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Guide to Vilnius, Lithuania
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Click to go to Flight Prices for Vilnius
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VilniusLithuania, once part of the Polish empire, has segued from its past as one of the most important parts of central Europe to a niche community of cities and towns that emanate heritage and push for the future. Lithuania's capital, Vilnius, is the country's best foot forward going into the 21st century. Despite an increasing presence of modernism, history is unmistakable in Vilnius. Walk through the old town and you'll swear you've gone back to the 1700s. Only when coming upon a convenience shop or outdoor restaurant will the present open its doors to you once again. Vilnius itself was built on the basis that it would become the central fortification for the people's quest for independence. The city continued to grow after Lithuanians attained their goal; centuries later, Vilnius remains at the forefront of all domestic happenings as well as the premier destination for international travelers. Quiet, subtle reminders of Vilnius' ties to Poland can still be found, but the numerous transitions undergone by the city as a whole has all but made them obsolete. This is not to say that international travelers, especially of Polish origin, have been gradually shunned; government and public bodies both welcome outsiders wholeheartedly. Rather, one can instead reveal a sense of pride in Lithuanians that is even somewhat contagious. Don't blame yourself if you pick up a few national flags for your friends and family back home!
When to go:
Lithuania's tourism industry is known for it's ups and downs, and though the high season is far more notable than the low, both certainly have their own advantages. In the months outside of spring and summer, everything is open. The streets - for the most part - are free from massive congestion, and country as a whole seems a bit calmer; serene without being too much so as to create a sense of isolation. High season is known for polar characteristics. It's difficult to dislike Vilnius when it is at its peak. Everything seems to flow ever so beautifully; like a perfectly calibrated machine. But it's hard to find amusement in long lines, and while it's wonderful to be spontaneous in a foreign land, paying a visit to a choice restaurant lacking reservations will only end in disappointment and a friendly ousting. Traveling to Vilnius in spring will allow a bit of balance, though if you'd like to experience some measure of openness, you'll have to make your decision quickly.
Getting there and around:
Vilnius is well connected to Europe's capitals and other major cities within a reasonable distance. Numerous international airports provide access to Vilnius from within the UK; you'll have more trouble finding an available seat than a flight itself. Closely established to the city, only a brief bus or taxi ride will get you from the terminal to the rented bed you arranged for. Car rentals are always advised by the agencies providing them, but follow the general rule and you'll be one less miserable traveler: rent when it's slow, proceed with public transit when busy. Unless, of course, gridlock should find a home in Vilnius's layout, in which case walking feels more a privilege than slow, methodical bore.
Attractions:
We at Flight Comparison have been debating what would be the best approach to describing the scenes in Vilnius for some time, and we've decided to leave you to your own devices. Now, we expect this may anger some, but as it so happens, the Old Town within this city is indeed one giant attraction, and we believe that leading you towards this place or that may in fact drive you towards the 'usual'. Take some time to settle into your accommodations, visit a few shops for some essentials (namely those of an edible nature), and enjoy Lithuania's capital! Right, then. Go on. Don't hesitate to send us a postcard!
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