Vilnius Cathedral

What to expect

Vilnius Cathedral (Arkikatedra Bazilika) stands at the foot of Castle Hill, anchoring Cathedral Square at the meeting point of the Old Town and the New Town. Its severe white neoclassical portico — six tall columns and a triangular pediment topped by statues of saints — is one of the most recognisable images of the city, and it looks especially dramatic when lit at night. Entry to the main nave is free, and many visitors find the interior simpler than the exterior promises; the real treasures sit in the side chapels.

The undisputed highlight is the baroque Chapel of St. Casimir, a richly decorated space of marble, silver and frescoes built for Lithuania's patron saint, whose remains rest here. The cathedral also holds royal tombs and centuries of Lithuanian and Polish history. For a deeper visit you can book paid, guided tours of the crypts beneath the cathedral, or climb the freestanding bell tower on the square for panoramic views; ticketed visits should be booked in advance, and the cathedral closes to sightseeing during Mass. Outside on the square, look for the 'Stebuklas' tile that marks the start of the 1989 Baltic Way human chain.

• Address: Šventaragio g., 01143 Vilnius (Cathedral Square / Katedros aikštė)
• Main cathedral: free entry; crypts and bell tower are separately ticketed
• Crypts: guided tour only, book ahead; no sightseeing during Mass
• Type: Roman Catholic cathedral and active place of worship

Visiting tips

The cathedral sits on every Old Town walking route, a few minutes from Gediminas Castle, the Palace of the Grand Dukes and the start of Pilies and Gedimino streets, so it folds easily into a half-day of sightseeing. Dress respectfully as you would for any working church, and try to time your visit around the Mass schedule if you want to explore the chapels at leisure.