St Johns' Church Bell Tower
The tallest structure in Vilnius Old Town — the 68-metre bell tower of St Johns' Church, part of the Vilnius University Museum — with an elevator, a Foucault pendulum and what many call the best 360-degree panorama in the city.
- ✓The highest point in Vilnius Old Town, with unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views.
- ✓A modern elevator covers most of the ascent, followed by a short climb up historic wooden stairs to the open-air platform.
- ✓Home to the only Foucault pendulum in the Baltic States, on a lower floor.
- ✓Part of the Vilnius University Museum, and often less crowded than other city viewpoints.
St Johns' Church Bell Tower (Šv. Jonų bažnyčios varpinė)
The bell tower of St Johns' Church (Šv. Jonų bažnyčios varpinė) is the tallest structure in Vilnius Old Town — roughly 68 metres of Baroque campanile rising over the Vilnius University ensemble at Šv. Jono g. 12. From its open-air viewing level, at around 60 metres, you get what many visitors call the best 360-degree panorama in the city: a full sweep of red-tiled roofs, church spires, Gediminas' Tower and the surrounding hills.
Getting up is part of the appeal. A modern elevator covers most of the ascent, after which a short, steep flight of authentic old wooden stairs (193 in total from the bottom) leads to the platform — a nicely adventurous finish that remains broadly accessible thanks to the lift. On a lower floor you'll find a Foucault pendulum, said to be the only one in the Baltic States, quietly demonstrating the rotation of the Earth.
The tower is part of the Vilnius University Museum and is generally open from spring to autumn, as it's sensitive to weather; groups should register in advance. Recent visitor information lists tickets at about €5 for adults and €3 for students, schoolchildren and seniors. Hours, prices and seasonal opening change, so confirm with the museum before visiting, and pair it with the church and courtyards below.
Where it is
Gediminas' Tower & Castle Hill — The red-brick tower atop Castle Hill is the symbol of Vilnius and its easiest panoramic viewpoint, reachable on foot or by funicular.
Map pins
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