (the bus schedule is in accordance with operating flights).

* [http://www.litrail.lt/wps/portal Lithuanian railways] - for those who are travelling by '''train'''. Note that
unfortunatelly ''Interrail'', ''Eurorail'' and similar tickets are not valid in Lithuania :(

* [http://www.autobusustotis.lt/en Vilnius bus station website] might be useful if you are travelling by '''bus'''.
[http://www.eurolines.ee/en/node Eurolines] coach company offers probably the cheapest and the most popular
international bus routes in the Baltics and the rest of Europe.

* '''Hitch-hiking''' is pretty popular way to travel in Lithuania as well as to the other countries and is safe
enough as long as you are staying rational yourself. [http://www.autostop.lt/main.php Hitch-hiking Club's] members
can help you a lot with tips on the best hitch-hiking-routes both in Lithuania and to nearby countries, what are the
best spots to hitch-hike etc. so definitely check out the website if you choose to travele this way.

* It is also possible to take a '''ferry''' to Klaipeda and then come to Vilnius by bus, car or train. Check out the
website of [http://www.portofklaipeda.lt/en.php/port_of_klaipda/cruising/ferry_lines/437 Klaipeda seaport] for the
ferry lines.

=== Transportation in Vilnius ===

A good thing about Vilnius is that it's small enough for you to easily get around on foot, by bike or by public
transport.

* If you are staying in the Old town, the best way to explore it is on foot. Most sights are within the walking
distance and don't be afraid to get lost, as it is the best way to discover the wonders of the city ;)

* [http://www.vilniustransport.lt/en.php/ Public transport] is neither the worse nor the best: there are quite
enough of buses and trolleybuses during the day, but they stop at 11:30 P.M. and there are no more night buses
available :( You can buy a ticket either in a kiosk (LTL 2) or from the driver (LTL 2.5) There are also tickets
valid for 1 day (LTL 13), 3 days (LTL 23) or 10 days (LTL 46), but see if it's worth it. [http://www.marsrutai.lt/
vilnius/?a=p.routes&transport_id=bus&t=xhtml&l=en Traffic schedules and route planning]might be handy as well. Note
that the public transport starts running at 5:30 AM and stops around 11:30 PM, so if you happen to fall in this gap,
choose taxi, walking, friends car or killing a night in a club ;)

* Taxi...uh, if you need to get a cab, there are two things you should bear in mind: 1)it is way cheaper to call a
cab than to catch one on the street and 2)most likely they will try to rip you off anyway, so ask some local how
much your journey should cost in advance (the rate varies from LTL 1.5 to LTL 4 per km). You may try calling one of
those [http://www.taksi.lt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=63 taxi companies]

* Bike can also be an option so if you or your host doesn't have one, you can try to rent. Some places hiring bikes
in the city center are [http://www.dviratis.lt/index.php?page=catalogue&cat=nuoma&view=45 Velo-City] (Bernadinų St.
10, in front of St. Anns Church) or [http://www.kelrodis.lt Kelrodis](T.Ševčenkos g. 15/14).

* If you're coming by car, well, be careful :) but if you wish to rent a car, you can do it in the centre of the
city as well as at the airport. Note that you will be asked for your identification card and a valid international
credit card. Check out the list of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=76&aid=461 car rental
companies]

== Other useful information ==

* There are many Wi-fi places in Vilnius, but if you need an '''Internet cafe''', here are some of them (click for
the map):

[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=780BEC7DC51211D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=112C5A2E7C2E11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=70651542C51411D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=5064990FC51311D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=A37A73BA7C2B11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=7113DE227C3111DA8602746164617373

* [http://www.meteo.lt/english/forecasts.php Weather forecast] if you want to check what the weather is like during
your stay.
* You can '''exchange''' money in any bank, which may also be located in bigger shopping centers, there is an
exchange booth at the airport (arrivals hall) and outside railway/bus station as well. Note that ''Parex'' bank is
the only bank that accepts coins for exchange.
* '''Smoking''' is prohibited inside all restaurants, cafes, bars etc. unless there are tables outside.
* If you you can use your phone with other SIM cards, it would be cheaper to buy local sim card in a kiosk or in any
mobile phone shop. The most popular ones are ''Pildyk'', ''Labas'', ''Ezys'', ''Extra''. The SIM card costs from 5
to 10 lt (1,5-2,5 euros) and you can top it up.
* Free Wifi internet spots are available at many cafes in the whole city. Please ask the staff or watch for a Wifi-
sign at the door.
* '''Emergency number''' is the same as for the rest of Europe - 112.

Some websites to give you an idea about the '''costs in Vilnius''', but note that the prices are rising all the
time, so the information can really be not accurate enough:

* [http://www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=81&tefl_session=9fad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f3d&x=1&y=1
International City Cost Guide] - update the prices by doubling the given ones;)

== Foreigners about Vilnius, LT & CS ==

Colleqium] - Pilies St. 22-1;
Avineta] - Naugarduko St. 76;
Bazė] - A. Rotundo St. 2;
Fantazija] - Naugarduko St. 34;
Liumineta] - Antakalnio St. 40;
Netcafe]- Antakalnio St. 36

* [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=2680237 Vilnius. What it's like in foreign eyes?] - CS
thread on foreigners' impression about Vilnius.
* [http://www.expatintelligence.com/expat-lithuania.shtml Expat Lithuania] - short introduction about life in LT
* [http://www.expatexchange.com/expat/index.cfm?frmid=247&forumid=0&dbname=ee&shared=N ExpatExchange] - website
where expats share their experience in LT. Can't promise all the information is correct, but might be useful.

== CS in the Press ==

There are several articles about CS in the media in Lithuanian:

http://www.zebra.lt/lt/laisvalaikis/keliones/Couch-surfing-kitoks-keliavimo-budas-2009-10-12.html
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16689368
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16695835
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17138568
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17188256
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17203292
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17285172
http://www.alfa.lt/straipsnis/157702
http://www.universitetozurnalistas.lt/uz/skotija/pub4.html

[UPDATE] and in english:
* http://www.travelblog.org/Europe/Sweden/Orebro-County/Orebro/blog-558605.html

Vilnius

2013-03-17T10:19:49Z

Angelake: /* City Attractions */

{{IsIn|Lithuania}}
'''Vilnius''' is the capital city of [[Lithuania]] and the largest city in the country with the population of over
550.000 and all major political, economic, social and cultural centres.

== Vilnius on CouchSurfing ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1351 The Vilnius group] currently consists of approximately 2000
members, who are locals, expats and travellers from all over the world. It is an active and constantly growing group with lots of events, meetings and activities - just follow posts in the forum.

Take a look at some photos of our meetings in the [http://picasaweb.google.com/cslithuania CS Lithuania Gallery] and
[https://picasaweb.google.com/106659005364119821571 CS Vilnius Gallery]

=== Emergency couch in Vilnius ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=13026 Emergency couch in Vilnius] is a group of CS'ers from Vilnius who
are able to offer a couch at a short notice for guests who are coming in 3-4 days or less and do not have a couch
yet. Therefore, use this group to find a couch only if it is emergency situation so if you know you are coming in 1
month, please use couchsearch and send individual couch requests.

=== Vilnius CS Musicians ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=33375 Vilnius CS Musicians] is a new fresh group of local and traveling
musicians for sharing great music. If you want to organise a concert, gig, jam-session or just meet CS'ers who love
music, this is a group for you. There is a list of some useful live music spots and festivals held in all Lithuania.
Let the music play!

== City Attractions ==

Vilnius is one of the most frequently visited cities of Eastern Europe. It draws attention, not only because of its
unique architectural character, but also by its cultural events and attractions.

Parts of the town you should definitely visit are first of all the Old Town (Senamiestis) which is one of the
largest old town centres in Eastern Europe and is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. However, before starting
your meanderings around the streets of the Old Town it is worth getting a bird’s eye view of Vilnius and taking in a
panoramic view of the city. There are some high buildings suitable for this purpose namely the TV tower, ''Skybar''
of the ''Reval Hotel Lietuva'' and the top floor of the shopping mall ''Europa'' near the northern bank of the Neris
River, on the edge of the Old Town. You can get the best open air view of the Old Town at the top of the Gediminas’
Hill, Hill of Three Crosses, Bastille Hill or Bekešo Hill.

Top attractions in the old town would include Gediminas’ Tower and upper castle; The cathedral with a Belfry by the
side; Pilies & Didžioji streets with lots of luxurious boutiques, coffee shops, cultural centres, embassies, night
clubs, souvenir sellers and the happy hubbub of the city; late Gothic architectural masterpiece that impressed
Napoléon Bonaparte a lot - St. Anne’s Church; Townhall and Vokiečių street where many bars, clubs and restaurants
are located; an area known as the “Jewish Ghetto” centred on Stiklių, Gaono, Antokolskio and Žydų streets;
Presidential Palace and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe - Vilnius University which campus consists
of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical buildings arranged around twelve closed courtyards and the tallest
Church of St John; the Bastion which is an original Renaissance fortification; the only surviving gate of the first
original five gates in the city wall named the Gates of Dawn and of course the main street of Vilnius - Gediminas’
Avenue, where you can find some important national institutions such as the Parliament or the National Library, as
well as banks, hotels, shops, casinos, restaurants and cafés. Some small things also worth experiencing is Frank
Zappa monument and a "magical" tyle with the word "Stebuklas" (Miracle) in the Cathedral square where one can make
his wish come true by simply stepping on it and turning around with the eyes closed.

The Republic of Užupis is worth a separate notice and is a must while visiting Vilnius. Užupis is a recognised
district for artists and won the name of the most bohemic, mysterious and romantic district of Vilnius which has
its own constitution, national anthem, calendar, map, its own holidays, "main institutions" and so on. If you walk
along the banks of the Vilnia River, you will be sure to come across artists working there who will invited to have
a try at the various kinds of art, like photography and painting, or to take part in an evening of summer cinema or
exhibitions.

Take a look at our album of
[http://picasaweb.google.com/CSLithuania/SightsOfLithuania# Vilnius Sights] in order
to get a better view what the city looks like.

=== Museums and Galleries ===

There are a lot of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=95 museums]and [http://www.vilnius-
tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=97 galleries] in Vilnius however, not all of them are worth visiting. Here is the
list of the most recommended ones:

[http://www.genocid.lt/muziejus Museum of Genocide Victims (KGB)]is located in the former headquarters of the KGB
and has the former execution chamber open to visitors.

[http://www.cac.lt/ Contemporary Art Centre]is the largest art centre in the Baltic States presenting the latest
international art tendencies of the contemporary art.

[http://www.ndg.lt/index.php?id=37&L=1 National Gallery of Art] presents a collection of Lithuanian art of the 20th
and 21st century and is a good space for active communication where the audience can see the permanent exposition
and temporary exhibitions as well as participate in cultural events, lectures and educational programmes.

[http://galera.multiply.com/ Užupis Galera] is an alternative gallery in Užupis where the expositions are pretty
unique and you can witness the creatinion of it's masterpieces.

[http://kultflux.puslapiai.lt/ Kultflux] is a gallery - platform on the river Neris next to Mindaugas bridge where
various exhibitions and other cultural events take place.

=== Sightseeing outside Vilnius ===

If you are staying in Vilnius for few days, you might want to make some day trips and see few places outside
Vilnius:

[http://www.trakai.lt/index.php?-2130764187 Trakai] is a historical capital of Lithuania where one can find the only
castle in Eastern Europe built on the island on the lake, Karaite national minority and it's unique cuisine. There
are a lot of buses and trainsgoing there and it takes only about half an hour to get there. If the weather is good,
you should take a chance to see it!

[http://www.europosparkas.lt/ Open air museum of the center of Europe] signifies the geographical centre of Europe
in the language of contemporary art and is a place where nature and art are combined.

[http://www.belmontas.lt/apie_belmonta/ Belmontas park] is very close to Vilnius center and is a complex of
restaurants serving traditional meals arranged around little lakes, watermills, river and waterfalls and is a very
nice place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

=== Tourist information ===

If your host cannot show you around or you like exploring the city by yourself, you might still find it helpful to
get city maps and some additional information about the city, things to see&do, events etc. There are a few tourist
information centres in the Old Town: one is inside the Townhall and another one is located in Vilniaus street.

You also have a superb possibility to go for [http://www.vilniusfreetour.com/ Vilnius free tour] and see the hiden
side of Vilnius through the eyes of the people who live here. All you need to do is to appear at 12PM any day of the
week in front of the Townhall and look for a person with a yellow suitcase. Enjoy!

You can get some more information about Vilnius prior to your arrival in [http://www.inyourpocket.com/lithuania/
city/vilnius.html?more=1 Vilnius in your pocket] guide or browse [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=63
Vilnius tourist information center website].

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/mediabank/A4_Dviraciai%20PRINT(1).pdf Map of Vilnius old town] - quite a nice map
with the routes you can explore either by bike or on foot.

[http://www.lietuvosmarsrutai.eu/index.php?lang=2 Lithuanian routes] is a really great website where Lithuanian
routes are coherently presented with the help of textual, photo and video material for those who want to travel
around Lithuania.

[http://www.fotoskrydis.lt/kategorija/vilniaus-apskritis/ Vilnius from above] - some nice pictures of Vilnius and
other cities of Lithuania made from an air ballon.

=== Events ===

Apart from Couchsurfing events there are plenty of things to do in Vilnius and around. Vilnius is ''European Capital
of Culture 2009'' and therefore there are a lot of cultural, artistic and social activities every month. Check out
what's happening in Vilnius during your stay:

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=4162900 Cultural events in Vilnius ]
about interesting events in Vilnius provided by Couchsurfers of Vilnius group;

[http://www.eb.lt/en.php3 Entertainment bank] - the biggest database of all kinds of events in Vilnius and the rest
of Lithuania;

[http://www.vilnius-life.com/ Vilnius life] - a very handy website with a lot of useful information about Vilnius;

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/index.php?lang=EN Vilnius tourist information center];

[http://www.djscene.lt/event?fCity=vilnius&lang=en DJ Scene LT]

[http://www.club.lt/ Club.lt] - and some more clubbing events

[http://www.ore.lt/event.php?kada=&kur=Vilnius Ore.lt] - one more event calendor. Please note that the website is
only in Lithuanian;

some information

- some clubbing events in Vilnius;

[http://lietuva.lt/en/events/ Events in Lithuania] - if it's still not enough ;)

[http://www.cinema.lt/ Cinema] news. The website is in Lithuanian, but they have titles in original language as
well, so it's easy to get it;)

[http://www.vilniusjazz.lt Vilnius Jazz festival] - takes place every October and invites lots of great jazz
musicians from all over the world. Jazz lovers - don't miss a chance!

==== Cinemas ====

All non-hollywood movies fans should check out two cinemas in Vilnius (both of them are major venues for cinematic
events – festivals, meetings with filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings etc.):

* [http://www.kinopasaka.lt/ Cinema Pasaka] - (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) is a very cozy little cinema in the heart of the
old town, same building as La Boheme wine bar.

