City breaks to Europe are increasingly popular among travelers, with more Brits looking for affordable holiday options. One European city that has recently gained attention for its cost-effectiveness and impressive attractions is Vilnius, Lithuania.
This year, Vilnius was nominated in the ‘Most Desirable City (Europe)’ category at the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards, according to the tourism website Go Vilnius. Additionally, Lithuania ranked second on Lonely Planet’s list of top countries to visit in 2025.
So, what makes Vilnius so special?
For performing arts enthusiasts, the Lithuanian Opera and Ballet Theatre offers a taste of classical entertainment. The city is home to numerous world-class attractions, including the MO Museum, the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, the Gate of Dawn, and Vilnius Cathedral, among others.
Food lovers will also find plenty to enjoy, with a range of top-notch restaurants highlighting the city’s culinary scene. This year marked a significant milestone for Vilnius as it appeared in the inaugural MICHELIN Guide to Lithuania. Four local restaurants—Nineteen18, Dziaugsmas, Demo, and Pas mus—were awarded a coveted MICHELIN star, showcasing the city’s vibrant gastronomic landscape.
In addition to Sweet Root, three other Vilnius restaurants—14 Horses, Le Travi, and Gaspar’s—received The Bib Gourmand Award, which recognizes eateries serving exceptional food at reasonable prices.
Vilnius is rich in history, with many architectural gems beautifully preserved for visitors to explore. Must-see sites include Gediminas Castle Tower, the Gate of Dawn, Vilnius Cathedral, and the Church of Saint Anne and Bernadine complex. Experts suggest that the Old Town architecture alone justifies the cost of a plane ticket.
The city’s stunning architecture is not only visually captivating but also easily accessible. Vilnius is pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in its cultural and artistic offerings without the hassle of traffic or transportation issues.
Moreover, Vilnius provides excellent value for money, having been named the most affordable city in the Post Office Travel Money report on budget city breaks. With several low-cost airlines flying to Vilnius and a variety of reasonably priced accommodation options available, planning a city break here is a smart choice. Don’t hesitate—book your trip to Vilnius today!
