Jewish Quarter and Paneriai Memorial Park Tour

Vilnius , Lithuania

Jewish Quarter and Paneriai Memorial Park Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Ready to discover more about Jewish heritage in Vilnius? This tour is dedicated to Jewish culture and its treasures.

Once upon a time, Vilnius was called Jerusalem of the North – it is because many famous Judaism scholars, rabbis, and artists lived and worked in Vilnius.

Litvak museum of Vilnius shows a huge variety of Jewish culture and arts in various fields, as well as about science and religion. Lithuanian Jews, called Litvaks, had a well-developed community that contributed to the cultural development of the region.

On this tour, you will hear stories not only about historical Jews that called Vilnius their home, but also about how World War II has affected their lives. Paneriai Memorial Park is the main witness of Jewish tragedy.

There are several old Jewish cemeteries in Vilnius, one of them, the largest, is located on Olandu street. Old mystical tombstones with Jewish writing on it, always let to dive into the past and experience the old daily lives of the Jews.

Available options

Jewish Quarter and Paneriai Memorial Park Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Jewish Old town

Former Jewish quarter and ghetto. History of Jewish community in Lithuania

The monument in Paneriai with inscriptions in Yiddish and Russian was built in 1948. It was dedicated to the Jewish survivors and “Victims of Fascist terror” after the events of World War II. Once a mass murder site of not only Jewish but also people of other nations, today this memorial park lets you discover the tragic history of people who died during the World War II. The memorial for the victims in Paneriai includes 9 monuments and stone tablets to Jews, Poles, Lithuanians, Soviet war prisoners and Roma people.

What's not included

Additional entrance fees

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Vilnius

Vilnius is the charming capital of Lithuania, known for its medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its rich history blending various cultures. The city offers a unique mix of baroque architecture, vibrant arts scene, and lively café culture, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Vilnius Old Town

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old Town is the heart of Vilnius, filled with cobblestone streets, baroque churches, and colorful buildings.

Historical/Architecture Half day to full day Free to explore

Gediminas Castle Tower

A symbol of Vilnius, this castle tower offers panoramic views of the city and is a key historical landmark.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €5

Užupis Republic

A bohemian district with its own constitution and flag, Užupis is known for its artistic community and unique charm.

Cultural/Artistic 1-2 hours Free

Vilnius Cathedral

The main cathedral of Vilnius, located in the heart of the Old Town, is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture.

Religious/Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (€5 for the crypts and bell tower)

Vilnius University

One of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe, Vilnius University is known for its beautiful courtyards and historic buildings.

Historical/Educational 1-2 hours €3 for a guided tour

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cepelinai

Large dumplings filled with minced meat, curd cheese, or mushrooms, typically served with sour cream.

Main Course Vegetarian options available (cheese or mushroom filling)

Šaltibarščiai

A cold beetroot soup made with kefir, cucumbers, and dill, perfect for summer.

Soup Vegetarian

Kibinai

Lithuanian pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, originating from the Lithuanian Karaites.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Šakotis

A traditional Lithuanian tree cake made from a batter of flour, eggs, and sugar, baked on a spit.

Dessert Contains gluten and eggs

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby forests and parks Cycling along the EuroVelo routes Spa and wellness treatments Strolling through the Old Town and parks Visiting museums and art galleries Attending local festivals and events Boat rides on the Vilnia River and nearby lakes Skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and most popular time to visit, with long daylight hours and plenty of festivals and outdoor activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Lithuanian
Widely spoken: English, Russian
English: Moderately spoken, especially among younger people and in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET), GMT+3 (EEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Vilnius is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging.
• Be cautious when accepting drinks from strangers to avoid drink spiking.

Getting there

By air

Vilnius Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Vilnius Railway Station

By bus

Vilnius Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Vilnius. The system is efficient and covers most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Taxify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Senamiestis) Užupis Žvėrynas Naujamiestis

Day trips

Trakai Island Castle

26 km from Vilnius • Half day to full day

A stunning medieval castle located on an island in Lake Galvė, offering a glimpse into Lithuania's rich history and beautiful surroundings.

Kaunas

93 km from Vilnius • Full day

The second-largest city in Lithuania, known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful architecture.

Hill of Crosses

12 km from Šiauliai (140 km from Vilnius) • Full day

A unique and moving site featuring thousands of crosses, a symbol of Lithuanian faith and resistance.

Festivals

Vilnius International Film Festival • March Street Music Day • June Vilnius Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

Visit the Užupis Republic for a unique and quirky experience, and read the Užupis Constitution for a taste of the district's independent spirit.
Take a guided tour of the Old Town to learn about Vilnius' rich history and hidden gems.
Try traditional Lithuanian dishes like cepelinai, šaltibarščiai, and kibinai for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the local craft beer scene by visiting breweries and beer bars, such as Pilies Vartai and Alaus ir Kava.
Visit the Hill of Crosses for a deeply spiritual and culturally significant experience, best done with a guided tour for context.