* [http://www.skalvija.lt/index.php/about_skalvija/743 Skalvija] - (A. Goštauto St. 2/15) is another cinema center
that focuses on non-commercial European and World cinema, both classics and recent film.

Other cinemas with more recent/Hollywood movie repertoire are:

* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Vingis] - Savanorių St. 7;
* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Akropolis] - Ozo St. 25 - the one in a shopping mall

=== Shopping ===

Although Vilnius is not the capital of shopping, there are several places to do that:

* There are a lot of souvenir shops and little street market in the Old town. The typical Lithuanian souvenirs would
be amber, linen and mead, but the latter is available only in the shops where they sell alcohol.
* Shopping centers: the biggest in the city center are ''Europa'' (Konstitucijos 7a) and ''Gedimino 9'' (Gedimino
Av.9) and ''VCUP'' (Konstitucijos St. 16); a bit out of the city center, but still in Vilnius - ''Akropolis'' (Ozo
St. 25) and ''Panorama'' (Saltoniškių St. 9)
* The biggest grocery chain stores are ''Rimi'', ''Maxima'' and ''Iki'' - you'll see them everywhere.
* There are a lot of proprietary brand clothing shops in the Old town, especially in the area round the Town hall;)

==

Accommodation

Hopefully you will be able to find a host and will not need to look for accommodation, but in case you do, here are
some useful websites:

==

[http://www.hostels.com/findabed.php?ChosenCity=Vilnius&ChosenCountry=Lithuania&Search=1 Inexpensive hostels,
guesthouses and hotels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=437 Youth hostels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=438 Motels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=630 Hotels and guest houses]

[http://www.camping.lt/index.php?lang=2&sid=432 Campsites across Lithuania] - in case you feel like going to the
nature ;)

== Restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs & clubs ==

=== Restaurants & cafés===

No doubt you will find McDonald's yourself, but in case you want to experience lithuanian cuisine, here are the most
popular restaurants serving traditional lithuanian meals:

[http://www.cili.lt/ Čili Kaimas] - a chain restaurant, located in Vokiečių St. 8 and Gedimino Ave. 14;

[http://www.fortodvaras.lt Forto dvaras] - also a good one and is right in the center - Pilies St. 16;

[http://www.zemaiciai.lt Žemaičiai] - a bit more expensive place in Vokiečių St. 24 and sometimes it takes ages to
get your meal, but the result is usually rewarding.

''Pilies menė'' in Pilies St. 8 or ''Amatininkų užeiga'' in Didžioji St. 19/2 might be also an option for
traditional meals.

What shall you order there to get real lithuanian experience? A distinctive trait of Lithuanian cuisine is the
preponderance of potato dishes, so try one of those:

[[File:N46 cepelinai alus.jpg|thumb|300px|left|Cepelinai (‘Zeppelins’). Skanaus!]]

* ''Cepelinai'' (‘Zeppelins’) - the most typical dish, large boiled potato dumplings (made from grated raw potato)
with fillings of minced meat or cottage cheese. Be careful - they are really filling;
* ''Kugelis'' (potato pie);
* Potato pancakes made from grated raw potato or boiled potato (sometimes – with a meat filling);
* ''Vėdarai'' (potato sausages) – a pretty creepy meal, made of pork intestines stuffed with grated raw potato,
baked in a wood stove or electric oven.

For a snack you should definitely try fried bread with cheese, marinated herring with boiled potatoes, various kinds
of cottage cheese or fermented cheeses, and hot-smoked or cold-smoked hams and sausages. Lithuanians also know many
recipes for mushroom dishes which are used in sauces, as fillings, or served as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Soup is very popular in Lithuania and there are lots of kinds of it, but the most interesting Lithuanian soup
is ''šaltibarščiai'' (cold beetroot soup), which is made from beetroot, kefir (a fermented milk product), greens and
boiled eggs, is served chilled and is very refreshing on a hot summer day. Just don't get scared of a pink colour!

And finally, beer goes with pretty much everything, so go ahead! (ok, maybe not for breakfast;)

If you're done with typical lithuanian cuisine, there's plenty of other choices to eat out that match all tastes and
budgets (in most restaurants approximately LTL 20-40 should be enough for lunch or dinner for one person):

* European cuisine is predominant in Vilnius restaurants, with a few Lithuanian dishes included in the menu - check
out ''Užupio cafe'' (Užupio 2) - a super place and a heart of Užupis Republic during the summer time; [http://
www.avilys.lt Avilys] - really nice beer brewery & restaurant (Gedimino Ave. 5); [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] - a
restaurant and a cozy club downstairs (Dominikonų St. 10); [http://www.steakhouse.lt Steak House Helios] (Didžioji
St. 28, 2 floor, Helios Entertainment Centre).
* Italian cuisine - [http://www.antonio.lt/index.php?k=EN Da Antonio I] (Vilniaus St. 23) and ''Da Antonio
Tratoria'' (Pilies St. 20); ''St. Valentino'' (Vilniaus St. 47/Trakų St. 18); ''Pomodoro'' (Jogailos g. 4)
and ''Fiorentino'' (Universiteto g. 4) with a nice inside yard during spring/summer. Note that pizzerias now
outnumber Lithuanian restaurants, so do not be surprised to find a wide range of pizzas available at most
restaurants (especially medium price range restaurants). The people of Vilnius are starting to jokingly say that
pizza is becoming Lithuania’s national dish.
* French cuisine - ''Les Amis'' (Savičiaus St. 9) and ''Saint Germain'' (Literatų g. 9), also ''La Provence''
(Vokiečių St. 22), but this one is a bit expensive.
* Czech cuisine - ''Pas Rudolfą II'' (Gedimino Ave. 46-2) - not very cozy place, but they have some quite nice
beers.
* Argentine cuisine - ''El Gaucho Sano'' (Pilies St. 10) - meat lovers, please enjoy;)
* Chinese cuisine - there is a big and always growing number of chinese restaurants in the Old town, so you will see
them at once.
* Vegetarian - ''Balti drambliai'' (White Elephants) is a purely vegetarian restaurant and very cozy bar (Vilniaus
St. 41) although you might have to wait about an hour for a beer, so better don't go there if you are in a hurry.
Vegetarians should be also able to find a suitable dish on the menu of almost any restaurant.

In terms of numbers of cafés, Vilnius is not far behind the traditional ‘café culture’ cities of Europe and they can
be found in almost every street of the Old Town, mostly in Trakų, Pilies, Didžioji, Vokiečių, Domininkonų, Savičiaus
streets and Gedimino Prospect. Most popular chain cafés are ''Double Coffee'' and ''Coffee Inn'', but don't expect
to find ''Starbucks Coffee'' here;)

=== Going out ===

There are few more mellow capitals than Vilnius - a hectic metropolis it ain't. But when night falls, there's no
shortage of revellers who are up for a party. What's more, the local beers make for a tasty tipple really worth
giving a try...again and again ;)

Note that many Vilnius bars function as restaurants during the day, and in terms of subtlety of interior décor and
quality of cuisine, they compete with the best restaurants. Some of the bars could also be appropriately included
in the list of intimate-sized clubs, because in the evenings they have live music or a DJ. List of suggested bars &
pubs, which might have a dance-floor as well is the following:

* [http://www.cafedeparis.lt Cafe de Paris] (Didžioji St. 1) - a small place in one of the main streets of the old
town, which has an incredible capacity to surprise with its wide range of events and installations, always vivid
and full of interesting people,live music every Saturday, local and international DJ’s any other day, visual arts,
alternative foods and international staff.
* [http://www.baltidrambliai.lt/main.php?page=1 Balti drambliai] (Vilniaus St. 41) - cozy and extremely relaxed
atmosphere, very reasonable prices and live music once in a while.
* [http://www.invino.lt/ In Vino] (Aušros Vartų St. 7) - is the kind of laid back haunt, especially recommended
during summertime when you can sit in outside in the inner yard, but note that it's not easy to get a table as this
place is always crowded. But give it a try.
* [http://www.mojitonaktys.lt/ Mohito Naktys] (Didžioji St. 33/2)- cocktail bar famous for their Mojitos (the best
in town), currently one of Vilnius’ hottest night spots. Drinks are pricey enough here (so not the best place to get
drunk;) therefore it tends to attract a bit more sophisticated but fun crowd rather than a beer-swilling rabble.
* [http://www.laboheme.lt/ La Boheme] (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) - cozy and very beautiful wine place + nice atmosphere,
very recommended.
* [http://www.tempolibero.lt/index.php/pageid/459 Tappo d'oro] ( l.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus St. 7) - cozy wine places
that has lots of inexpensive wines to offer;)
* Vasaros terasa (Vilniaus St. 39) - a very nice outdoor terrace located in the yard of the historic Teacher's
House, opened during spring/summer/early autumn, there are usually live concerts on weekends, as well as other
cultural events during the week, like cinema, theatre, dance, market etc. Really nice place.
* [http://www.chaplin.lt/?file=kop1.php Chaplin] (Labdarių g. 7/Totorių g. 11.) - pretty nice place, drinks and food
are still not overpriced and there is a chance there will be a DJ on the weekend. We had quite a lot of CS meetings
held there. Note that the page is in Lithuanian only.
* [http://www.absentofejos.lt/ Absento Fėjos] (Aušros Vartų St. 11) - if you manage to get in (the queue at the door
is usually pretty long and the face control is trick enough as well) you will probably like it, though it's pretty
expensive. No kids running around though :)
* [http://www.briusly.lt/ Briusly] (Islandijos St. 4.) - a very nice and cozy place, reasonably priced and very
popular + it also offers nice asian food.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - combination of bar, cafe, restaurant and nightclub, where from
morning till nighttime, people can come to eat, drink and relax and later go downstairs for more lively activities.
* [http://www.alutis.lt/snekutis/ Šnekutis] (Polocko St. 7A and Šv.Stepono St. 8) - if you want to try some awsome
home-brewed "live beer" without any ripoff, that's the place to be.
* [http://www.busitrecias.lt/index.php/en/ Būsi trečias] (Totoriu st.) 18 - mini brewery, offering a big range of
flavoured beers and hearty food.

The most recommended nightclubs would be the following:

* [http://www.tamstaclub.lt Tamsta] (Subačiaus St. 11A) - probably the best club with live music (unfortunately
closed for summer holidays..).
* [http://www.pabolatino.lt Pabo Latino] (Trakų St. 3/2)- if you like salsa, then that's the place to be. Beautiful
interior, nice cocktails, if you come a bit earlier, the entrance fee is not too bad + you get a free drink.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - a really cozy place to chill out and the entry is always free of
charge.
* [http://www.pachavilnius.lt Pacha club] (Gynėjų St. 14) - the name already speaks for itself, and people say it is
one of best clubs in Vilnius, posh and expensive though, but pretty worth it.
* [http://www.tarantinoclub.lt Tarantino club] (Trakų g. 2) - quite cozy and nice club, sometimes have live
concerts, sometimes the entrance is free, so might be worth checking it out.
* [http://www.artistai.lt Artistai] (Šv. Kazimiero St. 3) - pretty simple and relaxed place, especially popular
among students, so expect to be surrounded by a very young crowd and a possibility to get drinks in a plastic cup.
Has a nice inside yard and there is karaoke night on Tuesday.
* [http://www.havanasocialclub.lt Havana Social Club] (Šermukšnių St. 4a) - pretty nice place with friendly
atmosphere, not too posh, but nice interrior, has some good cocktails as well;)
* [http://www.brodvejus.lt Brodvėjus pub] (Mesiniu St. 4) is mostly attended by foreigners and students and the
music is mostly 90's pop, however, the place is still quite popular.
* [http://www.clubgravity.lt Gravity Club] is a good place for electronic music lovers, located in a former bunker,
usually crowded and always lacks oxygen.
* [http://www.play-club.com Play Club](Pamenkalnio St. 17/3) - you either love it or hate it: it's very small, very
alternative and simple, drinks usually come in plastic cups, but it has some charm for sure. And a football table.
* [http://www.bix.lt Bix baras](Etmonų St. 6) - rock club, pretty laid back and very popular among students.

== Getting in & around ==

=== Transportation to/from Vilnius ===

Choose the best way to get to Vilnius city:

* If you are coming by '''plane''' to [http://www.vilnius-airport.lt/en/ Vilnius international airport] you can take
a train to the central railway station (it only takes 7 minutes to get there, it goes twice an hour and costs less
than EUR 1) or take a bus Nr.1 going to the bus station or bus Nr. 2 going to the center of the city. There are
lockers in the railway station if you need to leave your luggage before heading to the city, it is very close to
the bus station (just across the street) and they both are close to the Old town even if you are going on foot (but
note that almost every trolleybus goes to the city center). You can always take a taxi, but it if you catch the ones
standing in front of the airport, they will charge you much more than you would if you call one. The journey should
cost you about EUR 7.

If you are landing in [http://www.kaunasair.lt/index.php?lang=en&page=express Kaunas airport], there is a bus going
to Vilnius (the bus schedule is in accordance with operating flights).

* [http://www.litrail.lt/wps/portal Lithuanian railways] - for those who are travelling by '''train'''. Note that
unfortunatelly ''Interrail'', ''Eurorail'' and similar tickets are not valid in Lithuania :(

* [http://www.autobusustotis.lt/en Vilnius bus station website] might be useful if you are travelling by '''bus'''.
[http://www.eurolines.ee/en/node Eurolines] coach company offers probably the cheapest and the most popular
international bus routes in the Baltics and the rest of Europe.

* '''Hitch-hiking''' is pretty popular way to travel in Lithuania as well as to the other countries and is safe
enough as long as you are staying rational yourself. [http://www.autostop.lt/main.php Hitch-hiking Club's] members
can help you a lot with tips on the best hitch-hiking-routes both in Lithuania and to nearby countries, what are the
best spots to hitch-hike etc. so definitely check out the website if you choose to travele this way.

* It is also possible to take a '''ferry''' to Klaipeda and then come to Vilnius by bus, car or train. Check out the
website of [http://www.portofklaipeda.lt/en.php/port_of_klaipda/cruising/ferry_lines/437 Klaipeda seaport] for the
ferry lines.

=== Transportation in Vilnius ===

A good thing about Vilnius is that it's small enough for you to easily get around on foot, by bike or by public
transport.

