Formerly known as the "Athens of the North" and "Lithuanian Jerusalem," Vilnius/Wilna is today the youngest capital in Europe. The city bears the traces of its diverse multicultural history and is coping with the challenges of the heavy legacy from the Soviet era. Vilnius stretches across several hills and captivates with its unique character, set in a green environment. In the waters of the Wilia/Neris River, the stories of earlier inhabitants - Poles, Jews, Lithuanians, Karaims, and others - are reflected. The program offers numerous encounters with people from Vilnius, including a representative of the Jewish community, a witness to the destruction of Vilnius's Jewish population, a former prisoner of the Gulag and the KGB, as well as a young artist from the city's art district.
Route: Vilnius - Trakai
Travel duration: 5 days
The geographical heart of Europe lies approximately 20 kilometers north of Vilnius. However, it is not only its location that makes the Lithuanian capital a special place worthy of more attention. Vilnius was once referred to as the “Athens of the North” and “Jerusalem of Lithuania,” and today it is the youngest capital in Europe. Vilnius preserves the heritage of a diverse, multicultural past while at the same time facing the challenges of Soviet history. The exchange with experts offers valuable insights into Lithuania’s history and present.
In addition, day trips to Trakai and Kaunas are part of the program.
Morning: Arrival in Vilnius and check-in at the hotel. Depending on the arrival time
Afternoon: Discovery tour through the fascinating old town of Vilnius. The focus is on the cathedral, the university, the historic Gate of Dawn, as well as impressive churches of various faiths.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of the restaurants in the old town.
Morning: The exploration of Vilnius continues with an exciting guided tour that offers deeper insights into the city's rich history and culture.
Afternoon: Continue to Trakai, where a leisurely stroll through the historic Karaim district is on the programme. Afterwards, the picturesque water castle impresses with its exhibition on Lithuanian history.
Evening: Dinner in an authentic Karaim restaurant rounds off the day before the return journey to Vilnius.
Morning: An insight into Jewish life in Vilnius awaits participants during a visit to the museum “The History of the Jews of Vilnius”, which is often referred to as the “Lithuanian Jerusalem”.
Afternoon: An informative meeting with a member of today’s Jewish community offers the opportunity to learn about the current situation and prospects of Jews in Lithuania. Afterwards, a walk through the grounds of the former ghetto leads to the moving memorial site in the Paneriai Forest.
Evening: Dinner in a restaurant in the Old Town.
Morning: An impressive visit to the KGB Museum awaits, including an informative guided tour and a moving conversation with a former GULAG prisoner, offering deep insights into history.
Afternoon: Exploration of Lithuania’s modern capital, known as “The Capital of New Lithuania.” The exciting struggle for independence is examined in more detail, followed by a visit to the parliament building and the striking television tower. Afterwards, there is free time to discover the city individually.
Evening: Dinner in a restaurant in the Old Town
Morning: Exploration of the artists' district of Užupis, Vilnius's creative and unconventional quarter. Meeting with young artists who present their unique projects and visions.
Afternoon: Free time for individual activities
Evening: Discussion round with a representative of the Lithuanian-German Society. Focus on the multifaceted relations between Lithuania and Germany, enriched by exciting insights and the exchange of experiences.
Dinner in a restaurant in the Old Town
Services included in the price by Cracovia Reisen:
Not included in the price:
Price on request. Request your personal, free, and non-binding offer for the „Vilnius - a journey to the center of Europe. Study trip“ from us now.
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