Vilnius County brings together a variety of cultural and scenic highlights: Kernavė’s archaeological traces reach far back in time, Vilnius is known for its medieval city history, and Trakai’s landscape is shaped by an island castle and lakes. Nature trails and historic manor houses add to the range of attractions. The focus that interests you most can guide your travel plans.
Archaeological traces and medieval heritage
The archaeological site of Kernavė is an exceptional testament to around 10,000 years of human settlement in this region. It preserves the remains of five impressive hill forts. The cultural reserve also includes 15 archaeological and three historical monuments. The archaeological site museum preserves and exhibits archaeological research materials from the reserve. The hill forts, monuments and museum thus represent different aspects of Kernavė’s history.
The historic centre of Vilnius encompasses the areas of the three castles and the area enclosed by a city wall in the Middle Ages. Vilnius is regarded as an outstanding example of a medieval foundation that influenced architectural and cultural development across much of Eastern Europe. The Struve Geodetic Arc offers another way to explore history: it is one of Lithuania’s UNESCO World Heritage properties. At Meškonys and Paliepiukai, symbolic memorial columns mark two of the three points located in Lithuania.
Medininkai Castle also combines history with a specific exhibition venue. The northeastern tower was restored in 2012 and houses a museum with four exhibitions and an observation platform.
Trakai: island castle, manor house and lake
Trakai Island Castle is a masterpiece of Lithuania’s medieval defensive architecture and the only water castle in Eastern Europe. It was built as a fortress and later used as a residence by the Grand Duke. Today, it houses various exhibitions and serves as a venue for exhibitions and events. Its architecture, historical use and exhibitions each offer a different perspective.
On Lake Galvė, the restored Užutrakis Manor House and its park offer insights into the life of the Lithuanian nobility in the 19th century. The park was designed by Édouard François André. The historic Potato Road offers views of the lake and Trakai Island Castle. Another cultural destination is the Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary: it stands on the Trakai peninsula, is surrounded by lakes, and combines Gothic and Baroque elements. Grand Duke Vytautas founded it in the 15th century. The Žolinės and Trakinės celebrations are held at the basilica every year and attract pilgrims from neighbouring countries and other regions.
Food culture is also part of the Trakai experience: the town is associated with kibinai, a traditional savoury filled pastry introduced by the Karaim people. Water tourists, divers and holidaymakers are active on Lake GalvÄ—; rowers and sailing teams also train and compete there. The lake is therefore used for everything from recreational activities to sports.
Nature trails and landscapes
Vilnius County includes lakes, forests and rivers, and offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking and cycling. Visitors interested in nature and landscapes will find a range of specific destinations. The Varnikai Reserve covers 611 hectares of forest and the Ilgelis bog. The winding, five-kilometre Varnikai educational trail passes through the botanical-zoological reserve. The ecotourism trail includes pavilions, benches, three viewing points and ten rest areas.
The five-kilometre Dūkštos educational trail offers a different landscape. It runs through the valley of the Dūkštos stream and is challenging. Check trail conditions before your visit. The visitor centre of Neris Regional Park in Dūkštos has exhibitions about the park’s flora and fauna, as well as traditional crafts and folklore.
The manor houses of Vilnius County also offer cultural attractions: they are publicly accessible cultural centres whose history, beauty and events draw visitors. Alongside the varied highlights of KernavÄ—, Vilnius and Trakai, they offer several ways to tailor your trip to your own interests.
Discover more destinations: Vilnius, Trakai, KernavÄ—, Karvys, EiÅ¡iÅ¡kÄ—s, Avižieniai, Vievis, Å venÄionys, Trakai District Municipality, Vilnius District Municipality, UkmergÄ— District Municipality, KaniÅ«kai, Žydkaimis, Kiemeliai, StrÄ—va, MadžiÅ«nai, Bezdonys, JuodÅ¡iliai, Liucionys, AntatilÄiai, AukÅ¡tadvaris, Aluona, GlitiÅ¡kÄ—s, Lentvaris, Vilnius District Municipality, UkmergÄ— District Municipality, Å venÄionys District Municipality, ElektrÄ—nai Municipality, Å venÄionys District Municipality, Trakai District Municipality, Žuklijai, Å irvintos District Municipality.
For an overview of destinations in the wider region: Lithuania.