* If you are staying in the Old town, the best way to explore it is on foot. Most sights are within the walking
distance and don't be afraid to get lost, as it is the best way to discover the wonders of the city ;)

* [http://www.vilniustransport.lt/en.php/ Public transport] is neither the worse nor the best: there are quite
enough of buses and trolleybuses during the day, but they stop at 11:30 P.M. and there are no more night buses
available :( You can buy a ticket either in a kiosk (LTL 2) or from the driver (LTL 2.5) There are also tickets
valid for 1 day (LTL 13), 3 days (LTL 23) or 10 days (LTL 46), but see if it's worth it. [http://www.marsrutai.lt/
vilnius/?a=p.routes&transport_id=bus&t=xhtml&l=en Traffic schedules and route planning]might be handy as well. Note
that the public transport starts running at 5:30 AM and stops around 11:30 PM, so if you happen to fall in this gap,
choose taxi, walking, friends car or killing a night in a club ;)

* Taxi...uh, if you need to get a cab, there are two things you should bear in mind: 1)it is way cheaper to call a
cab than to catch one on the street and 2)most likely they will try to rip you off anyway, so ask some local how
much your journey should cost in advance (the rate varies from LTL 1.5 to LTL 4 per km). You may try calling one of
those [http://www.taksi.lt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=63 taxi companies]

* Bike can also be an option so if you or your host doesn't have one, you can try to rent. Some places hiring bikes
in the city center are [http://www.dviratis.lt/index.php?page=catalogue&cat=nuoma&view=45 Velo-City] (Bernadinų St.
10, in front of St. Anns Church) or [http://www.kelrodis.lt Kelrodis](T.Ševčenkos g. 15/14).

* If you're coming by car, well, be careful :) but if you wish to rent a car, you can do it in the centre of the
city as well as at the airport. Note that you will be asked for your identification card and a valid international
credit card. Check out the list of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=76&aid=461 car rental
companies]

== Other useful information ==

* There are many Wi-fi places in Vilnius, but if you need an '''Internet cafe''', here are some of them (click for
the map):

[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=780BEC7DC51211D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=112C5A2E7C2E11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=70651542C51411D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=5064990FC51311D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=A37A73BA7C2B11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=7113DE227C3111DA8602746164617373

* [http://www.meteo.lt/english/forecasts.php Weather forecast] if you want to check what the weather is like during
your stay.
* You can '''exchange''' money in any bank, which may also be located in bigger shopping centers, there is an
exchange booth at the airport (arrivals hall) and outside railway/bus station as well. Note that ''Parex'' bank is
the only bank that accepts coins for exchange.
* '''Smoking''' is prohibited inside all restaurants, cafes, bars etc. unless there are tables outside.
* If you you can use your phone with other SIM cards, it would be cheaper to buy local sim card in a kiosk or in any
mobile phone shop. The most popular ones are ''Pildyk'', ''Labas'', ''Ezys'', ''Extra''. The SIM card costs from 5
to 10 lt (1,5-2,5 euros) and you can top it up.
* Free Wifi internet spots are available at many cafes in the whole city. Please ask the staff or watch for a Wifi-
sign at the door.
* '''Emergency number''' is the same as for the rest of Europe - 112.

Some websites to give you an idea about the '''costs in Vilnius''', but note that the prices are rising all the
time, so the information can really be not accurate enough:

* [http://www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=81&tefl_session=9fad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f3d&x=1&y=1
International City Cost Guide] - update the prices by doubling the given ones;)

== Foreigners about Vilnius, LT & CS ==

Colleqium] - Pilies St. 22-1;
Avineta] - Naugarduko St. 76;
Bazė] - A. Rotundo St. 2;
Fantazija] - Naugarduko St. 34;
Liumineta] - Antakalnio St. 40;
Netcafe]- Antakalnio St. 36

* [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=2680237 Vilnius. What it's like in foreign eyes?] - CS
thread on foreigners' impression about Vilnius.
* [http://www.expatintelligence.com/expat-lithuania.shtml Expat Lithuania] - short introduction about life in LT
* [http://www.expatexchange.com/expat/index.cfm?frmid=247&forumid=0&dbname=ee&shared=N ExpatExchange] - website
where expats share their experience in LT. Can't promise all the information is correct, but might be useful.

== CS in the Press ==

There are several articles about CS in the media in Lithuanian:

http://www.zebra.lt/lt/laisvalaikis/keliones/Couch-surfing-kitoks-keliavimo-budas-2009-10-12.html
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16689368
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16695835
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17138568
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17188256
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17203292
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17285172
http://www.alfa.lt/straipsnis/157702
http://www.universitetozurnalistas.lt/uz/skotija/pub4.html

[UPDATE] and in english:
* http://www.travelblog.org/Europe/Sweden/Orebro-County/Orebro/blog-558605.html

Vilnius

2013-03-17T10:19:17Z

Angelake: /* Vilnius on CouchSurfing */

{{IsIn|Lithuania}}
'''Vilnius''' is the capital city of [[Lithuania]] and the largest city in the country with the population of over
550.000 and all major political, economic, social and cultural centres.

== Vilnius on CouchSurfing ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1351 The Vilnius group] currently consists of approximately 2000
members, who are locals, expats and travellers from all over the world. It is an active and constantly growing group with lots of events, meetings and activities - just follow posts in the forum.

Take a look at some photos of our meetings in the [http://picasaweb.google.com/cslithuania CS Lithuania Gallery] and
[https://picasaweb.google.com/106659005364119821571 CS Vilnius Gallery]

=== Emergency couch in Vilnius ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=13026 Emergency couch in Vilnius] is a group of CS'ers from Vilnius who
are able to offer a couch at a short notice for guests who are coming in 3-4 days or less and do not have a couch
yet. Therefore, use this group to find a couch only if it is emergency situation so if you know you are coming in 1
month, please use couchsearch and send individual couch requests.

=== Vilnius CS Musicians ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=33375 Vilnius CS Musicians] is a new fresh group of local and traveling
musicians for sharing great music. If you want to organise a concert, gig, jam-session or just meet CS'ers who love
music, this is a group for you. There is a list of some useful live music spots and festivals held in all Lithuania.
Let the music play!

== City Attractions ==

Vilnius is one of the most frequently visited cities of Eastern Europe. It draws attention, not only because of its
unique architectural character, but also by its cultural events and attractions.

Parts of the town you should definitely visit are first of all the Old Town (Senamiestis) which is one of the
largest old town centres in Eastern Europe and is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. However, before starting
your meanderings around the streets of the Old Town it is worth getting a bird’s eye view of Vilnius and taking in a
panoramic view of the city. There are some high buildings suitable for this purpose namely the TV tower, ''Skybar''
of the ''Reval Hotel Lietuva'' and the top floor of the shopping mall ''Europa'' near the northern bank of the Neris
River, on the edge of the Old Town. You can get the best open air view of the Old Town at the top of the Gediminas’
Hill, Hill of Three Crosses, Bastille Hill or Bekešo Hill.

[[File:Vilnius_collage.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Pieces of Vilnius]]
Top attractions in the old town would include Gediminas’ Tower and upper castle; The cathedral with a Belfry by the
side; Pilies & Didžioji streets with lots of luxurious boutiques, coffee shops, cultural centres, embassies, night
clubs, souvenir sellers and the happy hubbub of the city; late Gothic architectural masterpiece that impressed
Napoléon Bonaparte a lot - St. Anne’s Church; Townhall and Vokiečių street where many bars, clubs and restaurants
are located; an area known as the “Jewish Ghetto” centred on Stiklių, Gaono, Antokolskio and Žydų streets;
Presidential Palace and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe - Vilnius University which campus consists
of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical buildings arranged around twelve closed courtyards and the tallest
Church of St John; the Bastion which is an original Renaissance fortification; the only surviving gate of the first
original five gates in the city wall named the Gates of Dawn and of course the main street of Vilnius - Gediminas’
Avenue, where you can find some important national institutions such as the Parliament or the National Library, as
well as banks, hotels, shops, casinos, restaurants and cafés. Some small things also worth experiencing is Frank
Zappa monument and a "magical" tyle with the word "Stebuklas" (Miracle) in the Cathedral square where one can make
his wish come true by simply stepping on it and turning around with the eyes closed.

The Republic of Užupis is worth a separate notice and is a must while visiting Vilnius. Užupis is a recognised
district for artists and won the name of the most bohemic, mysterious and romantic district of Vilnius which has
its own constitution, national anthem, calendar, map, its own holidays, "main institutions" and so on. If you walk
along the banks of the Vilnia River, you will be sure to come across artists working there who will invited to have
a try at the various kinds of art, like photography and painting, or to take part in an evening of summer cinema or
exhibitions.

Take a look at our album of
[http://picasaweb.google.com/CSLithuania/SightsOfLithuania# Vilnius Sights] in order
to get a better view what the city looks like.

=== Museums and Galleries ===

There are a lot of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=95 museums]and [http://www.vilnius-
tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=97 galleries] in Vilnius however, not all of them are worth visiting. Here is the
list of the most recommended ones:

[http://www.genocid.lt/muziejus Museum of Genocide Victims (KGB)]is located in the former headquarters of the KGB
and has the former execution chamber open to visitors.

[http://www.cac.lt/ Contemporary Art Centre]is the largest art centre in the Baltic States presenting the latest
international art tendencies of the contemporary art.

[http://www.ndg.lt/index.php?id=37&L=1 National Gallery of Art] presents a collection of Lithuanian art of the 20th
and 21st century and is a good space for active communication where the audience can see the permanent exposition
and temporary exhibitions as well as participate in cultural events, lectures and educational programmes.

[http://galera.multiply.com/ Užupis Galera] is an alternative gallery in Užupis where the expositions are pretty
unique and you can witness the creatinion of it's masterpieces.

[http://kultflux.puslapiai.lt/ Kultflux] is a gallery - platform on the river Neris next to Mindaugas bridge where
various exhibitions and other cultural events take place.

=== Sightseeing outside Vilnius ===

If you are staying in Vilnius for few days, you might want to make some day trips and see few places outside
Vilnius:

[http://www.trakai.lt/index.php?-2130764187 Trakai] is a historical capital of Lithuania where one can find the only
castle in Eastern Europe built on the island on the lake, Karaite national minority and it's unique cuisine. There
are a lot of buses and trainsgoing there and it takes only about half an hour to get there. If the weather is good,
you should take a chance to see it!

[http://www.europosparkas.lt/ Open air museum of the center of Europe] signifies the geographical centre of Europe
in the language of contemporary art and is a place where nature and art are combined.

[http://www.belmontas.lt/apie_belmonta/ Belmontas park] is very close to Vilnius center and is a complex of
restaurants serving traditional meals arranged around little lakes, watermills, river and waterfalls and is a very
nice place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

=== Tourist information ===

If your host cannot show you around or you like exploring the city by yourself, you might still find it helpful to
get city maps and some additional information about the city, things to see&do, events etc. There are a few tourist
information centres in the Old Town: one is inside the Townhall and another one is located in Vilniaus street.

You also have a superb possibility to go for [http://www.vilniusfreetour.com/ Vilnius free tour] and see the hiden
side of Vilnius through the eyes of the people who live here. All you need to do is to appear at 12PM any day of the
week in front of the Townhall and look for a person with a yellow suitcase. Enjoy!

You can get some more information about Vilnius prior to your arrival in [http://www.inyourpocket.com/lithuania/
city/vilnius.html?more=1 Vilnius in your pocket] guide or browse [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=63
Vilnius tourist information center website].

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/mediabank/A4_Dviraciai%20PRINT(1).pdf Map of Vilnius old town] - quite a nice map
with the routes you can explore either by bike or on foot.

[http://www.lietuvosmarsrutai.eu/index.php?lang=2 Lithuanian routes] is a really great website where Lithuanian
routes are coherently presented with the help of textual, photo and video material for those who want to travel
around Lithuania.

[http://www.fotoskrydis.lt/kategorija/vilniaus-apskritis/ Vilnius from above] - some nice pictures of Vilnius and
other cities of Lithuania made from an air ballon.

=== Events ===

Apart from Couchsurfing events there are plenty of things to do in Vilnius and around. Vilnius is ''European Capital
of Culture 2009'' and therefore there are a lot of cultural, artistic and social activities every month. Check out
what's happening in Vilnius during your stay:

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=4162900 Cultural events in Vilnius ]
about interesting events in Vilnius provided by Couchsurfers of Vilnius group;

[http://www.eb.lt/en.php3 Entertainment bank] - the biggest database of all kinds of events in Vilnius and the rest
of Lithuania;

[http://www.vilnius-life.com/ Vilnius life] - a very handy website with a lot of useful information about Vilnius;

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/index.php?lang=EN Vilnius tourist information center];

[http://www.djscene.lt/event?fCity=vilnius&lang=en DJ Scene LT]

[http://www.club.lt/ Club.lt] - and some more clubbing events

[http://www.ore.lt/event.php?kada=&kur=Vilnius Ore.lt] - one more event calendor. Please note that the website is
only in Lithuanian;

some information

- some clubbing events in Vilnius;

[http://lietuva.lt/en/events/ Events in Lithuania] - if it's still not enough ;)

[http://www.cinema.lt/ Cinema] news. The website is in Lithuanian, but they have titles in original language as
well, so it's easy to get it;)

[http://www.vilniusjazz.lt Vilnius Jazz festival] - takes place every October and invites lots of great jazz
musicians from all over the world. Jazz lovers - don't miss a chance!

==== Cinemas ====

All non-hollywood movies fans should check out two cinemas in Vilnius (both of them are major venues for cinematic
events – festivals, meetings with filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings etc.):

* [http://www.kinopasaka.lt/ Cinema Pasaka] - (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) is a very cozy little cinema in the heart of the
old town, same building as La Boheme wine bar.

* [http://www.skalvija.lt/index.php/about_skalvija/743 Skalvija] - (A. Goštauto St. 2/15) is another cinema center
that focuses on non-commercial European and World cinema, both classics and recent film.

Other cinemas with more recent/Hollywood movie repertoire are:

* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Vingis] - Savanorių St. 7;
* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Akropolis] - Ozo St. 25 - the one in a shopping mall

=== Shopping ===

Although Vilnius is not the capital of shopping, there are several places to do that:

* There are a lot of souvenir shops and little street market in the Old town. The typical Lithuanian souvenirs would
be amber, linen and mead, but the latter is available only in the shops where they sell alcohol.
* Shopping centers: the biggest in the city center are ''Europa'' (Konstitucijos 7a) and ''Gedimino 9'' (Gedimino
Av.9) and ''VCUP'' (Konstitucijos St. 16); a bit out of the city center, but still in Vilnius - ''Akropolis'' (Ozo
St. 25) and ''Panorama'' (Saltoniškių St. 9)
* The biggest grocery chain stores are ''Rimi'', ''Maxima'' and ''Iki'' - you'll see them everywhere.
* There are a lot of proprietary brand clothing shops in the Old town, especially in the area round the Town hall;)

==

Accommodation

Hopefully you will be able to find a host and will not need to look for accommodation, but in case you do, here are
some useful websites:

==

[http://www.hostels.com/findabed.php?ChosenCity=Vilnius&ChosenCountry=Lithuania&Search=1 Inexpensive hostels,
guesthouses and hotels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=437 Youth hostels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=438 Motels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=630 Hotels and guest houses]

[http://www.camping.lt/index.php?lang=2&sid=432 Campsites across Lithuania] - in case you feel like going to the
nature ;)

== Restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs & clubs ==

=== Restaurants & cafés===

No doubt you will find McDonald's yourself, but in case you want to experience lithuanian cuisine, here are the most
popular restaurants serving traditional lithuanian meals:

[http://www.cili.lt/ Čili Kaimas] - a chain restaurant, located in Vokiečių St. 8 and Gedimino Ave. 14;

[http://www.fortodvaras.lt Forto dvaras] - also a good one and is right in the center - Pilies St. 16;

[http://www.zemaiciai.lt Žemaičiai] - a bit more expensive place in Vokiečių St. 24 and sometimes it takes ages to
get your meal, but the result is usually rewarding.

