Private Walking Tour around Jewish Vilnius | With a Local Litvak
Active
3h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is a unique tour with a litvak Ema Segal. Ema was born and raised in Vilnius in the 80s. This insider look is a 3-hour walking tour around the two Vilnius ghettos. We will follow the traces of Jewish life in the old Jewish Quarter where the Great Synagogue was built in 1633 and the house where great Gaon of Vilnius used to live and study.
You will hear a story about the manifesto and the fight of Jewish partisans. We shall also walk into the Choral synagogue, and explore a very old mazzes-making machine there. I will show you a few buildings where Jewish printing houses, fliur mills, money exchanges, jewelry shops used to be.
This tour will give you a good feeling what life was like in Vilnius before WWII and what role the Jewish population had in this city and beyond.
I will also share my personal experience of growing up Jewish in the post-Soviet Lithuania.
This private tour is suited for 2-4 people group. Which allows for an intimate two-way communication.
Available options
JEWISH VILNIUS, EXTENDED TOUR
During this extended tour we shall first have the 3-hour walking tour around the two Vilnius ghettos. After that I will drive you to the active Jewish cemetery, and Ponar forest.
PRIVATE JEWISH TOUR: VILNIUS
This insider look by the local litvak is a 3-hour walking tour around the two Vilnius ghettos. We will follow the traces of Jewish culture in the old town of Vilnius.
What's included
Local guide
Local taxes: all included in the fee
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We will visit two Jewish ghettos which were based in what was formerly known as the Vilnius Jewish Quarter. I will tell you about the Jewish cultural and religious life in Vilna before WWII, during it, and after it.
2
We will stop by the Vilna Gaon Monument, I will tell the story about him, what he did, how he lived, and what a rich legacy he left after he died.
3
We'll pass by the former Jewish Library of Vilna.
What's not included
Entrance fees: €2 donation to walk inside the synagogue (optional)
Food and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