''Pilies menė'' in Pilies St. 8 or ''Amatininkų užeiga'' in Didžioji St. 19/2 might be also an option for
traditional meals.

What shall you order there to get real lithuanian experience? A distinctive trait of Lithuanian cuisine is the
preponderance of potato dishes, so try one of those:

[[File:N46 cepelinai alus.jpg|thumb|300px|left|Cepelinai (‘Zeppelins’). Skanaus!]]

* ''Cepelinai'' (‘Zeppelins’) - the most typical dish, large boiled potato dumplings (made from grated raw potato)
with fillings of minced meat or cottage cheese. Be careful - they are really filling;
* ''Kugelis'' (potato pie);
* Potato pancakes made from grated raw potato or boiled potato (sometimes – with a meat filling);
* ''Vėdarai'' (potato sausages) – a pretty creepy meal, made of pork intestines stuffed with grated raw potato,
baked in a wood stove or electric oven.

For a snack you should definitely try fried bread with cheese, marinated herring with boiled potatoes, various kinds
of cottage cheese or fermented cheeses, and hot-smoked or cold-smoked hams and sausages. Lithuanians also know many
recipes for mushroom dishes which are used in sauces, as fillings, or served as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Soup is very popular in Lithuania and there are lots of kinds of it, but the most interesting Lithuanian soup
is ''šaltibarščiai'' (cold beetroot soup), which is made from beetroot, kefir (a fermented milk product), greens and
boiled eggs, is served chilled and is very refreshing on a hot summer day. Just don't get scared of a pink colour!

And finally, beer goes with pretty much everything, so go ahead! (ok, maybe not for breakfast;)

If you're done with typical lithuanian cuisine, there's plenty of other choices to eat out that match all tastes and
budgets (in most restaurants approximately LTL 20-40 should be enough for lunch or dinner for one person):

* European cuisine is predominant in Vilnius restaurants, with a few Lithuanian dishes included in the menu - check
out ''Užupio cafe'' (Užupio 2) - a super place and a heart of Užupis Republic during the summer time; [http://
www.avilys.lt Avilys] - really nice beer brewery & restaurant (Gedimino Ave. 5); [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] - a
restaurant and a cozy club downstairs (Dominikonų St. 10); [http://www.steakhouse.lt Steak House Helios] (Didžioji
St. 28, 2 floor, Helios Entertainment Centre).
* Italian cuisine - [http://www.antonio.lt/index.php?k=EN Da Antonio I] (Vilniaus St. 23) and ''Da Antonio
Tratoria'' (Pilies St. 20); ''St. Valentino'' (Vilniaus St. 47/Trakų St. 18); ''Pomodoro'' (Jogailos g. 4)
and ''Fiorentino'' (Universiteto g. 4) with a nice inside yard during spring/summer. Note that pizzerias now
outnumber Lithuanian restaurants, so do not be surprised to find a wide range of pizzas available at most
restaurants (especially medium price range restaurants). The people of Vilnius are starting to jokingly say that
pizza is becoming Lithuania’s national dish.
* French cuisine - ''Les Amis'' (Savičiaus St. 9) and ''Saint Germain'' (Literatų g. 9), also ''La Provence''
(Vokiečių St. 22), but this one is a bit expensive.
* Czech cuisine - ''Pas Rudolfą II'' (Gedimino Ave. 46-2) - not very cozy place, but they have some quite nice
beers.
* Argentine cuisine - ''El Gaucho Sano'' (Pilies St. 10) - meat lovers, please enjoy;)
* Chinese cuisine - there is a big and always growing number of chinese restaurants in the Old town, so you will see
them at once.
* Vegetarian - ''Balti drambliai'' (White Elephants) is a purely vegetarian restaurant and very cozy bar (Vilniaus
St. 41) although you might have to wait about an hour for a beer, so better don't go there if you are in a hurry.
Vegetarians should be also able to find a suitable dish on the menu of almost any restaurant.

In terms of numbers of cafés, Vilnius is not far behind the traditional ‘café culture’ cities of Europe and they can
be found in almost every street of the Old Town, mostly in Trakų, Pilies, Didžioji, Vokiečių, Domininkonų, Savičiaus
streets and Gedimino Prospect. Most popular chain cafés are ''Double Coffee'' and ''Coffee Inn'', but don't expect
to find ''Starbucks Coffee'' here;)

=== Going out ===

There are few more mellow capitals than Vilnius - a hectic metropolis it ain't. But when night falls, there's no
shortage of revellers who are up for a party. What's more, the local beers make for a tasty tipple really worth
giving a try...again and again ;)

Note that many Vilnius bars function as restaurants during the day, and in terms of subtlety of interior décor and
quality of cuisine, they compete with the best restaurants. Some of the bars could also be appropriately included
in the list of intimate-sized clubs, because in the evenings they have live music or a DJ. List of suggested bars &
pubs, which might have a dance-floor as well is the following:

* [http://www.cafedeparis.lt Cafe de Paris] (Didžioji St. 1) - a small place in one of the main streets of the old
town, which has an incredible capacity to surprise with its wide range of events and installations, always vivid
and full of interesting people,live music every Saturday, local and international DJ’s any other day, visual arts,
alternative foods and international staff.
* [http://www.baltidrambliai.lt/main.php?page=1 Balti drambliai] (Vilniaus St. 41) - cozy and extremely relaxed
atmosphere, very reasonable prices and live music once in a while.
* [http://www.invino.lt/ In Vino] (Aušros Vartų St. 7) - is the kind of laid back haunt, especially recommended
during summertime when you can sit in outside in the inner yard, but note that it's not easy to get a table as this
place is always crowded. But give it a try.
* [http://www.mojitonaktys.lt/ Mohito Naktys] (Didžioji St. 33/2)- cocktail bar famous for their Mojitos (the best
in town), currently one of Vilnius’ hottest night spots. Drinks are pricey enough here (so not the best place to get
drunk;) therefore it tends to attract a bit more sophisticated but fun crowd rather than a beer-swilling rabble.
* [http://www.laboheme.lt/ La Boheme] (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) - cozy and very beautiful wine place + nice atmosphere,
very recommended.
* [http://www.tempolibero.lt/index.php/pageid/459 Tappo d'oro] ( l.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus St. 7) - cozy wine places
that has lots of inexpensive wines to offer;)
* Vasaros terasa (Vilniaus St. 39) - a very nice outdoor terrace located in the yard of the historic Teacher's
House, opened during spring/summer/early autumn, there are usually live concerts on weekends, as well as other
cultural events during the week, like cinema, theatre, dance, market etc. Really nice place.
* [http://www.chaplin.lt/?file=kop1.php Chaplin] (Labdarių g. 7/Totorių g. 11.) - pretty nice place, drinks and food
are still not overpriced and there is a chance there will be a DJ on the weekend. We had quite a lot of CS meetings
held there. Note that the page is in Lithuanian only.
* [http://www.absentofejos.lt/ Absento Fėjos] (Aušros Vartų St. 11) - if you manage to get in (the queue at the door
is usually pretty long and the face control is trick enough as well) you will probably like it, though it's pretty
expensive. No kids running around though :)
* [http://www.briusly.lt/ Briusly] (Islandijos St. 4.) - a very nice and cozy place, reasonably priced and very
popular + it also offers nice asian food.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - combination of bar, cafe, restaurant and nightclub, where from
morning till nighttime, people can come to eat, drink and relax and later go downstairs for more lively activities.
* [http://www.alutis.lt/snekutis/ Šnekutis] (Polocko St. 7A and Šv.Stepono St. 8) - if you want to try some awsome
home-brewed "live beer" without any ripoff, that's the place to be.
* [http://www.busitrecias.lt/index.php/en/ Būsi trečias] (Totoriu st.) 18 - mini brewery, offering a big range of
flavoured beers and hearty food.

The most recommended nightclubs would be the following:

* [http://www.tamstaclub.lt Tamsta] (Subačiaus St. 11A) - probably the best club with live music (unfortunately
closed for summer holidays..).
* [http://www.pabolatino.lt Pabo Latino] (Trakų St. 3/2)- if you like salsa, then that's the place to be. Beautiful
interior, nice cocktails, if you come a bit earlier, the entrance fee is not too bad + you get a free drink.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - a really cozy place to chill out and the entry is always free of
charge.
* [http://www.pachavilnius.lt Pacha club] (Gynėjų St. 14) - the name already speaks for itself, and people say it is
one of best clubs in Vilnius, posh and expensive though, but pretty worth it.
* [http://www.tarantinoclub.lt Tarantino club] (Trakų g. 2) - quite cozy and nice club, sometimes have live
concerts, sometimes the entrance is free, so might be worth checking it out.
* [http://www.artistai.lt Artistai] (Šv. Kazimiero St. 3) - pretty simple and relaxed place, especially popular
among students, so expect to be surrounded by a very young crowd and a possibility to get drinks in a plastic cup.
Has a nice inside yard and there is karaoke night on Tuesday.
* [http://www.havanasocialclub.lt Havana Social Club] (Šermukšnių St. 4a) - pretty nice place with friendly
atmosphere, not too posh, but nice interrior, has some good cocktails as well;)
* [http://www.brodvejus.lt Brodvėjus pub] (Mesiniu St. 4) is mostly attended by foreigners and students and the
music is mostly 90's pop, however, the place is still quite popular.
* [http://www.clubgravity.lt Gravity Club] is a good place for electronic music lovers, located in a former bunker,
usually crowded and always lacks oxygen.
* [http://www.play-club.com Play Club](Pamenkalnio St. 17/3) - you either love it or hate it: it's very small, very
alternative and simple, drinks usually come in plastic cups, but it has some charm for sure. And a football table.
* [http://www.bix.lt Bix baras](Etmonų St. 6) - rock club, pretty laid back and very popular among students.

== Getting in & around ==

=== Transportation to/from Vilnius ===

Choose the best way to get to Vilnius city:

* If you are coming by '''plane''' to [http://www.vilnius-airport.lt/en/ Vilnius international airport] you can take
a train to the central railway station (it only takes 7 minutes to get there, it goes twice an hour and costs less
than EUR 1) or take a bus Nr.1 going to the bus station or bus Nr. 2 going to the center of the city. There are
lockers in the railway station if you need to leave your luggage before heading to the city, it is very close to
the bus station (just across the street) and they both are close to the Old town even if you are going on foot (but
note that almost every trolleybus goes to the city center). You can always take a taxi, but it if you catch the ones
standing in front of the airport, they will charge you much more than you would if you call one. The journey should
cost you about EUR 7.

If you are landing in [http://www.kaunasair.lt/index.php?lang=en&page=express Kaunas airport], there is a bus going
to Vilnius (the bus schedule is in accordance with operating flights).

* [http://www.litrail.lt/wps/portal Lithuanian railways] - for those who are travelling by '''train'''. Note that
unfortunatelly ''Interrail'', ''Eurorail'' and similar tickets are not valid in Lithuania :(

* [http://www.autobusustotis.lt/en Vilnius bus station website] might be useful if you are travelling by '''bus'''.
[http://www.eurolines.ee/en/node Eurolines] coach company offers probably the cheapest and the most popular
international bus routes in the Baltics and the rest of Europe.

* '''Hitch-hiking''' is pretty popular way to travel in Lithuania as well as to the other countries and is safe
enough as long as you are staying rational yourself. [http://www.autostop.lt/main.php Hitch-hiking Club's] members
can help you a lot with tips on the best hitch-hiking-routes both in Lithuania and to nearby countries, what are the
best spots to hitch-hike etc. so definitely check out the website if you choose to travele this way.

* It is also possible to take a '''ferry''' to Klaipeda and then come to Vilnius by bus, car or train. Check out the
website of [http://www.portofklaipeda.lt/en.php/port_of_klaipda/cruising/ferry_lines/437 Klaipeda seaport] for the
ferry lines.

=== Transportation in Vilnius ===

A good thing about Vilnius is that it's small enough for you to easily get around on foot, by bike or by public
transport.

* If you are staying in the Old town, the best way to explore it is on foot. Most sights are within the walking
distance and don't be afraid to get lost, as it is the best way to discover the wonders of the city ;)

* [http://www.vilniustransport.lt/en.php/ Public transport] is neither the worse nor the best: there are quite
enough of buses and trolleybuses during the day, but they stop at 11:30 P.M. and there are no more night buses
available :( You can buy a ticket either in a kiosk (LTL 2) or from the driver (LTL 2.5) There are also tickets
valid for 1 day (LTL 13), 3 days (LTL 23) or 10 days (LTL 46), but see if it's worth it. [http://www.marsrutai.lt/
vilnius/?a=p.routes&transport_id=bus&t=xhtml&l=en Traffic schedules and route planning]might be handy as well. Note
that the public transport starts running at 5:30 AM and stops around 11:30 PM, so if you happen to fall in this gap,
choose taxi, walking, friends car or killing a night in a club ;)

* Taxi...uh, if you need to get a cab, there are two things you should bear in mind: 1)it is way cheaper to call a
cab than to catch one on the street and 2)most likely they will try to rip you off anyway, so ask some local how
much your journey should cost in advance (the rate varies from LTL 1.5 to LTL 4 per km). You may try calling one of
those [http://www.taksi.lt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=63 taxi companies]

* Bike can also be an option so if you or your host doesn't have one, you can try to rent. Some places hiring bikes
in the city center are [http://www.dviratis.lt/index.php?page=catalogue&cat=nuoma&view=45 Velo-City] (Bernadinų St.
10, in front of St. Anns Church) or [http://www.kelrodis.lt Kelrodis](T.Ševčenkos g. 15/14).

* If you're coming by car, well, be careful :) but if you wish to rent a car, you can do it in the centre of the
city as well as at the airport. Note that you will be asked for your identification card and a valid international
credit card. Check out the list of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=76&aid=461 car rental
companies]

== Other useful information ==

* There are many Wi-fi places in Vilnius, but if you need an '''Internet cafe''', here are some of them (click for
the map):

[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=780BEC7DC51211D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=112C5A2E7C2E11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=70651542C51411D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=5064990FC51311D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=A37A73BA7C2B11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=7113DE227C3111DA8602746164617373

* [http://www.meteo.lt/english/forecasts.php Weather forecast] if you want to check what the weather is like during
your stay.
* You can '''exchange''' money in any bank, which may also be located in bigger shopping centers, there is an
exchange booth at the airport (arrivals hall) and outside railway/bus station as well. Note that ''Parex'' bank is
the only bank that accepts coins for exchange.
* '''Smoking''' is prohibited inside all restaurants, cafes, bars etc. unless there are tables outside.
* If you you can use your phone with other SIM cards, it would be cheaper to buy local sim card in a kiosk or in any
mobile phone shop. The most popular ones are ''Pildyk'', ''Labas'', ''Ezys'', ''Extra''. The SIM card costs from 5
to 10 lt (1,5-2,5 euros) and you can top it up.
* Free Wifi internet spots are available at many cafes in the whole city. Please ask the staff or watch for a Wifi-
sign at the door.
* '''Emergency number''' is the same as for the rest of Europe - 112.

Some websites to give you an idea about the '''costs in Vilnius''', but note that the prices are rising all the
time, so the information can really be not accurate enough:

* [http://www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=81&tefl_session=9fad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f3d&x=1&y=1
International City Cost Guide] - update the prices by doubling the given ones;)

== Foreigners about Vilnius, LT & CS ==

Colleqium] - Pilies St. 22-1;
Avineta] - Naugarduko St. 76;
Bazė] - A. Rotundo St. 2;
Fantazija] - Naugarduko St. 34;
Liumineta] - Antakalnio St. 40;
Netcafe]- Antakalnio St. 36

* [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=2680237 Vilnius. What it's like in foreign eyes?] - CS
thread on foreigners' impression about Vilnius.
* [http://www.expatintelligence.com/expat-lithuania.shtml Expat Lithuania] - short introduction about life in LT
* [http://www.expatexchange.com/expat/index.cfm?frmid=247&forumid=0&dbname=ee&shared=N ExpatExchange] - website
where expats share their experience in LT. Can't promise all the information is correct, but might be useful.

== CS in the Press ==

There are several articles about CS in the media in Lithuanian:

http://www.zebra.lt/lt/laisvalaikis/keliones/Couch-surfing-kitoks-keliavimo-budas-2009-10-12.html
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16689368
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16695835
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17138568
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17188256
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17203292
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17285172
http://www.alfa.lt/straipsnis/157702
http://www.universitetozurnalistas.lt/uz/skotija/pub4.html

[UPDATE] and in english:
* http://www.travelblog.org/Europe/Sweden/Orebro-County/Orebro/blog-558605.html

Vilnius

2013-03-17T10:15:36Z

Angelake: /* Vilnius on CouchSurfing */

{{IsIn|Lithuania}}
'''Vilnius''' is the capital city of [[Lithuania]] and the largest city in the country with the population of over
550.000 and all major political, economic, social and cultural centres.

== Vilnius on CouchSurfing ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1351 The Vilnius group] currently consists of approximately 2000
members, who are locals, expats and travellers from all over the world. It is an active and constantly growing group
with lots of events, meetings and activities - just follow posts in the forum.

Though currently Vilnius has no city ambassadors, there is a small organising committee who are responsible for
weekly CS meetings. To be more flexible we decided to make each meeting in a different day of the week and different
place. Read the forum for details.

Everyone is welcome to take part in the events and activities or organise a meeting!

Take a look at some photos of our meetings in the [http://picasaweb.google.com/cslithuania CS Lithuania Gallery] and
[https://picasaweb.google.com/106659005364119821571 CS Vilnius Gallery]

=== Emergency couch in Vilnius ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=13026 Emergency couch in Vilnius] is a group of CS'ers from Vilnius who
are able to offer a couch at a short notice for guests who are coming in 3-4 days or less and do not have a couch
yet. Therefore, use this group to find a couch only if it is emergency situation so if you know you are coming in 1
month, please use couchsearch and send individual couch requests.

=== Vilnius CS Musicians ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=33375 Vilnius CS Musicians] is a new fresh group of local and traveling
musicians for sharing great music. If you want to organise a concert, gig, jam-session or just meet CS'ers who love
music, this is a group for you. There is a list of some useful live music spots and festivals held in all Lithuania.
Let the music play!

== City Attractions ==

Vilnius is one of the most frequently visited cities of Eastern Europe. It draws attention, not only because of its
unique architectural character, but also by its cultural events and attractions.

Parts of the town you should definitely visit are first of all the Old Town (Senamiestis) which is one of the
largest old town centres in Eastern Europe and is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. However, before starting
your meanderings around the streets of the Old Town it is worth getting a bird’s eye view of Vilnius and taking in a
panoramic view of the city. There are some high buildings suitable for this purpose namely the TV tower, ''Skybar''
of the ''Reval Hotel Lietuva'' and the top floor of the shopping mall ''Europa'' near the northern bank of the Neris
River, on the edge of the Old Town. You can get the best open air view of the Old Town at the top of the Gediminas’
Hill, Hill of Three Crosses, Bastille Hill or Bekešo Hill.

[[File:Vilnius_collage.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Pieces of Vilnius]]
Top attractions in the old town would include Gediminas’ Tower and upper castle; The cathedral with a Belfry by the
side; Pilies & Didžioji streets with lots of luxurious boutiques, coffee shops, cultural centres, embassies, night
clubs, souvenir sellers and the happy hubbub of the city; late Gothic architectural masterpiece that impressed
Napoléon Bonaparte a lot - St. Anne’s Church; Townhall and Vokiečių street where many bars, clubs and restaurants
are located; an area known as the “Jewish Ghetto” centred on Stiklių, Gaono, Antokolskio and Žydų streets;
Presidential Palace and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe - Vilnius University which campus consists
of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical buildings arranged around twelve closed courtyards and the tallest
Church of St John; the Bastion which is an original Renaissance fortification; the only surviving gate of the first
original five gates in the city wall named the Gates of Dawn and of course the main street of Vilnius - Gediminas’
Avenue, where you can find some important national institutions such as the Parliament or the National Library, as
well as banks, hotels, shops, casinos, restaurants and cafés. Some small things also worth experiencing is Frank
Zappa monument and a "magical" tyle with the word "Stebuklas" (Miracle) in the Cathedral square where one can make
his wish come true by simply stepping on it and turning around with the eyes closed.

The Republic of Užupis is worth a separate notice and is a must while visiting Vilnius. Užupis is a recognised
district for artists and won the name of the most bohemic, mysterious and romantic district of Vilnius which has
its own constitution, national anthem, calendar, map, its own holidays, "main institutions" and so on. If you walk
along the banks of the Vilnia River, you will be sure to come across artists working there who will invited to have
a try at the various kinds of art, like photography and painting, or to take part in an evening of summer cinema or
exhibitions.

Take a look at our album of
[http://picasaweb.google.com/CSLithuania/SightsOfLithuania# Vilnius Sights] in order
to get a better view what the city looks like.

=== Museums and Galleries ===

There are a lot of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=95 museums]and [http://www.vilnius-
tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=97 galleries] in Vilnius however, not all of them are worth visiting. Here is the
list of the most recommended ones:

[http://www.genocid.lt/muziejus Museum of Genocide Victims (KGB)]is located in the former headquarters of the KGB
and has the former execution chamber open to visitors.

[http://www.cac.lt/ Contemporary Art Centre]is the largest art centre in the Baltic States presenting the latest
international art tendencies of the contemporary art.

[http://www.ndg.lt/index.php?id=37&L=1 National Gallery of Art] presents a collection of Lithuanian art of the 20th
and 21st century and is a good space for active communication where the audience can see the permanent exposition
and temporary exhibitions as well as participate in cultural events, lectures and educational programmes.

[http://galera.multiply.com/ Užupis Galera] is an alternative gallery in Užupis where the expositions are pretty
unique and you can witness the creatinion of it's masterpieces.

[http://kultflux.puslapiai.lt/ Kultflux] is a gallery - platform on the river Neris next to Mindaugas bridge where
various exhibitions and other cultural events take place.

=== Sightseeing outside Vilnius ===

If you are staying in Vilnius for few days, you might want to make some day trips and see few places outside
Vilnius:

[http://www.trakai.lt/index.php?-2130764187 Trakai] is a historical capital of Lithuania where one can find the only
castle in Eastern Europe built on the island on the lake, Karaite national minority and it's unique cuisine. There
are a lot of buses and trainsgoing there and it takes only about half an hour to get there. If the weather is good,
you should take a chance to see it!

[http://www.europosparkas.lt/ Open air museum of the center of Europe] signifies the geographical centre of Europe
in the language of contemporary art and is a place where nature and art are combined.

[http://www.belmontas.lt/apie_belmonta/ Belmontas park] is very close to Vilnius center and is a complex of
restaurants serving traditional meals arranged around little lakes, watermills, river and waterfalls and is a very
nice place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

=== Tourist information ===

If your host cannot show you around or you like exploring the city by yourself, you might still find it helpful to
get city maps and some additional information about the city, things to see&do, events etc. There are a few tourist
information centres in the Old Town: one is inside the Townhall and another one is located in Vilniaus street.

You also have a superb possibility to go for [http://www.vilniusfreetour.com/ Vilnius free tour] and see the hiden
side of Vilnius through the eyes of the people who live here. All you need to do is to appear at 12PM any day of the
week in front of the Townhall and look for a person with a yellow suitcase. Enjoy!

You can get some more information about Vilnius prior to your arrival in [http://www.inyourpocket.com/lithuania/
city/vilnius.html?more=1 Vilnius in your pocket] guide or browse [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=63
Vilnius tourist information center website].

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/mediabank/A4_Dviraciai%20PRINT(1).pdf Map of Vilnius old town] - quite a nice map
with the routes you can explore either by bike or on foot.

[http://www.lietuvosmarsrutai.eu/index.php?lang=2 Lithuanian routes] is a really great website where Lithuanian
routes are coherently presented with the help of textual, photo and video material for those who want to travel
around Lithuania.

[http://www.fotoskrydis.lt/kategorija/vilniaus-apskritis/ Vilnius from above] - some nice pictures of Vilnius and
other cities of Lithuania made from an air ballon.

=== Events ===

Apart from Couchsurfing events there are plenty of things to do in Vilnius and around. Vilnius is ''European Capital
of Culture 2009'' and therefore there are a lot of cultural, artistic and social activities every month. Check out
what's happening in Vilnius during your stay:

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=4162900 Cultural events in Vilnius ]
about interesting events in Vilnius provided by Couchsurfers of Vilnius group;

[http://www.eb.lt/en.php3 Entertainment bank] - the biggest database of all kinds of events in Vilnius and the rest
of Lithuania;

[http://www.vilnius-life.com/ Vilnius life] - a very handy website with a lot of useful information about Vilnius;

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/index.php?lang=EN Vilnius tourist information center];

[http://www.djscene.lt/event?fCity=vilnius&lang=en DJ Scene LT]

[http://www.club.lt/ Club.lt] - and some more clubbing events

[http://www.ore.lt/event.php?kada=&kur=Vilnius Ore.lt] - one more event calendor. Please note that the website is
only in Lithuanian;

some information

- some clubbing events in Vilnius;

[http://lietuva.lt/en/events/ Events in Lithuania] - if it's still not enough ;)

[http://www.cinema.lt/ Cinema] news. The website is in Lithuanian, but they have titles in original language as
well, so it's easy to get it;)

[http://www.vilniusjazz.lt Vilnius Jazz festival] - takes place every October and invites lots of great jazz
musicians from all over the world. Jazz lovers - don't miss a chance!

==== Cinemas ====

All non-hollywood movies fans should check out two cinemas in Vilnius (both of them are major venues for cinematic
events – festivals, meetings with filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings etc.):

* [http://www.kinopasaka.lt/ Cinema Pasaka] - (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) is a very cozy little cinema in the heart of the
old town, same building as La Boheme wine bar.

* [http://www.skalvija.lt/index.php/about_skalvija/743 Skalvija] - (A. Goštauto St. 2/15) is another cinema center
that focuses on non-commercial European and World cinema, both classics and recent film.

Other cinemas with more recent/Hollywood movie repertoire are:

* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Vingis] - Savanorių St. 7;
* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Akropolis] - Ozo St. 25 - the one in a shopping mall

=== Shopping ===

Although Vilnius is not the capital of shopping, there are several places to do that:

* There are a lot of souvenir shops and little street market in the Old town. The typical Lithuanian souvenirs would
be amber, linen and mead, but the latter is available only in the shops where they sell alcohol.
* Shopping centers: the biggest in the city center are ''Europa'' (Konstitucijos 7a) and ''Gedimino 9'' (Gedimino
Av.9) and ''VCUP'' (Konstitucijos St. 16); a bit out of the city center, but still in Vilnius - ''Akropolis'' (Ozo
St. 25) and ''Panorama'' (Saltoniškių St. 9)
* The biggest grocery chain stores are ''Rimi'', ''Maxima'' and ''Iki'' - you'll see them everywhere.
* There are a lot of proprietary brand clothing shops in the Old town, especially in the area round the Town hall;)

==

Accommodation

Hopefully you will be able to find a host and will not need to look for accommodation, but in case you do, here are
some useful websites:

==

[http://www.hostels.com/findabed.php?ChosenCity=Vilnius&ChosenCountry=Lithuania&Search=1 Inexpensive hostels,
guesthouses and hotels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=437 Youth hostels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=438 Motels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=630 Hotels and guest houses]

[http://www.camping.lt/index.php?lang=2&sid=432 Campsites across Lithuania] - in case you feel like going to the
nature ;)

== Restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs & clubs ==

=== Restaurants & cafés===

No doubt you will find McDonald's yourself, but in case you want to experience lithuanian cuisine, here are the most
popular restaurants serving traditional lithuanian meals:

[http://www.cili.lt/ Čili Kaimas] - a chain restaurant, located in Vokiečių St. 8 and Gedimino Ave. 14;

[http://www.fortodvaras.lt Forto dvaras] - also a good one and is right in the center - Pilies St. 16;

[http://www.zemaiciai.lt Žemaičiai] - a bit more expensive place in Vokiečių St. 24 and sometimes it takes ages to
get your meal, but the result is usually rewarding.

''Pilies menė'' in Pilies St. 8 or ''Amatininkų užeiga'' in Didžioji St. 19/2 might be also an option for
traditional meals.

What shall you order there to get real lithuanian experience? A distinctive trait of Lithuanian cuisine is the
preponderance of potato dishes, so try one of those:

[[File:N46 cepelinai alus.jpg|thumb|300px|left|Cepelinai (‘Zeppelins’). Skanaus!]]

* ''Cepelinai'' (‘Zeppelins’) - the most typical dish, large boiled potato dumplings (made from grated raw potato)
with fillings of minced meat or cottage cheese. Be careful - they are really filling;
* ''Kugelis'' (potato pie);
* Potato pancakes made from grated raw potato or boiled potato (sometimes – with a meat filling);
* ''Vėdarai'' (potato sausages) – a pretty creepy meal, made of pork intestines stuffed with grated raw potato,
baked in a wood stove or electric oven.

For a snack you should definitely try fried bread with cheese, marinated herring with boiled potatoes, various kinds
of cottage cheese or fermented cheeses, and hot-smoked or cold-smoked hams and sausages. Lithuanians also know many
recipes for mushroom dishes which are used in sauces, as fillings, or served as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Soup is very popular in Lithuania and there are lots of kinds of it, but the most interesting Lithuanian soup
is ''šaltibarščiai'' (cold beetroot soup), which is made from beetroot, kefir (a fermented milk product), greens and
boiled eggs, is served chilled and is very refreshing on a hot summer day. Just don't get scared of a pink colour!

And finally, beer goes with pretty much everything, so go ahead! (ok, maybe not for breakfast;)

If you're done with typical lithuanian cuisine, there's plenty of other choices to eat out that match all tastes and
budgets (in most restaurants approximately LTL 20-40 should be enough for lunch or dinner for one person):

* European cuisine is predominant in Vilnius restaurants, with a few Lithuanian dishes included in the menu - check
out ''Užupio cafe'' (Užupio 2) - a super place and a heart of Užupis Republic during the summer time; [http://
www.avilys.lt Avilys] - really nice beer brewery & restaurant (Gedimino Ave. 5); [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] - a
restaurant and a cozy club downstairs (Dominikonų St. 10); [http://www.steakhouse.lt Steak House Helios] (Didžioji
St. 28, 2 floor, Helios Entertainment Centre).
* Italian cuisine - [http://www.antonio.lt/index.php?k=EN Da Antonio I] (Vilniaus St. 23) and ''Da Antonio
Tratoria'' (Pilies St. 20); ''St. Valentino'' (Vilniaus St. 47/Trakų St. 18); ''Pomodoro'' (Jogailos g. 4)
and ''Fiorentino'' (Universiteto g. 4) with a nice inside yard during spring/summer. Note that pizzerias now
outnumber Lithuanian restaurants, so do not be surprised to find a wide range of pizzas available at most
restaurants (especially medium price range restaurants). The people of Vilnius are starting to jokingly say that
pizza is becoming Lithuania’s national dish.
* French cuisine - ''Les Amis'' (Savičiaus St. 9) and ''Saint Germain'' (Literatų g. 9), also ''La Provence''
(Vokiečių St. 22), but this one is a bit expensive.
* Czech cuisine - ''Pas Rudolfą II'' (Gedimino Ave. 46-2) - not very cozy place, but they have some quite nice
beers.
* Argentine cuisine - ''El Gaucho Sano'' (Pilies St. 10) - meat lovers, please enjoy;)
* Chinese cuisine - there is a big and always growing number of chinese restaurants in the Old town, so you will see
them at once.
* Vegetarian - ''Balti drambliai'' (White Elephants) is a purely vegetarian restaurant and very cozy bar (Vilniaus
St. 41) although you might have to wait about an hour for a beer, so better don't go there if you are in a hurry.
Vegetarians should be also able to find a suitable dish on the menu of almost any restaurant.

In terms of numbers of cafés, Vilnius is not far behind the traditional ‘café culture’ cities of Europe and they can
be found in almost every street of the Old Town, mostly in Trakų, Pilies, Didžioji, Vokiečių, Domininkonų, Savičiaus
streets and Gedimino Prospect. Most popular chain cafés are ''Double Coffee'' and ''Coffee Inn'', but don't expect
to find ''Starbucks Coffee'' here;)

=== Going out ===

There are few more mellow capitals than Vilnius - a hectic metropolis it ain't. But when night falls, there's no
shortage of revellers who are up for a party. What's more, the local beers make for a tasty tipple really worth
giving a try...again and again ;)

Note that many Vilnius bars function as restaurants during the day, and in terms of subtlety of interior décor and
quality of cuisine, they compete with the best restaurants. Some of the bars could also be appropriately included
in the list of intimate-sized clubs, because in the evenings they have live music or a DJ. List of suggested bars &
pubs, which might have a dance-floor as well is the following:

* [http://www.cafedeparis.lt Cafe de Paris] (Didžioji St. 1) - a small place in one of the main streets of the old
town, which has an incredible capacity to surprise with its wide range of events and installations, always vivid
and full of interesting people,live music every Saturday, local and international DJ’s any other day, visual arts,
alternative foods and international staff.
* [http://www.baltidrambliai.lt/main.php?page=1 Balti drambliai] (Vilniaus St. 41) - cozy and extremely relaxed
atmosphere, very reasonable prices and live music once in a while.
* [http://www.invino.lt/ In Vino] (Aušros Vartų St. 7) - is the kind of laid back haunt, especially recommended
during summertime when you can sit in outside in the inner yard, but note that it's not easy to get a table as this
place is always crowded. But give it a try.
* [http://www.mojitonaktys.lt/ Mohito Naktys] (Didžioji St. 33/2)- cocktail bar famous for their Mojitos (the best
in town), currently one of Vilnius’ hottest night spots. Drinks are pricey enough here (so not the best place to get
drunk;) therefore it tends to attract a bit more sophisticated but fun crowd rather than a beer-swilling rabble.
* [http://www.laboheme.lt/ La Boheme] (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) - cozy and very beautiful wine place + nice atmosphere,
very recommended.
* [http://www.tempolibero.lt/index.php/pageid/459 Tappo d'oro] ( l.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus St. 7) - cozy wine places
that has lots of inexpensive wines to offer;)
* Vasaros terasa (Vilniaus St. 39) - a very nice outdoor terrace located in the yard of the historic Teacher's
House, opened during spring/summer/early autumn, there are usually live concerts on weekends, as well as other
cultural events during the week, like cinema, theatre, dance, market etc. Really nice place.
* [http://www.chaplin.lt/?file=kop1.php Chaplin] (Labdarių g. 7/Totorių g. 11.) - pretty nice place, drinks and food
are still not overpriced and there is a chance there will be a DJ on the weekend. We had quite a lot of CS meetings
held there. Note that the page is in Lithuanian only.
* [http://www.absentofejos.lt/ Absento Fėjos] (Aušros Vartų St. 11) - if you manage to get in (the queue at the door
is usually pretty long and the face control is trick enough as well) you will probably like it, though it's pretty
expensive. No kids running around though :)
* [http://www.briusly.lt/ Briusly] (Islandijos St. 4.) - a very nice and cozy place, reasonably priced and very
popular + it also offers nice asian food.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - combination of bar, cafe, restaurant and nightclub, where from
morning till nighttime, people can come to eat, drink and relax and later go downstairs for more lively activities.
* [http://www.alutis.lt/snekutis/ Šnekutis] (Polocko St. 7A and Šv.Stepono St. 8) - if you want to try some awsome
home-brewed "live beer" without any ripoff, that's the place to be.
* [http://www.busitrecias.lt/index.php/en/ Būsi trečias] (Totoriu st.) 18 - mini brewery, offering a big range of
flavoured beers and hearty food.

The most recommended nightclubs would be the following:

* [http://www.tamstaclub.lt Tamsta] (Subačiaus St. 11A) - probably the best club with live music (unfortunately
closed for summer holidays..).
* [http://www.pabolatino.lt Pabo Latino] (Trakų St. 3/2)- if you like salsa, then that's the place to be. Beautiful
interior, nice cocktails, if you come a bit earlier, the entrance fee is not too bad + you get a free drink.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - a really cozy place to chill out and the entry is always free of
charge.
* [http://www.pachavilnius.lt Pacha club] (Gynėjų St. 14) - the name already speaks for itself, and people say it is
one of best clubs in Vilnius, posh and expensive though, but pretty worth it.
* [http://www.tarantinoclub.lt Tarantino club] (Trakų g. 2) - quite cozy and nice club, sometimes have live
concerts, sometimes the entrance is free, so might be worth checking it out.
* [http://www.artistai.lt Artistai] (Šv. Kazimiero St. 3) - pretty simple and relaxed place, especially popular
among students, so expect to be surrounded by a very young crowd and a possibility to get drinks in a plastic cup.
Has a nice inside yard and there is karaoke night on Tuesday.
* [http://www.havanasocialclub.lt Havana Social Club] (Šermukšnių St. 4a) - pretty nice place with friendly
atmosphere, not too posh, but nice interrior, has some good cocktails as well;)
* [http://www.brodvejus.lt Brodvėjus pub] (Mesiniu St. 4) is mostly attended by foreigners and students and the
music is mostly 90's pop, however, the place is still quite popular.
* [http://www.clubgravity.lt Gravity Club] is a good place for electronic music lovers, located in a former bunker,
usually crowded and always lacks oxygen.
* [http://www.play-club.com Play Club](Pamenkalnio St. 17/3) - you either love it or hate it: it's very small, very
alternative and simple, drinks usually come in plastic cups, but it has some charm for sure. And a football table.
* [http://www.bix.lt Bix baras](Etmonų St. 6) - rock club, pretty laid back and very popular among students.

== Getting in & around ==

=== Transportation to/from Vilnius ===

Choose the best way to get to Vilnius city:

* If you are coming by '''plane''' to [http://www.vilnius-airport.lt/en/ Vilnius international airport] you can take
a train to the central railway station (it only takes 7 minutes to get there, it goes twice an hour and costs less
than EUR 1) or take a bus Nr.1 going to the bus station or bus Nr. 2 going to the center of the city. There are
lockers in the railway station if you need to leave your luggage before heading to the city, it is very close to
the bus station (just across the street) and they both are close to the Old town even if you are going on foot (but
note that almost every trolleybus goes to the city center). You can always take a taxi, but it if you catch the ones
standing in front of the airport, they will charge you much more than you would if you call one. The journey should
cost you about EUR 7.

If you are landing in [http://www.kaunasair.lt/index.php?lang=en&page=express Kaunas airport], there is a bus going
to Vilnius (the bus schedule is in accordance with operating flights).

* [http://www.litrail.lt/wps/portal Lithuanian railways] - for those who are travelling by '''train'''. Note that
unfortunatelly ''Interrail'', ''Eurorail'' and similar tickets are not valid in Lithuania :(

* [http://www.autobusustotis.lt/en Vilnius bus station website] might be useful if you are travelling by '''bus'''.
[http://www.eurolines.ee/en/node Eurolines] coach company offers probably the cheapest and the most popular
international bus routes in the Baltics and the rest of Europe.

* '''Hitch-hiking''' is pretty popular way to travel in Lithuania as well as to the other countries and is safe
enough as long as you are staying rational yourself. [http://www.autostop.lt/main.php Hitch-hiking Club's] members
can help you a lot with tips on the best hitch-hiking-routes both in Lithuania and to nearby countries, what are the
best spots to hitch-hike etc. so definitely check out the website if you choose to travele this way.

* It is also possible to take a '''ferry''' to Klaipeda and then come to Vilnius by bus, car or train. Check out the
website of [http://www.portofklaipeda.lt/en.php/port_of_klaipda/cruising/ferry_lines/437 Klaipeda seaport] for the
ferry lines.

=== Transportation in Vilnius ===

A good thing about Vilnius is that it's small enough for you to easily get around on foot, by bike or by public
transport.

* If you are staying in the Old town, the best way to explore it is on foot. Most sights are within the walking
distance and don't be afraid to get lost, as it is the best way to discover the wonders of the city ;)

* [http://www.vilniustransport.lt/en.php/ Public transport] is neither the worse nor the best: there are quite
enough of buses and trolleybuses during the day, but they stop at 11:30 P.M. and there are no more night buses
available :( You can buy a ticket either in a kiosk (LTL 2) or from the driver (LTL 2.5) There are also tickets
valid for 1 day (LTL 13), 3 days (LTL 23) or 10 days (LTL 46), but see if it's worth it. [http://www.marsrutai.lt/
vilnius/?a=p.routes&transport_id=bus&t=xhtml&l=en Traffic schedules and route planning]might be handy as well. Note
that the public transport starts running at 5:30 AM and stops around 11:30 PM, so if you happen to fall in this gap,
choose taxi, walking, friends car or killing a night in a club ;)

* Taxi...uh, if you need to get a cab, there are two things you should bear in mind: 1)it is way cheaper to call a
cab than to catch one on the street and 2)most likely they will try to rip you off anyway, so ask some local how
much your journey should cost in advance (the rate varies from LTL 1.5 to LTL 4 per km). You may try calling one of
those [http://www.taksi.lt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=63 taxi companies]

* Bike can also be an option so if you or your host doesn't have one, you can try to rent. Some places hiring bikes
in the city center are [http://www.dviratis.lt/index.php?page=catalogue&cat=nuoma&view=45 Velo-City] (Bernadinų St.
10, in front of St. Anns Church) or [http://www.kelrodis.lt Kelrodis](T.Ševčenkos g. 15/14).

* If you're coming by car, well, be careful :) but if you wish to rent a car, you can do it in the centre of the
city as well as at the airport. Note that you will be asked for your identification card and a valid international
credit card. Check out the list of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=76&aid=461 car rental
companies]

== Other useful information ==

* There are many Wi-fi places in Vilnius, but if you need an '''Internet cafe''', here are some of them (click for
the map):

[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=780BEC7DC51211D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=112C5A2E7C2E11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=70651542C51411D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=5064990FC51311D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=A37A73BA7C2B11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=7113DE227C3111DA8602746164617373

* [http://www.meteo.lt/english/forecasts.php Weather forecast] if you want to check what the weather is like during
your stay.
* You can '''exchange''' money in any bank, which may also be located in bigger shopping centers, there is an
exchange booth at the airport (arrivals hall) and outside railway/bus station as well. Note that ''Parex'' bank is
the only bank that accepts coins for exchange.
* '''Smoking''' is prohibited inside all restaurants, cafes, bars etc. unless there are tables outside.
* If you you can use your phone with other SIM cards, it would be cheaper to buy local sim card in a kiosk or in any
mobile phone shop. The most popular ones are ''Pildyk'', ''Labas'', ''Ezys'', ''Extra''. The SIM card costs from 5
to 10 lt (1,5-2,5 euros) and you can top it up.
* Free Wifi internet spots are available at many cafes in the whole city. Please ask the staff or watch for a Wifi-
sign at the door.
* '''Emergency number''' is the same as for the rest of Europe - 112.

Some websites to give you an idea about the '''costs in Vilnius''', but note that the prices are rising all the
time, so the information can really be not accurate enough:

* [http://www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=81&tefl_session=9fad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f3d&x=1&y=1
International City Cost Guide] - update the prices by doubling the given ones;)

== Foreigners about Vilnius, LT & CS ==

Colleqium] - Pilies St. 22-1;
Avineta] - Naugarduko St. 76;
Bazė] - A. Rotundo St. 2;
Fantazija] - Naugarduko St. 34;
Liumineta] - Antakalnio St. 40;
Netcafe]- Antakalnio St. 36

* [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=2680237 Vilnius. What it's like in foreign eyes?] - CS
thread on foreigners' impression about Vilnius.
* [http://www.expatintelligence.com/expat-lithuania.shtml Expat Lithuania] - short introduction about life in LT
* [http://www.expatexchange.com/expat/index.cfm?frmid=247&forumid=0&dbname=ee&shared=N ExpatExchange] - website
where expats share their experience in LT. Can't promise all the information is correct, but might be useful.

== CS in the Press ==

There are several articles about CS in the media in Lithuanian:

http://www.zebra.lt/lt/laisvalaikis/keliones/Couch-surfing-kitoks-keliavimo-budas-2009-10-12.html
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16689368
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16695835
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17138568
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17188256
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17203292
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17285172
http://www.alfa.lt/straipsnis/157702
http://www.universitetozurnalistas.lt/uz/skotija/pub4.html

[UPDATE] and in english:
* http://www.travelblog.org/Europe/Sweden/Orebro-County/Orebro/blog-558605.html

Vilnius

2013-03-17T10:14:26Z

Angelake: Created page with "{{IsIn|Lithuania}} '''Vilnius''' is the capital city of Lithuania and the largest city in the country with the population of over 550.000 and all major political, economic..."

{{IsIn|Lithuania}}
'''Vilnius''' is the capital city of [[Lithuania]] and the largest city in the country with the population of over
550.000 and all major political, economic, social and cultural centres.

== Vilnius on CouchSurfing ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1351 The Vilnius group] currently consists of approximately 2000
members, who are locals, expats and travellers from all over the world. It is an active and constantly growing group
with lots of events, meetings and activities - just follow posts in the forum.

Though currently Vilnius has no city ambassadors, there is a small organising committee who are responsible for
weekly CS meetings. To be more flexible we decided to make each meeting in a different day of the week and different
place. Read the forum for details, or feel free to contact any of us: [http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/angelake/
Agne (angelake) ],
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/raminta.s/ Raminta ],
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/eleir_bag/ Giedre], or
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/mildatilda/ Milda].

Everyone is welcome to take part in the events and activities or organise a meeting!

Take a look at some photos of our meetings in the [http://picasaweb.google.com/cslithuania CS Lithuania Gallery] and
[https://picasaweb.google.com/106659005364119821571 CS Vilnius Gallery]

[[File:94.jpg|thumb|300px|left|CS meeting in Vilnius]]

=== Emergency couch in Vilnius ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=13026 Emergency couch in Vilnius] is a group of CS'ers from Vilnius who
are able to offer a couch at a short notice for guests who are coming in 3-4 days or less and do not have a couch
yet. Therefore, use this group to find a couch only if it is emergency situation so if you know you are coming in 1
month, please use couchsearch and send individual couch requests.

=== Vilnius CS Musicians ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=33375 Vilnius CS Musicians] is a new fresh group of local and traveling
musicians for sharing great music. If you want to organise a concert, gig, jam-session or just meet CS'ers who love
music, this is a group for you. There is a list of some useful live music spots and festivals held in all Lithuania.
Let the music play!

== City Attractions ==

Vilnius is one of the most frequently visited cities of Eastern Europe. It draws attention, not only because of its
unique architectural character, but also by its cultural events and attractions.

Parts of the town you should definitely visit are first of all the Old Town (Senamiestis) which is one of the
largest old town centres in Eastern Europe and is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. However, before starting
your meanderings around the streets of the Old Town it is worth getting a bird’s eye view of Vilnius and taking in a
panoramic view of the city. There are some high buildings suitable for this purpose namely the TV tower, ''Skybar''
of the ''Reval Hotel Lietuva'' and the top floor of the shopping mall ''Europa'' near the northern bank of the Neris
River, on the edge of the Old Town. You can get the best open air view of the Old Town at the top of the Gediminas’
Hill, Hill of Three Crosses, Bastille Hill or Bekešo Hill.

[[File:Vilnius_collage.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Pieces of Vilnius]]
Top attractions in the old town would include Gediminas’ Tower and upper castle; The cathedral with a Belfry by the
side; Pilies & Didžioji streets with lots of luxurious boutiques, coffee shops, cultural centres, embassies, night
clubs, souvenir sellers and the happy hubbub of the city; late Gothic architectural masterpiece that impressed
Napoléon Bonaparte a lot - St. Anne’s Church; Townhall and Vokiečių street where many bars, clubs and restaurants
are located; an area known as the “Jewish Ghetto” centred on Stiklių, Gaono, Antokolskio and Žydų streets;
Presidential Palace and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe - Vilnius University which campus consists
of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical buildings arranged around twelve closed courtyards and the tallest
Church of St John; the Bastion which is an original Renaissance fortification; the only surviving gate of the first
original five gates in the city wall named the Gates of Dawn and of course the main street of Vilnius - Gediminas’
Avenue, where you can find some important national institutions such as the Parliament or the National Library, as
well as banks, hotels, shops, casinos, restaurants and cafés. Some small things also worth experiencing is Frank
Zappa monument and a "magical" tyle with the word "Stebuklas" (Miracle) in the Cathedral square where one can make
his wish come true by simply stepping on it and turning around with the eyes closed.

The Republic of Užupis is worth a separate notice and is a must while visiting Vilnius. Užupis is a recognised
district for artists and won the name of the most bohemic, mysterious and romantic district of Vilnius which has
its own constitution, national anthem, calendar, map, its own holidays, "main institutions" and so on. If you walk
along the banks of the Vilnia River, you will be sure to come across artists working there who will invited to have
a try at the various kinds of art, like photography and painting, or to take part in an evening of summer cinema or
exhibitions.

Take a look at our album of
[http://picasaweb.google.com/CSLithuania/SightsOfLithuania# Vilnius Sights] in order
to get a better view what the city looks like.

=== Museums and Galleries ===

There are a lot of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=95 museums]and [http://www.vilnius-
tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=97 galleries] in Vilnius however, not all of them are worth visiting. Here is the
list of the most recommended ones:

[http://www.genocid.lt/muziejus Museum of Genocide Victims (KGB)]is located in the former headquarters of the KGB
and has the former execution chamber open to visitors.

[http://www.cac.lt/ Contemporary Art Centre]is the largest art centre in the Baltic States presenting the latest
international art tendencies of the contemporary art.

[http://www.ndg.lt/index.php?id=37&L=1 National Gallery of Art] presents a collection of Lithuanian art of the 20th
and 21st century and is a good space for active communication where the audience can see the permanent exposition
and temporary exhibitions as well as participate in cultural events, lectures and educational programmes.

[http://galera.multiply.com/ Užupis Galera] is an alternative gallery in Užupis where the expositions are pretty
unique and you can witness the creatinion of it's masterpieces.

[http://kultflux.puslapiai.lt/ Kultflux] is a gallery - platform on the river Neris next to Mindaugas bridge where
various exhibitions and other cultural events take place.

=== Sightseeing outside Vilnius ===

If you are staying in Vilnius for few days, you might want to make some day trips and see few places outside
Vilnius:

[http://www.trakai.lt/index.php?-2130764187 Trakai] is a historical capital of Lithuania where one can find the only
castle in Eastern Europe built on the island on the lake, Karaite national minority and it's unique cuisine. There
are a lot of buses and trainsgoing there and it takes only about half an hour to get there. If the weather is good,
you should take a chance to see it!

[http://www.europosparkas.lt/ Open air museum of the center of Europe] signifies the geographical centre of Europe
in the language of contemporary art and is a place where nature and art are combined.

[http://www.belmontas.lt/apie_belmonta/ Belmontas park] is very close to Vilnius center and is a complex of
restaurants serving traditional meals arranged around little lakes, watermills, river and waterfalls and is a very
nice place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

=== Tourist information ===

If your host cannot show you around or you like exploring the city by yourself, you might still find it helpful to
get city maps and some additional information about the city, things to see&do, events etc. There are a few tourist
information centres in the Old Town: one is inside the Townhall and another one is located in Vilniaus street.

You also have a superb possibility to go for [http://www.vilniusfreetour.com/ Vilnius free tour] and see the hiden
side of Vilnius through the eyes of the people who live here. All you need to do is to appear at 12PM any day of the
week in front of the Townhall and look for a person with a yellow suitcase. Enjoy!

You can get some more information about Vilnius prior to your arrival in [http://www.inyourpocket.com/lithuania/
city/vilnius.html?more=1 Vilnius in your pocket] guide or browse [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=63
Vilnius tourist information center website].

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/mediabank/A4_Dviraciai%20PRINT(1).pdf Map of Vilnius old town] - quite a nice map
with the routes you can explore either by bike or on foot.

[http://www.lietuvosmarsrutai.eu/index.php?lang=2 Lithuanian routes] is a really great website where Lithuanian
routes are coherently presented with the help of textual, photo and video material for those who want to travel
around Lithuania.

[http://www.fotoskrydis.lt/kategorija/vilniaus-apskritis/ Vilnius from above] - some nice pictures of Vilnius and
other cities of Lithuania made from an air ballon.

=== Events ===

Apart from Couchsurfing events there are plenty of things to do in Vilnius and around. Vilnius is ''European Capital
of Culture 2009'' and therefore there are a lot of cultural, artistic and social activities every month. Check out
what's happening in Vilnius during your stay:

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=4162900 Cultural events in Vilnius ]
about interesting events in Vilnius provided by Couchsurfers of Vilnius group;

[http://www.eb.lt/en.php3 Entertainment bank] - the biggest database of all kinds of events in Vilnius and the rest
of Lithuania;

[http://www.vilnius-life.com/ Vilnius life] - a very handy website with a lot of useful information about Vilnius;

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/index.php?lang=EN Vilnius tourist information center];

[http://www.djscene.lt/event?fCity=vilnius&lang=en DJ Scene LT]

[http://www.club.lt/ Club.lt] - and some more clubbing events

[http://www.ore.lt/event.php?kada=&kur=Vilnius Ore.lt] - one more event calendor. Please note that the website is
only in Lithuanian;

some information

- some clubbing events in Vilnius;

[http://lietuva.lt/en/events/ Events in Lithuania] - if it's still not enough ;)

[http://www.cinema.lt/ Cinema] news. The website is in Lithuanian, but they have titles in original language as
well, so it's easy to get it;)

[http://www.vilniusjazz.lt Vilnius Jazz festival] - takes place every October and invites lots of great jazz
musicians from all over the world. Jazz lovers - don't miss a chance!

==== Cinemas ====

All non-hollywood movies fans should check out two cinemas in Vilnius (both of them are major venues for cinematic
events – festivals, meetings with filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings etc.):

* [http://www.kinopasaka.lt/ Cinema Pasaka] - (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) is a very cozy little cinema in the heart of the
old town, same building as La Boheme wine bar.

* [http://www.skalvija.lt/index.php/about_skalvija/743 Skalvija] - (A. Goštauto St. 2/15) is another cinema center
that focuses on non-commercial European and World cinema, both classics and recent film.

Other cinemas with more recent/Hollywood movie repertoire are:

* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Vingis] - Savanorių St. 7;
* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Akropolis] - Ozo St. 25 - the one in a shopping mall

=== Shopping ===

Although Vilnius is not the capital of shopping, there are several places to do that:

* There are a lot of souvenir shops and little street market in the Old town. The typical Lithuanian souvenirs would
be amber, linen and mead, but the latter is available only in the shops where they sell alcohol.
* Shopping centers: the biggest in the city center are ''Europa'' (Konstitucijos 7a) and ''Gedimino 9'' (Gedimino
Av.9) and ''VCUP'' (Konstitucijos St. 16); a bit out of the city center, but still in Vilnius - ''Akropolis'' (Ozo
St. 25) and ''Panorama'' (Saltoniškių St. 9)
* The biggest grocery chain stores are ''Rimi'', ''Maxima'' and ''Iki'' - you'll see them everywhere.
* There are a lot of proprietary brand clothing shops in the Old town, especially in the area round the Town hall;)

==

Accommodation

Hopefully you will be able to find a host and will not need to look for accommodation, but in case you do, here are
some useful websites:

==

[http://www.hostels.com/findabed.php?ChosenCity=Vilnius&ChosenCountry=Lithuania&Search=1 Inexpensive hostels,
guesthouses and hotels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=437 Youth hostels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=438 Motels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=630 Hotels and guest houses]

[http://www.camping.lt/index.php?lang=2&sid=432 Campsites across Lithuania] - in case you feel like going to the
nature ;)

== Restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs & clubs ==

=== Restaurants & cafés===

No doubt you will find McDonald's yourself, but in case you want to experience lithuanian cuisine, here are the most
popular restaurants serving traditional lithuanian meals:

[http://www.cili.lt/ Čili Kaimas] - a chain restaurant, located in Vokiečių St. 8 and Gedimino Ave. 14;

[http://www.fortodvaras.lt Forto dvaras] - also a good one and is right in the center - Pilies St. 16;

[http://www.zemaiciai.lt Žemaičiai] - a bit more expensive place in Vokiečių St. 24 and sometimes it takes ages to
get your meal, but the result is usually rewarding.

''Pilies menė'' in Pilies St. 8 or ''Amatininkų užeiga'' in Didžioji St. 19/2 might be also an option for
traditional meals.

What shall you order there to get real lithuanian experience? A distinctive trait of Lithuanian cuisine is the
preponderance of potato dishes, so try one of those:

[[File:N46 cepelinai alus.jpg|thumb|300px|left|Cepelinai (‘Zeppelins’). Skanaus!]]

* ''Cepelinai'' (‘Zeppelins’) - the most typical dish, large boiled potato dumplings (made from grated raw potato)
with fillings of minced meat or cottage cheese. Be careful - they are really filling;
* ''Kugelis'' (potato pie);
* Potato pancakes made from grated raw potato or boiled potato (sometimes – with a meat filling);
* ''Vėdarai'' (potato sausages) – a pretty creepy meal, made of pork intestines stuffed with grated raw potato,
baked in a wood stove or electric oven.

For a snack you should definitely try fried bread with cheese, marinated herring with boiled potatoes, various kinds
of cottage cheese or fermented cheeses, and hot-smoked or cold-smoked hams and sausages. Lithuanians also know many
recipes for mushroom dishes which are used in sauces, as fillings, or served as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Soup is very popular in Lithuania and there are lots of kinds of it, but the most interesting Lithuanian soup
is ''šaltibarščiai'' (cold beetroot soup), which is made from beetroot, kefir (a fermented milk product), greens and
boiled eggs, is served chilled and is very refreshing on a hot summer day. Just don't get scared of a pink colour!

And finally, beer goes with pretty much everything, so go ahead! (ok, maybe not for breakfast;)

If you're done with typical lithuanian cuisine, there's plenty of other choices to eat out that match all tastes and
budgets (in most restaurants approximately LTL 20-40 should be enough for lunch or dinner for one person):

* European cuisine is predominant in Vilnius restaurants, with a few Lithuanian dishes included in the menu - check
out ''Užupio cafe'' (Užupio 2) - a super place and a heart of Užupis Republic during the summer time; [http://
www.avilys.lt Avilys] - really nice beer brewery & restaurant (Gedimino Ave. 5); [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] - a
restaurant and a cozy club downstairs (Dominikonų St. 10); [http://www.steakhouse.lt Steak House Helios] (Didžioji
St. 28, 2 floor, Helios Entertainment Centre).
* Italian cuisine - [http://www.antonio.lt/index.php?k=EN Da Antonio I] (Vilniaus St. 23) and ''Da Antonio
Tratoria'' (Pilies St. 20); ''St. Valentino'' (Vilniaus St. 47/Trakų St. 18); ''Pomodoro'' (Jogailos g. 4)
and ''Fiorentino'' (Universiteto g. 4) with a nice inside yard during spring/summer. Note that pizzerias now
outnumber Lithuanian restaurants, so do not be surprised to find a wide range of pizzas available at most
restaurants (especially medium price range restaurants). The people of Vilnius are starting to jokingly say that
pizza is becoming Lithuania’s national dish.
* French cuisine - ''Les Amis'' (Savičiaus St. 9) and ''Saint Germain'' (Literatų g. 9), also ''La Provence''
(Vokiečių St. 22), but this one is a bit expensive.
* Czech cuisine - ''Pas Rudolfą II'' (Gedimino Ave. 46-2) - not very cozy place, but they have some quite nice
beers.
* Argentine cuisine - ''El Gaucho Sano'' (Pilies St. 10) - meat lovers, please enjoy;)
* Chinese cuisine - there is a big and always growing number of chinese restaurants in the Old town, so you will see
them at once.
* Vegetarian - ''Balti drambliai'' (White Elephants) is a purely vegetarian restaurant and very cozy bar (Vilniaus
St. 41) although you might have to wait about an hour for a beer, so better don't go there if you are in a hurry.
Vegetarians should be also able to find a suitable dish on the menu of almost any restaurant.

In terms of numbers of cafés, Vilnius is not far behind the traditional ‘café culture’ cities of Europe and they can
be found in almost every street of the Old Town, mostly in Trakų, Pilies, Didžioji, Vokiečių, Domininkonų, Savičiaus
streets and Gedimino Prospect. Most popular chain cafés are ''Double Coffee'' and ''Coffee Inn'', but don't expect
to find ''Starbucks Coffee'' here;)

=== Going out ===

There are few more mellow capitals than Vilnius - a hectic metropolis it ain't. But when night falls, there's no
shortage of revellers who are up for a party. What's more, the local beers make for a tasty tipple really worth
giving a try...again and again ;)

Note that many Vilnius bars function as restaurants during the day, and in terms of subtlety of interior décor and
quality of cuisine, they compete with the best restaurants. Some of the bars could also be appropriately included
in the list of intimate-sized clubs, because in the evenings they have live music or a DJ. List of suggested bars &
pubs, which might have a dance-floor as well is the following:

* [http://www.cafedeparis.lt Cafe de Paris] (Didžioji St. 1) - a small place in one of the main streets of the old
town, which has an incredible capacity to surprise with its wide range of events and installations, always vivid
and full of interesting people,live music every Saturday, local and international DJ’s any other day, visual arts,
alternative foods and international staff.
* [http://www.baltidrambliai.lt/main.php?page=1 Balti drambliai] (Vilniaus St. 41) - cozy and extremely relaxed
atmosphere, very reasonable prices and live music once in a while.
* [http://www.invino.lt/ In Vino] (Aušros Vartų St. 7) - is the kind of laid back haunt, especially recommended
during summertime when you can sit in outside in the inner yard, but note that it's not easy to get a table as this
place is always crowded. But give it a try.
* [http://www.mojitonaktys.lt/ Mohito Naktys] (Didžioji St. 33/2)- cocktail bar famous for their Mojitos (the best
in town), currently one of Vilnius’ hottest night spots. Drinks are pricey enough here (so not the best place to get
drunk;) therefore it tends to attract a bit more sophisticated but fun crowd rather than a beer-swilling rabble.
* [http://www.laboheme.lt/ La Boheme] (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) - cozy and very beautiful wine place + nice atmosphere,
very recommended.
* [http://www.tempolibero.lt/index.php/pageid/459 Tappo d'oro] ( l.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus St. 7) - cozy wine places
that has lots of inexpensive wines to offer;)
* Vasaros terasa (Vilniaus St. 39) - a very nice outdoor terrace located in the yard of the historic Teacher's
House, opened during spring/summer/early autumn, there are usually live concerts on weekends, as well as other
cultural events during the week, like cinema, theatre, dance, market etc. Really nice place.
* [http://www.chaplin.lt/?file=kop1.php Chaplin] (Labdarių g. 7/Totorių g. 11.) - pretty nice place, drinks and food
are still not overpriced and there is a chance there will be a DJ on the weekend. We had quite a lot of CS meetings
held there. Note that the page is in Lithuanian only.
* [http://www.absentofejos.lt/ Absento Fėjos] (Aušros Vartų St. 11) - if you manage to get in (the queue at the door
is usually pretty long and the face control is trick enough as well) you will probably like it, though it's pretty
expensive. No kids running around though :)
* [http://www.briusly.lt/ Briusly] (Islandijos St. 4.) - a very nice and cozy place, reasonably priced and very
popular + it also offers nice asian food.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - combination of bar, cafe, restaurant and nightclub, where from
morning till nighttime, people can come to eat, drink and relax and later go downstairs for more lively activities.
* [http://www.alutis.lt/snekutis/ Šnekutis] (Polocko St. 7A and Šv.Stepono St. 8) - if you want to try some awsome
home-brewed "live beer" without any ripoff, that's the place to be.
* [http://www.busitrecias.lt/index.php/en/ Būsi trečias] (Totoriu st.) 18 - mini brewery, offering a big range of
flavoured beers and hearty food.

The most recommended nightclubs would be the following:

* [http://www.tamstaclub.lt Tamsta] (Subačiaus St. 11A) - probably the best club with live music (unfortunately
closed for summer holidays..).
* [http://www.pabolatino.lt Pabo Latino] (Trakų St. 3/2)- if you like salsa, then that's the place to be. Beautiful
interior, nice cocktails, if you come a bit earlier, the entrance fee is not too bad + you get a free drink.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - a really cozy place to chill out and the entry is always free of
charge.
* [http://www.pachavilnius.lt Pacha club] (Gynėjų St. 14) - the name already speaks for itself, and people say it is
one of best clubs in Vilnius, posh and expensive though, but pretty worth it.
* [http://www.tarantinoclub.lt Tarantino club] (Trakų g. 2) - quite cozy and nice club, sometimes have live
concerts, sometimes the entrance is free, so might be worth checking it out.
* [http://www.artistai.lt Artistai] (Šv. Kazimiero St. 3) - pretty simple and relaxed place, especially popular
among students, so expect to be surrounded by a very young crowd and a possibility to get drinks in a plastic cup.
Has a nice inside yard and there is karaoke night on Tuesday.
* [http://www.havanasocialclub.lt Havana Social Club] (Šermukšnių St. 4a) - pretty nice place with friendly
atmosphere, not too posh, but nice interrior, has some good cocktails as well;)
* [http://www.brodvejus.lt Brodvėjus pub] (Mesiniu St. 4) is mostly attended by foreigners and students and the
music is mostly 90's pop, however, the place is still quite popular.
* [http://www.clubgravity.lt Gravity Club] is a good place for electronic music lovers, located in a former bunker,
usually crowded and always lacks oxygen.
* [http://www.play-club.com Play Club](Pamenkalnio St. 17/3) - you either love it or hate it: it's very small, very
alternative and simple, drinks usually come in plastic cups, but it has some charm for sure. And a football table.
* [http://www.bix.lt Bix baras](Etmonų St. 6) - rock club, pretty laid back and very popular among students.

== Getting in & around ==

=== Transportation to/from Vilnius ===

Choose the best way to get to Vilnius city:

* If you are coming by '''plane''' to [http://www.vilnius-airport.lt/en/ Vilnius international airport] you can take
a train to the central railway station (it only takes 7 minutes to get there, it goes twice an hour and costs less
than EUR 1) or take a bus Nr.1 going to the bus station or bus Nr. 2 going to the center of the city. There are
lockers in the railway station if you need to leave your luggage before heading to the city, it is very close to
the bus station (just across the street) and they both are close to the Old town even if you are going on foot (but
note that almost every trolleybus goes to the city center). You can always take a taxi, but it if you catch the ones
standing in front of the airport, they will charge you much more than you would if you call one. The journey should
cost you about EUR 7.

If you are landing in [http://www.kaunasair.lt/index.php?lang=en&page=express Kaunas airport], there is a bus going
to Vilnius (the bus schedule is in accordance with operating flights).

* [http://www.litrail.lt/wps/portal Lithuanian railways] - for those who are travelling by '''train'''. Note that
unfortunatelly ''Interrail'', ''Eurorail'' and similar tickets are not valid in Lithuania :(

* [http://www.autobusustotis.lt/en Vilnius bus station website] might be useful if you are travelling by '''bus'''.
[http://www.eurolines.ee/en/node Eurolines] coach company offers probably the cheapest and the most popular
international bus routes in the Baltics and the rest of Europe.

* '''Hitch-hiking''' is pretty popular way to travel in Lithuania as well as to the other countries and is safe
enough as long as you are staying rational yourself. [http://www.autostop.lt/main.php Hitch-hiking Club's] members
can help you a lot with tips on the best hitch-hiking-routes both in Lithuania and to nearby countries, what are the
best spots to hitch-hike etc. so definitely check out the website if you choose to travele this way.

* It is also possible to take a '''ferry''' to Klaipeda and then come to Vilnius by bus, car or train. Check out the
website of [http://www.portofklaipeda.lt/en.php/port_of_klaipda/cruising/ferry_lines/437 Klaipeda seaport] for the
ferry lines.

=== Transportation in Vilnius ===

A good thing about Vilnius is that it's small enough for you to easily get around on foot, by bike or by public
transport.

* If you are staying in the Old town, the best way to explore it is on foot. Most sights are within the walking
distance and don't be afraid to get lost, as it is the best way to discover the wonders of the city ;)

* [http://www.vilniustransport.lt/en.php/ Public transport] is neither the worse nor the best: there are quite
enough of buses and trolleybuses during the day, but they stop at 11:30 P.M. and there are no more night buses
available :( You can buy a ticket either in a kiosk (LTL 2) or from the driver (LTL 2.5) There are also tickets
valid for 1 day (LTL 13), 3 days (LTL 23) or 10 days (LTL 46), but see if it's worth it. [http://www.marsrutai.lt/
vilnius/?a=p.routes&transport_id=bus&t=xhtml&l=en Traffic schedules and route planning]might be handy as well. Note
that the public transport starts running at 5:30 AM and stops around 11:30 PM, so if you happen to fall in this gap,
choose taxi, walking, friends car or killing a night in a club ;)

* Taxi...uh, if you need to get a cab, there are two things you should bear in mind: 1)it is way cheaper to call a
cab than to catch one on the street and 2)most likely they will try to rip you off anyway, so ask some local how
much your journey should cost in advance (the rate varies from LTL 1.5 to LTL 4 per km). You may try calling one of
those [http://www.taksi.lt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=63 taxi companies]

* Bike can also be an option so if you or your host doesn't have one, you can try to rent. Some places hiring bikes
in the city center are [http://www.dviratis.lt/index.php?page=catalogue&cat=nuoma&view=45 Velo-City] (Bernadinų St.
10, in front of St. Anns Church) or [http://www.kelrodis.lt Kelrodis](T.Ševčenkos g. 15/14).

* If you're coming by car, well, be careful :) but if you wish to rent a car, you can do it in the centre of the
city as well as at the airport. Note that you will be asked for your identification card and a valid international
credit card. Check out the list of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=76&aid=461 car rental
companies]

== Other useful information ==

* There are many Wi-fi places in Vilnius, but if you need an '''Internet cafe''', here are some of them (click for
the map):

[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=780BEC7DC51211D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=112C5A2E7C2E11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=70651542C51411D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=5064990FC51311D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=A37A73BA7C2B11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=7113DE227C3111DA8602746164617373

* [http://www.meteo.lt/english/forecasts.php Weather forecast] if you want to check what the weather is like during
your stay.
* You can '''exchange''' money in any bank, which may also be located in bigger shopping centers, there is an
exchange booth at the airport (arrivals hall) and outside railway/bus station as well. Note that ''Parex'' bank is
the only bank that accepts coins for exchange.
* '''Smoking''' is prohibited inside all restaurants, cafes, bars etc. unless there are tables outside.
* If you you can use your phone with other SIM cards, it would be cheaper to buy local sim card in a kiosk or in any
mobile phone shop. The most popular ones are ''Pildyk'', ''Labas'', ''Ezys'', ''Extra''. The SIM card costs from 5
to 10 lt (1,5-2,5 euros) and you can top it up.
* Free Wifi internet spots are available at many cafes in the whole city. Please ask the staff or watch for a Wifi-
sign at the door.
* '''Emergency number''' is the same as for the rest of Europe - 112.

Some websites to give you an idea about the '''costs in Vilnius''', but note that the prices are rising all the
time, so the information can really be not accurate enough:

* [http://www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=81&tefl_session=9fad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f3d&x=1&y=1
International City Cost Guide] - update the prices by doubling the given ones;)

== Foreigners about Vilnius, LT & CS ==

Colleqium] - Pilies St. 22-1;
Avineta] - Naugarduko St. 76;
Bazė] - A. Rotundo St. 2;
Fantazija] - Naugarduko St. 34;
Liumineta] - Antakalnio St. 40;
Netcafe]- Antakalnio St. 36

* [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=2680237 Vilnius. What it's like in foreign eyes?] - CS
thread on foreigners' impression about Vilnius.
* [http://www.expatintelligence.com/expat-lithuania.shtml Expat Lithuania] - short introduction about life in LT
* [http://www.expatexchange.com/expat/index.cfm?frmid=247&forumid=0&dbname=ee&shared=N ExpatExchange] - website
where expats share their experience in LT. Can't promise all the information is correct, but might be useful.

== CS in the Press ==

There are several articles about CS in the media in Lithuanian:

http://www.zebra.lt/lt/laisvalaikis/keliones/Couch-surfing-kitoks-keliavimo-budas-2009-10-12.html
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16689368
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16695835
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17138568
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17188256
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17203292
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17285172
http://www.alfa.lt/straipsnis/157702
http://www.universitetozurnalistas.lt/uz/skotija/pub4.html

[UPDATE] and in english:
* http://www.travelblog.org/Europe/Sweden/Orebro-County/Orebro/blog-558605.html